Drive down any main thoroughfare in the US and you’re likely to see CBD shops—sometimes one on every corner. From skincare products to coffee, it seems like CBD has taken over the nation.

With 86% of US adults consuming supplements on a regular basis, we’ve seen a surge in interest for not only CBD, but another natural supplement called Kratom. 



But if you’re new to Kratom, you might wonder how it compares to other plant-derived supplements on the market, like CBD. Make the best decision for your body by understanding the differences between CBD versus Kratom. 

What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis sativa plant. It’s a non-psychoactive compound that’s legal in all US states thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. 

The federal government permits CBD products as long as they contain less than 0.3% of THC (CBD’s psychoactive cousin). 

CBD is typically extracted from high-CBD strains of hemp, which is usually converted into oil. You can consume CBD via sublingual drops, vapes, edibles, and more. It’s even used as a popular supplement for cats and dogs. 

Like any supplement, CBD’s effects differ based on consumption method, your body, dosage, and more. It’s reported to help with issues ranging from anxiety to pain to insomnia. Thanks to clarified federal regulations on CBD, clinical trials are beginning to shed light on its potential benefits. 

What is Kratom?
Kratom is less well-known than CBD, with less than 1% of the US population using it in the past year. Like CBD, Kratom is a naturally occurring compound. Cultures in Southeast Asia have used it for hundreds of years, but it’s growing in popularity around the globe. 

While you can eat a Kratom leaf raw, most people consume it as a powder mixed into either warm water or tea. While Kratom isn’t technically considered an opioid, it does interact with the opioid receptors in the human body.

Kratom usually comes in one of three forms: 
● Red vein: People report that red vein Kratom has a more sedative or pain-relieving effect. 
● White vein: People who take white vein Kratom report more energizing effects. 
● Green vein: This type of Kratom is reported to have effects in between red vein and white vein varieties. 

Kratom versus CBD: 3 big differences
For most people, the big question is, “Should I take CBD or Kratom?” The right option depends on your situation. 

CBD and Kratom do share some similarities. They’re both derived from plants and have centuries of anecdotal benefits. 

However, it’s important to remember that CBD and Kratom are two different plants that contain very different compounds. Understand the 3 big differences between CBD and Kratom to choose the best supplement for you. 

Consumption methods
You can consume CBD in plenty of ways: tinctures, softgels, vapes, topicals, edibles, and more. Kratom is usually consumed as a powder mixed with warm water or tea. You might choose one over the other depending on how you prefer to consume your supplements. 

Legality
As long as it contains less than 0.3% THC, CBD is legal throughout the United States. Reputable CBD providers will give you third-party lab results ensuring that your supplement matches the federal standard. 

Kratom is in more of a legal gray area and is largely unregulated. However, it’s illegal in some countries, states, and cities, so check your local regulations first. Some concerns about Kratom include the potential for adulteration, and that’s why it’s so important to buy Kratom from only GMP (good manufacturing practices) compliant vendors. 

Physical effects
Both CBD and Kratom need more research into their purported effects. However, people who use these supplements often report physical and mental benefits.

CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in everything from digestion to your nervous system. People often report that CBD has an effect on their anxiety, depression, and arthritis. 

Kratom is different because it works with your body’s opioid receptors. Kratom has been reported to have stimulant effects at lower doses and sedative effects at higher doses. It’s believed that this is because Kratom contains mitragynine, a compound that is chemically similar to opioids. In fact, 91% of people who take Kratom report that it helps them manage their pain. 

Choose what’s right for you
CBD and Kratom contain different compounds, so they’re going to have a different effect on your body. Although people report that both supplements can help with issues like pain or anxiety, we need more research on both to fully understand their effects. 

When it comes to choosing between Kratom and CBD, go with the supplement that’s permitted in your area and that you can easily consume. Always source your CBD or Kratom from reputable sources to make the most of your supplement.