While kratom and kava have many different similarities they are not the same thing. Kava is typically extracted from the root of the Kava Kava plant and is known to cause muscle relaxation, sleepiness, and feelings of wellbeing. Kratom on the other hand is extracted from the leaves of the Mitragyna tree (which is a tropical evergreen tree in the coffee family) and is used to combat fatigue, increase energy levels and productivity, and relieve pain or strained muscles.