The Differences Between CBD and Kratom You Should Know

CBD and Kratom are massively popular in the United States. Compare these two amazing botanicals and learn more about how they can benefit you in our latest article.
Featured image depicting a split screen image with a bottle of golden CBD Oil on the left, and a handful of green kratom leaves, along with some kratom capsules and kratom powder on the right. The image is meant to compare the two products CBD and Kratom.
January 13, 2023
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8 min read

Disclaimer: Kratom remains unregulated by the FDA, the authors of this text would like you to note that although this article contains many points regarding the use of Kratom, they should only serve as a piece of information - not medical advice.

Kratom is not intended to cure, diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or condition. 

Make sure to speak to a physician if you have questions before using Kratom.

The use of natural remedies to manage an array of mental/physical conditions in the western world is currently soaring to greater heights. Kratom and CBD are among the botanicals that have become most popular. People use CBD and Kratom for various unique reasons - the most vital being to help ease minor aches and physical discomfort.

If you believe in the true healing power of herbs and have ever tried CBD or Kratom, hang on to this article. This article talks about both botanicals and how you can use them synergistically from an expert point of view.

What is Kratom?

Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is an evergreen tree grown in the tropical parts of Southeast Asia, such as Indonesia and Thailand. It contains more than 40 alkaloids, but Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine are the primary ones and are responsible for most of the much-appreciated benefits of the plant.

Kratom exists in several vein strains; most prevalent ones are the white vein, green vein, red vein, and yellow vein. Each strain calls for unique cultivation and harvesting practices. These specialized operations are responsible for vein colors and varying set of effects. 

For instance, the leaves of White Vein Kratom are harvested early when they are in the maturity stage. This makes White Kratom the most energizing and focus-boosting strains.

Kratom is available in several forms, making it to be in a class of its own when it comes to user experience. You can find this beneficial herb in crushed leaves, extract, powder, capsules, tinctures, and other forms.

Close up photographic image depicting a cluster of Red Veined Kratom Leaves against a bright blue sky.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, mostly called CBD, is one of the over 100 cannabinoids that occur naturally in the cannabis plant. CBD can be sourced from the 2 major varieties of cannabis plant – marijuana and industrial hemp.

Most producers prefer to derive CBD from hemp as it contains high levels of the cannabinoid and low amounts of illegal tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). But that does not limit you from using marijuana-derived CBD since its legality varies from one state to another.

There is broad-spectrum CBD, full-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate, the 3 commonly known types of CBD. Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, including less than 0.3% THC.

Broad-spectrum CBD includes most ingredients of the cannabis plant except THC, while CBD isolate contains only CBD with no other cannabinoids.

CBD is used in numerous ways. You can smoke CBD flower, dab CBD concentrate, vape CBD e-liquid, use oil or tincture sublingually, or apply oil, cream, or lotion on the skin. Even much better, you can go for CBD edibles such as gummies, capsules, or pills.

Is CBD Kratom Legit? 

Using CBD Kratom is a great way to boost your wellness. What matters most is not the effects of each substance but the results or overall experience after using their mixture. That is what we can ask whether it is legit.

Kratom and CBD might have almost the same benefits, but they influence the body and mind differently. Each substance interacts with different body receptors (explained in detail below). Besides, every substance has a different half-life, even if you take them together or alternate them.

Generally, we can say CBDKratom synergistic effects will be more beneficial than the negative drug interaction only when serving size and usage are appropriately done.

What Is the Difference Between Kratom & CBD?

CBD and Kratom are different in many ways, but we will discuss the ones relevant to this article now and later.

CBD is one of the primary non-intoxicating compounds in the cannabis plant. On the contrary, Kratom is psychoactive and contains many alkaloids, but the most active ones are Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine, as earlier mentioned.

Kratom and CBD interact with different receptors in the body. CBD bind to the endocannabinoid receptors, mainly CB1 and CB2, found throughout the body, including the brain and immune system.

On the other hand, Kratom activates the opioid receptors located in the nervous system. This explains why CBD Kratom combination can offer more improved benefits to the entire body. It can be different for everyone due to unique body chemistry, experience with the substance(s), and other factors.

What Is CBD/Kratom Used For? 

Important Note: Since Kratom is a stimulant, it works effectively for short-term use, while CBD is quite beneficial for long-term consumption.

Kratom vs CBD for Energy and Focus

Kratom is better than CBD in providing uplifting and focus-boosting effects. How does Kratom for energy or Kratom for focus work?

Kratom has uplifting and relaxing effects depending on the serving size used. In small servings, it offers instant uplifting effects, giving you a burst of energy while keeping you laser-focused for a long time.

CBD can also raise energy levels and elevate focus but moderately. It can regulate the endocannabinoid system, which modulates the body's sleep-wake cycle, creating lasting energy and mental alertness. CBD ensures this by increasing the dopamine levels in the brain.

Kratom vs CBD for Discomfort

Be sure to use Kratom for relieving physical discomfort. It is the best in delivering instant relief from any discomfort in the body. However, CBD outshines Kratom in relieving chronic discomfort linked to inflammation, swelling, and other conditions. Because both Kratom and CBD are effective at managing discomfort when used in high serving sizes, make sure you are being mindful.

Kratom alkaloids not only bind but also activate opioid receptors on cells situated in the spinal cord, brain, and other body parts. The cells release signals that sheathe your perception of discomfort and welcome a feeling of pleasure. In simple terms, these cells in the nervous system block discomfort signals from reaching your brain.

CBD bind to the endocannabinoid system receptors that work to keep the body in a state of balance. Doing so limits discomfort signals traveling to the brain while reducing any inflammation on the affected parts, relieving your body.

Kratom vs CBD for Sleep

CBD is more effective than Kratom for improving sleep both in the short and long term.

Lack of sleep stems from almost every kind of body issue – physical, emotional, psychological, and more. Or, in short, we can say imbalanced immune system. CBD may fix the underlying root cause of insomnia when used in high but regulated serving sizes, helping you to have a better sleep in the days ahead.

Kratom for sleep is effective, but accurate serving sizes and the right vein strain are paramount. In high serving sizes, Kratom delivers soothing, calming, and relaxing effects. So it can relax your mind and body for a good night's rest.

Red vein strains are the best for relaxing and calming your body and mind. Other Kratom strains can do the trick though specific products. If choosing the right Kratom for sleep bothers you, Happy Hippo Kratom experts can help you pick the best.

Graphic designed image depicting an amber tincture bottle containing CBD, surrounded on either side by bushy cannabis leaves against a pale yellow background.

Can You Combine Kratom/CBD?

Because you learned the many beneficial properties CBD and Kratom offer, now you might be asking, will you reap every benefit of each herb if you combine them? That may be or not the case.

Honestly, we don't recommend combining Kratom and CBD unless you are SUPER mindful of your serving size of each product. You can combine Kratom and CBD, but it requires accurate sized servings with the help of an expert. You should start with lower serving sizes of the final product than you think you might need. 

Keep in mind CBD is non-psychoactive, and Kratom may be a bit of a stimulant. So, a slight error when measuring your serving can lead to a number of effects. This might increase the chances of adverse side effects when misused.

The kind of effects you want to achieve plays a key role in CBD Kratom mixing. If you want to feel energized, focused and creative, go for white vein strains. Red vein strains are best for inducing a feeling of relaxation and calmness.

Green strains can boost your mood and ensure positive vibes, while yellow strains induce mild energizing effects coupled with positivity.

The most important thing to remember is, despite the method of administration you consider, take enough time to listen to your body before taking the second serving. NEVER ever rush your servings.

Does CBD/Kratom Have Any Side Effects?

Every drug or supplement, including CBD and Kratom, has a share of side effects. Sometimes CBD causes no side effects. And if they occur, they are mild and go away with time. Some include fatigue, dizziness, constipation, weight changes, etc.

Kratom is linked to several side effects, primarily when you’ve taken too large of a serving. That is why users are advised to use the substance cautiously to as much as possible avoid its unwanted reactions.

We have said this several times, but still, it is worth repeating it. If you decide to use a mixture of CBD Kratom, be extra careful when choosing products and serving sizes to prevent any side effects. Plus, never forget to inform your doctor to devise a proper Kratom CBD usage plan.

Kratom & CBD Safety

Even studies testify that CBD is safe to use for both humans and animals. Humans can take as high as 1500 mg of CBD on a daily basis without any life-threatening side effects.

Interestingly, even long-term consumption of CBD at high serving sizes, especially when managing medical conditions, cannot lead to physical addiction or dependence.

Kratom's safety profile is a bit hazy since it is solely based on the size of servings used. Low servings sizes are safe. Some people even use high serving sizes and experience little to no side effects. Guess who? Highly experienced Kratom users.

Apart from adverse effects, things can get worse when you use high kratom serving sizes uncontrollably. Better stick to your lanes to enjoy these substances for improved well-being. In the worst-case scenario, using Kratom regularly for a long time can lead to dependence.

Kratom/CBD Legality

The legality of Kratom and CBD varies dramatically across most parts of the world. In the United States, both CBD and Kratom are legal on a federal level but under strict rules and regulations.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized CBD so long as it is derived from industrial hemp, contains less than 0.3% THC, and is sourced from licensed farmers. Also, Kratom is not included in the list of controlled substances, so this deems it federally legal to use.

The legality of CBD and Kratom varies from state to state. It is because some state laws align with the federal government while others draft their own rules and regulations surrounding these drugs.

This simply means some states legalize CBD and Kratom use while others completely restrict them. The best way to know whether you can use or combine Kratom and CBD is to confirm the laws governing both botanicals in your state.

You might be surprised to find out that CBD is legal but Kratom illegal in a particular state and vice versa. Or both of them are either legal or illegal in another state.

If you are not an American, be sure to confirm Kratom laws and CBD laws in your country before buying them.

Where to Buy Kratom/CBD

Happy Hippo is the best brand to buy Kratom. With years of experience in the botanical wellness industry, we know exactly what product you want, when you want it, and how you want it.

Want to combine Kratom and CBD? Want slow, moderate, or fast speed Kratom? We have them all.

We have a trained and skilled team with 20+ years of experience that you can depend on for all your unique Kratom needs. Plus, we have other amazing botanicals like Kava, Kanna, and Akuamma.

You just need to browse our product line, place an order, shoot a message or leave a comment for us to point you in the right direction.

Happy shopping, happy CBD Kratom wellness.

Why is Happy Hippo the best place to buy Kratom?

  • We are proudly certified by the (AKA) American Kratom Association
  • We strictly abide by GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) in all of our facilities
  • Our Kratom is lab-tested for heavy metals and other contaminants (Ask to see our lab results!)
  • All of our Kratom is pre-sterilized at 170 degrees (enough heat to kill pathogens but not disrupt the alkaloid profile)
  • All of our Kratom products are neatly packaged and clearly labeled
  • 100% ALL NATURAL KRATOM - no additives or inferior botanical fillers necessary
  • Our Kratom is visibly different - it looks and smells fresh. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference.
We specialize in high-quality Kratom products, but we also have other amazing botanicals (Kava, Kanna, Akuamma, and more!)

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