Are you looking for a natural approach to pain relief, managing stress, or boosting your energy levels?
Kratom, which has seen a recent surge in popularity for these purpose, might be worth exploring.
In this article, we're diving deep into the basics of kratom, exploring its potential benefits, drawbacks, and important safety considerations.
So, what is kratom? What does it do? And what are some commonly associated benefits with kratom use?
What is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), a Southeastern Asian plant with a growing presence in the wellness world, has piqued the curiosity of many. This tropical tree's leaves have traditionally been used for pain relief, managing fatigue, improving mood, and even as an anti-diarrheal remedy.
Kratom also has over 54 active alkaloids. Mitragynine is the most studied compound in the plant, comprising up to 66% of its total alkaloid content. Another alkaloid in kratom is 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), which is present in smaller amounts. These two alkaloids are believed to interact with opioid receptors in the brain and are primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with kratom.
What Does Kratom Do?
Kratom interacts with opioid receptors in the brain. However, its effects can vary depending on dosage and individual sensitivity. Kratom interacts with the brain through its active alkaloids, particularly mitragynine and 7-OH.
We'll discuss this in more detail later, but we know that kratom can also interact with serotonin and dopamine modulation, which means it can alter your mood. However, the exact mechanisms are still being researched.
What Are the Benefits of Kratom?
If you're considering taking kratom, you primary concern may be its impact on your body. Here are a few studied benefits of taking kratom.
Pain Relief
Research has shown that taking kratom safely and responsibly has been proven to enhance pain tolerance without significant health consequences.
Mood Enhancement
Kratom can have mood-lifting effects. Some kratom users find that consuming it reduces their feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. It may also produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation.
Drug Withdrawal Alleviation
Kratom has recently received attention due to its potential to help with drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Many have used it for self-treatment, while the FDA does not yet approve the use of kratom for detoxification.
In addition to the above, there are a few additional benefits of kratom that are less well-studied.
Enhanced Focus
Many users report an increase in their ability to focus when taking kratom.
Treatment for Diarrhea
We briefly discussed this, but in Southeast Asia, kratom is widely used to treat diarrhea and stomach cramps.
Lessened Fatigue
Fatigue is a lingering feeling of exhaustion, and kratom can counteract this symptom quite effectively. It can also cause an increase in heart rate.
Sedative Effects
Some types and doses of kratom can cause relaxation.
Is Kratom Safe?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, conducted in 2021 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, some 1.2 million Americans aged 12 years of age or older have used kratom.
The widespread use of kratom has called its safety into question. It's important to note that the FDA has not approved its use for any health treatment.
There are some mild potential side effects to keep in mind when using kratom.
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Constipation
More severe side effects that have been reported include:
- Liver problems
- Seizures
- Addiction
Because of a lack of research, it isn't easy to directly link any particular side effects to kratom, but these are the most commonly reported associated with the plant.
Is Kratom Legal?
Yes, kratom is legal to purchase and sell federally in the United States. That is, is no federal ban on the use and sale of kratom in the United States. However, there is more to the picture.
For example, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has considered scheduling kratom as a controlled substance but withdrew that proposal. They still list kratom as a "Drug and Chemical for Concern."
Also, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't approve kratom for any medical use and considers it an "unapproved new dietary ingredient."
Of course, there are also state and local laws to consider; in fact, six states as of writing have banned kratom: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Tennessee, Vermont and Wisconsin–and a few cities have banned kratom as well. Make sure you are aware of your local and state laws.
Does Kratom Show Up on A Drug Test?
Whether or not kratom shows up on a drug test depends on the test you're taking. Here's what you need to know before taking a drug test as a kratom user.
Standard 5-panel drug test
Kratom is not typically included in these tests. They usually focus on substances like marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP.
Expanded drug panel test
Some 10-panel or more comprehensive tests might screen for kratom, especially if they look for a broader range of substances.
Specialized kratom test
These are less common, but specific blood tests can detect kratom's presence.
How Long Does Kratom Last?
The length of kratom's effects last depends on several factors, including:
Dosage
Generally, higher doses lead to longer-lasting effects. Low doses (stimulant effects) may subside within 1-2 hours, while high doses (sedative effects) can last 4-6 hours or even longer.
Method of Ingestion
Chewing leaves have a faster onset (10 minutes) but shorter duration (1-1.5 hours) compared to taking capsules or tea (more prolonged onset but effects lasting for several hours).
Individual Factors
Metabolism, body weight, and kratom tolerance all influence how long it stays in your system and affects you.
Here's a breakdown:
Low Dose (Stimulant Effect): 1-2 hours
High Dose (Sedative Effect): 4-6 hours (or longer)
Remember that these are general ranges, and your experience may vary. Even if psychoactive effects wear off, kratom metabolizers can stay in your system for longer, potentially showing up on certain drug tests.
Using Kratom in Your Life
Kratom is a complex plant with a range of potential benefits and drawbacks. While it has been used traditionally for pain relief, mood enhancement, and other purposes, research into its safety and efficacy remains ongoing.
Here are some key takeaways to consider:
- Kratom may offer some pain relief, improve mood, and help manage withdrawal symptoms, but more research is needed.
- It can cause side effects, and its legality varies by location.
- It's not included in standard drug tests, but some expanded panels may detect it.
Before considering kratom, it's crucial to speak with a healthcare professional. They can help you weigh the potential risks and benefits and determine their suitability.
If you've decided to try kratom, we highly recommend 7OHMZ kratom alkaloid tablets to experience kratom's benefits while minimizing potential side effects. These tablets offer the cleanest, more pure, and most consistent kratom experience possible by isolating the 7-OH alkaloid and leaving out impurities, unlike other kratom products.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice or to substitute professional healthcare guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen or supplement, including kratom.