What is Kratom and How Does It Work?

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Feature Photo by ThorPorre, licensed under CC-BY A 3.0

Hemp. Cannabis. Marijuana. CBD. All very different things but all of these beneficial herbs are often lumped under one umbrella of “weed”.

But what category does kratom fall into? What exactly is this up and coming herb and how does it stack up against the other herbs in its class? Let’s take a look!

What is Kratom?

In short, kratom (also known as Mitragyna speciosa) is an herbal supplement that originates from Southeast Asia. Kratom is derived from a type of evergreen tree and is commonly used for its healing properties and energy boost.

Similar to CBD, kratom offers countless medicinal benefits, but depending on its use (including dosage and frequency), it can sometimes act as a stimulant. When taken in higher doses, it can sometimes provide an opiate-like high in some people.

If you’re interested in trying out some organic products for your health, Kingdom Kratom is your go-to option.

kratom leafThorPorre [CC BY 3.0], from Wikimedia Commons

Some of the more common side effects of kratom include:

Many people turn to kratom for natural relief of these and other symptoms. As with similar herbs like CBD and THC, it’s important to start with a small dose of the substance to see how your body reacts.

Types of Kratom

Your next question might be, how do I ingest kratom? Kratom, in its most common form, comes as a powder. There are several ways users can ingest kratom powder including in capsule form, mixing it into a drink or using the leaves to make tea.

Straight kratom powder has an unpleasant, bitter taste. But that doesn’t stop people from using what’s known as the “toss and wash” method. You can eat the powder straight and then wash it down with a liquid of your choice.

marijuana tea

Others prefer to sip a tea — the taste is comparable to a potent green tea or take it in pill form.

Kratom products also go by different names including Ketum, Thom, Ithang, Herbal, and Biak. Be sure to purchase your Kratom from a reputable supplier like The Kratom Connection.

How Does Kratom Work?

Similar to CBD and other medicinal herbs in its class, its powerful benefits are linked to science.

Kratom binds to certain opioid receptors in the brain. These opioids are responsible for pain perception, as well as feelings of pleasure, relaxation and happiness. How it reacts to and controls these receptors is the secret behind its effectiveness.

Kratom also contains the compounds mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are thought to help control pain. This interaction inside the brain is comparable to the pain relief felt by common painkillers. In some cases, kratom is used to help fight opioid addiction.

Dosage and Use

As with any herb, drug, or supplement, everyone reacts differently to a different dosage. When trying Kratom for the first time, be sure to start with a smaller dose and consider the ailments you’re treating.

Kratom for Depression and Anxiety

Factors to consider include:

  • Weight
  • Age
  • Sex
  • Other medications
  • Frequency of use
  • Recent food or water consumption
  • Metabolic rate

A loose rule of thumb for Kratom consumption is that 2 grams of powder will offer a mild effect, 4 grams provides moderate results and 8 grams of Kratom will offer a very heavy, noticeable effect.

Many Kratom capsules contain 1 gram of powder but be sure to check the label before consuming any Kratom products.

For those seeking natural treatment for common ailments, you may be able to add Kratom to your list of beneficial herbs. Like with any new supplements, be sure to discuss use, dosage, and side effects with a medical professional.

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