Amidst the labyrinth of addiction recovery treatments, Kratom and Kava have emerged as controversial contenders, purported by some as natural saviors from substance dependence. Originating from Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands respectively, these botanicals carry centuries-old cultural and medicinal legacies. However, as they garner attention as potential solutions for managing addiction withdrawal symptoms and cravings, a closer examination reveals a landscape fraught with uncertainty and concern.
Contrary to the hopeful narratives, the reality surrounding Kratom and Kava’s efficacy and safety in addiction recovery is murky, at best. Despite anecdotal reports and preliminary studies suggesting benefits, a deeper exploration uncovers a lack of robust scientific evidence to support their widespread use in treating addiction. Moreover, concerns loom large regarding the potential risks associated with their consumption, including addiction, adverse health effects, and regulatory ambiguity.
Relapse is Always One Step Away
However, with addicts and alcoholics, we are always one step away from picking up a substance. All it takes is one nonconducive playmate to hang around. One bad sandbox to play in. One bad situation or another will lead us right back into the pits of disheartened helplessness. Then it’s batten the hatches as we prepare for another lost battle. 
Sober living or halfway houses can help a great deal with relapse prevention and is a better tool for this than other substances. Some know this and will tempt themselves with the likes of other contentious substances instead.
Here are some things to consider before using Kava and Kratom to help you get sober.
Kava and Kratom Effects
First, you need to know that Kava doesn’t produce the same effects in the body as opioids. However, it can produce a sense of relaxation and Kratom effects can include alertness, energy booster, and pain relief. But, it carries a high risk of developing addiction, and other side symptoms such as swollen faces, rashes, and even anxiety episodes.
Kratom and Kava as Recovery Tools
In many situations, Kratom and Kava are both herbal replacements that people in recovery gravitate toward thinking it’s a weaker enemy than their previous addictive foes. Wrong, wrong, wrong. That’s like thinking you won’t get addicted to beer because you were a liquor guy/gal.
When enough of this aromatic plant is taken, it can produce some very intoxicated effects of euphoria. It’s also legal and socially acceptable, so many rationalize its use in recovery. Nonetheless, make no mistake, Kratom and Kava will hurt your recovery quicker than you can blink.
How Will Kava and Kratom “Tea” Hurt Your Recovery?
It’s factually known that Kratom and Kava will hurt your recovery because they’ve been abused for years by addicts of all sorts who have tried to beat the disease of alcoholism. It all goes back to that: addiction is a disease. It doesn’t disappear because we switched brands. There is this idea that develops for many that two herbs can somehow be terrific non-addictive replacements for all the other substances we are consuming. That’s not just tea brewing, it’s trouble too.
Even though they’re safer in the aspect of dying on the spot, that doesn’t mean they still won’t ruin your life.
Both Kratom and Kava contain a lot of the same properties that opiates/opioids do. They’ll bind to the same receptors in your brain as opiates/opioids plus they’ll give you similar feelings. Alas, this means that tolerance is also a possibility. When tolerance is a possibility, it usually means addiction is woken back up.
Withdrawal is now part of the equation and detox is now needed if you want to get back out. Sound familiar? The sad truth is that a lot of addicts aren’t aware of any of this when they first start dancing around with these seemingly innocent plants.
Fighting the Trend of Using Kratom and Kava
Kratom and Kava will hurt your recovery and are both under criticism from sober communities around the world in correlation to this. Still, many will never know if the stove is hot unless they touch it for themselves. So if some have such a reservation, it’s important to be educated on the terrible two. However, to be clear, there is no blessing of the behavior on this end.
Differences Between Kratom and Kava
For starters, although the two are very similar, they do have some key differences to note. Kratom specifically is physically addictive and Kava is more so psychologically.
They are indeed different herbs and have a few different effects, but at the end of the day they both can be used for many of the same purposes; ie. getting trashed or numbing reality. They are indigenous to different locations of the world. Kava is generally found in the Western Pacific in places like Micronesia, Fiji, or Hawaii. However, Kratom originates from Southeast Asian territories like Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Kava is typically extracted from the root, whereas Kratom takes advantage of the leaves. Both can easily be transformed into powders, pills, or a drink which is usually the most popular method.
Kratom and Kava Addiction is a Real Possibility
This is all good and fun for a little bit, but as your addiction keeps getting stronger, the possibility of discomfort to come is always anxiety. As mentioned before, detox and rehab become a very strong reality after Kratom and Kava are taken for long enough. We’ll then have certain withdrawal symptoms to look forward to like:
- Disturbed hunger and dehydration
- Feverish body aches
- Nausea/vomiting
- Hot flashes and cold sweats
- Overly sensitive nerve endings
- Lack of energy or motivation
Pick Java Over Kratom and Kava
Cross-addiction is a real thing and has taken many well-respected people out of their rooms, often putting them in a box 6 feet deep. We have to step back and look at our truest of intentions. If maintaining sobriety is your top priority, then make it so. There’s no room for excuses and justifications in recovery. Heed to the advice of many by staying away from synthetic drugs or things that seem like a cheat. Go exercise or have a cup of coffee if you’re looking for a little change in pace. If living clean and sober is NOT the priority, by all means, have it.
Why Risk It?
Again, for those trying to stay sober, it’s important to realize that going back to our old manner of thinking is deranged. Let the question “Why even risk it?” skip on a broken record player in your mind. Make no mistake, Kratom and Kava will hurt your recovery.
Getting Treatment For Addiction Recovery
As we navigate the landscape of addiction recovery, it’s crucial to make informed choices based on evidence and expert guidance. While Kratom and Kava may promise relief, the uncertainties and risks they pose underscore the importance of seeking professional support and evidence-based treatments.
For those grappling with addiction, we invite you to consider a different path—a path guided by compassion, expertise, and proven methods. Join us at Still Water Wellness, a leading drug rehab program in Orange County, CA, where we offer comprehensive and personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to supporting your journey to recovery with evidence-based therapies, holistic approaches, and a supportive community.
Take the first step towards a brighter future. Contact Still Water Wellness today and embark on the path to lasting recovery.