The past decade has seen a surge of interest in plant-based products, with both CBD (cannabidiol) and kratom becoming part of the conversation. While these two botanicals are often mentioned in the same breath, they are very different in origin, preparation, and use. Understanding these differences can help readers make more informed choices about which products may best fit their lifestyle.
A Quick Look at CBD
CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in hemp, a variety of the cannabis plant. Unlike its more famous cousin, THC, CBD is not associated with intoxication. Today, CBD products are widely available in tinctures, capsules, topicals, and edibles. Many brands highlight sourcing transparency, third-party testing, and hemp cultivation practices as points of trust for customers.
A Quick Look at Kratom
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, where its leaves have been part of local traditions for centuries. Unlike CBD, which comes from hemp flowers, kratom comes from harvested and processed leaves. In the U.S., kratom has developed its own community of enthusiasts who value the wide range of product formats available today—from traditional crushed leaf to modern, lab-verified extracts.
How They Differ
While both CBD and kratom are plant-derived and celebrated for their botanical heritage, there are some important differences:
- Source plant: CBD comes from hemp; kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree.
- Primary compounds: CBD is one of many cannabinoids; kratom leaves contain alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH).
- Product formats: CBD is often found in oils, gummies, and skincare products. Kratom is available in powders, capsules, teas, and specialized extracts.
- Market regulation: CBD is governed by the 2018 Farm Bill and state-specific hemp laws, while kratom’s legal status varies state by state.
Types of Kratom Products
As kratom has gained recognition outside Southeast Asia, brands have developed different formats for customers seeking convenience and consistency. Common options include:
- Raw Leaf and Powder – The most traditional form, made from dried and ground kratom leaves.
- Capsules – A pre-measured format designed for convenience.
- Extracts – Concentrated preparations that highlight particular alkaloids. Among these, some companies offer products featuring 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a naturally occurring component of kratom. These extracts are valued for their precision and consistency when produced by reputable brands.
Where 7Tabz Fits In
One of the companies that has built a reputation for lab-tested quality and responsible sourcing is 7Tabz. Their 7-OH products include innovative kratom formats such as 7-OH tablets, designed with a focus on consistency, transparency, and convenience. By combining modern testing standards with respect for kratom’s botanical roots, 7Tabz provides an option for those who value integrity in plant-based products.
The Bottom Line
While CBD and kratom are sometimes compared side by side, they are quite distinct in their history, compounds, and available formats. For those exploring beyond CBD, kratom represents another fascinating botanical with deep cultural roots and a growing market presence. Brands like 7Tabz are helping shape the conversation by emphasizing product integrity, careful sourcing, and transparency—qualities that continue to matter most in the evolving world of plant-based wellness.