Do you want to try a natural product to help you relax, reduce tension and anxiety, or sleep better? Kava and CBD are two plant chemicals that have gained popularity recently due to their potential medicinal and soothing effects.
But what is the distinction between kava and CBD, which should you purchase, and how do they compare? We'll discuss the fundamental distinctions between the two in this blog article so you can make an informed decision about your health. Continue reading to find out more!
Understanding CBD & Kava
Both kava and CBD are plant-based health supplements. Kava is derived from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, whereas CBD is a non-psychoactive extract derived from hemp. Some background information about each supplement is required to compare the similarities and differences between these two plants.
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CBD
CBD is a chemical component present in cannabis plants that are thought to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. This complex communications system aids in the regulation of homeostasis and balance. It is frequently used to promote overall health and well-being and is thought to be beneficial for illnesses such as anxiety, insomnia, arthritis, chronic pain, and autoimmune disease.
CBD can be found in pure form, known as CBD isolate, or in full-spectrum products, which contain additional components in the hemp plant, such as other cannabinoids, terpenes, plant sterols, and fatty acids, in addition to CBD. Compared to isolated extracts, full-spectrum products deliver more well-rounded advantages.
Kava, on the other hand, is a plant species endemic to the Pacific Ocean's tropical islands and known for its profound relaxing and sedative properties. It is frequently used to ease anxiety and tension, and it is also said to aid with sleep and meditation.
The kava plant's roots are used to brew a strong tea, and its active compounds, known as kavalactones, are thought to interact with several neurotransmitters in the brain. Kava is usually seen to be safe, with the most common adverse effects being nausea and fatigue.
At the same time, it can cause more significant side effects in certain people, such as allergic skin responses and liver damage. Before using kava, consult with a healthcare practitioner, especially if you have underlying health concerns or are taking other medications.
Related Link: How to Drink Kava Tea: 5 Tips
Kava
Kava is a plant that is indigenous to the Pacific Islands. Its roots are used to make tea that has been utilized for medicinal and social purposes for centuries. Kavalactones are chemicals that directly impact neurotransmitter function in the brain and are the active constituents in kava.
Depending on the ratios of the various kavalactones present, different kava cultivars can elicit slightly varied effects. Kava is used therapeutically to improve sleep, relieve tension and anxiety, generate a positive mood, and relax muscles. It is often utilized in social settings to foster dialogue and creative thinking. Kava is available in powder, rapid mixes, ready-made drinks, tinctures, pills, and concentrated pastes.
Related Link: Kava for Anxiety Guide: Benefits & Dosage
CBD & Kava Benefits
Both kava and CBD are plant-based remedies known for their calming benefits. They are both non-psychoactive, though massive doses of kava or CBD produced from marijuana (rather than hemp) may have some mind-altering effects.
While both supplements can help with sleep, chronic stress and anxiety, and other conditions involving excessive mental stimulation, CBD has a more significant effect on balancing overall homeostasis and can benefit the immune system, digestive system, metabolic system, and cardiovascular system. In contrast, kava focuses on the central nervous system and may be more effective for specific neurological symptoms.
Legalities of Kava and CBD
CBD's legal status differs based on its source and the legislation of the relevant country or region. CBD is lawful in most parts of the world if it is derived from hemp plants and has less than 0.3% THC by weight (0.2% in Europe and 1% in South America). Products derived from marijuana plants, on the other hand, are subject to the regulations of specific countries or states and may be illegal or only available with a medical license.
Although kava is allowed in most nations, it was banned in some areas in the late 1990s due to worries about liver damage. However, many governments rescinded these prohibitions after subsequent research revealed that these concerns were unwarranted. Before consuming or purchasing CBD or kava products, it is critical to check local legislation.
Deciding Between CBD and Kava
When determining whether to use kava or CBD, it is critical to evaluate the exact symptoms or diseases being treated, as well as the individual's preferences and local laws.
The principal usage and consumption patterns of kava and CBD differ. Kava is largely taken as a beverage for social and ritualistic purposes, whereas CBD is a health supplement meant to assist specific symptoms or illnesses and is typically consumed orally or applied topically. Kava is typically seen to be better for sleep than CBD since it works similarly to prescription sleeping drugs without the adverse effects, whereas CBD may aid with sleep but through a less direct process.
CBD is the superior pain reliever since it targets inflammation and pain pathways, whereas kava may provide minor relief for muscle or neurological pain. Kava may be more useful for anxiety and chronic stress, while other people prefer CBD. CBD has a stronger anti-inflammatory impact than kava and is therefore the better choice for most types of inflammation, whereas kava has more muscle-relaxant effects and is especially beneficial for tension headaches.
While kava may be more useful for social anxiety and GAD, CBD may be more effective for particular phobias and panic disorder. Kava is usually thought to be safer than CBD, with fewer side effects and a lower chance of drug interactions, although both compounds must be used according to correct dosing and usage standards.
Mixing Kava and CBD
It is generally safe to combine CBD and kava, but the amount of each medication must be carefully monitored. Because CBD and kava have comparable effects, such as sedative and blood pressure reduction, combining them may result in too powerful effects, particularly if the intention is not to promote sleep.
When combining CBD with kava, it is advisable to start with a modest dose and gradually increase it, and to try each item separately before mixing them together to better understand how they affect the body.
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Trying Kava Instead of CBD
Now that you know all about the differences between kava and CBD, it’s time to put your knowledge to good use. If you want to try kava for yourself, we suggest starting with a pre-made drink from our online shop.
This will allow you to get a feel for the taste and effects of kava without having to go through the hassle of making it yourself. Cheers!
Related Link: Kratom vs Kava: What's the Difference?
