Many plant species have medicinal properties. In fact, herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years.
For example, echinacea, ginkgo, chamomile, and ginseng can all be used for medicinal purposes. Kratom, a tree that’s native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, is another example.
If anything, its popularity has risen over the past several years.
Interested in giving it a try? Want to learn more about the benefits of kratom?
If so, you’ve stumbled on the right page. We’ll be going over everything that you need to know about the herbal supplement below—keep reading to learn more!
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree that’s part of the coffee family. Native to Southeast Asia, it can be found in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Papua New Guinea, and Myanmar.
Not only does it have stimulant-like effects, but it also produces opioid-like effects. Considering that, it’s not surprising to know that it’s been used for hundreds of years.
How Do You Take Kratom?
The herbal supplement comes in various forms. For example, you can take it as a tablet or capsule. There are also powders, extracts, tinctures—even teas (made by brewing the leaves).
At the end of the day, you want to pick the form that you’re most comfortable with. If anything, the most important thing is to take the correct dose. After all, the effect depends on the amount that you take.
Potential Side Effects
Kratom is generally considered to be safe when used appropriately. With that said, side effects are always a possibility.
For example, an individual may experience dry mouth, nausea, itching, loss of appetite, or sweating.
Not only that, but it can also be addictive. That’s right, kratom addiction is a thing. Given that, it’s crucial that you take it properly as directed.
7 Benefits of Kratom That You Should Know About
Kratom can benefit your health in more than one way. Here’s what you need to know about the herbal supplement.
1. It Can Provide Pain Relief
Kratom contains two types of alkaloid compounds, both of which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. More specifically, they interact with opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain perception.
That’s why it’s often used as an alternative treatment for chronic conditions such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
2. It Can Boost Your Energy
Kratom is a stimulant at lower doses. At the same time, it doesn’t give that jittery feeling that most stimulants are known for.
Even if you don’t have any fatigue-related disorders, you can take advantage of its energy-boosting effects. For example, it can come in handy after a strenuous workout.
3. It Can Help Manage Diabetes
It’s believed that kratom can also be used to help manage diabetes. That is, it can have a positive effect on your blood sugar levels.
More specifically, the alkaloid compounds can help modulate levels of blood glucose and insulin. In doing so, you’ll be able to avoid dangerous peaks and drops that are often associated with the disease.
4. It Can Improve Your Focus
Kratom leaves can help you stay focused. It does this by inducing the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in enhancing focus.
Not only that but kratom also induces the release of dopamine and serotonin, both of which have similar effects.
5. It Can Help With Opiate Withdrawal
Kratom is similar to opioids in that it binds to the same receptors in the brain. Given that, it’s not surprising to know that it can also help those with opioid withdrawal.
More specifically, it can help reduce symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, muscle aches, and insomnia. Keep in mind, however, that it is possible to overdose on kratom.
Considering that, it’s super important that you use it correctly.
6. It Can Boost Your Mood
Kratom can help boost your mood. In fact, studies have shown that it may be effective at relieving anxiety.
How does it work? It binds to the opioid receptors in your brain, which are responsible for mood regulation. As a result, you’ll feel more positive and upbeat.
7. It Can Improve Your Sleep
Kratom acts as a sedative at moderate doses. In other words, it can help improve the quality of your sleep.
If anything, the most important thing is to choose the right strain. Generally speaking, Indo, Borneo, and Bali strains are the most effective for insomnia. Avoid Thai strains as they tend to be more stimulating.
Tips For Taking Kratom
Assuming that it’s your first time taking kratom, you’ll want to start off with the lowest possible dose. From there, you can increase it gradually over a few weeks until you get the desired effect.
Keep in mind, however, that you don’t want to take it for too long. Why? It can increase your risk of addiction. Dependence is also a possibility as your body gets used to it.
Note: Do not take kratom if you’re currently taking medications. There’s always a chance that it can cause an interaction, which can compromise your health.
Understanding Kratom
The bottom line is, there are many benefits of kratom. Not only can it help with pain, but it can even help those with diabetes!
Still, it’s important to remember that it can cause side effects—addiction being one of them. Considering that, it’s crucial that you do your research beforehand.
Are you looking for more health-related articles? If so, be sure to check out the rest of our blog!
