Kratom is a medicinal plant widely explored in Asia. Here, we will talk more about its therapeutic potentials!

The more we study, the more we understand that each culture has its power plants. Unfortunately, the moment they become popular, we lose their traditional contexts—which leaves us face to face with risks that, on many occasions, could be avoided if we had more respect for the rituals and wisdom of indigenous peoples. And that appears to be the case with kratom!

Popular in Central Asia, this little plant from the coffee family has psychoactive properties that have been explored for hundreds of years by the local population. Its uses in rites and natural medicine seem to be well tolerated, with some mild side effects. But, when the dose increases, its use can become risky!

Today, we came to talk about kratom, its uses, benefits and risks. After all, to reduce harm, there’s nothing better than a lot of information, right? Come with us and discover this very traditional substance (and so controversial in the West)!

WHAT IS KRATOM?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tree belonging to the coffee family, found mainly in Thailand and neighboring countries. Traditionally in Southeast Asia, kratom leaves are chewed or brewed into tea to combat fatigue, improve work productivity, and are sometimes used in religious ceremonies. Furthermore, this little plant has been used for hundreds of years to treat symptoms such as pain and diarrhea, and is occasionally used to replace opium.

The main active ingredients of kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. According to research, these compounds interact with opioid receptors in our brain. Users report varied sensations, such as increased energy, relaxation, pain relief and even mental confusion.

Historically, the leaves were chewed or used to make tea. However, today it is also often processed into powder form and encapsulated, or even crushed and smoked, like tobacco or marijuana. Kratom dosage can influence the effects, with low doses acting as stimulants and high doses inducing drowsiness or a dreamlike state (that feeling like you're dreaming, you know?).

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF KRATOM?

Kratom can produce effects that vary depending on the dose ingested. In small doses, usually a few grams, the effects tend to be stimulating, with manifestations such as:

alert state;

sociability;

euphoria;

slight reduction in motor coordination.

These stimulant effects usually occur quickly, within about 10 minutes of ingestion, and can last up to approximately 1.5 hours.

On the other hand, in larger doses, between 5 and 15 grams of dried leaves, it can have sedative effects. This can result in more intense feelings of tranquility and euphoria, potentially lasting longer, up to six hours.

WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF KRATOM?

Currently, little is still known about the plant's properties — mainly in terms of research and scientific evidence. Much of what we know is more related to personal accounts and experiences with her. However, some studies indicate that the leaves can help with:

Pain relief: Kratom contains mitragynine, which binds to opioid receptors in the brain, providing pain relief. Thus, research explains that it can increase pain tolerance; improved mood: some users report antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects after consumption, possibly due to the interaction of mitragynine with opioid receptors; sedative effects: studies show that, in higher doses, kratom can have sedative effects, leading to feelings of tranquility and euphoria; managing opioid and opiate withdrawal symptoms: some people use the plant in an attempt to manage a problematic relationship with opioids and alleviate withdrawal symptoms; Potential Additional Benefits: According to studies, kratom is also associated with anti-inflammatory effects, increased immunity, and appetite suppression. It's important to note that although some report benefits, research into kratom is still in the early stages. Therefore, the safety and effectiveness of these uses need to be better understood. Furthermore, it is associated with side effects. Shall we explore them a little more?

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF USING KRATOM?

Kratom use has been linked to a considerable list of negative effects. Some of the most reported are:

weight loss;

dry mouth;

chills, nausea and vomiting;

changes in urine and constipation;

liver damage;

muscle aches;

dizziness;

somnolence;

hallucinations and delusions;

depression;

suppression of breathing;

convulsions, coma and death.

According to data collected by the Mayo Clinic, between 2011 and 2017, control centers in the United States received approximately 1,800 reports involving the use of kratom, including cases of death. Additionally, babies exposed to it through breastfeeding have developed withdrawal symptoms. In animals, the plant appears to be more potent than morphine, but has been associated with liver damage.

It is not known exactly what level of kratom is toxic in humans. As with some other pain medications and adult-use substances, it is possible to overdose.

It is crucial to emphasize that these negative effects are related to high doses of the substance. In traditional uses, such as teas and infusions, the plant does not appear to pose significant health risks.

So, did you enjoy finding out more about this exotic plant? We believe that information is the greatest way to reduce harm! This way, you can weigh risks and benefits and understand how each substance can contribute (whether positively or negatively) to your life.

To the next!