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Everyone needs a kick of energy when they get up in the morning. For most people, this involves a hit of caffeine through beverages like coffee and tea. In contrast, others prefer the more stimulating effects of kratom. Some even prefer a combination of the two. But the question is, “Does kratom have caffeine in it?”
Despite the energy-boosting effects of certain kratom strains, kratom itself does not contain any caffeine. Below, we’ll explore this fact in detail. We’ll also throw in some useful information on caffeine and kratom’s alkaloid content. Read on for more insight.
Kratom vs. Caffeine
Based on the similar effects brought by kratom and caffeine, it’s not surprising that many people wonder about kratom’s caffeine content. Caffeine is the primary alkaloid in coffee. It is responsible for the stimulating effects of beverages like coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks. Coffee itself contains other alkaloids like theophylline and theobromine, but they are not as effective as caffeine when it comes to stimulation.
Like caffeine, kratom also has stimulating properties. But these energy-boosting effects of kratom come from its main active alkaloids – mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine. This means caffeine isn’t responsible for the energizing effects of kratom.
How Do Kratom Alkaloids Work?
Some strains of kratom are known for their energizing properties, leading people to believe that the plant contains caffeine. The fact that both kratom and coffee come from the same plant family may also add to the confusion.
However, instead of caffeine, kratom has two main active alkaloids: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids work by stimulating certain receptors in the brain. In small doses, kratom might induce stimulating effects, and in higher doses, it might have sedating effects.
Not all kratom strains will improve your energy levels, though. If you’re looking for kratom strains that have energizing properties, some strains you can try include White Bali kratom, Green and White Maeng Da kratom, and Green Indo kratom.
What Is Caffeine, and How Does It Work?
Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in plants like coffee, tea, and cacao. It’s known to stimulate the nervous system, resulting in a heightened state of alertness. Once consumed, caffeine is taken up into the bloodstream, where it travels to all parts of the body, including the brain.
In the brain, caffeine intercepts the effects of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that relaxes the brain. Caffeine also increases the levels of adrenaline in the blood. This combination of effects stimulates the brain and promotes a state of alertness, arousal, and focus.
What Is the Relationship Between Kratom Alkaloids and Caffeine?
Kratom alkaloids and caffeine share a few notable similarities and differences when it comes to their effects. To give you a full picture of the relationship between the two, here’s a detailed comparison of the two substances.
Both are some of the most widely-used stimulants in the world. They serve as excellent morning beverages for anyone who wants to be more alert or proactive.
But despite its popularity, the effects of caffeine can dip pretty fast. It also causes a jittery effect in some people, prompting them to seek other alternatives – kratom.
Depending on the dosage, kratom alkaloids can induce several different effects. In lower doses, it induces stimulating and energizing effects that can last up to six hours, depending on the strain and vein. In higher doses, kratom induces calming and sedating effects and may result in several side effects when used in moderation.
Can You Mix Caffeine and Kratom?
Despite their numerous differences in chemical composition, caffeine, and kratom complement each other in terms of taste and effects. Caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea may work well to mask the overwhelmingly bitter taste of kratom, while kratom accentuates the stimulating effects of caffeine. It also makes the effects last longer.
This incredible combination works well with many food combinations and recipes. From making kratom-coffee tea to milkshakes and pastries, there’s no limit to what you can do with it.
The Bottom Line
Both are some of the most popular stimulants in the world. It’s no wonder people want to know if the herb and the drug have similar compounds. Though kratom doesn’t contain caffeine, it shares a few similarities in classification and effects. They also work well to complement each other’s effects.
However, if you plan on taking kratom and caffeine together, you should consider your dosage because even a small dose of kratom can produce notable effects when mixed with caffeine.