More than 50,000 species of plants can be used medicinally. Take echinacea, for instance, it can help fight off infections such as the flu and the common cold.
Kratom is another example. A tropical plant, its leaves can be used to treat different health conditions from anxiety to opiate withdrawal.
What is kratom extract? Where does kratom come from? Are there any potential side effects?
We’ll be going over all of the answers in detail below. Keep reading to learn more about the topic!
What Is in Kratom?
Kratom is a herbal extract that’s made from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, an evergreen tree that’s native to Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
It contains a chemical called mitragynine, an alkaloid that’s known for its opioid-like properties. And it has both analgesic and antidepressant effects.
At low doses (less than 10 grams), it acts as a stimulant, increasing alertness and energy, while at higher doses (over 10 grams), it acts as a sedative. For example, it can help those with chronic fatigue or anxiety.
And there are many ways that you can take it. For instance, you can brew a tea with kratom powder (e.g. Ultra Enhanced Kratom Products). You can also get it as capsules or tablets.
Is It Legal?
Kratom is federally legal in America. Several states, however, have banned the use of the plant. For example, it’s illegal in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Wisconsin, Vermont, and Rhode Island.
It’s also not legal in Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, and several European Union countries.
For those who live in a state where it’s legal, you can typically find it in supplement stores (it’s usually marketed as alternative medicine). It’s also available online.
Keep in mind, however, that kratom isn’t regulated. In other words, there’s no way to check the quality or safety of kratom products.
Potential Side Effects
Kratom can cause various side effects including constipation, dry mouth, weight loss, frequent urination, nausea, and vomiting. Not only that, but it can also affect the nervous system; this can lead to various symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, paranoia, and hallucinations.
And because it acts on the brain like opioids, it also has addiction potential (physical dependence on kratom can occur over time). For example, individuals can develop cravings or tolerance to the substance.
This can eventually lead to withdrawal symptoms if there’s not enough kratom in their system. For instance, they may experience irritability, muscle aches, tremors, anxiety, agitation, or depression.
What Is Kratom Extract: Explained
Hopefully, that answers the question, “what is kratom extract”. If anything, it’s very similar to opioid drugs. The only difference is that it’s much easier to obtain. Given that, it’s best to talk to your doctor first before making any decisions.
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