Kratom was introduced to the Western world only recently, and though it can produce many beneficial effects, it’s often incorrectly stereotyped as a “new” substance and treated with suspicion. Separating fact from fiction can be difficult when it comes to kratom, as misconceptions are easily passed on by individuals unfamiliar with its origins and uses. To address this issue, we’ve compiled some of the most common questions people have about this plant.
Kratom goes by several names in its native regions:
• Thom
• Ketum
• Biak
• Kakuam/kakum
• Thang
It was used by the people of Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia for centuries as a natural remedy for many ailments. Healers once gathered the leaves to distribute to patients experiencing pain or digestive issues. These leaves were either chewed or brewed into a tea, both of which may still be done today, although the effects are milder compared to Kratom extract.
The active ingredients that make this plant special are 7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine. These are alkaloids, which are compounds that naturally occur in some plants. Kratom’s active ingredients have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, meaning they interrupt or block the inflammatory chemicals produced by the body’s immune response.
One of the most astounding things about kratom is that its effects change depending on the dosage. A small amount of this plant produces stimulation, which usually manifests as the following:
• Increased energy
• Sociability
• Feelings of euphoria
• Motivation
By contrast, higher doses are more sedating. Individuals who take a larger amount also experience:
• Feelings of contentment
• Help with pain
• Decreased anxiety
• Feelings of calm and relaxation
This larger dose is favored among those who take kratom for recreational use. Some people experience a reverie-like state when consuming high doses.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, this botanical can be extremely helpful to those living with autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. Since the symptoms of these conditions are caused by inflammation, kratom can both reduce the immune response and help with the pain it causes.
Kratom also shows promise in helping with chronic pain conditions. With the ravages of the opioid crisis still rocking the U.S., many patients are trying to find effective pain relief alternatives.
Low doses of this substance may also have therapeutic uses. Some evidence suggests that kratom may help those struggling with depression and anxiety.
This botanical has several different strains which come with an array of vein colors in the leaves. Different effects are associated with each strain:
• Bali: This red Indonesian strain is known for its strong help with pain relief.
• Borneo: From Borneo, this strain may be white, green, or red, and has strong sedating effects.
• Green Malay: This strain is dark green and comes from Malaysia. It’s a popular strain for treating anxiety.
• Indo: From Indonesia, this type of kratom can be red, white, or green. It helps take the pain away, relaxation, and treating anxiety.
• Maeng Da: This is said to be the strongest of the strains and originated in Thailand. It comes in red, green, and white.
• Malaysian: From Malaysia, these green, red, and white leaves are the most balanced in their effects.
While it’s possible to consume the leaves raw, modern extract processes can render much more potent kratom products. This is generally convenient for users for two reasons. First, you can experience the effects with a relatively small amount. Second, despite being related to coffee, kratom isn’t known for its wonderful flavor. Extracts can be taken with food or drink to mask the taste.
What form you choose is a matter of personal preference. Some of the most common forms include the following:
• Powder
• Capsules
If you want to mix kratom to mask the taste, powders are usually recommended. You can cook them into foods like eggs or pancakes, but the preferred mixing method is to add them to juice or tea.
There hasn’t been a great deal of study on determining the correct dosage, although it’s generally agreed that a low dose is five grams or less, and a high dose is between five and 15 grams. Anything more than 15 grams puts the user at risk of serious side effects.
Since users eventually develop a tolerance, it’s recommended that you start with the lowest dose that produces the desired effects. If you prefer to have pre-measured doses, kratom capsules are a great choice because the amount in each capsule is usually indicated on the packaging.
Kratom may be new to some, but it’s an ancient botanical that has brought relief to many people. To learn more about this amazing plant, contact us online.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Not intended for sell to anyone under 18 years of age. *