Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Products derived from its leaves are marketed as herbal supplements, and these leaves contain a variety of chemical compounds, known as bioactive alkaloids, that can significantly influence the body. Among these compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are the most researched and understood.
So, What Does Kratom Do? It’s important to understand that kratom is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for any medical use due to ongoing research into its safety and efficacy. However, anecdotal evidence and traditional use suggest a range of effects. People who use kratom report experiencing both stimulant-like and opioid-like effects, depending on dosage and individual physiology.
Unpacking Kratom’s Diverse Effects on the Body
Kratom’s effects are complex and appear to be dose-dependent. At lower doses, users often report stimulant-like experiences, such as:
- Increased Energy: A boost in physical and mental energy levels, making users feel more active and less fatigued.
- Heightened Alertness: Improved focus and concentration, leading to a state of increased awareness.
- Rapid Heart Rate: A noticeable increase in heart rate, similar to the effects of caffeine or other stimulants.
Conversely, at higher doses, kratom tends to exhibit effects more akin to opioids and sedatives. These can include:
- Relaxation: A sense of calm and tranquility, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.
- Pain Relief: Analgesic properties that can alleviate various types of pain, from mild to moderate.
- Confusion: In some cases, particularly at higher doses, kratom can lead to mental confusion and disorientation.
It’s crucial to remember that the intensity and type of effects can vary widely from person to person, influenced by factors like dosage, individual metabolism, and tolerance.
Why Do People Use Kratom? Exploring Common Motivations
Despite the lack of FDA approval, many individuals turn to kratom for various reasons, often self-managing certain conditions. Common motivations for kratom use include:
- Alleviating Drug Withdrawal Symptoms: Kratom is frequently used to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings, particularly for opioids. This is a significant area of interest for researchers seeking alternatives to manage opioid dependence.
- Pain Management: Many individuals seek kratom for its pain-relieving properties as an alternative to conventional pain medications.
- Mental Health Support: Some people use kratom to manage symptoms of mental health issues like anxiety and depression, although scientific evidence for this use is still emerging.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is particularly interested in the potential impact of kratom on opioid use, especially given the ongoing opioid overdose crisis in the United States. Research is underway to fully understand this relationship.
Ongoing Research and Safety Considerations
While kratom has a history of traditional use in Southeast Asia, with reports dating back hundreds of years for its medicinal and energizing properties, rigorous scientific research is still needed. The expansion of kratom vendors and increasing reports of use in recent decades highlight the growing need for comprehensive studies on kratom’s long-term effects and safety profile.
It’s important to be aware that adverse effects, though considered rare, have been associated with kratom use in studies and case reports. Therefore, approaching kratom with caution and staying informed about the latest research is advisable.
In conclusion, what kratom does is multifaceted, encompassing both stimulant and opioid-like effects. It is used for various purposes, including energy enhancement, pain relief, and managing withdrawal symptoms. However, due to the ongoing research and lack of FDA approval, users should be aware of the potential risks and benefits and stay informed about the evolving understanding of this complex botanical substance.
