A plant native to Southeast Asia with effects that range from energizing and stimulating, to providing relief for physical pain, kratom can be taken in small doses as a stimulant or higher doses for its opioid-like effects.
This blog post will discuss all the possible benefits and side effects of kratom so you can decide if it’s the right natural supplement for you.
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Benefits of Kratom
Kratom has been claimed to have various benefits, such as the potential to be an antidepressant, suppress hunger, increase energy levels, provide pain relief, and improve mental health conditions.
Potential as an antidepressant
Kratom has been found to have properties that may contribute to a feeling of improved mental well-being and happiness. Research suggests that some compounds in the plant, such as mitragynine, can increase the production of monoamines — like dopamine and serotonin — in the brain. These are associated with contentment.
Kratom may also activate opioid receptors located in emotional centers within certain parts of the brain. This can stimulate a natural release of feel-good chemicals. Studies have even found evidence suggesting that kratom could be used as an alternative antidepressant medication for those suffering from depression or other mood disorders.
It’s important to note though that more research is needed on this potential use despite its promising initial findings.
Hunger suppressant
Kratom has been used traditionally as a stimulant and appetite suppressant to help manage hunger. Research suggests that its active ingredients interact with the opioid receptors in the brain which may lead to a decrease in appetite.
An animal study found that when given low doses of kratom extract, rats experienced a reduction in daily food consumed. These results suggest that at very low dosages kratom can be useful for people looking to lose weight because it decreases cravings and reduces hunger.
While there are some potential benefits associated with using kratom for weight loss, it is important to note that further research is necessary.
Increased energy levels
At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant to increase alertness, talkativeness, and energy.
Kratom is sometimes used for increased energy levels that are experienced due to its potentially stimulating properties. It works by increasing neurotransmitter activity in the brain thereby resulting in an increase in energy levels and improved alertness.
Pain relief
Kratom’s active compounds interact with the body’s opioid receptors to produce pain relief comparable to conventional drugs like morphine, codeine, and oxycodone — but without many of the dangerous side effects associated with these medications.
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Improved mental health conditions
Kratom has been found to have potential mental health benefits, including reducing levels of anxiety and improving mood. It may also help with addressing certain brain chemical imbalances associated with depression.
Assistance with opioid cravings
Early research suggests that kratom may help in offsetting withdrawal symptoms caused by opioids without inducing a high.
While more research needs to be conducted on this topic, there are some studies suggesting that kratom could affect certain brain receptors involved with substance dependence disorders. This can ultimately make it easier for users with an opioid dependency problem to cope effectively.
Side Effects of Kratom
In addition to its potential health benefits, kratom also carries a range of risks and side effects that must be considered before use. Read on to explore the side effects associated with kratom.
Dizziness
Dizziness is one of the most commonly reported side effects of kratom use. This symptom can occur even at low dosages and may be attributed to individual sensitivity.
Drowsiness
The most common side effect of kratom use is mild drowsiness which occurs due to kratom’s sedative-like properties. While this might be beneficial when planning a restful night of sleep, during normal daily activities it can pose significant disruption and interfere with concentration levels.
Hallucinations and delusions
Kratom has been reported to have various rare but serious effects on mental health, including hallucinations and delusions. Studies suggest that high doses of kratom can produce a range of out-of-body experiences such as vivid visions and delirium which can impact day-to-day functioning.
Seizures
The risk factors for developing seizures include using a high dose of kratom, taking it with other drugs or alcohol, ingesting it on an empty stomach, or having a history of epilepsy or seizure activity.
Potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms
Kratom has the potential to be addictive. It can raise dopamine levels in the brain, leading to a temporary feeling of well-being and euphoria.
As with any other substance-abusing drug, regular use will lead to tolerance and dependence. Over time these effects will require stronger doses or more frequent dosing.
Withdrawal effects are common among those who quit heavy kratom use suddenly. These symptoms include nausea, insomnia, body aches, depression, and irritability. The severity of withdrawal symptoms largely depends on how frequently a person was using kratom before quitting. Higher doses taken over longer periods may cause more difficult withdrawals.
FAQs
1. What is kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree found in Southeast Asia. Its leaves are used to make medicine for various health benefits.
2. What are the benefits of taking Kratom?
Some potential health benefits of taking kratom include pain relief, improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, and decreased anxiety or stress.
3. Are there any side effects associated with taking kratom?
Yes, some people have reported nausea, dry mouth, constipation, or diarrhea when using kratom products. In rare cases, it can also cause liver damage or dependence. It’s important to talk with your doctor before considering using this as a supplement for medicinal purposes.
