As more people begin waking up to the power of natural herbal remedies, it is more important than ever to learn about their effects on the mind and body. CBD and Kratom are two such remedies that have had a spotlight shined on them in recent years. If you are wondering what the difference is between these plant-based medicines, then read on to learn more.
What is Kratom?
Katom is a type of tree that flourishes throughout Southeast Asia. These trees come in various strains and are most commonly seen in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The leaves of this tree produce a stimulating effect that is cherished by the people who live near Kratom orchards.
According to the Ministry of Hemp, the main active ingredients in Kratom are 7-Hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine. 7HMG is the main source of the psychoactive effects enjoyed by recreational users. Mitragynine is responsible for therapeutic effects such as stress alleviation and pain relief.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is derived from hemp plants. Hemp can grow anywhere in the world and is most commonly associated with marijuana. However, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects that marijuana is known for. Those effects are caused by THC, the other most active ingredient in hemp.
Instead, CBD is the primary cause of the medicinal aspects of hemp. By filtering out THC, hemp manufacturers can create potent medicine that doesn’t make the user high. CBD is most commonly used to treat pain, reduce stress, and improve a person’s mood. There is even compelling evidence that suggests CBD can be used to treat severe illnesses such as cancer.
Kratom vs. CBD: What are they used for?
While both substances have medicinal effects, they are used to treat different conditions. Kratom is primarily used to reduce anxiety, relieve pain, and as a way to break the addictions of heavy opiate abusers. On the other hand, CBD is used to treat inflammation, chronic aches, and can help users fall asleep. CBD is also known to help patients with more serious maladies such as heart disease, multiple forms of cancer, and epilepsy.
Kratom vs. CBD: The side effects
Like any medicine, everyone’s body will react slightly differently to both Kratom and CBD. That being said, it is worth discussing the possible side effects of each. If Kratom is taken too often, the user can become dependent on the substance. Nausea, vomiting, and constipation can also occur if the user takes a dose of Kratom that is too large compared to their tolerance level.
As for CBD, there is much less to worry about. It can be consumed in a variety of ways without the manifestation of any side effects. However, CBD has been known to produce drowsiness, dry mouth, or even some nausea if a massive amount is taken all at once. To reduce the chance of side effects from either remedy, it is recommended to only consume doses that match your experience level.
Kratom vs. CBD: In the eyes of the law
CBD was removed from the DEA’s list of illegal drugs thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill.
This means that it is now fully legal to grow industrial hemp and sell CBD products both online and in retail establishments. As long as the products contain less than 0.3% THC, they can safely be manufactured, bought, and sold.
Kratom currently has no classification from the federal government. This means that individual states must create legislation on their own. So far, Wisconsin, Tennesse, Alabama, Indiana, Vermont, and Washington D.C have all forbidden the use of Kratom.
Conclusion
Kratom and CBD are both quite similar, yet CBD has taken the lead in terms of mainstream awareness. Both medicines are great when used in moderation and should be considered by anyone who is disenfranchised by the modern pharmaceutical industry.