Kratom is a plant that originates from Southeast Asia which contains opioid-like and psychotropic
Kratom is a plant that stems from Southeast Asia, which contains opioid-like and psychotropic pain-soothing effects. Many people who live in an area where it grows occasionally use it for the relief of cough, pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. Americans have shown growing interest in utilizing this substance as a substitute for opioid pain stimulants. Other users seek to encounter the psychotropic results of getting high.
Kratom also goes by the following names:
- Kakuam
- Thang
- Thom
- Biak
- Ketum
Is This A Safe Substance?
While some individuals use kratom as an alternate for prescription drugs, very little research is done on the effects it has on the body. It has not yet been approved by the FDA for medicinal use and is not monitoring or regulating kratom supplements for their purity or dosage. Kratom may lead to adverse reactions such as tremors, psychosis, and seizures if used in high dosages. People who have pre-occurring medical conditions are more susceptible to these reactions.
The Effects Of Kratom
Dependant on the dose, kratom has a various impact on the body, whether it is brewed as a tea, swallowing, or smoking the crushed leaves. The best kratom can also be bought online in powder form.
Stimulant Properties
Kratom is used as a stimulant when used in a small dose of 1-5 grams. It can make you feel more alert, social, awake, and talkative.
Sedative Properties
When taken in higher doses of 5-15 grams, it can lead to sedative effects. It has the same impact than opioids, which are consumed by users that can make them feel calm, tired, and euphoric. Users often take higher doses for severe diarrhea, coughing, or symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Doses of more than 15 grams can sedate a person to the point of losing consciousness.
Side Effects Of Kratom
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Itching
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
Taking kratom while being on other medications or drugs can worsen the side-effects or cause different effects.
Dangers And Complications
Kratom can be the cause for severe complications like:
Overdosing
Just like opioid drugs, you can overdose on kratom, particularly when you are taking high doses. Kratom overdoses can lead to extreme sedation and blackouts. This is more likely for people who are already taking sedating drugs.
Addiction
Kratom is an addictive substance, and for a user who consumes the drug frequently may experience some of the following withdrawal symptoms:
- Aggressive behavior
- Insomnia
- Hostility and irritability
- Muscle aches
- Yawning
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Users who are using kratom long-term or who has an addition to it may need medical assistance to stop using safely.
Liver damage
In scarce cases, kratom can cause acute liver problems. Symptoms may include itchiness, fatigue, dark-colored urine, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin) and nausea. In the majority of cases, uses fully recover from liver damage after they’ve stopped using kratom.
Death
Numerous deaths have been linked to the use of kratom. The risk of contracting life-threatening complications seems to be higher in individuals who are taking other drugs like mood stabilizers and antidepressants. Always liaise with your physician before taking any supplements when you are currently on medication.