Kratom is a new herbal supplement that many people are turning to for its effects as a sedative. Derived from the extract of a plant, that goes by the same name found in certain Southeast Asian countries, the most well-known being Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. In low doses, kratom is most commonly used as a stimulant, but in slightly higher doses, it can act as a more effective sedative than many prescription sleeping pills with minimal addictive properties and side-effects. If you have some questions on Kratom and its uses browse for Kratom FAQ and clear your doubts from some top Kratom websites.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom, scientific name Mitragyna Speciosa, is a plant found in the dense forests of Southeast Asia. It is part of the same family as the coffee plant. However, kratom has the additional benefits of treating digestive issues, relieving pain and inflammation, as well as acting as a relaxant, a stimulant, an anti-depressant and a sedative, depending on the strain. Strains are the different varieties of kratom available, and they vary based on the chemical content of the leaves of kratom plants grown under different conditions. Kratom contains a number of chemicals present within its leaves called alkaloids, the most prominent of which are Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids react with the human body to increase the production of certain hormones in the brain, including but not limited to, dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin and melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone most associated with sleep. Some strains of kratom are known for their potency as a sedative but almost all strains of kratom still act as a mild sedative, and can also help you relax.
How To Use Kratom
The plants are cultivated in farms spread across the forests of Thailand, Bali, Borneo and a number of other countries. Kratom was first used for their medicinal effects by the natives of these countries for centuries, by chewing on the leaves of the plants. Now, the plant has been adapted for western medicine by drying the leaves and then processing them into the form of kratom powder and kratom capsules. Some trusted vendors also offer liquid extracts which are much more potent. Kratom powder can be consumed in a number of ways. Because of its bitter taste, it is usually had with a liquid to wash it down. Another common method of having kratom powder is to use it to make smoothies, milkshakes, tea, coffee and certain food items. Kratom capsules are ideal for someone who has determined the perfect dose and strain for the effect they are looking for. They are available in prescribed doses for easy use, and while on the move. If the strain you prefer isn’t available in capsule form, the powder can be used to make capsules. The liquid extract of kratom is much stronger and usually comes in a bottle with a dropper. Some vendors have shot form available in certain prescribed doses.
Dosages and Half-Life of Kratom
Kratom is available in multiple strains based on their place of origin, and types, based on the colors developed by veins of the leaves during the drying process. Most the Borneo strain and most red kratoms are believed to be effective as sedatives, except for those of Thai kratom and Maeng Da, two strains that are more potent as a stimulant. Red Bali kratom is said to be the best for a calm sleep. However there is still much to be discovered about the chemical content of kratom, and effects may vary based on the user’s weight, genetic conditions, brain chemistry, predisposition to opiates, etc. The best way to know which strain works for you is to start out trying low doses of one strain and seeing its effect. After determining if it makes you sleepy, stimulated or euphoric, either try a low dose of a new strain or slightly increase your dosage. This is why kratom powder is the recommended form to use if you are new to kratom. The doses can be carefully measured, and it allows you to start with lower doses, between 1 and 3 grams of kratom powder, to enable you to first see how your body reacts to kratom before increasing doses or trying a new strain. Many vendors sell kratom powder in beginner packs and sample packs, which contain smaller amounts of multiple strains to try out.
Kratom capsules come in specified predetermined doses, so they should be used only after you’ve become comfortable with the use of kratom and are sure of your dose. If you’ve identified the strain that works for you and want to increase the dosage, a moderate dose of between 3 grams to 6 grams can be tried. Above six grams is considered a high dose and can be dangerous for frequent use. Talk to your doctor about what dosages would be best for you based on your age, body mass index, and general health condition. For most strains of kratom, the effects are usually felt within ten to thirty minutes of consumption.
Side Effects
It is imperative that you use kratom with caution. In low doses, it can be incredibly effective but in higher doses, it can be harmful. It can lead to headaches, dry mouth and nausea. While kratom does not have the addictive properties that opiates do (the substance the effects of kratom mimic), frequent use of kratom results in a habitual addiction, especially for prior substance abusers. Recent studies have also shown that mixing kratom with other substances can be very harmful. Taking kratom with certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can lead to seizures. Mixing kratom with alcohol or opiates and hard drugs can be extremely dangerous and even lead to death.