Kratom has been used as an herbal remedy for centuries in Southeast Asia, but more recently, it has gained popularity in western culture to help treat various ailments. While many people are familiar with the purported health benefits of kratom, they may not know exactly how this powerful natural compound works within their bodies. Knowing how your body processes kratom can help you understand why and how it can provide relief.
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind kratom metabolites and discover what happens after ingestion so that you have a better idea of where its medicinal effects originate from.
What is kratom, and where does it come from?
Kratom is a leafy plant with historical roots in Southeast Asia. Known for its powerful effects and therapeutic benefits, the kratom tree has grown naturally in Thailand, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and other parts of the region for centuries. It’s harvested from the Mitragyna speciosa tree and processed into a powder form used for various purposes.
Kratom contains active alkaloids that act on various receptors in the brain to produce different effects depending on the strain, dose, and personal chemistry. Many people use it to improve focus, reduce pain and help manage stress. It is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to prescription or over-the-counter medications.
How is kratom processed in the body to create its effects?
When kratom is ingested, the active alkaloids are processed by the liver and interact with opioid receptors in the brain. It creates what’s known as the “entourage effect”—a synergistic reaction that enhances the effects of each ingredient.
How kratom interacts with your body depends on what type of strain you take, what dose you take, and what other substances are present when it’s ingested. While most strains will produce similar effects, some may be more potent than others depending on their strength or their type of alkaloid content. Most people report feeling a sense of euphoria, relaxation, and improved focus after taking kratom.
Kratom also has an active ingredient called mitragynine. When taken in large quantities, this alkaloid can act as a stimulant similar to caffeine and has been linked to increased energy levels and improved mental clarity. It is believed to interact with the body’s opioid receptors, resulting in increased pain relief, relaxation, and sedation.
What are some popular ways to use kratom powder or capsules?
Knowing what is the strongest kratom can help you decide what dose is best for you. Kratom is most commonly taken in either powder or capsule form. When taking kratom in powder form, it can be mixed with a liquid such as juice or water and then drunk. Alternatively, it can be made into a tea by boiling the powder with water and straining the solids.
Another popular way to take kratom is in capsule form, which some find easier to digest than powder. Capsules can be taken with water or juice and may provide more efficient delivery of the alkaloids present in the kratom.
What are the potential benefits of using kratom for medicinal purposes?
Kratom has been used as an herbal remedy for various ailments, including chronic pain, anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It is believed to be an effective way to manage chronic illnesses such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Some people have reported that kratom can help reduce withdrawal symptoms from substances like opioids or alcohol. It is also believed to help treat depression and improve overall mood.
Kratom has also been used as an alternative to traditional medications for treating opioid addiction, with some users reporting that it was more effective than traditional treatments. Additionally, the alkaloids in kratom can help boost energy levels and improve focus when taken in low doses. Finally, some people report using kratom to reduce fatigue and increase their overall well-being.
Are there any risks associated with using kratom, and if so, what are they?
As with any medication or supplement, there are potential risks associated with kratom use. It is essential to know the most substantial strain of kratom, as some strains may contain higher levels of alkaloids and thus be more potent than others. Taking too much kratom can lead to an overdose, resulting in side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and even death in some cases.
Additionally, kratom can interact with other medications, so it is essential to talk to your doctor before taking kratom if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking prescription drugs. Finally, using kratom for prolonged periods can lead to addiction, resulting in withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, insomnia, and irritability.
How can you make sure you’re buying safe, quality kratom products?
When buying kratom, it is crucial to make sure you are purchasing from a reputable vendor. Look for vendors that offer third-party lab testing and have positive reviews. Organic, high-quality kratom can help ensure your purchase is safe and free of contaminants such as pesticides or heavy metals. Additionally, look for transparent vendors about what type of strain they sell and what alkaloid content it contains.
When purchasing kratom, always compare prices to ensure you get the best deal. Additionally, consider sticking with one vendor rather than shopping around, as this can help ensure that what you buy is consistent in quality. Finally, purchase kratom in powder form as capsules may contain fillers that could alter the potency or effectiveness of the product.
