Kratom
What Is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree from Southeast Asia whose leaves contain alkaloids with opioid-like and stimulant properties. Effects vary by dose and strain - lower doses are stimulating while higher doses produce sedation and pain relief. ⚠️ WARNING: Highly addictive with significant dependence potential.
Kratom Research & Studies
01 The pharmacology and toxicology of kratom: from traditional herb to drug of abuse ▸
Examines kratom's global rise as a recreational drug despite safety concerns including hospital visits and deaths linked to extracts. Discusses stimulant and sedative effects.
View Study (PubMed)02 Kratom use disorder: a primer for primary care physicians ▸
Reviews kratom prevalence in the US and its opioid-like effects. Provides guidance for physicians recognizing kratom use disorder.
View Study (PubMed)03 Kratom's Emergence and Persistence Within the US Polydrug Epidemic ▸
Analyzes self-reported kratom use as opioid substitute and substance use disorder management. Highlights gaps in controlled human studies.
View Study (PubMed)04 Kratom use and mental health: A systematic literature review and case example ▸
Systematic review finding kratom may worsen psychotic and manic symptoms in those with preexisting psychiatric conditions.
View Study (PubMed)05 The Potential for Kratom as an Antidepressant and Antipsychotic ▸
Investigates kratom compounds acting on opioid and antipsychotic receptors. Survey data suggest users experience depression and anxiety relief.
View Study (PubMed)06 Beneficial and adverse health effects of kratom (Mitragyna speciosa): A critical review ▸
Reviews kratom's stimulant, analgesic, and opioid-like properties alongside risks of tolerance and addiction.
View Study (ScienceDirect)Kratom User Reviews & Experiences
*Based on large scale analysis of publicly available user experiences
Users report significant benefits for pain, mood, and energy, but dependency potential exists. Highly individual responses; strain and dose significantly impact effects.
Kratom Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects
- Dose-Dependent: Low doses stimulating, high doses sedating.
- Pain Relief: Significant analgesic effects at moderate-high doses.
- Mood Enhancement: Many report improved mood and motivation.
- Energy: Stimulant-like effects at low doses.
- Opioid Alternative: Some use for opioid withdrawal support.
- Strain Variation: Red, green, and white veins have different profiles.
- Tolerance Development: Regular use leads to tolerance and dependence.
- Individual Response: Effects vary significantly between users.
- Low/Stimulating: 1-3 grams.
- Moderate/Balanced: 3-5 grams.
- High/Sedating: 5-8+ grams.
- Start Low: Begin with 1-2 grams to assess response.
- Dependence Risk: Physical dependence possible with regular use.
- Nausea: Common, especially at higher doses.
- Constipation: Similar to opioids.
- Withdrawal: Discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Legal Status: Varies by jurisdiction; banned in some areas.
- Legal in Most US States: But banned in some states and countries.
- Head Shops/Online: Available from specialty vendors.
- Quality Varies: Lab-tested products recommended.
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