Kratom, an herb derived from a tree native to Asia, is gaining popularity across the US due to its therapeutic benefits. Many consumers report relief in several ways, but what do kratom users turn to the herb for medically?
Below, we’re taking a closer look at kratom powder, its uses, and even the potential side effects that can come from relying on the herbal extract.
We’re also talking a bit about kratom and marijuana in case you’re interested in mixing the psychoactive drugs. Let’s get started.
What is Kratom and What Does it Do?
Kratom is an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, called Mitragyna speciosa – a plant from the coffee family. Kratom leaves can be made into a powder, brewed, smoked, vaporized, or chewed raw.
Kratom’s two primary bioactive alkaloids are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Mitragynine is responsible for kratom’s analgesia, while 7-hydroxymitragynine is responsible for the plant’s psychoactive properties, which include opioid and non-opioid activities.
Unfortunately, the United States does not regulate kratom, so the overall safety of kratom products on the market is unclear.
Because kratom is unregulated, the adulteration of kratom products is a potential concern.
What is Kratom Used For Medically?
For centuries, people have used kratom as a mild stimulant and medicine for various ailments.
Historically, field laborers of kratom’s native lands have consumed kratom at low doses to enhance stamina and productivity. Consumers also used kratom to treat hypertension, diarrhea, cough, and fever. At higher doses, kratom can have relaxing, anxiolytic (anxiety-relieving) effects.
Researchers claim that kratom has analgesic properties and is used to treat pain. In addition, researchers also believe that kratom can alleviate opioid withdrawal and treat mood disorders.
Kratom consumers report using the herb for pain relief, mood regulation, and to treat substance abuse disorders. Although, according to the FDA, there are no proven medicinal uses for it.
Kratom and Opioid Withdrawal
Kratom has gained attention in recent years for its potential to help manage opioid withdrawal symptoms, particularly due to its interaction with the body’s mu-opioid receptors.
Some individuals report that kratom use helps ease the discomfort associated with opioid withdrawal, making it a popular choice for those looking to transition off stronger opioid drugs.
However, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have raised concerns about the safety and efficacy of kratom for this purpose.
While some anecdotal evidence supports its use, there is limited scientific research verifying its therapeutic potential for opioid withdrawal or opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Additionally, kratom exposure at higher doses can pose risks, including the potential for developing kratom addiction or kratom withdrawal symptoms, leading to further complications.
As a result, while kratom may offer some benefits for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder, it is essential to approach its use with caution and under medical supervision, especially given the lack of regulation and the presence of health risks such as respiratory depression and interactions with other prescription drugs.
Wait, Is Kratom Legal?
Yes, kratom is legal in most US states. Unless a state, city, or county has specifically banned kratom, it is legal.
The states, cities, and counties that have banned kratom include:
Alabama: Kratom is a Schedule 1 controlled substance in Alabama.
Arkansas: Kratom is a controlled substance in Arkansas, so it is illegal to purchase and possess kratom.
Indiana: Indiana classifies kratom as a synthetic drug, so it is banned.
Jerseyville, Illinois: Kratom use is legal in Illinois, except in Jerseyville.
San Diego, California: Kratom is legal in California, except in San Diego.
Sarasota County, Florida: Kratom use is legal in Florida, except in Sarasota County.
Tennessee: Tennessee defines kratom as a controlled substance and it is banned.
Wisconsin: Wisconsin banned the primary kratom compounds by classifying them as Schedule I drugs.
In states where kratom use is legal, consumers can find kratom products at gas stations, smoke shops, and vape stores.
For more on kratom legality, you can check out what the Drug Enforcement Administration has to say.
Kratom and Marijuana
Interestingly enough, a lot of people ask, is kratom CBD?
No, CBD is a compound in cannabis. Kratom comes from the leaves of a tropical tree. While they come from different plants, kratom and CBD might produce some of the same effects, including pain and stress relief.
So what’s the deal with kratom and marijuana? Since they are both natural herbs, what could be the harm in combining them? It all comes down to the enzyme CYP3A4 – one of the enzymes that process kratom.
Can You Take Kratom and CBD Together?
So how do CBD and kratom interact? The CYP3A4 enzyme metabolizes kratom and CBD. When the same enzyme metabolizes two substances, the competing metabolizations could become toxic over time.
For this reason, and because of the lack of research surrounding the combination of kratom and weed, you shouldn’t mix CBD and kratom. So what about kratom and THC?
Can You Take Kratom and THC Together?
Secondarily, THC partially uses the CYP3A4 enzyme to metabolize. That means that kratom and THC could also create metabolic competition and result in toxicity.
In conclusion, it’s best to avoid the combination of kratom and marijuana.
Keep in mind, cannabis and kratom interact with separate systems in the body, so you are not in immediate danger if you have been combining the two substances. The potential issues lie in the long term.
The Side Effects of Taking Kratom
Just like all substances, taking kratom can come with uncomfortable side effects.
Kratom users have reported experiencing a range of adverse effects, particularly when kratom products are taken in high doses.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, and drowsiness. In more severe cases, kratom exposures have been linked to respiratory depression, high blood pressure, and liver toxicity.
Frequent kratom use can also lead to withdrawal, with withdrawal symptoms similar to those experienced during opioid withdrawal, such as irritability, muscle aches, and mood disturbances.
These effects are of increasing concern to the Food and Drug Administration and the Drug Enforcement Administration, which have both warned against its use, particularly as a dietary supplement.
Additionally, scientific research suggests that long-term consumption may lead to kratom addiction and even substance use disorders.
If you start to experience any negative mental health effects, it’s important to contact your local mental health services administration for support.
So, is Kratom For You?
Figuring out whether kratom use is the right option for you depends on various factors, including your health status, existing medical conditions, and the potential risks involved.
While some kratom users have found relief from conditions like chronic pain and opioid withdrawal symptoms, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with kratom use.
The Food and Drug Administration and Drug Enforcement Administration have expressed concerns about its safety, noting that kratom products can lead to adverse effects such as respiratory depression, high blood pressure, and even addiction if not used carefully.
If you’re considering taking the herbal extract for its potential health benefits, it’s crucial to consult with a professional first.
This is especially important if you are already using prescription medications or other herbal medicines, as kratom can interact with other drugs and worsen health conditions.
Additionally, the unregulated nature of many kratom products on the market raises safety concerns, particularly around contamination with heavy metals or harmful bacteria.
Trying Medical Cannabis Instead
For those seeking alternative natural remedies, medical cannabis offers another option, with growing evidence supporting its use for chronic pain management, opioid addiction, and even mental health conditions.
Unlike kratom, cannabis has been more extensively studied and regulated in many regions, providing a safer and more controlled option.
At Elevate Holistics, we specialize in helping individuals explore medical cannabis as a holistic solution, offering guidance to ensure you make informed and safe decisions regarding your health.
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