What is Kratom?
Kratom (pronounced KRAT-um) is a tropical tree found in Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that can have mind-altering, or psychotropic, effects. Kratom is frequently marketed and sold as an herbal extract or dietary supplement to boost energy and mood and relieve pain. Lower doses can produce stimulant-like effects, while higher doses can produce sedative and pain-relieving effects.
How is Kratom used?
Kratom is typically ingested orally in the form of capsules, extracts, or tablets. The leaves can also be chewed, dried, crushed, or brewed and consumed as a tea.
What are the effects of Kratom?
At low doses, kratom often acts as a stimulant, leading to effects like increased energy, enhanced alertness, and faster heart rate. At higher doses, it tends to produce sedative, pain-relieving effects similar to opioids, which is why some users report relaxation and pain reduction, along with slowed breathing and drowsiness.
Some people use kratom to relieve symptoms of opioid withdrawal, yet kratom is short-acting and can require higher doses taken more frequently. Consistent use may lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms like muscle aches, irritability, and sleep disturbances.
Side effects of kratom include:
- Euphoria
- Sedation
- Pain relief
- Increased energy, focus, alertness
- Anxiety
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Irritability
- Seizures
- Itching
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Rapid heartbeat