Should You Try It? The Benefits (And Risks) of Taking Kratom

August 10, 2020August 10, 2020 Simon Hopes kratom

Kratom has an estimated 15 million users in the United States. Its growth in popularity is due to its enticing benefits, like pain relief and insomnia prevention. However, this herbal extract is still a mystery to many people due to its lack of clinical studies.

If you’re feeling unsure about Kratom, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of Kratom, as well as the notable benefits and drawbacks.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom is a tree that originates from South Asia. Its leaves contain Mitragynine, which offers stimulant or sedative effects depending on the dosage.

Users may chew the leaves to feel the effects of Kratom. You may also choose to steep it in tea. Due to its rise in popularity, Kratom is often available in powder and capsule form.

The Benefits of Kratom

Thanks to its wide variety of effects, Kratom has several benefits that make it appealing. Here are a few key benefits to consider.

It Relieves Pain

One of the biggest perks of Kratom is pain relief. The pain relief effect, caused by mitragynine, the main chemical component of Kratom. This alkaloid acts as an anti-inflammatory. White Vein Indo, a special strain of Kratom, offers strong pain-relieving effects.

Fights Fatigue

Kratom provides fatigue-fighting effects in low doses to help keep users awake and focused.

Acts as a Sleep Aid

This benefit sounds contradictory to the fatigue-fighting effect, but the difference is in the dosage. In high doses, Kratom helps users fall asleep and fight insomnia. Low doses provide the opposite effect, making Kratom versatile.

Provides an Opiate Effect

The effects of Kratom resembles the effects of opiates, which is a huge draw for those recovering from addiction to stronger opiates. Weaning off of stronger, more dangerous opiates using Kratom helps ease long-time drug users into a safer habit.

The Drawbacks of Kratom

While Kratom has quite a few benefits, it also has a few drawbacks to keep in mind.

Lacks Scientific Research

Despite its popularity, Kratom hasn’t been studied in professional clinical trials yet. That means the health effects, positive and negative, are largely unproven. The benefits and drawbacks are based on word of mouth and personal experience.

It Might Be Addictive

Anything considered addictive should be taken with serious precaution. Heavy users have reported withdrawal after periods of not taking Kratom. While this is based on personal use, it’s best to tread lightly if you’re wary of addiction.

There Are Side Effects

Some of the reported side effects of Kratom are insomnia and appetite loss. In high doses, Kratom can even cause users to hallucinate. Other side effects may include dry mouth, nausea, and constipation.

Dangerous Drug Interactions

Kratom may interact dangerously with some drugs. It’s essential to stay aware of the possible interactions with other drugs you take before using Kratom. If you’re unsure whether the drugs you take negatively interact with Kratom, talk to your doctor before using it.