Kratom

What is Kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia whose leaves contain psychoactive alkaloids, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Depending on dosage, kratom can act as either a stimulant or an opioid-like depressant. At low doses, it produces increased energy and alertness; at higher doses, it can create sedation and euphoria similar to opioids.

Kratom is sold in many forms, including powders, capsules, extracts, and pressed tablets. The powder is typically green or brown and may be brewed as tea, swallowed in capsule form, or mixed with other beverages. While kratom has been used traditionally for pain relief and fatigue, in Western markets it is often used recreationally, for self-treatment of opioid withdrawal, or for mood enhancement. Because kratom products are unregulated, potency varies widely and may be contaminated with other substances.

Effects:

• Increased energy and alertness at low doses

• Euphoria and mood elevation

• Pain relief

• Sedation at moderate or high doses

• Nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort

• Sweating and flushed skin

• Itching or mild histamine-like reactions

• Constipation

• Risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal

• Potential respiratory depression when mixed with other sedatives