At Serene Farms, we feel obligated to share our thoughts on Kratom and warn everyone about the risks. It is serious stuff. Sadly, a friend of ours recently lost her husband and father of 3 young children due to complete liver failure from Kratom use. He was only 35 years old.
Introduction:
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, primarily Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Traditionally used for centuries by locals as a natural remedy for pain relief, energy boosts, and mood enhancement, Kratom has gained popularity in Western countries as an alternative treatment for pain and opioid withdrawal.
However, recent reports of deaths linked to the improper use and overconsumption of Kratom have raised significant concerns in the U.S., prompting warnings from public health officials. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore Kratom’s benefits, potential risks, the rising concerns around improper use, and the safety measures users should take to avoid harm.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tree belonging to the coffee family, with leaves that contain compounds such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds interact with the brain’s opioid receptors, producing effects ranging from stimulation (in low doses) to sedation and pain relief (in higher doses).
Kratom is typically available in various forms, including:
- Powdered Leaves
- Capsules
- Extracts
- Teas
It has gained popularity as a herbal supplement for managing chronic pain, fatigue, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, improper use and overdose can have serious consequences, as highlighted by recent incidents in the U.S.
Kratom Benefits
Kratom’s effects vary based on the dose, the strain, and the individual. Here are some of the reported benefits:
1. Pain Relief
One of Kratom’s most well-known benefits is its ability to relieve pain. It acts on opioid receptors in the brain, which helps reduce the perception of pain, particularly for chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain.
2. Increased Energy
In low doses, Kratom can act as a stimulant, helping users feel more energetic and alert. This is especially true for certain strains, such as White Vein Kratom, which is popular for enhancing productivity and focus.
3. Improved Mood
Kratom is known for its mood-enhancing effects, with many users reporting feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and reduced anxiety. This has made it a popular alternative for managing stress, depression, and anxiety disorders.
4. Opioid Withdrawal Aid
Kratom has been used by individuals seeking to overcome opioid addiction due to its ability to mitigate withdrawal symptoms like nausea, muscle pain, and cravings. It binds to opioid receptors, providing relief without the intense euphoria or risk of overdose associated with traditional opioids.
Kratom Risks and Side Effects
Despite its potential benefits, Kratom carries significant risks, especially when used improperly or in excessive amounts. Overconsumption of Kratom can lead to serious health issues, and in some cases, it has been linked to fatalities.
1. Side Effects of Kratom
Even in moderate doses, Kratom can cause a range of side effects, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and confusion
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Itching
2. Long-Term Risks
Long-term or heavy Kratom use may lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to those of opioids. These include:
- Irritability
- Muscle pain
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
Additionally, there are concerns about Kratom-induced liver damage and other potential organ damage with prolonged use.
Recent Deaths from Improper Kratom Use
In recent years, several deaths in the U.S. have been linked to improper use and overconsumption of Kratom. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have both issued warnings about Kratom, citing cases where it was found in the bloodstream of individuals who had died from overdose.
Key Factors in Kratom-related Deaths:
- Combining Kratom with Other Substances: Many of the reported deaths involved individuals who had consumed Kratom along with other drugs, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol. These combinations can increase the risk of severe side effects, such as respiratory depression, which can be fatal.
- Overconsumption: High doses of Kratom can lead to overdose, with symptoms including extreme sedation, respiratory issues, and heart complications.
- Unregulated Products: Some Kratom products sold in the U.S. are not subject to strict regulation, leading to contamination with harmful substances or incorrect dosage information. Some deaths have been linked to Kratom products tainted with dangerous additives or synthetic opioids.
How to Use Kratom Safely
For those considering Kratom for its potential benefits, it’s important to follow safe practices to minimize the risk of harm:
1. Start with a Low Dose
Beginners should start with the lowest effective dose, typically 1-2 grams of Kratom powder. The effects usually begin within 30 minutes and can last for several hours. It’s important to avoid increasing the dosage without understanding how your body reacts.
2. Avoid Combining Kratom with Other Substances
Never mix Kratom with alcohol, opioids, or other drugs. The combination of these substances increases the risk of dangerous side effects and overdose.
3. Stick to Reputable Suppliers
Buy Kratom only from reputable sources that provide third-party lab testing for purity and potency. This helps ensure the product is free from contaminants like heavy metals or synthetic substances.
4. Monitor Usage and Avoid Daily Consumption
To prevent dependence and tolerance, avoid using Kratom daily. Taking breaks between doses can help reduce the risk of long-term dependence.
5. Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking prescription medications, consult with a healthcare professional before using Kratom. Kratom may interact with other medications, leading to dangerous side effects.
The Legality of Kratom
Kratom’s legal status varies across the globe. In the U.S., Kratom is currently legal at the federal level but banned in certain states and cities due to safety concerns.
States Where Kratom is Banned:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Indiana
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
Additionally, some local municipalities in states where Kratom is legal have chosen to ban its sale and use.
Global Kratom Restrictions:
Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, and Malaysia have also banned the use of Kratom. However, Thailand has recently allowed limited medical use of Kratom under strict regulations.
Conclusion
Kratom is a complex herbal supplement with potential benefits for pain relief, mood enhancement, and managing opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, the risks associated with improper use and overconsumption cannot be ignored. The recent deaths linked to Kratom underscore the importance of using it responsibly, understanding its effects, and adhering to safe dosing practices.
If you’re considering trying Kratom, start with a low dose, avoid combining it with other substances, and always purchase from trusted sources. With careful use, Kratom may offer relief, but improper consumption can lead to serious consequences, including overdose and death.
If you are looking for alternatives to Kratom, Serene Farms can help. Serene Farms does not and will not carry Kratom infused products. However you can try mushroom infused products such as our Snooze Berry CBN + Mushroom Gummies and our Funky Beets CBG + Mushroom Gummies OR our Mai Tai Delta 8 Drops Wedding Cake Delta 8 Drops.
