kava vs kratom

TL;DR: Kava and kratom are not the same. Kava (Pacific island root) contains kavalactones and is used for relaxation; kratom (Southeast Asian tree) contains mitragynine/7-hydroxymitragynine that act on opioid receptors and can lead to dependence. FDA does not recognize kratom as a lawful ingredient in supplements or foods. AVA KAVA is kava-only—no kratom, ever—and we’re here to help you spot the difference. National Institute on Drug AbuseU.S. Food and Drug Administration

Why people mix them up

Both are plant-based and sometimes marketed as “natural calm” or “alcohol alternatives.” Gas-station shelves and vague labels add to the confusion. But their chemistry, effects, and regulatory status are very different.

Kava at a glance

What it is: The root of Piper methysticum, traditionally prepared as a beverage across the Pacific. Active compounds = kavalactones.

• Use: Relaxation and social unwinding.

• Safety notes: Reputable sources advise avoiding kava with alcohol and being mindful of rare but serious liver injury reports linked to some kava products or misuse. Office of Dietary SupplementsNCBICDPH

Key Differences Between Kava and Kratom

Origin and Preparation

A clear difference between kava and kratom lies in their origins and how they are consumed. Kava is derived from the root of the kava plant, prepared mainly as a drink. On the other hand, kratom comes from the leaves of its respective tree and can be consumed in various forms, including powders, capsules, and even teas.

Kratom at a glance

• What it is: Leaves of Mitragyna speciosa. Main alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine can produce stimulant-like effects at low doses and opioid-like effects at higher doses. National Institute on Drug Abuse

• Regulatory status: The FDA states kratom is not lawfully marketed in the U.S. as a drug, dietary supplement, or food additive. U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• Risk signals: Potential for dependence and withdrawal has been documented; FDA has also warned about contamination concerns (e.g., heavy metals, past Salmonella outbreak). National Institute on Drug AbuseU.S. Food and Drug AdministrationCDC Archive

The labeling problem: “Kava” products that aren’t

Some products blur lines with phrases like “herbal relaxer” or “kava-style,” and a few even combine or substitute kratom. U.S. law prohibits misbranding/adulteration in supplements—labels must accurately reflect what’s inside—so insist on transparency from any brand. U.S. Food and Drug Administration

How to tell kava from kratom (quick checklist)

Scan the ingredient list:

• Kava should list Piper methysticum (kava root or kava extract).

• Kratom will list Mitragyna speciosa, mitragynine, or 7-hydroxymitragynine.

• Look for a recent COA: A third-party certificate showing identity and screening (and that mitragynine/7-OH are not detected).

• Watch the claims: “Opioid-like,” “euphoria,” or pain-relief claims point away from traditional kava and toward kratom-type effects.

• Avoid mixing: Don’t combine kava with alcohol; follow label guidance. Office of Dietary Supplements

How AVA KAVA is different

Kava-only promise: Our beverages use kava, not kratom—ever.

• Engineered for experience: We use nano-encapsulation of kava for consistent, fast-onset relaxation with a clean, smooth taste.

• Transparency first: Clear labels, straight talk, and batch testing with COAs available upon request.

• Alcohol-free by design: A social drink for unwinding—no booze, no hangover.

  
  

Our mission: educate first

We believe informed choices create safer, happier customers. If you’ve been unsure about kava vs. kratom, share this guide. And if you have questions, reach out—we’re here to help.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare professional about your situation.

Kava root powder ready for preparation