Are Kratom & Kava the Same?

Short answer: No.

While kratom and kava are both plant-based substances often discussed in the same breath, they come from entirely different plant families, serve different purposes, and have very different effects on the body.

If you’ve ever wondered what is kratom and kava, or how they compare, here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand.

What Is Kava?

Kava is made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, native to the South Pacific. Traditionally used in ceremonial settings, kava is widely recognized for its calming, anti-anxiety effects.

Purpose: Supports relaxation, reduces anxiety, promotes better sleep.
How it works: Its active compounds, kavalactones, interact with GABA pathways, similar to how alcohol or anti-anxiety meds function, but without the high.
Form: Commonly consumed as tea or in capsules.
Legal status: Legal in all 50 U.S. states, sold in wellness shops, tea bars, and even some grocery stores.
Risks: Not considered addictive, but prolonged use or high doses have been linked to potential liver issues.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant from Southeast Asia, where it's been used for centuries under names like thang, ketum, and biak. Its effects can be either stimulating or sedating depending on the dose.

Purpose: Often used for energy, mood support, pain relief, or easing opioid withdrawal.
How it works: Contains alkaloids like mitragynine that interact with the body’s opioid receptors.
Form: Available as teas, powders, or capsules.
Legal status: Legal in some U.S. states, banned or regulated in others. Not FDA-approved and listed as a “Drug of Concern” by the DEA.
Risks: Kratom can be habit-forming, especially with frequent or high-dose use. Side effects may include nausea, dizziness, constipation, and in rare cases more severe issues like seizures or psychosis

How to Decide: Kava or Kratom?

If you’re feeling anxious, overstimulated, or struggling with sleep, kava’s calming effect may offer the mental stillness you need. It works subtly, helping you unwind without altering your alertness too drastically.

On the other hand, if you’re dealing with low energy, persistent discomfort, or emotional lows, kratom might appeal more. Its unique ability to be either stimulating or sedating (depending on the dose) makes it wonderfully versatile, but also more complicated to use safely.

Legal access and safety should also guide your choice. Kava is widely available and generally considered low-risk. Kratom has more legal gray areas and requires extra caution, especially for new users.

In short:

Choose kava if you want to relax or ease stress.
Consider kratom if you need a boost, but research it carefully and start slow.
Either way, these plants aren’t magic fixes. They’re tools that can support your well-being if used mindfully.

Safety First

With kratom in particular, dosage matters. Low doses may increase alertness; high doses can be sedating and possibly habit-forming. Overuse may lead to tolerance, dependence, or withdrawal symptoms.

To stay safe:

Start low, especially with kratom.
Avoid mixing with alcohol or medications.
Choose products from trusted, lab-tested sources.
Consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.

Kratom and kava can both be helpful allies when used responsibly. Understanding their differences is the first step in making an informed, safe, and intentional choice for your body and mind.

Why We Love Happy Hippo Kratom!