Legalization and willingness to explore new flavors have led to kratom gaining considerable attention in the West. Expanding your horizons and trying a new flavor may be at the top of your bucket list, but what is kratom, and is it safe?
In this guide, we will provide a complete rundown of what is kratom, its effects, and whether it’s legal to consume.
1. What is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is an evergreen tree that grows in tropical regions around Southeast Asia. Today, the majority of it is harvested from the following countries:
· Thailand
· Indonesia
· Myanmar
· Malaysia
Known for their glossy, dark leaves, they have been used within Southeast Asian traditional medicine for centuries. Within the leaves are the alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which produce its effects.
But what are its effects on the body? Some people believe they resemble psychedelic mushrooms, whereas others view it as a mild sedative like cannabis. Truthfully, it acts as a stimulant, whereas higher doses can lead to a sedative effect. It all depends on the type and dosage.
Despite these effects, just 0.8% of the U.S. population actively uses kratom.
2. How is Kratom Consumed?
Now that you know more, you may wonder how to consume it. Like other herbal remedies, it can be taken in various ways based on form and personal preference.
Here are the most common ways to use it:
· Toss and Wash – This is by far the most popular consumption method. Just measure out the correct amount of powder, place it in your mouth, and wash it down with water in the same way as CBD products like capsules.
· Capsules – Some products are already available as ready-made capsules. In this case, the powder is held in a substance like gelatine, allowing you to swallow them like a pill.
· Kratom Tea – Traditional Southeast Asian culture often uses raw leaves or powder to brew into tea. Let it steep for 15-20 minutes, add sweeteners, and then consume.
· Mixing – Kratom can also be used with various food and drink items. Some examples may include yogurt, protein shakes, or even cocktails.
· Extracts – Like with products like THC gummies, concentrate options are available. These come in the form of a liquid or resin and are mixed with a beverage. Note that these tend to be the most potent products.
Anyone who has learned what is kratom should be aware that monitoring your dosage is essential regardless of which way you choose to consume it.
3. What are the Effects of Kratom?
It can have many effects, depending on the strain, dosage, and the individual. According to the National Institutes of Health, the plant boasts sedative and stimulant qualities.
So, what is kratom and its effects?
Stimulant
At doses of one to five grams, it produces stimulant effects. These can include increased energy, better concentration, and improved mood. Many people also become more social when using it as an alternative to caffeine.
In many ways, the stimulant effects resemble those of potent cannabis Sativa strains like Aceh and Guava.
Sedative
Higher doses of five grams or more can result in sedative effects. Users often experience an urge to sleep, calmness, and tranquility. This makes kratom a viable option for winding down after a hard day.
The sedative effects may resemble certain Indica marijuana strains, including Northern Lights and Black Diamond.
Analgesic
When learning what is kratom, it may surprise you that this plant can also have real benefits for people experiencing main. As CBD marketing brought the health benefits of cannabinoids to the population, this plant brings similar ones.
Anecdotal evidence has shown that it can help relieve mild to moderate pain caused by various conditions, including arthritis. However, scientists have yet to understand its precise pain-relieving mechanisms.
Health Dangers
Any discussion about what is kratom must factor in the various health concerns that some bodies have raised inside and outside of the U.S.
Some of the adverse effects listed include nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, vomiting, constipation, increased urination, tremors, and anxiety.
Plus, some have highlighted the risk of dependency and addiction because kratom’s alkaloids interact with the opioid receptors in the brain.
Mood, Focus, Concentration
Additionally, kratom can enhance your mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. This could provide advantages for those who cannot consume cannabis due to the fear of a THC drug test or existing mental health conditions.
Finally, many people have reported finding themselves being better able to concentrate. In many ways, this places the effects of this plant closer to weed strains like Red Headed Stranger and Melonade.
4. What is Kratom Useful For?
Kratom’s effects are still being studied for efficacy and their mechanisms. In the meantime, the scientific community is studying several reported benefits, including:
· Pain management
· Opioid withdrawal
· Mood enhancement
· Stress relief
· Depression
· Energy booster
· Focus enhancer
Even though the scientific evidence to support these benefits is limited, millions continue using kratom for recreational and cultural purposes.
5. Is Kratom Legal?
Legality depends on where you are in the world. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they warn people not to consume the plant because of fears over safety and limited scientific evidence regarding its effects.
Even though the FDA has taken up this position, kratom remains unregulated at the federal level. Instead, it’s up to each state to decide whether to ban kratom. As of this writing, just six states have made the move to make the plant illegal.
What is Kratom, and is it Right for You?
The humble kratom plant could offer a variety of health benefits. Moreover, many people have already used it to handle alcohol and drug withdrawal symptoms.
These products are widely available across the U.S. However, before trying this plant, start at lower dosages and monitor the effects. Alternatively, why not learn how to roll a blunt or try some tasty cocktails instead?
At Flavor Fix, we pride ourselves on educating our audience and helping them to unlock new and incredible flavors for their downtime. Browse our website now to find your next Flavor Fix.
