For centuries, kratom leaves have been used as a natural remedy to treat ailments including pain, fatigue and muscle cramps. In recent years, scientific research has lent some credence to claims about its medicinal value. You can purchase the plant today at certain health food stores and online in various forms.
The most popular way to consume kratom is by drinking it as a tea. This involves drying the leaves before crushing them into a powder, which can then be prepared in the same manner as your usual morning cup.
What is Kratom?
Also known as mitragyna speciosa, kratom is a tree that predominantly grows in Southeast Asia and is part of the coffee family. In addition to its tea form, the plant can also be placed into capsules and swallowed or smoked like tobacco.
Kratom comprises several compounds, the most active among them being mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These chemicals bind to the opioid receptors, albeit without the harmful side effects of other substances that perform similar functions. So, why do people use kratom tea in the first place? Let’s take a look at the most common reasons.
Pain Relief
There are three different kratom strains, namely green vein, red vein and white vein. Each is considered an effective remedy for chronic pain. In fact, the latter of the two compounds mentioned above is on its own 13 times more potent than morphine.
While this means that kratom can compete with the likes of codeine and other popular pain medications, it does so by selectively deactivating specific signals. As a result, it’s more tolerable than opioids, and less likely to bring withdrawal symptoms when usage ceases.
Mood Enhancement
It should come as no surprise that kratom is also a great mood booster. Studies have found that the plant is particularly useful for those who have recently stopped taking an addictive substance, easing the recovery process and staving off depression. Being an appetite suppressant, kratom might also help with weight loss.
Energy Booster
When in need of an energy boost, most of us opt for an energy drink or cup of coffee. These solutions have their caveats. Energy drinks are typically loaded with chemicals and sugar, while coffee on its own can still give you the jitters. Kratom is a great alternative, as it’s completely natural and only contains as much sugar as you put into it.
Most regular consumers of kratom also report that the plant doesn’t create the anxiety, insomnia and stomach issues typical to caffeine. Aside from drinking kratom tea itself, you can also add a liquid kratom extract to your favorite flavor of regular tea for the same effect.
Increased Libido
Another area where research has been performed on kratom is around its potential aphrodisiac properties. Scientists concluded that the plant can indeed be used as a sexual enhancement supplement.
These are only the well-publicized health benefits of kratom. Chances are that there is more to discover here, so perhaps it’s time to see what kratom can do for you.