A lot of men and women are drawn to kratom because of the reported health benefits. If you’re new to it or just doing your research, kratom is the name of a tree, it’s actually part of the coffee family native to Southeast Asia. Also referred to as mitragyna speciosa, the tree is commonly grown in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Kratom is processed in a few different ways, once the leaves are dry, it can be used to make kratom tea. In other cases, they are placed in capsules and used as a supplement.
A few years ago, it was tough to find it. Now, it’s made available in a number of different areas. You may find kratom leaves, powder, and capsules in health stores, supplement stores, healthy snack stores, vape shops, and online specialty stores.
That begs the question, why do men and women use kratom? Well, it may have uses for discomfort, sadness, and energy. In terms of what kratom is made of, the 2 biggest compounds found in kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
Kratom use dates back centuries where it has been used traditionally in Asia as a natural home remedy. For the cultures of Southeast Asia, it might have been used for discomfort, cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue.
The kratom market has gained a lot of popularity over the last decade. I feel there’s a few reasons for this.
- People don’t trust Pharma companies and their products.
- People can’t afford prescriptions, so they’re often looking for a cheaper or natural alternative.
- With social media, a lot of people are sharing how kratom has changed their life for the better.
In my opinion, those 3 key factors have contributed to the success of kratom. I’ve shared my own experiences with kratom, publicly. Not always easy, but it’s hard not to root for something that has positively impacted your life. That’s the reason Kratom Exchange exist in the first place.
Before we jump into the health benefits of kratom, I have to let you know that kratom is not approved by the FDA. With that in mind, let’s look closer into the beneficial side of kratom.
(1) Sexual Desire
Kratom has been studied as a potential sexual enhancement herb. Researchers examined several clinical studies and reported findings regarding the aphrodisiac effects of kratom. They concluded that kratom may be an effective plant-based sexual enhancer.
(2) DISCOMFORT
While there is specific kratom strains that are recommended for discomfort, all 3 strains may be effective relievers for chronic discomfort. White vein, green vein, and red vein varieties may ease discomfort One compound found in kratom, 7-hydroxymitragynine, is up to X13 more potent than some medications.
(3) MOOD ENHANCEMENTS
A wide range of users that suffer from sadness have reported that it may help in nervousness and sadness. I would be one of those users. Before I started taking kratom, I was in a bad place mentally. We do know that some studies show that kratom has potential to give a sense of well being, as well as a hunger suppressant. In one animal study, researchers determined that kratom lowers corticosterone levels in mice. Elevated corticosterone levels are known to be associated with sadness. You can reach that study here.
Whereas fewer studies have examined kratom’s use for negative mood states and conditions, a recent systematic review of 13 observational studies indicated that kratom is also being used to self-treat negative affect, most frequently nervousness and sadness, with users reporting generally positive results. You can see that study here.
Men and women that suffer from being anti-social have may also find relief with kratom, explaining that it may make them more social.
(4) ALERTNESS
Some users have reported that low kratom doses may be good for alertness, giving you quicker reaction times without an overpowering psychoactive effects. Other users have stated low doses may be a good pick-me-up, even motivating them to take on the day. Some have used kratom tea to replace their morning coffee.
DOES KRATOM HAVE HEALTH RISKS?
Just like with all things you consume in your body, there’s risks that comes with the rewards. We always recommend discussing your options with your primary care doctor. The ingredients in kratom may be potent, so you always want to be careful with your kratom dose.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF TAKING KRATOM?
Everyone is different and what works for one person may not work the same for you. With that being said, some of the most common side effects of kratom may include:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Itching
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
Long-Term Effects
One study examined the effects of prolonged kratom use. Participants reported darkened facial skin, dry mouth, frequent urination, anorexia, weight loss, and frequent constipation.
Withdrawal Symptoms
There’s been mixed reviews and feedback as it pertains to kratom withdrawal symptoms. For some who have used kratom for a prolonged period, some have reported:
- Inability to sleep
- Aggressive or easier to get mad
- Stomach discomforts and nausea
- Body aches
HOW MUCH KRATOM SHOULD I TAKE?
We’ve discussed kratom dosing many times over the years.
The amount of kratom you need to take depends on a number of different factors, such as;
- Age
- Weight
- Gender
- Overall Health
- Tolerance
- Dosage
I’m encouraged to see the amount of studies and research that are being conducted on kratom. We do need that, it’s going to being Kratom’s health benefits to life.
A lot is going depend on your dosage levels, a low dose would range from 1-5 grams while a moderate dose would range from 6-10 grams. We hope the research that is needed mayl determine effects of taking kratom at different dosing levels – whether that may be short-term or long-term.
We always recommend to make sure you consult with your pharmacist or physician before adding kratom to your diet.