Kratom has been around for centuries as a natural treatment for symptomatic relief of various illnesses, but its popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. The science behind kratom is fascinating, but it’s also confusing, so we’ll help you sort out the facts from the fiction.
How is Kratom Different from Other Stimulants?
Some people swear by it, others call it dangerous and deadly. So, what exactly is kratom? To understand why kratom is such a hit, you need to understand what it is. Kratom is a plant in the coffee family that grows wild in the Indo-Malayan region. In the 1990s, Southeast Asian laborers began taking kratom as a way to mitigate the effects of malaria. By the early 2000s, kratom had become popular in Thailand and Indonesia. Kratom is being used in the United States, too.
This drug is a relatively new addition to the list of stimulants that have gained popularity. Kratom, known for its calming effects and ability to reduce the soreness associated with muscle cramping conditions, has recently been used to treat other multiple health issues. While kratom is considered a natural supplement, it contains chemicals such as mitragynine, 7-hydroxy mitragynine, and speciogynine, which enhance the release of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
These neurotransmitters are called endorphins. Kratom doesn’t affect the central nervous system or cause side effects like other stimulants. In fact, it actually enhances the feeling of well-being. Some people feel happy and relaxed after taking kratom.
While it has been used in Southeast Asia for hundreds of years, its effects and benefits were not discovered until the last decade. Now it’s being hailed as a super drug and an effective alternative for caffeine. With its legal status currently still unknown in many states, kratom is only used by people who already have a caffeine addiction and are looking for relief, but without getting hooked on caffeine.
Medical Use of Kratom
Medical use of kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) includes everything from soreness to other major issues. Regarding soreness management, kratom may be an adequate substitute for analgesia. When used correctly, it can be safer than analgesic and may even help fight soreness and discomfort.
Kratom contains a naturally occurring compound called 7-hydroxy mitragynine (7-OH-M) that appears to mimic caffeine. But unlike traditional sedatives, which come with unpleasant side effects such as constipation, nausea and vomiting, the benefits of using kratom seem to outweigh any side effects. There is evidence that kratom may help relieve discomfort associated with fibromyalgia and other conditions.
Kratom Dosages
There are two major groups of users in the kratom community: those who take the full kratom dose recommended by their supplier (usually between 50 to 100+ mg of the main active ingredient mitragynine) and those who take a lower dose (usually around 10-25 mg).
How to choose the right dosage for you:
- Don’t start off with a high dose if you can avoid it.
- Start low and slowly increase your dosage as your body adjusts.
- If you experience adverse effects, immediately decrease your dosage.
- If you find the high/low switch makes no difference, keep increasing until you reach your desired amount.
Recommended Dosage
- Beginners: Start low, do no harm, and slowly increase dosage to find your perfect blend. Try 2 grams a day.
- Intermediate: For those who like to be more active, start with a 4 gram dose and add up to 2 grams.
- Experts: If you’re looking to really feel the effects, start with 6 gram and then move up to 8 gram or higher.
Dosage and duration can be increased or decreased according to preference, depending on the individual and the strain.
Side Effects of Kratom
While kratom has become quite popular recently, many people are unaware of its potential side effects. It is essential to know what these side effects are and if it is appropriate for you. Typical kratom side effects include:
- nausea
- cramps
- diarrhea
- constipation
A less common side effect is a feeling of extreme energy. Some people have had such a strong reaction that it was almost like they felt an alcoholic high, but without the hangover. So it’s essential to read the directions when using it.
FAQ’s
1. Is Kratom Legal?
Kratom is legal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. However, it can be addictive if not taken correctly. While there are no regulations in the US preventing kratom from being imported into the country, there are laws that prevent it from being marketed for recreational purposes.
2. Does Kratom Cause Addiction?
People who take kratom in its various forms — the leaves, powder, tea or capsule form — say it has transformed their lives, allowing them to feel healthier and happier. The substance has no harmful side effects, and many users praise it as a safer alternative to prescription medications or other stimulants. But, can it cause addiction? The short answer is no.
3. How Do I Take Kratom?
When it comes to taking kratom, there are several ways to take kratom. You can consume it orally, and you can drink kratom tea. It is available in powder form, capsules, tablets, and extracts. Another important thing you need to know is that you must ensure that you are purchasing kratom from a trusted vendor.
4. Where Can I Buy Kratom?
Kratom is available over the internet; however, it’s often hard to find kratom online. When buying kratom online, look for reputable sellers. When researching vendors, pay attention to reviews on third-party review sites like Trustpilot, which will let you know if a vendor is offering good service and if they’re selling kratom at a competitive price.
