Whether consumed in tea or a smoothie, kratom is an all-natural stimulant that boosts energy levels without the negative side effects commonly associated with caffeine and other similar drugs. Its energizing properties are due to its ability to stimulate certain neurotransmitters, and the euphoria it produces can help increase work productivity, alertness and sociability. It also has anxiolytic properties and can help relieve stress, making it a popular supplement for those dealing with anxiety or depression.
Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia that’s traditionally used to treat pain and improve overall wellbeing. Many people enjoy it as a dietary supplement, and the brew can be made by whisking powdered leaves into hot water or steeping whole or crushed leaves in a cup of warm or cold water. The drink’s effect may vary depending on the strain and method of preparation, and users can add flavors like lemon or honey to enhance flavor and mask bitterness.
Its invigorating and energizing properties come from the alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors to produce morphine-like effects. When consumed in small doses, kratom tea can help ease mild to moderate pain and relieve fatigue and depression. However, it should be avoided by anyone with a history of addiction or mental illness. In fact, researchers who analyzed calls to poison control centers across the country found that those who use kratom most often report side effects such as agitation, trembling and rapid heartbeat.
At higher doses, kratom’s pain-relieving effects become more potent, with symptoms including drowsiness, sedation and decreased breathing. It also acts as an opioid withdrawal aid and can decrease symptoms like cravings, vomiting, muscle aches and stomach cramps. Researchers have found that kratom’s opioid-like effects are due to the way it interacts with the body’s mu-opioid receptors, and the drug has potential for treating heroin addiction and other opioid withdrawal syndromes.
Some kratom users experience adverse side effects, including nausea, constipation and changes in appetite. Other symptoms include dizziness, dry mouth and itching, increased urination, changes in sexual desire and weight loss. These symptoms are usually mild and go away after a few days of regular use, but some people experience more serious side effects such as anxiety, depression, insomnia or seizures.
To avoid these potential side effects, it’s important to start with a small dosage and gradually increase your consumption as you become more familiar with the plant’s effects on your body. It’s also a good idea to consult with your primary care physician before trying any new dietary supplement, and to make sure you are using only quality kratom products.
You can choose to purchase kratom from a local health food store or to buy it online, but it’s best to stick with a reputable seller. If possible, look for a vendor that offers lab tests to show you exactly what is in the product you are buying. You should also ask the company how it was handled from its source in Southeast Asia to your kitchen cupboard, as this can impact its quality and potency.