Posted by Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain–whether caused by a health condition or an accident. In the quest for long-term pain relief, it’s not surprising that many people are looking for alternatives to big pharma opioids that are a> natural and b> accessible without a prescription. As always, nature has a way of delivering…. Two alternative pain remedies stand out from the pack: CBD and kratom. However, there are several differences to bear in mind as you decide which will work best for you. We’ll start out by describing the unique properties of CBD and kratom, and how they both can relieve pain. And then, we’ll share our best tips to consume safely.
What Is CBD and How Does It Relieve Pain?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of many compounds found in the cannabis plant. However, the calming compounds sold and legal in the US are usually derived from hemp. However, unlike straight-up cannabis or products with THC, CBD by itself is non-psychoactive. It is also thus much easier to obtain since the 2018 Farm Bill legalized it federally (as long as it is under 0.3% THC)–so no medical marijuana card needed, even in states without full cannabis legalization.
But how can CBD relieve pain without THC? In short, CBD curbs pain by blocking the body’s inflammatory cytokines and sensitizing your TRPV1 receptors. You can take CBD in a variety of ways, including gummies and capsules. Now, if you don’t like going the oral route, you’ll be pleased to know that CBD oils, lotions, and balms–and even transdermal patches–can deliver rapid and targeted relief. Some salons are now even offering CBD manicures and pedicures, which are an ideal pampering session for anyone with joint or foot pain.
What Is Kratom and How Does It Relieve Pain?
Kratom is a tropical evergreen plant in the coffee family. It has been a staple in traditional Southeast Asian medicine for centuries. The leaves were usually chewed or brewed into tea. While kratom is still consumed in this way, you can take kratom in capsules or tinctures now as well. Kratom’s leaves have two important alkaloids: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). At higher doses (5-15 grams), the alkaloids bind to mu-opioid receptors in the brain, causing sedation and pain relief. Unlike a synthetic opioid, natural kratom is only a partial opioid agonist–so it has a ceiling effect that does not create the euphoric high or completely knock you out.
However, higher doses of kratom may cause nausea and other unpleasant side effects, and without proper dose cycling and use, there’s the risk of building tolerance and losing out on benefits. Those in recovery from opioid addiction who are seeking to use kratom for long-term management should speak to a healthcare provider. Also, be aware that kratom is currently banned or regulated in certain states, so check your local laws to be sure. If kratom is legal in your area, skip the shady gas station stuff and buy kratom only from ethically-sourced, lab-tested vendors.
Kratom vs. CBD – Which One Should You Choose?
So, between kratom and CBD, which one should you pick? Well, the answer to this really depends on the nature of your pain.
Between the two, Kratom ultimately packs a heavier opioid-flavored punch–and the sedative properties (like you would get from a mug of red bali tea) are incredible if you have a hard time unwinding at night. Kratom as a pain reliever can address anything from a sore back to a migraine. Moreover, at lower doses (usually with green or white vein strains) it can also put some pep in your step too, if energy and focus is a concern.
However, CBD, with its topical options and slow burn (30-90 minutes via oils, faster topicals) suits consumers who are seeking long-haul, non-addictive pain management—especially if you are dealing with inflammation-driven pains (i.e. MS or fibromyalgia). On average, CBD lasts roughly 4-8 hours with minimal side effects—dry mouth at worst. Obviously it’s important to read the product label and understand the concentration of the product to ensure it’s the level of relief you want. If you take CBD orally or through edibles, the effects may take a little longer to hit.
The good news is, both kratom and CBD can ultimately help you manage pain. According to a 2025 PMC review, Kratom users self-report 69% relief where meds failed, with CBD coming in at 46%. Again though, if you’re worried about building tolerance, or happen to live in a state where kratom is illegal, then CBD edges out. However, if you live in a state where kratom is legal, then stacking and/or staggering both CBD and kratom might win out.
Can You Combine Kratom and CBD?
Most people can safely use both kratom and CBD together–with a few caveats. Both substances are processed through the liver’s cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP3A4 pathway), which could lead to amplified or prolonged effects, so starting low and keeping hydrated is crucial. Also, kratom should NOT be combined with certain medications, including SSRI’s, liver or heart medications, and other sedatives.
Always speak to a healthcare provider to be certain, but if you get the all-clear, then you can tailor your pain strategy accordingly. For bad days with breakthrough agony, kratom can handle those pain spikes–but then on other days, CBD can step in and help keep the inflammation down without an opioid effect. Cycling both will give you the best of both worlds: a soothing baseline from CBD, which will in turn prevent you from becoming too tolerant of kratom and forming dependency.
Suggestions For Using CBD And Kratom Together:
- Start low and stay low: 2-4g kratom + 10-25mg CBD. Time low doses of kratom for mornings (energy boost) and CBD evenings (wind-down). OR have a low dose CBD gummy in the morning–and save the more intense sedation of red kratom for the evening.
- Combination methods: Kratom tea/powder with CBD oil tincture under the tongue, or edibles for slower synergy.
- Keep track of your dosages, dates, and effects in a journal.
- Look for AKA-GMP kratom and COA-verified CBD.