There is a lot of controversy around the use of Kratom for various ailments. You may have come across it yourself when looking for a natural or herbal remedy. Here is a guide to what it is and how it works.
Where Does Kratom Come From?
Kratom is found naturally in Southeast Asia in countries such as Malaysia and Thailand. It comes from a plant that is similar to a coffee plant and is classed as an opioid. There are many different types of kratom available, and they have different properties and strengths. For example, here is a very detailed OPMS overview that will tell you about this specific type of kratom.
How Long Has Kratom Been Around?
Kratom has been around for thousands of years and has been used by natives of Southeast Asia since its discovery. It has been slower to catch on in the rest of the world and it was not until the 20th century that it became more popular in the USA.
Is It Legal?
It is legal in most states in the USA. However, its use has been banned in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. It is legal in other states and can be bought over the internet or in health shops. However, in some towns, cities, and states, especially in Colorado, Mississippi, California, and Florida, it is treated as a controlled substance.
You should be careful if you want to travel abroad with kratom as there are some countries such as the UK and Australia where it is illegal, and you will get into trouble at border control if you are found to be carrying it.
How Do People Take It?
It is often found in capsule or powder form from health food suppliers, but the leaves can also be crushed and drunk as tea.
Why Do People Take It?
Kratom has several uses. If it is taken in small doses, it acts as a stimulant. This means that it can give you energy similar to drinking coffee. It can also make you feel more alert and sociable. This is because it contains Mitragynine, a chemical that affects receptors in your brain.
If taken in large doses, the opioid part of the plant is more effective. This means that the receptors in the brain are more likely to respond to pleasure and will help to decrease pain. Therefore, many people use it to relieve symptoms such as arthritis and long-term injury.
Kratom is a naturally occurring opioid and it can be used in much the same way as methadone is used in a drug dependency program. It is believed to be extremely useful in helping addicts to beat their addiction to other opioids such as heroin, but more research is needed to look into its effectiveness.
Hopefully, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about kratom, how it is used, and how effective it might be. As with any remedy, you should consult with your doctor before you start taking it.