**Disclaimer**
Kratom is not approved or regulated by the FDA. This article contains data about kratom for informational purposes only. None of the information contained herein should be considered medical advice. Kratom is not intended for use in diagnosing a disease, or for treating, curing, or preventing diseases or other health conditions. Anyone considering the use of kratom should speak with their physician to answer any questions before doing so.
Understanding CBD
When you are comparing kratom vs. CBD, it is essential to understand the difference between the two. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is found in both marijuana plants and hemp plants. CBD supplements are usually sourced from hemp (a cousin of marijuana) and contain no THC, which is the active ingredient responsible for creating the "high."
Learn More About CBD
Exploring the Types of CBD
CBD can be broken down into three different types, full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolates.
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD includes all the active ingredients in the cannabis plant, including THC and a very wide range of beneficial terpenes. However, it contains less than 0.3% of THC, so it will not have negative psychoactive effects.
Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD, on the other hand, contains most of the compounds from the cannabis plant, but not all of them. It contains trace amounts of THC, but these are even lower than what is found in full-spectrum CBD.
CBD Isolates
Finally, we have CBD isolate blends. These only contain CBD and nothing else. The problem is that many of the other compounds from the marijuana plant are also beneficial or amplify the effects of CBD, so isolates are generally considered less effective or beneficial than either full or broad-spectrum formulations.
CBD vs. Kratom: Exploring the Many Forms of CBD
In any comparison of kratom vs. CBD, we need to consider the forms that these products come in. You will find that CBD is available in many different varieties.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is often used when taking it sublingually (under the tongue). However, it can also be used with other products, such as adding CBD to baked goods and other foods.
CBD Gummies
CBD gummies offer a simple, tasty way to take this supplement. They come in a wide range of flavors, including tropical fruit, and they deliver a specified dose of CBD with each gummy.
CBD-Infused Edibles
While it is possible to make CBD-infused edibles at home with CBD oil, you can also purchase them pre-made. There are many different foods on the market today that contain CBD, but care should be exercised, as some also contain high levels of THC. This factor is particularly true in states that have legalized marijuana for medical and/or recreational use.
Topicals
CBD is also available in topical formulations. These are creams, salves, and similar products that can be applied to the skin for relief of discomfort similar to muscle creams and anti-itch creams.
Is CBD Legal?
When you start to compare CBD and kratom, legality is certainly an important consideration. Kratom is legal in many areas, but CBD is not.1 Many states in the Southeast and a few in the Midwest have legalized CBD but with restrictions, such as it can only be derived from hemp and not from marijuana. Others have not legalized it at all - South Dakota, Nebraska, and Idaho are the three where CBD is completely illegal no matter whether is it from hemp or marijuana.
Comparing Kratom and CBD
What Is Kratom?
Many Americans are familiar with CBD thanks to its growing popularity. However, what is kratom and what is it used for?
Kratom is a tree in the same family as coffee. It is native to Southeast Asia and the leaves have been used for thousands of years to improve energy and focus, alleviate discomfort, and even relax and improve your sense of well-being.
In the question of comparing CBD and kratom, it is essential to understand that cannabidiol (CBD itself) is the active ingredient, along with associated terpenes. In kratom, the two active ingredients are mitragynine and 7-HMG, which are alkaloid compounds. They act on receptors in the brain to create kratom's effects. It is worth noting, however, that the 7-HMG alkaloid compounds are not found in kratom until after the leaves are dried.
The Different Types of Kratom Strains
Just as there are different types of CBD, there are also different strains of kratom. While the strains are all from the same species of plant, each variety has a different chemical makeup that imparts different effects.
- White Vein Kratom: Native to Indonesia, white vein kratom is the go-to solution for energy, focus, and an improved outlook on your day.
- Red Vein Kratom: Red vein kratom comes from Bali and is recommended for relaxation and improving your sense of well-being.
- Green Vein Kratom: Green vein kratom combines both energy enhancement and relaxation into an all-in-one strain that does everything.
- Yellow Vein Kratom: When white vein kratom is dried using this unique process, it transforms into yellow vein kratom, which is a potent energy booster that stays with you all day.
Maeng da Kratom
Originally from Thailand, maeng da kratom is considered a "super potent" form. It can also be green, red, or white. You must make an informed decision when choosing kratom types based on what you want from the tree.
For instance, do you want to feel energized and ready to take on the day? White or yellow vein kratom might be the right choice for you. If you're looking to alleviate discomfort, almost any strain will provide benefits. Finally, if you want to feel recharged, even euphoric, red vein kratom, green vein kratom, and red maeng da kratom might be the right choice for you.
Kratom Isolates
Kratom can have different isolates and percentages similar to CBD. These extracts typically range from 10% to 80%, though the most common extract is 45%, based on the MIT level. For a 45% extract, one will typically need around 30-60mg in order to feel the effects. In these doses, 7-HMG will typically stay around 2%.
Kratom Types and Forms
In a previous paragraph, we talked about how CBD is available as an oil, in gummy form, as edibles, and in topical formulations. Kratom has just as diverse a range of product types.
Kratom Tea
Kratom tea can be made by steeping the leaves in boiling water, by adding liquid kratom to hot water, or by mixing kratom powder into hot water. Many people prefer to add honey or another sweetener to kratom tea because kratom on its own can be bitter.
Kratom Powder
Kratom powder can be used to make tea, but it can also be added to baked goods to create edibles, used to make capsules, and more. Make sure to store the powder in a cool, dry place.
Kratom Pills/Capsules
The simplest way to take kratom is a pill or capsule. You can take them anywhere and at any time, and they are easy to add to your daily routine.
Other Kratom Forms
Kratom is quickly becoming available in forms similar to that of CBD products. Kratom is now available in gummy varieties, resin forms, drinks such as kratom-specialized sodas, and kratom-infused honey sticks. Kava bars are rising in popularity as well.
Kratom vs. CBD
In the discussion of CBD and kratom, we need to make a head-to-head comparison to understand the significant differences between these two natural products.
Molecular Compounds
The primary molecular compound in CBD is cannabidiol, which binds with the endocannabinoid receptors in the body. It can be augmented by THC, as well as other terpenes, although this aspect depends on many different factors, such as whether the CBD was sourced from hemp or marijuana, and the strain it was sourced from.
In kratom, the two molecular compounds of note are 7-hydroxy mitragynine and mitragynine, which interact with but do not bind to opioid receptors in the body. However, many other alkaloids play a role in kratom's effects on the body.
Effects
It is important to understand that the effects of CBD vs. kratom are completely different, although people sometimes use them for similar purposes. For instance, CBD has been studied for use in helping reduce tension or discomfort.
In higher doses, kratom produces a sedative-like effect that helps people relax and unwind, which can also affect anxiety, although for different reasons. Kratom is also known for its energizing effects and ability to improve mental focus. However, CBD does not have this effect.
What Is Kratom Used For?
Kratom, whether in powder, liquid, whole leaf, or capsule form, is used for several purposes. In low doses, it energizes and helps improve mental clarity and focus. In higher doses, it helps you relax and improves your sense of well-being, meaning it can play off your mood and keep you motivated.
What Is the Right Kratom Dosage?
When it comes to dosing, it depends on your preferences. If you are just trying kratom for the first time, start with two to four grams for an energy boost. Give it some time and see if you feel the effects. If not, try another gram or two.
For those looking for relaxation, the kratom dosage should be at least five grams. Again, start with a lower dose and then move upward to get the correct amount for you. Factors that affect dosing include your body size and composition.
You should determine what the best dosage would be for you, as kratom can be dehydrating and cause balance problems if too much is taken. There are reports of enhanced hearing issues, and those who take a stimulating strain or use a large dose in the evening may experience symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Mixing with Medicine
Can you combine kratom with medicine? What about CBD? If you are currently taking medications, speak with your doctor before taking either CBD or kratom, as both can affect how the liver breaks down medications.
The Legality of Kratom in the United States
We have already touched on the fact that CBD is only legal in some states and is quasi-legal or outright banned in others. Kratom is legal in most states, although it varies by jurisdiction. For instance, it is legal in California, but not in the city of San Diego. It is legal in Colorado, as well, but not in Denver. Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, and Utah have all passed their version of the federal Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA).
Kratom is illegal to buy, sell, or possess in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. For most Americans, buying and possessing kratom is perfectly legal. More states are poised to introduce pro-kratom legislation, as well, and will join the ranks of those that have already passed their KCPA law.
What Is the Kratom Consumer Protection Act?
The federal government passed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, and several states have moved forward with their versions. This legislation makes it legal (in some states) to buy and possess kratom while making manufacturers and resellers more responsible for quality and safety.
Why Choose Top Extracts for Buying Kratom?
Top Extracts has been supplying its customers with quality kratom since we were founded by Jim Sourek in 2014. Since day one, Top Extracts has been dedicated to providing safe, effective, and high-quality products. We started as a small organization, and today we serve an expansive variety of customers looking for top-notch health and wellness botanicals.
Our company fully supports the kratom industry by being cGMP compliant. We support the American Kratom Association and are fighting legal battles to make sure kratom and other natural botanicals are legal and available to all who need them.
At Top Extracts, our products are naturally sourced from parts of Indonesia, Africa, and the Amazon. We offer them at low wholesale prices and provide quality customer service to meet your needs to the fullest extent. Alongside our wide variety of kratom products, you can also purchase CBD from us. With our services, you can start feeling rejuvenated, focused, and recharged to take on whatever life throws your way.
Outlook
As you can see, a comparison of CBD vs. kratom shows that each is better for different things. They are different in terms of effects, molecular compounds, chemical makeup, and source. CBD is unable to deliver the effects that kratom can, particularly when it comes to energizing you for the day to come, or relaxing and improving your sense of well-being.
However, it is crucial to work with a reputable, trustworthy provider. Because kratom is unregulated by the FDA, there is the potential for low-quality products. At Top Extracts, we guarantee the highest quality kratom in all of our products.
