Kratom is a natural supplement that has been on the uprising for a few years now. Kratom is known to help fight addiction to opioids like heroin and other substances known to cause addiction. But where did it come from and why has it attracted so many people to try it?
Origins
Kratom is an herbal extract that comes from a tree (Mitragyna speciosa) that is mainly found in Southeast Asia such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Harvesters dry the leaves out and grind it into a powder that can be ingested. Kratom is traditionally used to combat fatigue and improve work productivity among farm populations in Southeast Asia. Kratom preparations have also been used for centuries during ceremonies and are used to treat medical conditions.
What Does Kratom do?
As mentioned above, Kratom is known to help fight addiction against opioids and stimulants. But how does it help? Kratom causes effects similar to both of those types of drugs. The two compounds in kratom leaves, mitragynine and 7-a-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing sedation, pleasure, and decreased pain, especially when users consume large amounts of the plant. When kratom is taken in small amounts, users report increased energy, sociability, and alertness instead of sedation.
Medicinal Use
Kratom is used as a treatment to control withdrawal symptoms and cravings caused by addiction to opioids or to other addictive substances. In one case, a 43-year-old male was addicted to hydromorphone. The individual used it to treat his chronic pain. He eventually began upping his dose because of the tolerance he was building to it. During moments when he ran out of hydromorphone, he would use kratom to manage his withdrawals. Eventually, the man began to wean himself off of hydromorphone with the help of kratom. It’s situations like these that make kratom a ‘natural’ alternative to the standard opioid treatment.
As shown, Kratom has many benefits. It can be used recreationally and medically. The uses provided are both beneficial in different ways. For example, if you’re having trouble sleeping, Kratom can help you fall asleep faster. On the other hand, if taken in a smaller dose, it can provide you with enough energy to get you through the day. The American Kratom Association is a great organization to check out! They provide useful resources and testimonials furthering the benefits of kratom! Click here to learn more about the AKA!
