When we talk about natural remedies for discomfort relief and bringing in calmness, green tea, spices, and herbs of whatever sort, but green, come into mind. It’s as if our mental imagery is a limited camera roll, containing just a few pictures of the same colored items—bland, boring, mild, and repetitive.
However, if we think of the literal opposites of those qualities and effects, a few banned, illegal drugs come to mind—exciting, stimulating, illegal, and criminal.
So, what’s the middle ground? There has to be something.
There is. We’re not just aware of it.
The All-Natural Discomfort Relievers
If we were to name one best thing about mankind, it would be its inherent nature to go on a quest in search of things that could bring us good. Really good. And that has literally brought us many discoveries. While some were good, a few others were weird, a bit strange, or even scary.
But lucky we’re that CBD, Kava, Kratom, and a few other botanicals are among the good discoveries that had us all feeling things—good things. And that is why, with the amount of stress our poor shoulders bear these days, we often find ourselves turning to things that help us alleviate those daily pressures, whether it’s a fun night with friends, a family pool party, or cannabis.
Yep! That’s right.
Cannabis — an all-natural remedy used for discomfort relief, a treatment for many conditions, and whatnot for centuries. It was widely utilized long before laws came in and banned it in many states.
So, let’s talk about everything you need to know about cannabis, CBD, and Kava in this article.
What is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, a naturally occurring compound, along with THC, found in the leaves of the Cannabis sativa plant or the flowering hemp. CBD and THC are both active cannabinoid compounds among the more than 540 phytochemicals, but the main difference is that THC has psychoactive properties; CBD does not.
And then here the important question comes: Why is CBD not as intoxicating as THC when they both come from the same plant?
Well, the truth is, even though both of these active compounds come from the cannabis tree, their species are different. Yes! There are two different species of the said tree — Hemp flower and Marijuana vein. Both species have CBD and THC; however, the percentage of CBD is higher in hemp. On the contrary, THC is found in higher proportions in marijuana. This explains why CBD and hemp are legal in most states given that it does not make users high, unlike marijuana which is banned.
Undoubtedly, CBD is much more popular than Kava in the natural botanical industry, due to its worldwide use and calming effects. In the US, it’s almost impossible to walk into a supermarket without seeing CBD products displayed on the shelves. That’s right! CBD is a sensation these days and its popularity continues to grow with the launch of numerous products, including CBD oil, CBD gummies, CBD edibles, and CBD tinctures, just to name a few.
CBD Oil Origin and History
The Cannabis sativa plant originates from the lands of the Asian continent.
Fun fact: Even though CBD has gained worldwide popularity recently, its use dates back to ancient times, long before many islands were even discovered. It is believed that CBD use dates back to 2737 BC when Chinese Emperor Sheng Nung used to add CBD to his teas to seek relief from ailments like malaria, gout, inflammation, and memory loss.
CBD Oil Use and Benefits
CBD is widely used to help manage several mental and physical conditions. From reducing discomfort and relieving chronic aches to managing anxiety, addiction, insomnia, inflammation, and nausea, CBD is known for its all-natural effect.
Evidence-wise, there have been only a few research studies suggesting CBD’s effectiveness in treating the conditions mentioned above. With that said, a study from the Trends in Pharmacological Sciences (TIPS) in 2016 concluded that CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which, therefore, results in a positive, calming effect after CBD use.
This is because, unlike THC, CBD does not bind with the body’s cannabinoid receptors rapidly, and thus, it does not produce a psychoactive reaction. Instead, CBD binds with opioid receptors and neurotransmitters in the brain, like serotonin, which results in relieving stress and gentle relaxation.
CBD received its first moment of recognition in 2018 when the FDA approved a cannabis-based (CBD) drug called Epidiolex, to treat conditions like seizures and epilepsy in children, infants, and teenagers. That’s when people realized that CBD is just more than a natural relaxant and can help manage extreme conditions.
Currently, CBD is being studied for its potential role in treating several other ailments and diseases like cancer; however, the research work is in progress and not much word has been out suggesting CBD’s effectiveness in the area of oncology. Nonetheless, since CBD has been used for centuries as a medicine, this proves that there is some potential in the said compound.
CBD Oil Legality Status
The legality of CBD is a complex concept. Since CBD oil can be derived from both hemp and marijuana species of the Cannabis sativa plant, the legal status of CBD is convoluted.
But there is an always easier take on understanding the legality of CBD.
CBD is legal in all 50 states of the United States of America only under one condition: it must be derived from the hemp plant. Only hemp-derived CBD, with 0.3% or less THC, is considered “safe to travel with” or “use” nationwide.
The US Farm Bill 2018, clearly states that:
“The state legalizes industrial hemp that has a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana) concentration of no more than 0.3% by removing it from schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act.”
The bottom line is CBD products are federally legal; however, there have been instances in Texas, US, where local marts were police-raided because of some tensions between the state and federal laws. Nevertheless, CBD users have not been in trouble in any US state as long as they are using hemp-derived CBD products.
What is Kava?
Kava, also known as Piper methysticum or Kava Kava (yes, it’s pronounced twice), is a plant native to the Pacific Islands. For centuries, the root of the plant has been used to make a ceremonial beverage to induce calmness and relaxation during rituals. One might say that Kava functioned like a vodka shot in ancient times to help people loosen up and socialize more easily. Besides that, the root of the Kava plant was also used to make herbal tonics or teas to manage some health conditions, like chronic discomfort or alleviating stress.
Right now, in the contemporary US market, several Kava products have been sold, with options ranging from dried roots to powders, tinctures, capsules, tablets, and Kava extracts.
Fun Fact: The Kava trees grow and mature in about three years and stand as tall as nearly six feet. One distinct feature of more mature Kava trees is that they possess a large number of above-ground root runners with their stems having a knobby appearance, similar to that of bamboo trees.
Kava Origin and History
The word “kava” is derived from the Polynesian word “awa,” meaning bitter. Historically, Kava has played a significant role in various aspects of life in the Pacific Islands, originating from Fiji, Hawaii, Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and Micronesia. It is believed that the use of Kava root for ceremonial purposes goes back as far as 3,000 years ago when people often indulged in social gatherings and drank Kava tonics by pounding in the leaves of the trees, making a powder, and adding spoonfuls of the herb in water or coconut milk. This mixture resulted in a peppery, muddy drink with an earthy, strong taste, known for inducing gentle calmness, boosting social battery, and improving clarity.
In addition to being consumed as a staple socializing beverage in the community meet and greet back in the day, Kava drinks were also used in ceremonies to honor ancestors, facilitate communication with the gods, and mark important social events such as weddings and peace treaties.
European explorers, including Captain James Cook, documented their encounters with Kava during their voyages in the 18th century. These accounts sparked interest in Kava beyond the Pacific Islands, leading to its introduction to other parts of the world, like Australia and New Zealand in the late 20th century. Today, Kava is recognized for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly for anxiety and stress relief.
Kava Uses and Benefits
Globally and traditionally, Kava is famous for its relaxing and calming effects. Therefore, it has been a well-liked drink at events for centuries. This relaxing property is termed as the anxiolytic effect, for which Kava is renowned. Due to its calming nature, Kava is, therefore, currently used in recreational medicines and drugs to reduce anxiety and stress.
To validate its anxiolytic properties, several studies have been conducted to explore the relationship between Kava and the treatment of anxiety disorders. However, the results of these studies have been mixed. While some studies have shown promising results, others have found little to no significant correlation between Kava use and anxiety reduction.
As Kava is an all-natural herb, it contains compounds called kavalactones, which are believed to interact with the central nervous system, resulting in an anxiolytic effect. These kavalactone compounds in the Kava plant interact with the neurotransmitters in the brain, typically the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which triggers a soothing effect.
In addition to that, Kava drinks have proven to be effective in promoting sleep. As seen in some studies, Kava, at higher doses, has sedative effects, which may help people suffering from insomnia. However, a 2015 study from the Journal of Sleep Medicine Reviews, which included over a thousand participants, found no significant positive correlation between Kava consumption and improved sleep.
Kava Legality Status
Kava’s legal status varies across different countries and regions, due to differences in cultural, social, and regulatory factors. In the Pacific Islands, where Kava originates from, Kava remains legal, mainly because of its cultural significance, to the point that these countries have even set up cultivation, sale, and consumption guidelines for safe use.
On the other hand, if we talk about Western countries, Kava’s legality status has now become a bit of a complex subject due to its potential side effects on the liver. For the very same reason, in the early 2000s, countries like Australia, New Zealand, and several other EU countries implemented strict regulations or even straight-up banned the use of Kava. These restrictions and bans came into the headlines when several case reports came forward, suggesting the harmful side effects of Kava Kava on liver function, going as far as liver injury and failure.
If we talk about the US stance on Kava’s legality status, it is straightforward. Kava is legal in the United States due to its potential to treat various medical conditions. However, in 2002, the FDA issued a warning on the use of Kava to direct Kava consumers on its potential to cause liver damage. Considering the hepatoxic nature of Kava, Poland has completely banned its use, and countries like Canada, Germany, and Switzerland have put some restrictions on its use.
CBD VS Kava — The Key Differences
To pass on a final verdict, here is the top of the list of differences between the two substances: CBD, for sure, is more popular and well-liked among people than Kava, mainly because of its little to no side effects on the human body upon prolonged or frequent consumption.
Other main differences are:
- Chemical Composition: CBD is one of the main active ingredients in the cannabis plant and a cannabinoid compound, which interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Kava, on the other hand, has kavalactones — compounds that interact with the central nervous system (CNS), producing a calming effect.
- Effects on the Body: While Kava’s effects are generally centered around mood, easing tensions, and helping to socialize easily, CBD affects the body broader than that; it soothes the nerves, reduces discomfort, and helps with inflammation, and other medical conditions.
- Effect Onset: Kava’s effects can be felt within 5 to 10 minutes of its consumption; however, it takes a little longer for CBD effects to start kicking in.
- Legal Status: Kava is widely legal to use in most countries, including the US; however, regulations and use restrictions may vary in different regions and countries. As for CBD, despite its increasing popularity, its use still remains a controversial topic. In many US states, CBD is only legal if it Is hemp-derived, with 0.3% or less of THC content.
- Side Effects and Safe Use: Both CBD and Kava have some side effects, with Kava having more severe ones, such as liver damage. As for CBD, there have been little to mild side effects reported, except for dizziness, dry mouth, drowsiness, changes in appetite, and weight.
- Method of Consumption: CBD is widely available in many shapes and forms in the market. CBD gummies, CBD tinctures, CBD oils, and CBD edibles are just to name a few products. Kava is usually consumed as a beverage by crushing dry roots into powdered form and adding it to water.
Final Thoughts
It is no secret that CBD is much more popular than Kava or any other botanical in the ‘all-natural market’ quickly following its sibling’s footsteps, i.e., THC.
Where Kava is used to treat anxiety-related symptoms or conditions, CBD’s uses extend far beyond a single benefit. Instead, CBD has demonstrated significant potential in treating or managing a wide range of mental and physical conditions, making it a versatile and highly sought-after natural remedy.
However, there are still some things to consider while consuming any substance or product; CBD and Kava are no different. Users are advised to purchase from well-trusted and most-reviewed brands that sell their products with 100% transparency to ensure a wholesome experience.
FAQs About CBD and Kava
1. Can I take CBD and Kava together?
Using cannabis and Kava together may increase the risk of experiencing side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and brain fog. That’s why it is best to practice caution and avoid using both of these substances together.
2. Which one is more effective? CBD or Kava?
Since Kava’s effects generally revolve more around brain-related issues, CBD can often be more effective for addressing a broader range of health concerns with just a single dose. Whether it’s cardiovascular, immune, digestive, or metabolic health, CBD offers a wide array of benefits, making it a versatile option for many individuals.
3. Are CBD and Kava safe to use?
Yes and no.
Kava and CBD are generally safe to use and offer a wide array of benefits, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any side effects associated with their use. Therefore, it’s best to practice caution: choose noble varieties of Kava, avoid excessive use, and look for reputable vendors from whom you can purchase high-quality CBD products.
4. Is Kava better than CBD for managing anxiety?
Studies suggest that Kava and CBD are both effective for managing and relieving anxiety symptoms and producing gentle calmness upon their consumption. Still, they are significantly different in terms of their psychoactive properties.
CBD is non-psychoactive, making it ideal for relieving stress without causing sedation. On the other hand, Kava has sedative effects, making it a better choice if you’re seeking relaxation or sedation without using hemp-derived products.
5. Does Kava stay longer in your system than CBD?
No.
According to this study, Kava only stays in the system for over 24 hours after initial ingestion, as it absorbs rapidly in the system. On the other hand, CBD stays twice as long as Kava in the system. According to one study from Epilepsy Currents, it takes about 2-5 days for CBD to flush out of your system after ingestion completely.
