To get started, it is important to know what kratom is in the first place. Well, the scientific name for the plant is Mitragyna speciosa, and kratom refers to the plant itself as well as the products derived from it.
The leaves of this plant contain many chemicals that people use, but not all of them are studied. The best-studied components of this plant are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
The tree is native to Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea, where it has been used since at least the 19th century.
There are various methods to consume this plant. It can be ingested as raw plant matter in capsule or powder form, incorporated into food and beverages, or the leaves can be brewed into tea.
Additionally, some individuals opt for the plant’s liquid extract and kratom drinks or choose to smoke or vape it.
Benefits of kratom
There are several reported uses for the plant. It is a relaxant that helps people work for longer hours. Here are some of the uses.
- Increases alertness, energy, and relaxation by producing opioid- and stimulant-like effects
- It helps to alleviate pain.
- Kratom also helps relieve some symptoms of anxiety and depression as it is a mood-enhancing substance.
- Helps to reduce the use of opioids and other drugs
- It also helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings related to opioids and other drugs
- The herb helps cure diarrhea as well as muscle cramps
Risks of Kratom
The drug is still not legal in the US and many other countries. This is because not much research has been done on an opioid-like substance. There are some risks and side effects that have been observed by researchers.
There are several safety issues that are noted by researchers, such as containing harmful components as well. It may contain heavy metals as well as harmful bacteria that can be a huge risk for the taker. This is why this is still not approved by the FDA. Moreover, the intoxicating effect of the drug has not been studied, so we do not know if it is safe to use while driving, operating heavy machinery, and much more. Also, there has not been enough research done to see the effects of this drug on pregnant women.
Some people do experience mild side effects after consuming the drug, but sometimes they can become pretty severe as well. It can also interact with other drugs already in the body and become potentially harmful. The problem is that there is no research on the long-term use of this opioid-like substance like there is for other drugs. In fact, there have been some reports of deaths caused by the consumption of this drug as well. However, there are many more opioid-related deaths recorded in the US.
Side effects of kratom
We know the risks of kratom, but what are the side effects that most people also experience? Well, they can range from mild to severe, so it is important to be very careful when taking this plant.
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Itching
- Dry mouth
- Hallucination, confusion, tremors
- Seizure
- High blood pressure
- Slower breathing
- Liver problems
- Damage to the cardiovascular system
There can be more long-term issues that just haven’t been researched yet. This is why the drug is not recommended by any physician and should be taken at your own risk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, kratom is an herbal supplement that can provide a variety of potential benefits. It has been used traditionally by people in Southeast Asia for centuries, and it is now gaining popularity around the world as a way to manage pain, boost energy levels, and help relieve stress.
Although more research is needed to determine the full range of effects of kratom use, it may prove to be an effective natural remedy for many common ailments.
Hopefully, this article provided some insight into the uses, effects, and risks associated with kratom. It is safer to wait for more research on this drug before deciding to take it. Of course, if you are pregnant or already sick, you should avoid it at all costs.
