In the nootropic world, not only are the synthesized compounds able to produce potent cognitive enhancements. But, much of the herbs and natural plants have also proven their effect to benefit the human brain and body. And, one of the supplements that is slowly making its name is Kratom. Widely used in the US, Kratom is known for its mood enhancing benefits and has also been used by some people for recreational purposes.
Kratom, with its botanical name Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical deciduous and evergreen tree that belongs to the same family as with coffee, the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the countries of Southeast Asia particularly in the Indochina and Malaysia floristic regions. Although it is indigenous to Thailand, it has been outlawed for 70 years and has been banned because it was reducing the country’s government tax revenue from opium distribution. (1)
The use of Kratom can be dated back hundreds of years ago. The leaves of this plant have been used for medicinal purposes and can either be chewed, smoked, or brewed. This then, results in an improvement in mood. Moreover, indigenous people have used Kratom for a wide array of purposes ranging from the treatment of diarrhea to sexual dysfunction.
This natural wonder is also known for its unique property- it acts as both a stimulant and sedative agent. Now, how does one plant do such a contradicting effect? Although the exact mechanism of action of Kratom is yet to be established, it is believed that the effect may be attributed to the several different active alkaloids present in this plant. The distinct and predominant effect of course, has to do with the dosage taken and the individual differences of the users. When taken in small doses, it has stimulating effect which results into a more alert mind, increased physical and sexual energy, and makes an individual more sociable. Conversely when Kratom is taken in large doses, it produces a sedative- euphoric- analgesic level. This then, can reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, can put an individual in a calm state of mind, and can make one less sensitive to physical and emotional pain. (1) (2)
On the other hand, Kratom may be associated with Opiates. This is because Kratom acts as an opioid receptor agonist like morphine and can be used as a treatment for chronic pain. Although it works similarly to morphine and even acts as a substitute to it, its mechanism is regarded useful and important. Kratom has lower potency and addiction level and the effects of which are also milder. In Thailand specifically, Kratom has been used to treat opioid addiction. It has also been successfully used to treat Opiate withdrawal and dependence. Users report that they are able to reduce and end kratom use completely without suffering through difficult opiate withdrawal. (1) (2)
In addition to that, Kratom has been found to increase an individual’s motivation, stamina, strength, and productivity levels. Kratom capsules are commonly used to treat opium withdrawal and dependence while Kratom pills are known for its sexual benefits such as in boosting libido, enhancing sexual activity, and increasing the desire for sex. Kratom powder on the other hand, can make an individual go to sleep easily, can increase one’s quality of sleep and makes you feel well-rested upon waking up. In some countries, it has been used to treat pain and anxiety, control depression, and symptoms of withdrawal related to the use of other drugs.
Although Kratom poses to be a promising and effective drug, much researches and clinical studies should still be conducted regarding the compound.
First, it is very crucial for any drug or supplement to be taken at the right amount and frequency for it to produce the desired effects while possibly eliminating or minimizing the undesired ones. With the case of Kratom, how much of it do we really need each day? Basically, there has no established recommended dosage for Kratom yet. The suggested dosages are taken from user reports and the acceptable range varies widely from 1 gram to 50 grams per day. For a stimulating effect, a Kratom dose of approximately 1 gram to 5 grams per day may be used. On the other hand for anxiolytic effects, a dose of about 5 grams to 15 grams may be used. For sedating effects, a dose of 16 grams to 25 grams are used. Also, one should consider the concentration and purity of the form. Anything above the dosages mentioned earlier should not be used by inexperienced users. For a more constant and sustained release of effects, your daily Kratom dose may be divided and taken into multiple administrations within the day.
After ingestion, the effects of which typically last for about 5 to 6 hours. When Kratom is taken without food, results are experienced after 30 to 40 minutes. But when the drug is taken with food, effects are usually felt 60 to 90 minutes after. Also, Kratom capsules slower reaction time since they should be dissolved in the stomach first.
When starting with any new drug or supplement, it would be best to start off with the lowest possible dose to see how you respond and then gradually increasing it over time. You might also want to consider consulting your doctor or healthcare provider first since a person’s condition and health status may play a role.
Despite Kratom’s benefits, the drug has been associated with some side effects. Because of the active alkaloids present, you may feel very alert at one moment and then you tend to feel sedated and restless the following moment. With this, the drug is not recommended to be used for people driving vehicles or operating machineries. Moreover, it should not be used on an everyday basis since it can cause Kratom addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Although it is habit- forming, this effect is not common when used responsibly. Long term use of Kratom has been linked with a number of side effects including nausea, dry mouth, vomiting, constipation, nervousness, skin darkening, aggression, loss of libido, and prolonged sleeping. (1) (2)
There has not been enough evidence that Kratom use is safe among pregnant and lactating women. So, it would be best not to take this drug if you are in that specific population.
Although stacking different supplements has been a popular and effective practice at the present time, it is important to know that Kratom is not suitable to be used in conjunction with other drugs, supplements, and substances. This includes yohimbine, cocaine, amphetamine-like drugs, or large doses of caffeine. This is because the drugs may over-stimulate the body and produce an increase in blood pressure levels. Kratom should not be used also with opiates, benzodiazepines, large amounts of alcohol, and other drugs that depress the nervous system. This is because combining such compounds with Kratom may cause an over-sedation and or worse, can lead to respiratory depression. (2)
You can purchase Kratom online. Drug is available over the counter and thus, does not require prescription from a doctor. It is readily available in a variety of forms including Kratom pills, powder, and capsules. Although Kratom is legal in most of the United States, we should take note that this drug is considered illegal in some countries such as Australia, Denmark, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand. It is also a controlled substance in Indiana, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Buy Kratom Online now and experience a variety of its health benefits. (1)
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