Kratom vs. caffeine. Which is riskier?

There are billions of people around the world who cannot imagine their day without a cup of coffee. In addition to its taste, it is often sought after because of caffeine, which can stimulate our body very well and can also help us concentrate. However, it increases restlessness and nervousness. Natural kratom is directly offered as an alternative. How does it work and what are the risks of using it Mitragyna speciosa?

In this article, we will focus on comparing kratom to caffeine. We will look at their benefits, possible side effects and also discuss their functioning in the body in a simplified manner. We've got a lot to do, so let's get straight to it!

Mitragyna speciosa

Topic we have already described kratom in several previous articles. But repetition is the mother of wisdom, so together let's remind ourselves what it is all about. Kratom is the Thai name for a tropical tree whose Latin name is Mitragyna speciosa. This evergreen tree comes from Southeast Asia, where it has been cultivated and used by indigenous tribes for centuries.

Crushed leaves in the form of green kratom powder have also reached our regions in recent years. The leaves of Mitragyna speciosa contain several alkaloids. We consider mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine to be the main active substances, to which our organism reacts very intensively. In Southeast Asia, kratom leaves are mostly chewed or smoked, while in the Western world the most popular form of use is characterized by kratom powder or tablets containing it. There are also new kratom drops that contain pure alkaloids purified of all possible impurities.

Kratom is a popular dietary supplement mainly for its stimulating or sedative effects, even though it is not an approved food in the Czech Republic! Therefore, we do not expressly recommend the use of kratom. The effects mentioned depend on the type of kratom and the amount of the administered dose. We distinguish the individual species of Mitragyna speciosa in the following way:

Green kratom (green)

According to reliable sources, this is a balanced type of kratom that has both an energetic and a calming and euphoric effect. In the Czech Republic, this species is the most popular. Among the most famous representatives are Maeng Da Green or Green Borneo.

White kratom (White)

White kratom is primarily used for its very strong energizing effects, which are the strongest of all kratom types. Among the highly sought after types are White Borneo or Maeng Da White.

Red kratom (ed.)

Red kratom primarily has sedative and analgesic effects. In this respect, it is the most effective type of Mitragyna speciosa. So it is the exact opposite of green and white kratom. For example, we can name Maeng Da Red.

Golden Kratom (golden)

Golden, yellow or gold kratom. All these names describe one and the same species, Mitragyna speciosa, which can be described as the most versatile, as it is a mix of white and golden kratom powder. In our store you will find it under the name Maeng Da Gold.

Kratom and its effects

We have described the species, so let's move on to the actual effects of Mitragyna speciosa leaves, which include:

• increasing energy levels
• concentration support
• better sleep
• alleviating mental restlessness and anxiety

However, it is important to note here that specific effects can vary based on the type of kratom, the dose administered, and last but not least, the metabolism and health status of the individual. Beginners should treat this substance with respect and avoid possible overdose! Kratom should not be underestimated.

The effects of kratom are similar in many ways to caffeine, which we will discuss below, but there is one major difference between the two substances. This is their half-life (= time during which half of the atoms in the substance are transformed). In the case of caffeine, this is approximately 5 hours, while in the case of kratom, the period of the same name is estimated to be up to 24 hours! Therefore, we can expect that even a small dose, unlike caffeine, can affect us throughout the day.

The biggest "fear" of kratom is that it is very easy to develop an addiction to this substance. Therefore, it is very important to monitor the frequency and size of the dose itself from the very beginning. The organic substance containing mitragynine is very potent, so it is recommended to start with small doses and closely monitor the subsequent effects.

Side effects of kratom

It is appropriate to also mention the potential negative effects of kratom, which include:

• dry mouth
• anxiety
• blurred vision
• nausea
• rapid heartbeat
• headache and/or abdominal pain
• hallucinations (in the extreme case of overdose)

By following the recommended dosage and being extra careful, you can easily avoid these side effects. Regarding the long-term effects on the human organism, there are very few clinical studies that report authoritative results.

Caffeine

It is the most widespread purine alkaloid in the world. Caffeine is a methyl xanthine stimulant that acts on the central nervous system (CNS) in our body. It is important to note that technically caffeine is classified as a psychoactive drug which, unlike other substances in this category, is legal and unregulated in most states.

Caffeine is found primarily in the coffee plant (Coffea arabica). It is in this form that most people consume it. The main effect of caffeine is the blocking of adenosine receptors, thanks to which it can suppress sleepiness, which in most cases is caused by the presence of adenosine. Caffeine therefore stimulates the nervous system very effectively. 

Effects of caffeine

In this section, we will focus on the objectively observed effects of caffeine and on its negative effects, which of course also exist. Main effects that are similar to kratom:

• encouragement
• improving concentration
• memory improvement
• potential protection against stroke
• help against the onset of Parkinson's disease and dementia

Many people who use caffeine may experience no negative effects in their entire lives. However, long-term caffeine abuse can have a dark side in certain circumstances. What are the possible negative effects of frequent caffeine consumption?

Side effects of caffeine

Many clinical studies have been conducted on this topic, which documented the following side effects:

• increase in blood pressure
• increase in heart rate
• worsening of anxiety symptoms
• difficulty sleeping and falling asleep
• tremors and restlessness
• excessive sweating

Again, we must mention that long-term overuse of caffeine mainly leads to these side effects. At the same time, however, it was found that drinking coffee reduces the likelihood of heart failure by up to 30%. Drinking coffee further reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes by 11%.

Ways to use caffeine

Kratom can be used in many different ways that we have already mentioned above. It's the same with caffeine. It is contained in coffee, energy drinks, green or black tea, many supplements to increase performance, or it can also be taken in the form of tablets. However, we should also have a dose of caffeine be careful. Especially with tablets, where one pill usually contains 100 to 200 mg of caffeine, while the maximum recommended daily dose is somewhere around 400 mg (European Food Safety Authority). 

Can I take kratom and caffeine at the same time?

Yes, but we should be careful, as the effects of both substances will increase! Both positive and negative. There is also a risk of overdose with both substances, therefore we should not exceed the dosage of either of these substances. It is definitely not a good idea to consume kratom and caffeine with a minimal time gap, precisely because the body breaks down these substances over many hours. If combined, then only in long time intervals, when we eliminate the increased risk of excessive bodily intoxication.

Simultaneous use is also not recommended in any case for people suffering from hypertension (high blood pressure) or anxiety, as the combined use of kratom and caffeine can result in a significant worsening of symptoms. 

Is kratom or caffeine better?

The answer to this question is again somewhat more complicated, as there is simply no clear answer. Both Kratom and caffeine work as great stimulants for higher physical and mental performance. Judge the pros and cons above for yourself and make up your own mind about these substances. In the case of kratom, there are constant warnings about its addictive nature, while with caffeine, the level of risk is very similar. But that doesn't really "refuel" anyone, in popular terms.

If we would like to get rid of excessive coffee drinking, energy drinks or general overuse of caffeine, Mitragyna speciosa is offered as a possible alternative. However, we should start with low doses, because the effects of kratom are very strong in the case of a quality powder! Kratom is currently not regulated in any way, so please also pay close attention to the source you are purchasing from. Green powder can contain heavy metals, pesticides and other harmful substances that are definitely not good for our body.

Do you need help?

If anything is not clear to you and/or you want advice on the selection, please write to us below in the comments below the post, via contact form or send us a question by e-mail info@miralecbd.cz. Thank you

Our tip: look at map of branded cannabis stores Miracle CBD, where you have the unique opportunity to consult your needs with professionally trained staff from our team. We have all products in stock, so you don't have to wait for delivery by courier and you can take the products home the same day. We have been bringing you the unrivaled best CBD, HHC and kratom since 2020!

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Source: https://kratom.org/guides/caffeine-coffee/

NOTICE: Cannabis and kratom products are exclusively for collector, industrial and technical purposes. Alternatively for further sale and processing. In no case are they intended for consumption, inhalation or smoking! The described effects are purely informative. Company Miracle CBD does not approve or otherwise support the abuse and sale of psychotropic and narcotic substances!