Kratom is a botanical supplement made from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree. This tree is native to Southeast Asia and has a rich history in traditional medicine and natural healing. But how does kratom stack up against other herbal remedies?
In the world of herbal remedies, kratom is unique. It offers a wide range of effects without artificial ingredients or synthetic chemicals. Many kratom users report that it helps them concentrate, improves stamina, and boosts mood. When combined with certain herbal remedies, kratom may help individuals attain greater wellness.
If you’re curious about mixing kratom products with other herbal supplements, it’s vital to be informed about the different uses, effects, and potential side effects. In this article, we’ll discuss how to use kratom products alongside other botanical remedies and get the most from your experience.
Why Choose Herbal Remedies?
Herbal remedies have played a role in society since prehistoric times. From ancient Egypt to the modern day, almost every culture has turned to the earth for natural ingredients that promote vitality. In fact, many advances in medical science began as traditional herbal remedies.
Today, individuals often use herbs and other botanicals in combination with conventional medicine. Others prefer natural remedies over pharmaceuticals because they may be gentler, more affordable, or easier to access. For some, choosing herbal remedies is simply a personal preference. (If you have a medical condition or take prescription medication, speak to your healthcare provider before taking any new herbs or supplements.)
Herbal remedies also offer a versatile, customizable experience. They can be consumed as supplement capsules, teas, and powders. Many popular remedies, such as ginger, are easily available as fresh, raw ingredients. These can be incorporated into a variety of recipes like smoothies, juices, and more. Some herbs also make excellent additions to homemade skincare products.
If you’re a fan of traditional herbal remedies, kratom may be an excellent addition to your wellness regimen.
Kratom vs. Traditional Herbs: Key Differences
Like herbal remedies, kratom is 100% natural. It’s also a versatile plant that can be consumed in different forms. Historically, indigenous people in Southeast Asia chewed raw kratom leaves or brewed them into tea. With kratom’s introduction to the United States and other countries beyond its native region, its use has expanded to include powders, capsules, tinctures, and extracts.
While kratom shares these similarities with herbal supplements, it has several key differences. These differences include:
History of Use
As previously mentioned, kratom’s origins trace back to ancient Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and other tropical Southeast Asian countries. In addition to recreational use, kratom played a role in many cultural and religious rites in this region. Europeans discovered kratom in the 1800s. Over time, its usage spread beyond Southeast Asia into other parts of the world.
Other herbal remedies have different histories. For example, chamomile was used as a medicinal plant as early as 460 B.C. Turmeric may be as old as 2000 B.C. If you’re interested in the history of botanicals, there are many books on herbalism and holistic medicine plus websites and social media forums dedicated to the subject.
Legal Status
Another difference between kratom and traditional herbal remedies concerns their respective legal statuses. Despite its increasing popularity, kratom is illegal in some countries. In others, it is tightly regulated. The United States does not currently restrict kratom at the federal level, so its legality varies from state to state. (To learn more about your local kratom laws, visit the American Kratom Association’s interactive legal map.)
Herbal remedies, on the other hand, are generally legal and widely accepted around the globe. Many ingredients used in traditional medicine, such as ginger, are available at grocery stores or produce stands. Others can be purchased as over-the-counter supplements, powders, concentrates, or teas.
Currently, the United States regulates the labeling and marketing of dietary supplements as food. Manufacturers of herbal supplements cannot make medical claims about diagnosing or treating specific conditions. However, herbal remedies are otherwise generally unregulated.
Potency of Effects
Depending upon the strain, dosage, and method of consumption, kratom’s effects may be fast-acting and potent. That’s because kratom contains neuro-stimulating alkaloids called mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. When metabolized, these alkaloids interact with the opioid receptors in the brain and release the pleasant sensations associated with kratom.
In contrast, the effects of herbal remedies are more subtle or long-term. For example, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that may help manage chronic pain, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, individuals who take turmeric supplements most likely won’t experience these benefits after one or two doses. It may take days, weeks, or months for herbal supplements to build up in one’s system before experiencing certain effects.
Using Kratom with Other Herbal Remedies
Before combining herbal remedies and kratom, consider your intent. Are you hoping to boost your concentration and stamina? Or are you turning to botanicals to help wind down after a long day?
While kratom and herbs can generally be used together, it depends upon the kratom strain and the herbal remedy in question. A “grounding” strain, such as red vein kratom, may not pair well with an energizing herb like ginseng. Other herbs may affect how quickly your body metabolizes kratom.
Whether you’re an experienced kratom user or a beginner, always go slowly when taking herbs and botanicals at the same time as kratom. Start with the lowest possible dose and only increase your serving after you understand how your body reacts. If you are currently taking prescription medications or have other health concerns, talk to your doctor before using kratom or herbal supplements.
If you’re ready to see how herbal remedies and kratom compare, we recommend starting with the botanicals below:
Ginger: Frequently used to soothe digestive issues and tummy troubles, ginger can help alleviate potential kratom side effects like upset stomach. It also tastes delicious! Try brewing a kratom and ginger tea, or stir some kratom powder into fresh ginger juice.
Turmeric: A relative of ginger, turmeric is often available in its fresh, root vegetable form. Other popular methods of ingesting turmeric include supplements, teas, juices, or used in recipes as a spice. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric complement kratom’s comforting effects.
Chamomile: Chamomile is a key ingredient in many “sleepytime” tea blends. It’s also used as an herbal remedy for gastrointestinal issues. Pairing chamomile with red vein kratom or green vein kratom can induce a soothing, meditative vibe.
Ginseng: A natural energizer that also boosts focus and reduces stress, ginseng root pairs well with white vein kratom. Try brewing a ginseng and white kratom tea, or adding a pinch of powdered ginseng and kratom powder to your morning smoothie for increased alertness and motivation.
Echinacea: Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is a popular herb for strengthening the immune system and fighting infections. Research also suggests that it may reduce inflammation, improve certain skin conditions, and relieve anxiety. When paired with kratom, this herbal remedy may promote overall wellness and other benefits.
Choose the Best Kratom
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