Mitragyna speciosa, better known as “kratom,” is a historically favored herbal medicine native to the tropical Southeast Asian region. Kratom is extracted from the leaf of an evergreen tree and is indigenous to the palm tree-fringed SE Asian countries of Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea.
According to the Botanical Education Alliance, the kratom industry is worth $1.13 billion. Recognizable by its ribbed and veined leaves, this increasingly popular plant belongs to the Rubiaceae plant family, A.K.A. the “coffee family.”
When crushed and dried, kratom leaves transform into a loose, fine powder. Since it can be used as a stimulant, kratom’s association with coffee is understandable. However, depending on the amount consumed, kratom may also produce sedative effects.
Before finding the best kratom shops to buy from, take a moment to learn more about this magnificent plant.
The Benefits of Introducing Kratom into Your Daily Routine
Kratom is enriched with active alkaloids and possesses opioid properties. Opioids are a type of pharmaceutical medicine that affects brain neurons capable of banishing feelings of pain. Get high quality kratom products at Kratom Krush that works similarly to opioids by interacting with opioid receptors inside the brain.
When consumed at lower doses, kratom triggers an energizing effect. Conversely, higher doses of the natural substance may cause sedation. This herbal extract boasts both natural appeal and ease of use.
Let’s find out some more kratom benefits that lend to its rising popularity:
1. Medical Potential
Two of kratom’s main active components are mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine. Once these components interact with the body, they can produce the following beneficial therapeutic effects:
- Improved Focus, Energy, and Mood –
The alkaloids in kratom bind to the sympathetic nervous system, the body is stimulated, and physical endurance is enhanced, similar to caffeinated products’ action. Moreover, a systematic review demonstrates kratom’s mood-boosting effects.
A report published in the journal ACS Central Science confirmed that a metabolite of a kratom alkaloid might be responsible for its therapeutic efficacy. Through conducting rodent studies, researchers found that the majority of kratom’s analgesic effect comes from 7-OH, as opposed to mitragynine.
- Lessen Opiate Withdrawal –
Since kratom interacts with the same receptors as opioids, there’s no wonder why so many people worldwide rely on it for opioid dependence or withdrawal.
- Increased Libido –
A research paper titled “Improved sexual functioning of long-term daily users of Mitragyna speciosa (Korth)” was published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine. It revealed that daily kratom consumption could enhance sexual functioning among male adults, such as longer climaxes, delayed ejaculation, heightened sexual desire, and stronger erection.
2. Fast-Acting
Typically, a kratom high can be felt 30-60 minutes post-consumption. However, the effects may also surface in as little as 15 minutes. Feelings of euphoria may linger for 5-7 hours, with the peak being felt 2-4 hours after ingestion. Dosage also influences the duration of kratom’s effects.
3. Purchasing Availability
Numerous kratom vendors infiltrate the market. While this can be a good thing, it also means that you ought to take extra care when performing your research. The best kratom shops will offer the following:
- Straightforward checkout process
- Prompt shipping
- A diverse range of available products and strains
- Fair prices
- Discount options
- Reliable customer service
- GMP compliance
4. Dosage Options
A 2018 study that gathered data from 8,049 surveyed kratom users revealed that a five-gram dose of pulverized kratom leaves (powder) was sufficient to produce desirable effects when consumed up to three times daily. One gram is good to start; 1-2 gram is mild; 2-4 grams is moderate; 3-6 grams is strong; 5-8 grams is very strong and may cause hallucinations.
5. Strain Types
This popular herbal supplement does not come in just one variety. Instead, it is available in three types of strains: red, white, and green. Considering the color of your kratom will majorly influence its effects, so take the following information into account before purchasing kratom:
- Red – Suitable for beginners, red kratom is plucked from the tree’s mature leaves, adorned with red veins and stems. Users tend to prefer this strain for its mellow effects. Aside from being a potent pain reliever, red kratom also induces a good night’s sleep.
- White – The white strain of kratom grows naturally with a higher amount of alkaloid. It is favored for being a powerful stress-buster, energy-booster, analgesic, and mood enhancer.
- Green – Many regular consumers, will describe green kratom as a balance between the red and white strains. While high doses of green can be overly sedating, green also acts as an analgesic in small amounts.
6. Consumption Methods
You’ll be spoiled for choice when you seek out a provider of kratom products. Although most sellers will focus on powdered kratom – which can be washed back with a glass of water or blended with sweet fruits to create a delicious smoothie – various other products are also available on the market.
For example, gelatine-wrapped capsules offer convenient and portable dosing; dried or powdered leaves can be brewed into a tea; kratom extract diluted with a liquid base can be dropped onto/under the tongue in the form of a tincture; the leaves can be dried and smoked.
Conclusion/Considerations
Kratom is currently not federally controlled by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). With that being said, you may want to consider the following:
- Potential Dangers
Kratom holds the potential for overdose and may produce unwanted side effects, including excessive sweating, hallucinations, and seizures. Plus, since the drug is widely unregulated, kratom also carries the risk of drug interactions.
- Storage
When stored improperly, the mitragynine contained in kratom can degrade. To prevent degradation, divide portions into sealed plastic bags. Shielding kratom from light, oxygen, and humidity will also preserve its potency.
- Urine Drug Testing
Standard drug tests, such as 5-panel drug testing kits, will not deliver a positive result for kratom. Contrarily, a 10-panel drug test can detect kratom alkaloids in the blood and urine for up to 7 days post-consumption. Practice caution if you work in an industry whereby the employer carries out mandatory or random drug testing.
