Kratom, a botanical substance derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has gained significant attention in recent years for its complex effects and potential therapeutic applications.
This comprehensive guide will explore what kratom is, its effects, potential benefits, and critical precautions users should understand.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a natural herb that can give you a boost of energy or have effects similar to opioids, depending on how much you take. The kratom you might find in stores is usually sold as a supplement that may claim to boost energy, improve your mood, and relieve pain.
You’ll come across a few different types of kratom, but they all come from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, which thrives in the lush regions of Southeast Asia. However, kratom might be sold as whole leaves, which can be chewed, or as a dry powder or liquid.
Because kratom has opioid-like effects, many people turn to it to help manage withdrawal symptoms. But in smaller doses, it takes on a more energizing role, acting like a stimulant that can increase your heart rate and make you feel more alert.
Kratom Effects
The research on kratom and its effects on the mind and body is still limited, and that’s where things get tricky. Most of the evidence we have to rely on is anecdotal. Many users claim kratom can naturally address mental health symptoms and pain. Some of the most commonly reported benefits of kratom include:
- Pain relief
- Improved mood
- Increased alertness or energy
- Better sleep and lessened insomnia
- Less frequent or intense withdrawal symptoms, particularly for those experiencing opioid withdrawal
While kratom may offer some appealing benefits, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s always safe to use.
Kratom has been a part of traditional practices in Southeast Asia for generations. What’s interesting, though, is that most of the serious issues, including fatalities linked to kratom, tend to happen in Western countries, not in the regions where it’s been used for so long.
Potential Benefits of Kratom
1. Pain Management
Kratom has been reported to provide natural pain relief, particularly for:
- Chronic conditions like fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Migraines
- Alternative to synthetic painkillers
2. Anxiety and Stress Reduction
Some users report that kratom helps:
- Alleviate stress
- Reduce anxiety symptoms
- Improve overall mental well-being
3. Energy and Focus
Lower doses of kratom may:
- Boost energy levels
- Enhance mental concentration
- Provide alertness without caffeine-related jitters
4. Potential Opioid Withdrawal Support
Some individuals use kratom to manage:
- Opioid withdrawal symptoms
- Reduce dependency on prescription medications
Is Kratom Legal?
Currently, kratom is legal in most areas, but there’s growing momentum in certain states and countries to establish clearer, more informed regulations around its use. Kratom is not illegal at the federal level, which means it’s up to individual states to decide how to handle it.
As of 2023, a few states have officially passed regulations that limit or ban kratom use, including:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Indiana
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
Kratom is also illegal in many countries outside the U.S. More states may adjust their stance on kratom in the months and years to follow.
Kratom Side Effects & Risks
Some kratom products have been found to contain harmful heavy metals and dangerous bacteria, putting unsuspecting buyers at risk. And since kratom use isn’t well understood, it can be difficult to know how to appropriately dose it for your body.
Taking too much kratom can raise the risk of unwanted side effects and potential health issues. It’s always best to use it responsibly and in moderation. Some of the most common side effects of kratom to watch out for might include:
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Increased urination
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- In severe cases, hepatotoxicity, seizures, and hallucinations may occur. Some extreme cases of kratom overdoses have led to death.
Precautions When Using Kratom
1. Dosage Management
- Start with the lowest possible dose
- Gradually increase if needed
- Never exceed recommended limits
- Monitor individual response
2. Quality and Source
- Purchase from reputable vendors
- Seek third-party lab-tested products
- Avoid unverified sources
- Check for potential contaminants
3. Medical Consultation
- Consult healthcare professionals before use
- Discuss potential interactions with current medications
- Undergo regular health check-ups
- Be transparent about kratom consumption
4. Usage Guidelines
- Avoid mixing with alcohol
- Stay hydrated
- Do not operate heavy machinery
- Take periodic breaks to prevent tolerance
Is Kratom Addictive?
Although kratom is commonly used to help with opioid addiction and withdrawal, it’s important to remember that it can be addictive too.
While experts agree that kratom addiction tends to be less intense than opioid addiction, that’s not exactly something to celebrate, especially when you consider that opioids are some of the most dangerous substances out there.
Studies have found a strong link between using kratom and developing a dependence on it. In other words, the more you use kratom, the more likely you are to develop cravings and, eventually, an addiction. And with addiction comes withdrawal symptoms, which can include:
- Mood swings
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Sleep problems
- Sadness
- Muscle spasms
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Runny eyes and nose
- Lack of appetite
Risk factors of kratom
Here are the risk factors of kratom:
- Drug Interactions: Kratom can interact with other drugs, including prescription medications, by affecting liver enzymes that process these drugs. This can lead to dangerous changes in drug levels in the body.
- Liver Impact: Some animal studies suggest kratom may affect liver enzymes, altering how your body breaks down medications.
- Increased Cholesterol: Kratom has the potential to increase cholesterol levels, which can contribute to cardiovascular issues over time.
- Memory and Learning Impairment: Prolonged kratom use may lead to memory problems and impair learning abilities.
- Addiction and Withdrawal: Kratom can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms can be painful and uncomfortable, potentially leading to long-term issues like depression or anxiety.
Best place to buy Kratom tablets online
Occurs Naturally is the most reliable source of kratom tablets. They are known for their high-quality ingredients which are lab-tested and proven to provide the maximum and optimal results.
They are committed to delivering naturally sourced kratom for three different purposes: focus, relief, and energy. These tablets are pressed with a high-pressure machine so it does not have added fillers or chemicals used in this.
They have 3 types of kratom tablets (Relief, Energy, and Focus), with 20mg per tablet in a pack of 6 servings.
At Occurs Naturally, they use rigorously tested ingredients and produce kratom tablets with stringent quality controls. They are safe, effective, and natural alternatives for stress relief, energy enhancement, and cognitive support.
You can get kratom tablets for relief, focus, and energy. These tablets give more potent and targeted effects compared to traditional kratom products, so you can enjoy potential benefits sooner and with greater intensity.
The team of experts at Occurs Naturally has carefully created products to maximize benefits and ensure optimal absorption which is only possible in table form consumption.
Final Thoughts
Kratom is a powerful and complex substance with potential benefits for pain management, mood improvement, energy boosting, and even opioid withdrawal support.
However, its effects can vary significantly based on dosage and individual response, and the lack of regulation means it comes with significant risks, including potential addiction, dangerous drug interactions, and adverse side effects.
While kratom can be an alternative for some, it’s essential to approach its use with caution. Ensuring proper dosage, sourcing high-quality products, and consulting healthcare professionals can help minimize risks.
As research continues and regulations evolve, it’s crucial to stay informed about kratom’s effects and the legal landscape surrounding it.
