Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia. Cultivated mainly in Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia for medical and recreational uses. Fresh leaves from Kratom have chemicals proven to reduce pain and opiate cravings.

Natural Way to Reduce Pain & Opiate Cravings

Today in the West, Kratom is sold online, through herbal stores and tobacco/smoke shops. People are buying for a variety of reasons. Most common is to treat depression, pain and opioid withdrawal symptoms. The first use can be traced back to 1836 when Malays used it to substitute opium.

Many countries decide to regulate or even ban Kratom because of the simulant and opioid-like effects the plant chemicals have on opioid receptors.

Is Kratom Addictive?

The increased popularity of Kratom across Europe and North America have caused a lot of mixed feelings.

The Stimulant and opioid-like effects can lead to dependence and addiction. But it’s worth mentioning that the majority of case studies claim Kratom cravings and withdrawal less severe compared to harmful opioid meds.

Usually, people who are addicted to Kratom had a prior addiction to a substance or want pain relief without relying on opioid use. This may spark up questions like:

Is Kratom an Opiate?

The simple answer is no. Kratom is a partial agonist of the opioid receptors. Cheese has opioid molecules but that doesn’t make cheese and opiate.

Kratom works on the same brain receptors but with partial potency. It’s not clear yet if kratom works exactly like morphine on the brain.

Reported Effects of Kratom

A study designed to answer three questions in the US:

1. Who is taking Kratom and why?
2. What is Kratom like?
3. What effects are reported if dose and frequency are considered?
4. Can Kratom be abused?

The response was interesting. People reported increased focus and energy. Improved mood and less anxiety. Significant pain relief, reduction or quitting opioid painkillers. Some people even noticed less PTSD symptoms.

The most common side effects people report was dose-dependent, nausea, constipation and dizziness. 5 gram or less Kratom show lower odds for negative effects compared to 8 gram or more.

Less than half of the participants report withdrawal effects within 12-48 hrs when they stop taking Kratom. on a scale 1 to 5, they rated the symptoms at 2 or 3.

Kratom 101 – Ultimate Guide

Now you have basic knowledge about what is kratom and why it is a big deal. This section will go more in-depth.

You’ll learn:

• What strain of Kratom is best for:
  • Pain
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Stimulant
  • And more
• Which color is best for certain needs.
  • Red vein
  • White vein
  • Green Vein
  • Yellow vein
• How much Kratom to take to reach the sweet spot.
• Side effects & safety
• And much more.

What Is Kratom, Really?

Kratom comes in different types. Some are better for pain while others are stimulants by nature.

The active ingredients in kratom are called 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-HMG) and mitragynine. These two alkaloids are responsible for the remarkable pain relief the users feel.

Kratom also consists of phytochemicals such as triterpenoids, flavonoids, and secoiridoids compounds. The plant chemical within kratom provides many health benefits for individuals seeking a natural approach.

Kratom Effects

• Pain Management: Countless people now use kratom instead of pharmaceuticals. Two alkaloids in kratom are similar to the human body’s endorphins and enkephalins. Kratom wipes out your body’s perception of pain. It can deal with thoughtest pains. Migraines, arthritis, back, neck, chest, and abdominal pain to name a few.
• Opioid Addiction: Kratom mimics opioids and “tricks” the brain it’s on opioids. Heroin addicts use kratom to heal themselves during the withdrawal stage. It works with other addictive drugs that affect opioid receptors in the brain.
• Diarrhea: Kratom interacts with the parasympathetic nervous and regulates peristalsis. This combats diarrhea.
• Antioxidant: Kratom has antioxidant properties similar to the body’s own system and combats cancer.
• Inflammation: The primary plant chemical, mitragynine, has shown to lower inflammation.
• Depression and Anxiety: Kratom releases serotonin and endorphins and soothes nerves and enhances overall mood. It can also combat insomnia due to the sedating effects.

Kratom has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia by farmers who chew the leaves to get more energy to work in the field.

In Africa, historically, the stem bark has been used as a traditional medicine for wounds, fever, gonorrhea, hypertension, malaria, and leprosy.

Kratom Dosage Guide

What is kratom like? The effects are heavily regulated by the dose and how you take it.

A small dose can boost energy, mental acuity, social skills, and strengthen your immune system.

Higher doses are sedative and recommended for chronic pain and opiate withdrawals. You’ll also feel calm and more in tune with your emotions. Some describe this stage as a dreamy vibe. If you end up here, listen to your favorite music. Be in a dark room with eyes closed and enjoy the peaceful state of mind.

However, the sweet spot is to take a moderate dose. This is where the most wanted effects are. Experienced users are now trying different kratom potentiators to enhance the effects and make it last longer.

Different Types of Kratom

Kratom can be consumed raw, which is the standard approach in Thailand. In other countries, it’s more common to make kratom tea or mix the powder extract with water.

Since kratom tastes bitter, people mix it with orange juice to hide the taste. This method also activates the alkaloids and empowers the effects. Capsuled kratom does exist as well but it’s more expensive.

Reisin Extract

Boil kratom for quite some time, and eventually, it turns into a dark substance that looks like a rock. Kratom resin extract is potent based on how much grams used in the process. You only need to eat a small slice. These are hard to find. Not recommended for beginners.

Tinctures

Tinctures are dissolved leaves in ethanol. Very concentrated and potent. You only need max two drops under the tongue. Kratom Tincture isn’t for beginners as they can mess up your tolerance for weeks. Powder is much better anyway.

Kratom in Food

You can use kratom and spice up your sauces, yogurt, pies, brownies, and so much more. The possibilities are endless. The key is to maintain a balanced ratio so your food still tastes as it should. However, note that the effects will come slower because the alkaloids are “competing” with the food to get digested.

Kratom Strain Guide

This kratom strain guide will erase any confusions you have about the plant.

Kratom comes in different colors and this produces different effects. Everyone has unique biochemistry and will have a different kratom experience.

The alkaloid content depends on the origin of kratom, age, and the time of the year its harvested.

Kratom needs a lot of care and nutrients to be effective. Because of the different regions processing methods, kratom has spread itself into different strains and colors. All which produce their unique kratom experiences.

Here’s an infographic about the different colors and their unique touch.

Malay

Malay kratom is commonly known as Green Malay, which is the best beginner strain. You can use it anytime during the day to enhance mental powers and experience what kratom has to offer

Malay can produce intense euphoria and provide you with a gentle energy kick.  Forget about gentle if you decide to take Super Green Malay.  This exact strain is one of the best of the greens. It offers high-energy, happiness, and pain relief.

Other reported Effects:

• Relaxes the mind, muscles and loosens up tensions
• Improved sleep patterns
• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Lowers blood pressure

Thai

This famous strain is known for producing intense energy and stimulative effects. Not for everyone. But still the most dominant strain. Red Thai is one of the best strain for pain and opioid addiction. Thai kratom, in general, is a dominant energizer. Good for productivity and to replace your morning coffee.

White and green are more stimulating and useful for depression and anxiety. But you won’t get the same pain relief as red.

Bali

A budget strain due to quick growth and the size of the leaves. Bali is good for your mood. However, don’t rely on stimulative effects. It’s also a great strain if you decide to quit kratom if you developed dependency.

Red vein bali is a potent strain that can restore natural sleep patterns. It can silence mind chatter, which makes falling and staying asleep fast and easy. You might find it laborious to get up from the bed in the morning.

Borneo

Similar to Bali. Red Borneo is one of the most sedative strains. Good for addictions, pains, and to induce euphoria.

Green borneos are good stress and anxiety relievers. Often admired for lacking side effects. The less charming, white vein borneo, has a unique offer. Pain relief, clean energy, and relaxation without making you lazy.

Indo

Indo is like borneo. Most people can’t tell the difference between the two, only a fanatic kratom user can. Indo has fewer side effects and recommended for beginners who seek pain relief and improved mood.

Maeng Da

Meng Da is stimulating and popular among people who seek pain relief if the strain is red and energy if it’s white. Probably the best option for you who want a natural painkiller that’s not as sedating as thai.

If you’re merely looking for stimulation in kratom, white maeng da is your best friend. Preferably the ultra enhanced version that’s infused with pure alkaloids.

Best Kratom Strains For Specific Needs

Kratom comes in many forms and smells. From liquid to capsules. Some strains do a better job to kill pain and others are more sedative. Here’re the good ones that perform well for different needs.

Best Kratom for Pain Relief

Yes, all kratoms can relieve pain to some degree. Then there’s those that hit the spot:

• Maeng Da (Red)
• Borneo
• Bali
• Indo

Pick the color red and take moderate to high dose depending on how much in pain you are.

Best Kratom for Anxiety

Anxiety doesn’t like kratom at all, especially not these strains:

• Bali
• Borneo
• Green Malay

Pick the color green and take a moderate dose. Severe anxiety? No problem. Take the red strain.

Best Kratom for Depression

Kratom does a great job to uplift your mood. The day after you are still in a good mood. The strains you should pick are:

• Maeng Da
• Malay

Pick white and green colors because you need to see what your unique body chemistry responds well too. Green are usually the best mood boosters.

Best Kratom for Your Immune System

The immune system. It keeps away toxins. Fungus. Parasites. Bacteria. Germs. Pollutions. Carcinogens. And virus. All on autopilot so you can enjoy the human experience.

People who use kratom report reduced sickness duration. And how often a sickness occurs.

The immune-enhancing alkaloids of kratom are rich in these strains:

• Green Malay
• Borneo
• Maeng Da

Pick green strains and take a moderate dose when you feel you’re getting sick.

Best Kratom for Cognitive Enhancement

Cognitive enhancement from herbs is not a secret. Kratom improves memory, attention, and mental acuity.

The brain cognitive-enhancing effects are found in:

• Green Malay
• White Maeng Da

You should get a moderate dose of White Maeng Da if you want the nootropic benefits.

Nootropics is another huge blooming trend. The word nootropic is substances that enhance cognitive function.

Best Kratom for Sleep

A lot of red strains can induce sleep. You should try Red Bali first if you want to sleep like a sheep. This strain promotes restful sleep and positive dreams.

Safety & Side Effects

Just because kratom is natural doesn’t make it safe. Generally, it’s safe to use if the user has the right mindset. In this chapter, I talk about the side effects and give you some safety tips.

Safety Tips

• Never drive while you’re on kratom.
• The stimulating effects make you more prone to road rage. The euphoric and sedative effects can steal your attention from the road and cause all kinds of harm
• Never take kratom if you’re pregnant.
• No research on how kratom affects the fetus is available. It’s best for pregnant women to leave it alone for now.
• Never mix kratom with prescription drugs.
• Mixing drugs sounds like a no-brainer. But it’s worth to know that there’re three death cases when kratom was combined with Tramadol.
• Avoid kratom if you have low blood pressure, renal and cardiac problems, ulcers, and schizophrenia.
• Under no circumstances should you combine kratom with high doses of caffeine, alcohol, cocaine, or amphetamine-like drugs.
• Avoid Benzodiazepines at any cost. It can be deadly because it makes breathing difficult.

Side Effects

Kratom can be addictive as coffee. The plant makes you feel good. The more you take, the more you need to feel good again. Addictions are common for people who use kratom every day for recreational purposes.

Side effects depend on the strains and how you consume kratom. Kratom extracts are stronger compared to raw, plain leaf. And they can induce unpleasant side effects.

High doses can cause constipation because of diarrhea controlling qualities of kratom. Not common. It can be avoided if you increase your fiber and water intake. Vomiting is also a side effect with high doses.

Some people report they experience an upset stomach because they are sensitive to the leaves. If you have a sensitive stomach, you can use a more concentrated form of kratoms like tinctures or mild powders.

You can also experience the “kratom hangover” if you take a large dose and then suddenly stop. Be thoughtful with your dose, and you should be okay.

Too much kratom can also throw your sleep cycles off guard, which is Common for people who use a stimulative strain late at night.

Overusing kratom builds up a tolerance, and the positive effects are no longer felt. How much tolerance depends on the potency of the strain and individual biochemistry.

Avoid tolerance by not taking anything from time to time. Let your receptors return to their normal state. Try to change strain, so you don’t get the “single strain syndrome.” People who switch to another strain from the previous one report it’s almost like the first time they tried kratom.

Where Can I Buy Kratom?

You can now find and buy kratom extracts online. First, make sure your source is a reputable kratom vendor and offers you samples.

Some people live in places where you can get it locally, but it’s like playing lotto: you don’t know for sure if it’s high quality.

Some people encounter fishy kratom infused with other herbs. The worst kind of place to end up.

Here’s what to look for in a vendor:

• Check out the specific vendor reviews
• Do they have a contact page?
• How is the kratom harvested? Mature trees only?
• Avoid vendors that name their kratoms with weird names such as killer-kratom or Super-kratom etc.
• Refund policy
• Sample packs

Conclusion

So, what is kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna Speciosa) is a tall tree related to the coffee family. The leaves are packed with alkaloids, which produce many health benefits. Pain relief, relaxation, better mood, and increased mental awareness are the most sought after.

Everyone will have unique kratom experiences based on strain and color. Kratom has cured people of opioid addiction. This is because the chemicals work on the brains opioid receptors as a partial agonist. The plant is psychoactive and can cause side effects if you aren’t careful.

If you have more question don’t hesitate to post in on the kratom forum.

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