The plant kratom is an effective herbal remedy that has been used by people around the world to enhance their wellness. The herb has been a popular choice for many reasons including its ability to increase energy, improve mood, and relieve pain. It is also used to reduce the side effects of opioid withdrawal. However, there are a few things that consumers should know about this natural drug before using it.
There are several different ways to consume kratom. Some people brew the crushed leaves into tea, while others use kratom powder to mix it into beverages like coffee or smoothies. Other methods include making tinctures or using capsules or edible products such as gummies. One of the most recent developments in kratom administration is extraction on a commercial scale. This process produces a crystalline substance that contains concentrated plant alkaloids. While the popularity of kratom extracts is increasing, there is still much to learn about these new forms of kratom.
Kratom is a tropical plant with multiple medicinal properties. Its scientific name is Mitragyna speciosa and it belongs to the coffee plant family (Rubiaceae). It has been used since the early 1700s in Southeast Asia as a stimulant and to treat diarrhea and pain. The drug acts on the body’s opioid receptors to produce a euphoric effect. It can also act as an opioid substitute and relieves pain in the lower back and legs.
Several studies have shown that the kratom leaf has opioid-like effects. Its psychoactive properties are similar to those of opium and it has been used as an analgesic by indigenous populations in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. The kratom plant is also believed to contain antioxidants and other beneficial phytochemicals. The herb has sedative and analgesic properties in low doses and euphoric and stimulating effects in high doses.
Some of the most common side effects of kratom are nausea, vomiting and stomach upset. Users also report drowsiness, anxiety and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. In extreme cases, hepatotoxicity with elevated levels of bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase has been reported in kratom abusers who take long-term high doses. Other reported symptoms include decreased appetite, sweating and agitation.
The most important thing to remember when purchasing kratom extract is that the concentration of alkaloids can vary dramatically depending on when and where the plant was grown, how it was harvested and how old the leaves were. This is why it is so important to choose a trusted supplier and purchase a product that has been lab-tested for purity and potency.
It’s also essential to store kratom extract properly. Whether you’re purchasing a tincture or a more concentrated liquid shot, it should be stored in a cool, dark place and tightly sealed. It’s also a good idea to buy a kratom product that comes with a resealable container.