You may have heard of Kratom . Maybe you’ve even tried it. But for many of us, kratom is an entirely new word for our vocabulary. So what is this mysterious herbal extract? And when it comes to CBD vs Kratom, both offer a number of benefits.
Overall, CBD is better for you than Kratom, as the FDA has warned people against the use of kratom. While CBD and kratom both come from plants and sometimes have overlapping benefits, they are wildly different substances. Here are key differences between kratom and CBD to illustrate why one is much better than the other!
What Is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in hemp plants. It doesn’t get you “high” like THC, but it can support relaxation, sleep, digestion, and mood balance by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS helps regulate key functions like:
- Sleep
- Mood
- Immune response
- Discomfort and soreness
- Digestive health
CBD is non-addictive and legal across the U.S. thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, which made hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal.
Common Benefits of CBD:
- Eases everyday stress
- Supports joint and muscle comfort
- Encourages restful sleep
- Helps maintain mood balance
- Promotes a calm digestive system
CBD comes in many forms—oils, gummies, capsules, and even treats for pets—making it easy to find something that fits your lifestyle. Remember, your endocannabinoid system helps to regulate inflammation and soreness, among many other things. CBD’s interaction with the ECS may help stimulate the system positively.
Is CBD Legal?
Yes! CBD is fully legal in the United States, thanks to the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018. This made manufacturing, selling, buying, and using CBD legal in all 50 states. CBD becoming legal also created regulations, ensuring that the CBD products you purchase within the United States are safe and effective.
While CBD is federally legal, some states have their own laws. Double-check your state’s laws on CBD before purchasing.
To be legal, CBD products must have 0.3% THC or less. THC is a psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in the hemp plant. At levels that low, THC won’t get you high. Instead, it creates an “entourage effect” due to the synergy between CBD, THC, and all of the other phytocannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes that make up full-spectrum CBD products.
Which CBD Products Are Best?
There are so many CBD products out there that it can be hard to know which ones to use. At Hollyweed, we have top-of-the-line vegan and organic products with potent, locally grown CBD you can consume in various ways. Below are some of the most popular CBD products on the market.
CBD Flower
Looking for the classic CBD experience? Smoke CBD with Hollyweed’s wide variety of CBD flower strains. These include:
- Northern Lights
- OG Kush
- Sour Space Candy
- Cherry Wine
- And many more!
CBD Oil
Our CBD oil is made with pure hemp seed oil to create a very potent and nutritious experience. Many people love adding it to their diet or simply add a few drops directly into their mouth for a quick and easy way to enjoy CBD.
You’ll get all benefits of CBD and the wellness benefits of hemp seed oil, which is full of essential vitamins and minerals. Hemp seed oil is a highly nutritious superfood that assists and complements a healthy diet. Plus, it doubles as a vegan source of healthy protein while offering a nutty and earthy taste.
CBD Topicals
Topicals are CBD products you apply directly to your skin. From our CBD salves to lotions, topicals allow you to apply CBD directly to an area on your body that is sore or aching.
Because topicals can instantly absorb into your skin and muscle tissues, this is a great option for bodily relief and muscle recovery. Depending on your topical of choice, you can get targeted or general relief to help you relax after a long day.
Most topicals will also help hydrate and rejuvenate your skin. With nourishing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, lotions and creams can reduce blemishes and keep your skin glowing. CBD salve is usually stronger and more potent, perfect for targeting discomfort and soothing muscle/joint fatigue after a long workout or tough day at the office.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical plant, also known as Mitragyna speciosa. It is native to Southeast Asia and a member of the coffee family. Its leaves contain natural compounds like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain to deliver energetic or calming effects, depending on the dose and strain.
For centuries, Kratom has been used for:
- Boosting energy (in small doses)
- Supporting relaxation (in larger doses)
- Easing physical discomfort
- Supporting mood and motivation
People chew the leaves, swallow or brew dried kratom powder, or even drink kratom extract as a liquid product. It’s a natural product that people believe has a variety of natural remedies. At very high doses, it’s said to reduce discomfort and act as a sedative. Some people report feelings of euphoria. This has made it popular as a traditional medicine for some and a recreational product for others.
Strain Spotlight:
- White Vein Kratom: Energizing, focus-friendly
- Red Vein Kratom: Calming, often used for sleep and discomfort
- Green Vein Kratom: Balanced blend of energy and relaxation
When used mindfully, Kratom can be a powerful natural option, especially for those seeking an herbal alternative to support discomfort or boost mood.
Kratom contains a chemical called mitragynine. Mitragynine works the same as opioid drugs to relieve pain. Both CBD and Kratom have been discussed over as possible replacements for opioid addiction, which cause destruction to the human body.
Is Kratom Legal?
The legal state of kratom is constantly changing in the United States, and it’s currently illegal in some countries.
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration is often wondering what to do about kratom’s legality. Some say it should be illegal because it has psychoactive properties and may even become addictive. Others say it battles the nation’s opioid epidemic.
In August of 2016, the DEA decided to list kratom as a Schedule 1 drug, alongside other substances like heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. But in October, just two months later, the DEA withdrew the ruling. If it goes back to being a Schedule 1 drug, kratom will become federally illegal.
Some states have their own kratom guidelines:
- Alabama stated in 2016 that kratom is a Schedule 1 drug
- Also in 2016, Arkansas added it to their controlled substance list
- Legal in California except for San Diego
- Legal in Florida except for Sarasota County
- Banned completely in Wisconsin, where it’s classified as a Schedule 1 drug
- Only people 18 and up can buy kratom in New Hampshire and Illinois
What Do CBD & Kratom Have in Common?
Despite their differences, CBD and Kratom share a few key benefits:
Plant-Based Relief: Both come from natural sources and are used by people looking for alternatives to synthetic drugs.
Discomfort Support: Each can help ease physical tension or soreness, though they work in different ways.
Mood & Balance: Kratom and CBD both offer emotional support—CBD more subtly, Kratom more noticeably.
Versatile Formats: You’ll find oils, gummies, capsules, and powders for both, allowing for personalized routines.
Key Differences to Understand
| Category | CBD | Kratom |
| Psychoactive? | ❌ Non-psychoactive | ✅ Can be psychoactive (especially in higher doses) |
| Addictive? | ❌ Not addictive | ⚠️ Can be habit-forming with prolonged heavy use |
| Legal Status | ✅ Legal nationwide (with ≤0.3% THC) | 🚫 Illegal in some U.S. states |
| Common Uses | Stress, sleep, discomfort, general wellness | Discomfort relief, energy, mood support, occasional relaxation |
| Acts on… | Endocannabinoid system | Opioid receptors |
Can You Use CBD and Kratom Together?
Yes—many people combine CBD and Kratom to balance out their effects. CBD’s gentle calming nature can help smooth the edges of stimulating Kratom strains, or enhance relaxation when paired with red vein varieties. Together, they can support:
- A smoother transition off of opioids
- Post-workout recovery and muscle relief
- Relaxation without sedation
- Balanced mental focus and clarity
Start with low doses and listen to your body. Everyone responds differently, and moderation is key.
Safety & Responsible Use
While CBD is generally well-tolerated, Kratom should be used more cautiously due to its potency and potential for dependency if overused.
CBD Side Effects (Rare & Mild):
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
Kratom Side Effects (Typically with higher doses or long-term use):
- Digestive upset
- Headaches or dizziness
- Dependency or withdrawal
- Fatigue or sedation
Only purchase from trusted, transparent brands that provide third-party lab testing, especially when exploring enhanced Kratom or extract products.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit for You
Whether you’re looking to unwind, support your physical comfort, or find balance during stressful times, CBD and Kratom both offer unique, natural support—you just need to choose what’s right for your body and lifestyle.
- Try CBD for gentle daily support, stress relief, and sleep
- Explore Kratom for occasional mood or discomfort support, or as a short-term aid for energy or calm
Ready to try it yourself?
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Your wellness journey is personal—but it doesn’t have to be confusing. We’re here to help you find the right plant-powered support, naturally.
