In the past decade, CBD and kratom have exploded in popularity. CBD (or cannabidiol) — the non-psychoactive component of cannabis — has gained traction as a health-positive tincture and food additive. Meanwhile, consumer interest in kratom — the ground, powdered leaves of the mitragyna speciosa tree — is also rising.
Beyond their botanical origins, both CBD and kratom share some notable similarities. But, are these two plant-based substances complementary, or should users avoid using kratom plus CBD?
Let’s find out!
CBD and Kratom: An Introduction
CBD
CBD is one of at least 113 cannabinoids that are naturally present in the hemp plant. In contrast to many of the other prominent cannabinoids found in hemp and cannabis, CBD is frequently considered to be “non-psychoactive,” meaning that it doesn’t alter a user’s perception or state of mind.
This is because unlike cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD has a low affinity for the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. Instead of binding to those receptors, cannabidiol behaves as an “antagonist” and blocks them.
However, like kratom, CBD’s nonactivation of the endocannabinoid system doesn’t render the substance completely ineffectual. Instead, CBD binds to other receptors, including CB1R, 5-HT1A, TRPV1, and GPR55. As a result of these interactions, many users report that CBD possesses stress-relieving, pain-relieving, and anti-inflammatory properties, which scientists have confirmed.
Kratom
Kratom refers to the ground leaves of mitragyna speciosa, a tree in the coffee family that grows throughout Southeast Asia. The leaves of the tree contain over a dozen alkaloids, two of which — mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine — possess stress-relieving, mood-enhancing, and pain-relieving properties, making kratom and CBD very similar in terms of effects.
For decades, research on kratom was limited, and most studies focused on the pain-relieving and stimulating qualities of its aroma; however, more recent research has drawn attention to kratom’s other characteristics, including its purported anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant content.
Although most kratom is sold as fine-grain loose-leaf kratom powder, other product forms — such as extracts and enhanced varieties — are also available.
Kratom Plus CBD: Why Combine CBD and Kratom?
CBD and kratom provide similar benefits, and as a result, many people use both simultaneously to combat acute or chronic pain, headaches, inflammation, or to uplift their mood.
Because CBD operates on receptors within the endocannabinoid system and kratom primarily interacts with mu-opioid receptors, neither substance should negatively interact with the other. That said, research in the area of CBD plus kratom interaction is sparse.
Another factor to consider before using CBD and kratom is whether or not both substances are legal in your area. In the US, the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 legalized hemp-derived CBD products, but cannabis-derived CBD products (defined as being made from cannabis plants that contain more than 0.3% THC by dry weight) are illegal for sale and purchase in most states.
Like CBD, kratom’s legality also varies from state-to-state. In the US, kratom is legal to purchase and possess in most states; however, several states have classified either kratom or kratom’s primary alkaloids (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) as controlled substances.
Kratom Plus CBD
If you’re interested in purchasing CBD and kratom, choosing quality products is essential. By relying on premium-grade kratom and CBD, you’ll be able to maximize the benefits of both without encountering the setbacks that often accompany poor quality products.
Choosing a Kratom Product
Kratom is unique among botanical substances in that the characteristics of its leaves can vary from batch to batch. Due to the variances that occur throughout the kratom production process, dozens of kratom variants exist, which are often referred to as “strains.” This phenomenon has resulted in kratom strain aromas that are more relaxing or less stimulating than others and vice-versa.
To achieve the ideal synergy between CBD and kratom, you’ll want to choose a kratom strain that fits your needs. For example, the aroma of red vein kratom strains is generally conducive to relaxation, while white vein kratom varieties are typically more energizing by comparison.
Choosing a CBD Product
Aside from quality, choice in the world of CBD usually involves product form and flavor. Because CBD is sourced from hemp or cannabis, the extracted oil is often added to various products, including gummies, capsules, tinctures, food products, as well as lotions and salves.
When combining CBD and kratom, choose a CBD product in a format and flavor that you enjoy. Shop buds, edibles, pre-rolls, concentrates from trusted weed delivery services. For instance, CBD oil is a popular option due to its convenience and comes in a variety of flavors including Chocolate, Confetti Cake, Peppermint, Fruit Punch, and more.
Please note that the US FDA has not approved kratom to be sold for human consumption, sold for external use only. None of the products sold on our website are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.
