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Kratom vs Kava: What’s the Difference Between Kava and Kratom?

KRATOM VS KAVA: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN KAVA AND KRATOM?

By Asad Muneer

Mar 18, 2025

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Kratom vs Kava: What’s the Difference Between Kava and Kratom?

Over recent years, there has been a significant rise in the popularity of two ancient botanicals: kava and kratom. Though both are known for their feel-good properties, they come from distinct plants with unique origins, active compounds, and effects.

In this article, we’ll break down what sets kava and kratom apart, helping you understand their differences and discover which might suit your needs best.

Is Kava the Same as Kratom?

Kava and kratom are feel-good herbs. While both are plant-based, they are distinctly different in origin, active compounds, and effects. Kava is primarily known for its calming, stress-relieving properties, while kratom offers a spectrum ranging between energizing and relaxing effects.

What is Kratom vs Kava?

Overview of Kratom

Kratom is a natural supplement derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree.

Kratom comes from the lush green rain forests of Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. Traditionally, kratom leaves were chewed or brewed into tea to promote energy and relaxation.

Today, you can consume kratom in many forms: powder, tea bags, capsules, tablets, gummies, and shots.

Overview of Kava

Kava, scientifically known as Piper methysticum, is native to the Pacific Islands. The root of the kava plant is used to create a beverage known for its calming, relaxing effects. Kava is deeply rooted in Pacific Island culture and is often consumed during social and ceremonial gatherings.

Kava’s relaxing effects relieve daily stress and put you at ease in social interactions.

Various forms of kava include dried root powder, instant drink mixes, capsules, and liquid extracts.

Kava vs Kratom: Key Differences in Effects, Usage, and More

Active Compounds

Kratom	Kava
Kratom contains various alkaloids, mainly mitragynine, which can help promote energy and relief for both body and mind.	Kava contains kavalactones which can induce a calming sensation, relieving stress and promoting relief in the body.

Specific Effects

Kratom’s effects can lean towards energy or relaxation depending on the serving size and strain. Smaller servings uplift while larger servings soothe.

Kava soothes and releases tension from the body while promoting clarity and peace for the mind. You may experience relief and a sense of deep calm.

On Super Speciosa’s website, you can use our navigational menus to browse by forms, benefits, or color. The color terminology is a simple way to know whether the effects lean toward energy or relaxation. In general, reds lean toward relaxing, whites lean toward energy and greens offer a balance of both.

Duration and Onset of Effects

Kratom’s effects may be fully felt within 45 mins to an hour after consumption. The effects may sustain for a long time, lasting 4-5 hours on average.

Kava’s gradual onset may also take half an hour or so to kick in. The effects are generally milder than kratom and may last a few hours.

Note that there are slight differences in onset time among various forms of kratom. For instance, extract forms have higher bioavailability and may take effect faster than natural forms such as powder and tea bags. Capsules offer a timed release due to their gelatin encapsulation.

For more info, read our blog: how long does kratom take to kick in

Legal Status and Regulations

Kratom is legal at the federal level in the U.S. but banned in certain states and municipalities.

Kava is legal throughout the U.S., though some local jurisdictions may have restrictions.

States where kratom is illegal: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.

Cities and counties where kratom is currently illegal: Sarasota County in Florida; Union County, MS; San Diego, CA; Jerseyville, IL; Oceanside, CA; and Ontario, OR.

See our kratom legality map for the most updated information.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Concerns

Kratom overconsumption may cause nausea, dizziness, etc. Please note that regular use can be habit-forming.

Some potential side effects of kava include loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, tiredness, etc.

Do not consume kratom or kava if you are pregnant or nursing. In case of existing health conditions, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.

Read our kratom serving size guide to avoid any adverse effects.

Cultural and Social Contexts

Kratom has been a staple for natives who work long hours in harsh conditions, greatly benefiting from its energizing effects.

Kava is central to Pacific Island social and ceremonial life, symbolizing community and connection.

In modern times, you may choose kratom to boost productivity or creativity.

Can You Mix Kava and Kratom?

Potential Benefits of Combining Kava and Kratom

What if you didn’t have to compromise any of your energy needs or your relaxation? An expert formulation of both kava and kratom offers a uniquely balanced experience. You may experience a gentle mood lift, deeper relaxation, and a sense of well-being.

Risks and Safety Considerations

We do not recommend combining these two herbs on your own. Rather, rely on high-quality and lab-tested products from reputable vendors such as Super Speciosa. Try our kava and kratom shot.

Tips for Safe Consumption

Consult a healthcare professional before taking kava or kratom.
Begin with a small serving size and closely monitor your body's reaction.
If you experience any adverse effects, seek medical advice promptly.

Try Kratom and Kava at the Same Time at Super Speciosa!

Introducing Super Feels Chill Vibes: Kava and Kratom Shot! Exclusively available at Super Speciosa, this shot is a harmonious blend of Kava extract and kratom extract.

Super Feels Chill Vibes is a 60ml liquid shot. Each bottle contains two servings, with 35mg of mitragynine and 25mg of kavalactones per serving. This powerful combination guarantees a calming relaxation, enhanced mood, and overall sense of well-being.

Considering CBD instead? See kratom vs CBD.

Wrapping Up Our Guide to the Difference Between Kava and Kratom

Kava and kratom can offer the best of both worlds for consumers who want a balanced experience. For boosting your energy levels alone, go for kratom for its uplifting effects.

At Super Speciosa, we're committed to providing premium-quality products to support your journey towards relaxation and inner balance. Head to our online shop now and discover the perfect companion for your well-being routine.