Kava Vs. CBD For Anxiety & Stress

You’re feeling the pressure but booze isn’t your vibe. Yet you want something that works now, not after hours of deep breathing and affirmations.

If you’re looking for an instant yet natural chill option, Kava and CBD are among the best out there. 

Both claim to ease your mind, relax your body, and take the edge off in a natural, sober way.

But which one’s worth the hype?

In this article, we’re breaking down the difference between Kava and CBD and how to choose the one that matches the vibe you’re after!

What Are They (And How Do They Work)?

Let’s start with the basics because understanding how these plant-powered chillers work is half the magic.

Kava

Kava is the ground root of Piper Methysticum, a pepper plant native to South-Pacific islands like Fiji. The idea of drinking Kava for wellness and pleasure goes back centuries. Native Fijians (iTaukei) would (and still do) sip Kava with friends as a non-alcoholic social drink. 

Kava’s active compounds (kavalactones) are said to calm the nervous system without clouding your mind. It helps you feel calm and relaxed, yet you remain totally clear-headed.

CBD

CBD (cannabidiol) is a chemical compound from the cannabis plant. It interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, helping to regulate the stress response, sleep cycle, and your mood. The hemp plant originates from Asia but can be cultivated in a wide range of climates.

The effects of CBD vary depending on several factors, including dose, delivery method, and personal tolerance.

The Difference?

Kava affects the pleasure and relaxation chemicals (GABA, dopamine, serotonin) in the brain, creating feelings of happiness and social enjoyment.

On the other hand, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system found throughout the body, creating positive effects on inflammation, anxiety, and sleep quality.

Kava Vs. CBD: Full Comparison

Now you know what Kava and CBD are, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. We’ve stacked both options side by side so you can see exactly how they compare.

The Vibe

Kava → Instant mellowness and “no worries” vibe

CBD → Subtle relaxation

The effects of CBD can vary greatly, depending on the person. Some people find it helps them feel less anxious, while others find it helps them sleep better. 

That being said, CBD is not like smoking cannabis. It doesn’t give you a “high” or any instant, noticeable feeling. 

The most likely “feeling” you will get from CBD is a calmer, quieter mind, meaning you might notice fewer thoughts are going through your head.

Kava has a more noticeable effect, yet the sensation is still subtle compared to drugs or alcohol.

Expect a mellow, tingly sense of calm that loosens your shoulders and the realization that what you spent the whole day worrying no longer matters. 

Speed + Strength

Kava → Quick release 

CBD → Slow & steady

CBD can take some time to take effect. Some oils claim that when consumed orally under the tongue, they will take effect within 15 to 45 minutes, but this is not the case for everyone.

The effects of CBD build slowly over time, with regular use, so many people don’t notice a difference until they’ve used it several times.

Kavalactones, on the other hand, are quick-release, so you usually notice the effects of Kava pretty quickly (think: 10–15 minutes). 

Considering this, CBD can help if you’re looking for long-term anxiety management. However, Kava is best suited for easing post-work stress, getting into a creative “flow,” or getting into the mood for a social gathering.

Taste + Convenience

Kava Krave → Fun, fruity, convenient drink

CBD → Various options but taste varies greatly, depending on the brand

Nowadays, you can find many forms of CBD, from oils to gummies to drinks. The drinks and gummies are the most convenient type, but they tend to have a subtler and slower-releasing effect than CBD oil.

Our Kava Krave drink comes in a convenient sachet that you can make at home or on the go. Just tear, mix with water, and sip. It’s sugar-free, vegan, and has a vibrant citrus berry flavor to eliminate the natural bitterness of Cava.

Kava Vs. CBD: When To Use

Kava → For social connection, a creative buzz, or an instant mood boost

CBD → For solo wind-downs

The unique aspect of Kava is that, for centuries, it has been used as a social beverage. It’s designed by nature to facilitate connection, bringing both calm and conversation. 

When you drink Kava Krave, you feel relaxed but not zoned out by any means. It calms mental activity while perking you up, so you’re still up for deep talks, loud laughs, or spontaneous dance breaks.

CBD, on the other hand, is typically used for solo wind-downs or to take the edge off a stressful day. It is more of a sleep aid than a party starter.

CBD Vs. Kava: What the Science Says

While further exploration is needed on both CBD and Kava to fully understand the science behind how these plant extracts work, emerging research looks promising…

Studies support Kava’s calming, anti-anxiety benefits. Research also indicates that Kava may possess anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, and some studies suggest it may have anti-cancer effects.

CBD has been clinically proven to help ease symptoms of anxiety, neurological disorders, and certain types of pain, among other health conditions. Like Kava, studies also suggest that CBD could have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Side note: 

Science aside, Kava has been used safely for centuries in Pacific Island cultures. But not all Kava is created equal; sourcing and prep matter. 

That’s why at Kava Krave, we only use certified noble cultivars from small farms in Fiji and Vanuatu, and every batch is third-party lab-tested for purity and potency. 

Kava Vs. CBD: The Final Verdict

CBD’s cool, don’t get me wrong. However, Kava is suitable for a wide range of occasions (social or solo), works quickly, and helps you feel both happy and calm.

Plus, with Kava Krave, there’s no grogginess, no sugar crash, and no weird plant taste.

So if you’re looking for something to:

• Take the edge off (fast)
• Help you feel more present and connected
• Keep your head clear and your mood lifted

Kava’s your go-to!