Cannabis, hemp, and marijuana are strains of the same species. What differs is the ratio of chemical compounds in them. Their medical perks are widely known, but their use still causes numerous debates all around the world. People seem to forget how beneficial hemp can be. Luckily, that’s about to change as this market grows at a great speed.

No one can dispute the positive effects of CBD oil, but people still hesitate about them. So manufacturers found a way to surpass the obstacles and bring them to the market. This hemp derivative is a good guy, although it’s similar to THC (they belong to the same group), but with no adverse effects – mind-altering, consciousness interruption, etc.

Cannabidiol is not illegal, only marked as a supplement. That’s why many people wonder ‘does CBD oil work,’ as they still have doubts about these. Advocates of alternative medicine want to bust all myths preventing the official use of this compound for medical purposes.

On the other hand, kratom, famously known as Mitragyna Speciosa, is indigenous to the beautiful landscapes of Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Since 2010, researchers have reported visibly significant use of kratom among the USA’s public for numerous recreational purposes. Just like CBD, there are two key alkaloids present in kratom – Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxy-Mitragynine that bind with our brain receptors and produce health-boosting benefits. Kratom strains (Red, Green, White, and Yellow) have varying concentrations of key alkaloids. 

About Cannabidiol

CBD oil is a liquid mixture that contains cannabinoids and some other hemp compounds like terpenes and flavonoids. It contains an active ingredient that is not psychoactive, with a strictly defined concentration and purity. It means that no toxins, pollutants, nor heavy metals should be in these oils.

When CBD enters our body, it works with the endocannabinoid system. It’s in charge of body homeostasis and preserving overall health. ECS is triggered by endocannabinoids, compounds produced by the body. If there are not enough of them, many problems arise. CBD is a natural alternative for them.

ECS receptors are found all over the body. Once cannabidiol gets in touch with them, the healing process begins. This compound acts individually on every human being, optimizing body functions. That’s why these oils can be used without any problems in treating many diseases.

Pain Management

The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil have proven to be effective in treating various processes which occur as an immunological response to an external threat (viruses, bacteria). If kept under control, every inflammation is a good thing, as it triggers the body’s self-defense mechanism. But if it goes wild, it can cause chronic pain and discomfort.

Common triggers of chronic pain are arthritis and osteoporosis. Their symptoms include joint swelling, pain, stiffness, and deformation. Oxidative stress worsens joint pain and cartilage damage. CBD oil is an excellent antioxidant that acts at the cellular level and successfully reduces reactive oxygen species’ emission that ignites inflammatory processes in the body.

Studies showed that this natural remedy could help patients with intestinal infections, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It affects the infected cells and induces the immune response and the functioning of the digestive system. The ECS acts on the slower transfer of digested food through the intestine, reducing the secretion of substances that can cause inflammation.

Coping with Anxiety

CBD oil has neuroprotective action, as it affects receptors in the central nervous system in charge of serotonin levels. When balanced, this brain chemical help people recover from depression and chronic anxiety and reduce the symptoms of everyday stress.

THC can also reduce anxiety, but CBD works differently. It doesn’t directly bind to receptors but links to the enzymes responsible for the functioning of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that affects the mood. Acting that way, CBD is a natural mood booster with no mind-altering effect.

Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases

Cannabinoids in the body affect the regulation of specific processes. One of them is the secretion of the amyloid-beta protein, in charge of the development of diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. Although there’s no cure for these conditions, CBD oil prevents the damage that this protein can cause.

People with a genetic predisposition for developing these diseases should use hemp-based oils as prevention after the age of 40. This natural remedy can preserve cognitive abilities, focus, and memory in patients diagnosed with these disorders.

What are the health-boosting benefits of kratom?

Kratom is known for its therapeutic effects, and for this reason, more than 5 million individuals in the United States have added kratom to their health regime. Mentioned below are the benefits of kratom that can promote your lifestyle and wellbeing.

Relaxation

The alkaloids of kratom promote the release of endorphins. This hormone aids with comfort, calm mood, and pain management. Individuals who are looking forward to a natural alternative to calm down their nerves and stay in a pleasant and satisfying state of mind can add Red or Green strains of Mitragyna Speciosa ( Red Maeng Da, Red Bali, Green Maeng Da, Green Elephant) to their health regime and cherish the ever-lasting relaxation.

Motivation and concentration

We all need a stronger punch of motivation sometimes to get our pending tasks done. On the other hand, even if you are motivated enough but facing concentration-related issues, you may not be able to pull the needle. Kratom helps with loaded motivation and laser-like concentration. Many individuals use kratom before work to produce the best outcomes. You can use White and Green kratom strains for motivation and concentration- White Elephant, White Maeng Da, Green Bali, or Green Indo.

Stress management

According to research, kratom tends to decrease the levels of the stress hormone known as cortisol. It is an ideal natural supplement for individuals who feel stressed more often and cannot channel their negative feelings and anxieties. For managing stress, it is essential to use Red and Green kratom strains as they contain more ratio of 7-Hydroxy-Mitragynine as compared to the White kratom strains. White Maeng Da, White Indo, Green Malay, and Green Elephant strains are ideal for managing stress and anxiety.

Final Words

Products like CBD oil prove to be safe and very efficient in the treatment of many diseases. That has a vast effect on the global image of hemp goods. When used in moderation and under medical supervision, they can bring many health improvements. On the other hand, kratom being a botanical remedy can massively add to your health regime if taken in moderation and according to the advice of health care professionals. Make sure you learn about different strains of CBD and Kratom before incorporating them into your lifestyle.

Research by Formulate Health shows that more than 30% of growing adults suffer from pain in the United Kingdom. Most of them complain of experiencing severe pain daily. Some suffer from muscle pain and some from inflammation. The study also relates the individuals with low income to more cases of pain in adults.

Individuals constantly look for a way out. The chemical-based products have severe short/long-term side effects. Some therapies are safer but are also slower. For many, they cannot afford to play catch-up in the long term. Then they turn to organic-based products which do not have any severe short/long-term side effects. The same is visible in the numbers, which show the sales. Research by Statista shows that the annual sales of medical marijuana were more than 19 million US dollars in the United Kingdom. The industry expects to rise to 269 million US dollars in the next year. The pump comes due to the impending pandemic increasing the cases of medical complications.

CBD is the most popular product in this regard. It is an organic product that comes under Marijuana or Cannabis. The unique selling point makes it stand above the rest. There are many excellent CBD infused gummies for pain available across the country, offline or online. They are faster than the natural therapies for pain and safer than chemical-based products.

What is CBD?

CBD derives from Hemp extract, which comes from a type of marijuana plant, which has its roots in the Southern Eastern parts of Asia. Several kingdoms in the past revolved around marijuana plantations. The plant is known as the Sativa plant, which gives the Hemp extract. The Hemp extract further is a source of CBD, CBN, and THC extract. Their properties vary, even after they come from a similar origin. CBD can come out swiftly when compared to its counterparts.

There are several CBD-based products available in the market. Some of them are CBD Cookies, CBD Tea powder, CBD Oil, CBD Wax, and CBD Gummies. CBD Gummies seem to be the best pick for growing adults at present.

They contain Cannabidiol extract, Hemp extract, THC, and other mixer ingredients. The Hemp Extract and Tetrahydrocannabinol are famous for their clinical properties.

Pain – A Perennial Problem

Pain can be due to many reasons and in many forms. It can be a result of the mental drain or physical strain from daily activities. Experts suggest the most common type of pain is linked to muscles, back, neural, and other vital parts of the body. Studies also show that individuals with low income have more symptoms of pain than the middle class. Experts account it to the pressure of work and daily chores.

Pain can affect your body in several ways. The worst one comes to the productivity of the patient, especially if it’s chronic. It can lead to irregular sleep cycles, which further affects your health in a worse manner. The neural pain can also cause anxiety, stress, and general uneasiness in the body. The worst thing is people are not able to diagnose the symptoms early.

How do CBD Infused Gummies help relief pain?

CBD Gummies are gummies that have CBD infused inside them.

Now we will discuss the benefits CBD infused Gummies can have for your problem of pain.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation can be tough to deal with, as it goes away slowly. It can come around the muscles and cause swelling, weakness, and pain in the muscle. The pain is severe and can be a problem if it persists for the long term.

The Hemp extract in the CBD Infused Gummies has several inflammations reducing properties, which gives the user an instant relief. The Hemp extract goes inside the system of the consumer and mixes with the bloodstream. It provides a soothing feeling and lets them relax.

Helps You Sleep

Pain can act as an obstruction to your sleep pattern. It does not let the brain relax and ultimately decreases the sleeping hours. The cycle keeps on repeating for days to come and can cause unrest to the user. The affected area can swell and also leave the patient weak. In some cases, severe pain can cause them to have multiple fevers, further weakening the body. The lack of sleep is an extra blow that makes it worse.

The CBD Gummies come with Tetrahydrocannabinol extract, which can induce slight dizziness in the consumer. The dizzy feeling soothes the pain and helps them sleep. Upon regular doses, CBD Infused Gummies can be extra helpful in improving the sleep cycle of the consumer.

Pain can affect your body in various ways. Many effects come after it, making the body weaker and unable to rest. They are inflammation and lack of sleep due to the unrest the body goes through. CBD Infused Gummies can be the perfect way to reduce inflammation and increase your average sleeping hours daily. Consulting your doctor before starting with your dose is a must.

According to leafnation.com, consuming CBD Gummies is easy, and they come in many flavors. Several vendors offer hundreds of different flavors as per your liking. The CBD Gummies have less than 0.20% Tetrahydrocannabinol extract, making them legal across the United Kingdom. The trend is not new, as more and more countries are legalizing the distribution of CBD Infused Gummies. The same is true for all CBD-based products.

What is Kratom?

Just like CBD, Kratom (Mitragyna Speciosa) is an organic alternative for relieving pain. The plant exclusively grows in Southeast Asia, with numerous strains and vein colors available. For thousands of years, the natives of Indonesia have used kratom for varying recreational purposes – energy boost, pain management, reduced inflammation, motivation, and stress relief.

Do Kratom Gummies help with pain?

Yes, kratom remarkably helps with pain management. The research conducted by Oliver Grundmann back in 2017 clearly explains how kratom was beneficial for alleviating pain. Millions of people use it as a self-treatment for managing their pain-related issues. So you can give a shot to Kratom Gummies as they are one of the best options to manage pain naturally.

How do Kratom Gummies help with pain?

You must be wondering whether Kratom Gummies really work out to ease pain in your case. The short answer is “YES”. But, how? What exactly makes the pain easy on your nerves with Kratom Gummies?

The alkaloid Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxy-Mitragynine are the key alkaloids that make the most of kratom’s alkaloid profile. When these alkaloids bind with mu-opioid receptors of our brain, they tend to reduce the feeling of pain. The red kratom strains (Red Maeng Da, Red Bali, Red Borneo, Red Elephant) are ideal for pain management. So make sure your Kratom Gummy is made out of any Red kratom strain for the best results.

How can you take Kratom Gummies for pain relief?

It is essential to note how many key alkaloids are present in the Kratom Gummies you plan to buy. Check the product description in detail and all the ingredients it contains. The serving size is usually mentioned in the package, so you need to follow that, keeping in mind your usual kratom dosage. You can use Kratom Gummies in your favorite desserts or use them alone with plenty of water as kratom tends to absorb water.

Conclusion

CBD Infused Gummies are the best choice to fix your pain woes. There are other CBD-based products available in the market, which can also complement these gummies. The intake method through direct digestion ensures that your body absorbs the clinical benefits of these gummies. Studies also prove that CBD Infused Gummies can also improve your bowel movements. They are versatile and mix with other foods.

On the other hand, Kratom Gummies is similarly potent as CBD and shows visible results for those suffering from pain. The research has also backed these findings that kratom Gummies help with the pain. Before use, make sure you buy kratom Gummies near you from a reputable vendor who won’t ever compromise on quality and must read the labels, the ingredients present, and recommended dosage.

Still, the best advice can be to fix an appointment with your doctor and figure out a diet plan accordingly. Be honest about the symptoms you are suffering from, as it plays a critical part in diagnosing the problem. The best way to use CBD Gummies can also complement them with other CBD-based products like CBD Wax. If the liquid form tempts you more, one can even try CBD Oil with CBD Gummies. Research about your vendor before picking your favorite CBD Infused Gummies.

Vaping is fast becoming a trend in the United States, especially among teenage and young adults. Several organic substances are used in vape pens or e-cigarettes these days. From the traditional tobacco cigarette, a transition to vaping seems safer to several users. Most of the materials used for vaping are leafy and can be easily used in a vape pen.

Kratom is also an emerging substance, which millions of people use for health benefits. It may be surprising, but a lot of young users think vaping Kratom is a better method. Without much research evidence, you might follow this trend as well, but is it safe?

Vaping is a risky method of consuming any organic substance. Tobacco, weed, CBD isolate tinctures, and now Kratom are all available as vape juices, but this does not vouch for safety!

The reason young users are turning to vape is that it gives them a euphoric feeling sooner and also keeps them calm.

Kratom is a Southeast Asian tree, and its leaves were used in traditional medicine in the region. It was introduced in the United States in the 1990s, and since then it has gained a lot of popularity. The conventional way of consuming Kratom is by chewing the powder or using it in teas or capsules. There are other ways of consumption as well, and one that is catching on fast is vaping! However, the risks of vaping are numerous, and it is essential to understand why vaping is not the best way to go.

What Is Vaping? How Do You Vape A Substance?

Vaping is inhaling a substance through a herbal vaporizer or an electronic cigarette. It is different from a traditional cigarette as the material is rolled in paper and then smoked. A vaporizer heats the content to below combustion and produces vapor instead of smoke.

Some vape pens and e-cigarettes use dry organic materials while others use liquids. These liquids have different ingredients such as glycerin and propylene, to aid the vaporization. Marijuana and tobacco are the typical vape pen content for users these days. It became famous as a less harmless substitute of cigarettes, but it has its risks.

Herbal vapers have been in the market for around 20 years, and users have consumed tobacco and weed through them, but for Kratom, the dangers are more significant. As vaporizers heat the substance to about 200 degrees, you may feel a slight ‘heat,’ but users think the impact is always worth it. For Kratom, the vaping temperature is around 175 degrees. This heat causes almost all the alkaloids to be squeezed through as vapors, bringing about significant results.

Users often say that the effect of vaping Kratom is different from chewing or drinking it. The Kratom impacts the brain more significantly after vaping. The euphoric feeling and calmness that follows vaping do not come from eating or drinking it.

On the contrary, when users eat or drink Kratom, the impact on the body is more significant. A herbal vaporizer or vape pen is therefore very different from consuming Kratom in your diet.

Deaths Related To Vaping

In early September, the third death associated with lung disease from vaping was recorded. In Indiana, the health officials announced that the victim consumed cannabis containing Vitamin E oil. The black market products are not regulated, and this adds to the danger of vaping. Pulmonary disease due to vaping is on the rise, and there are almost 450 victims of this disease recorded so far.

The Effect Of Vaping Kratom Only

Kratom leaves are rich in alkaloids, which can theoretically be an excellent substitute for the nicotine used in vape pens and electronic cigarettes. These alkaloids, when vaped, can get absorbed in the bloodstream and work faster than chewing powder. A lot of users say that vaping Kratom makes your pain vanish quicker and you feel a calmness take over. But is it safe? No! It is not secure.

The reason for Kratom being unsafe for vaping is that it does not give you the desired results while loading your lungs with alkaloid smoke. Many users say that it impacts their brain and sedates them rather than reducing pain. Some users also say that the discomfort and thoracic irritation is not at all a favorable result for them. Some users also reported fatigue, tiredness, and felt like they were going through a hangover.

What Happens When You Inhale Kratom?

The water vapors squeeze out the alkaloids as they are vaporized and then consumed by the body. From the lungs, the alkaloids get absorbed into the bloodstream, making the impact stronger and many times intolerable. The use of vape pens is becoming widespread due to excellent results.

Vape Parlors and Lounges

Did you know that there are proper Kratom vape lounges and parlors in some cities of the United States? Several of them are in Florida, while numerous are operational in the Rhode Islands, Texas, Oklahoma and Georgia.

These vaping parlors offer Kratom extracts for vaping, and many users have claimed that they are an excellent way to experience stimulation and a pain-free day! However, the smoke shop owners cannot vouch for vaping Kratom! The dangers involved in using a high amount of Kratom is known to users. Vaping always exposes users to a higher dosage because the Kratom liquid concentration is more than the powder, tea, or capsule forms.

It is pertinent to mention that users must choose their Kratom vendor with care. Due to the FDA’s lack of regulations for Kratom products, numerous Kratom suppliers sell cheap and low-quality, contaminated Kratom. The fresh and quality Kratom leaves have a better impact on the body than stale or infested Kratom powder.

The reliable vendors always provide lab test results and also label batch numbers on their Kratom packs. This labeling enables users to understand when the Kratom was packed and whether it is fresh or not.

Safety In Vaping Kratom

Users should always buy Kratom from a reliable source so that no contamination or filler may impact their health adversely. However, vaping is not a desired way of consumption. This danger is because vaping itself is dangerous and Kratom is too active a substance, and as it enters the bloodstream quickly, it impacts the users adversely.

Kratom is not dangerous if users consume it as tea, powder, or capsules. Tinctures for drinking are also safe but vaping is not a method free from risks. When users eat or drink Kratom, it gets digested and then impacts the body. This delayed impact is more long-lasting and helps carry out a healthy routine.

CBD or Kratom Vaping

The CBD or Kratom supplements are beneficial to health but vaping might pose some risks due to the smoke that enters the lungs. A large percentage of weed users vape, but it does not lead to dangerous health conditions such as pulmonary diseases.

“According to Mike (the managing director of vapingcig.com), whenever you inhale any substance, it reaches the bloodstream through the lungs. This passage is faster. Therefore the impact is reliable, but in this course, the lungs suffer a great deal. As with all smoking devices, vape pens are also risky.”

Summarizing the negatives of vaping Kratom:

• Vaporizing Kratom can reduce potency hence the lower effect on the body.
• Pain relief will be less.
• Vaping liquids can be expensive.
• Heating can adversely affect the lungs.
• Vaping Kratom leaves an undesired aftertaste.
• Kratom targets deposited on teeth and lungs.

Where To Purchase Kratom

Every Kratom vendor is not necessarily authentic! You might find a seller who mixes fillers to increase the volume of powder. You may also end up buying stale Kratom that may have its adverse effects on the body. Due to lack of regulation, there are very few online shops that deliver fresh and potent Kratom. Several smoke shops and small vendors do not provide lab test results and other reliable proof of Kratom quality.

Even though vaping has become very common among young consumers; finding good quality vape juice is still an ordeal. This absence of quality Kratom juice adds to the dangers of vaping Kratom. Unreliable sources of Kratom mean the risk of unwanted side effects. Users must ensure that there is quality kratom used for consumption to get the results they require. Your local smoke shop or weed shop might not offer the best quality.

Numerous reliable online vendors provide excellent quality Kratom products. Usually, online shops import Kratom from Southeast Asian countries and process them in the United States. The process of extracting vape juice is quite meticulous and is supervised by teams of experts, which makes availability scarce.

Conclusion

Kratom is an organic supplement that has numerous benefits. However, vaping Kratom is very risky as the method of consumption is not at all safe. On top of the vaping dangers, Kratom itself is also a potent substance and cannot have a good impact on users. You can say that vaping Kratom has more disadvantages than advantages.

There are very few advantages! People who consume Kratom praise its potential to improve the quality of life but not for vaping. Several users have reported severe side effects.

How you consume Kratom is a personal choice. If you eat or drink Kratom, results will take time. This delay is because Kratom will have to be digested before it enters the bloodstream. However, vaping is not a favorable as it can lead to severe health conditions.

** The purpose of this article is to share information. The author does not reflect any research work or doctor’s comments. Due to a lack of research on Kratom, we rely more on users’ reviews and experiences.

50 feet tall Southeast Asian plant Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), is a tropical tree popular for its stimulant effects. It belongs to the same family as coffee (Rubiaceae) but has a higher therapeutic and medicinal value.

Kratom is native to Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, and other Southeast Asian regions and has been used since decades by locals. Farmers and laborers have been using this drug as a herbal stimulant for efficient productivity, a high yielding work as well as a muscle reliever.

Users have reported Kratom to produce stimulant effects, increasing alertness at low doses and producing opiate effects at high doses. Opioid-like effects have largely rung bells in organizations like the FDA, showing serious concerns for its safety.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the U.S discourages users to consume Kratom due to its opiate effects similar to morphine that lead to a risk of abuse and dependence. Its use by people over 18-21 years is legal in some states and banned in others. It is encouraged that you look for its status in your region before using Kratom to avoid any trouble.

Over hundreds of years, with its increasing popularity and demand, advocates of Kratom have fashioned some nicknames for it, just like pot users have. The pot being one of them, weed, dope, 420, nuggets are a few more for marijuana. These street names make communication among the users, casual and unnoticed by others unconcerned. These names vary sometimes by geographical location and at other times by communities and age groups.

Street Names For Kratom

Here’s a list of street names of Kratom commonly referred by its users. It can be subject to change or evolution with time but currently, the following names are employed.

• Thang
• Kakuam
• Herbal speedball
• Thom
• Ketum
• Biak

Geographical Names

Kratom is consumed and used in different ways as well as for various purposes in different areas. Likewise, it is referred to with a variety of names in separate geographical locations.

In Malaysia and Thailand, locals use Kratom leaves in the form of a tea or chew and smoke them particularly for its stimulating effects and euphoria. It is also used in Malaysia as an anti-diarrheal agent, antipyretic (fever fighting) and analgesic.

Kratom’s geographical names in Malaysia are:

• Biak-biak
• Ketum
• Kutum

Kratom’s geographical names in Thailand are:

• Bai krathom
• Ketum
• Kratom
• Katuan
• Krataum
• Taum
• Kratom
• Ithang
• Kakuan

In Indonesia, Kratom is widely known by the names Kadamba and Puri whereas in Vietnam it is recognized as Giam d[ef]p and Giam l[as] nh[or]. Kratom also extends its influence in the Philippines where it is known as mambog.

Unlike marijuana, Kratom does not have many cultural names. However, it has not allowed any other substance to break the records and Maeng Da Kratom is culturally known as pimp.

Health Effects Of Kratom

Its powerful effects as an analgesic, stimulating agent, etc. have enabled Kratom to become highly popular among people, so much so that more and more users are at risk of its dependence. At low doses, kratom is said to boost energy and makes the user alert. At high doses, it causes euphoria, sedation and diminished sensations.

Alkaloids present in Kratom such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are known to produce pain relief, muscle relaxation, anti-tussive (reducing cough), etc. Its strong effects make it greatly acceptable among people especially laborers who use it for high productivity.

Others yield therapeutic benefits from kratom, by applying it on wounds as a pain killer or even take it as a tea. Although kratom has been legalized in some states probably due to public demand, FDA has, however, not regulated its use and has raised serious concerns for its safety.

Signs and Symptoms Of Kratom Use

Although the effects of kratom are not fully understood, it is considered to be potentially addictive. This is particularly so when it is consumed in large amounts or in combination with other drugs. This worries parents and guardians alike, as for how to spot a teenager who has resorted to regular kratom use that has rendered him addicted.

The signs of kratom use depend upon its dosage. Someone taking low doses can be spotted to have

• a sudden boost of energy after a period of fatigue
• highly alert approach and talkative
• the ability to perform vigorous physical activity he is normally not capable of
• decreased appetite
• some adverse effects such as impaired coordination and anxiety

Signs of high-dose kratom intake:

• euphoric ecstasy or happiness
• lethargic because high doses produce sedation as well
• nausea
• itching
• constipation

According to the European monitoring centre for drugs and drug addiction, kratom produces a stimulant effect similar to cocaine whereas high doses produce morphine-like sedative as well as narcotic results.

Since the use of kratom causes addiction and dependence or not is not fully known, people are highly apprehensive for their loved ones. Many of the signs of addiction are similar to other addictive drugs. These include

• absence from school or workplace
• deteriorating performance
• prefer solitude and keep away from old friends and family
• make new associations with people who are also involved in an addictive substance
• they waste their time, energy and money to get hold of more and more kratom
• one of the big signs of addiction of kratom is that the user becomes cynical or mysterious
• hopelessness for not being able to quit its use and continuing using it despite knowing the health hazards

Being addicted or dependent on kratom means that skipping their usual dose or even reducing it would lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal Symptoms

The Drug Enforcement Administration U.S has labeled kratom as the ‘drug of concern’. According to the New York Times, the use of kratom as a cure for withdrawal of heroin or opioids can be a misguided attempt, as kratom itself fills the opioid receptors and brings about similar effects which can be misleading to be effective. However, this approach can actually be dangerous.

As reported by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (NY OASAS), kratom affects the brain in the same way as morphine. Thus, withdrawal symptoms of kratom are similar to opioid. Here’s the list of withdrawal symptoms of kratom.

• Runny nose
• Muscular pain
• Pain in joints or bones
• Erratic movements of arms and legs
• violent behavior
• Mood swings
• Hallucinations
• Mental confusion
• Seizures

As published by the Nursing Show, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, fatigue, constipation, sweating, headache, etc. are various other withdrawal symptoms too.

Although kratom withdrawal generally depends upon the tolerance level and genetic makeup of the user, according to the estimate by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), withdrawal symptoms for severe dependence might last for about a week.

People often say that Kratom addiction is similar to that of Opiate addiction. Since Kratom’s properties are always compared to that of pharmaceutical Opiates, therefore addiction of the two substances are also compared. However, Kratom addiction is a different phenomenon. It needs to be discussed separately.

This article basically emphasizes on the topic ‘how long does it take for a person to get addicted to Kratom?’ To answer this, many factors shall be considered for example Kratom daily intake routine, Kratom strains, and their substitution, etc.

What is addiction basically?

When you take certain drugs, you start feeling good. You believe you can control the amount of the drug you are taking. However, there are some drugs, like narcotics, alcohol as well as Kratom that can change the neuronal pathways in the brain.

Slowly and gradually you start feeling that you need drugs just to feel normal. You may start taking higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effect once you become tolerant to it. This is when you are addicted to a particular drug.

Addiction is a long-lasting brain disorder than altering the behavior of a person, i.e., frequent mood swings, dementia, reduced cognition, trouble sleeping, eating disorders, etc.

An addictive substance stimulates the pleasure center of the brain by releasing GABA and dopamine. You start feeling high, and you want to continue taking it even if you are facing negative consequences.

How can Kratom cause addiction?

The active alkaloids Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine in Kratom act on the delta, kappa and mu receptors present in the brain in a similar fashion to Opiates.

Action on these receptors induces the release of increased amounts of dopamine that increases euphoria and brings about the feeling ‘high.’

Once you stop taking Kratom, the body craves for the increased levels of dopamine, and this is when you start getting mood swings and trouble living a normal life. This is when you are addicted to Kratom.

Kratom causes addiction only over a long enough period of usage. This happens when the ceiling effect is reached. This effect happens after a certain level of dosage when the mood boosting effects of Kratom no more occur. At this point, one has the urgency to take increased doses of Kratom causing Kratom addiction.

Kratom addiction occurs quickly with Kratom extracts, resins, and tinctures. It doesn’t occur rapidly if Kratom powder is used.

Ultra-enhanced Kratom strains must be avoided to prevent Kratom addiction.

Kratom if used for medicinal purposes, doesn’t cause Kratom addiction but Kratom abuse causes extensive Kratom addiction.

What are the signs and symptoms of Kratom addiction and withdrawal?

The signs and symptoms of Kratom addiction are relatively mild and last only for a couple of days. The most common Kratom addiction symptoms include insomnia, restlessness, sweating, nausea, increased yawning, discomfort, emotional issues like aggression and sadness, body aches, depression, apathy, and diarrhea.

Symptoms of common cold also like a runny nose appear when you withdraw the consumption of Kratom after getting addicted to it.

In the initial days you’ll only feel psychological dependence but with continuous use signs of physical dependence may also appear.

How will a person know that he/she is addicted to Kratom?

To identify one as Kratom addict you need to check the following signs;

• Tolerance to Kratom increases. You require more dosage of Kratom to produce desired effects.
• Constipation is a major sign of Kratom addiction.
• You start craving for Kratom and you think about buying it or consuming it throughout the day.
• You start keeping it a secret. You do not tell people that you consume Kratom because they can relate its usage to your problems.
• Addicts use Kratom very regularly and frequently.
• A break in the Kratom taking routine can result in immediate withdrawal symptoms.
• The addict has a loss of control over the use of Kratom. He uses it without having any regard to the negative consequences of the use of Kratom.
• The addict has trouble at school or work and acts suspiciously to keep his/her secret.

How long does it take for Kratom addiction to start?

According to users on various drug forums, addiction starts gradually if one consumes Kratom twice a week. For some people, it may start when he or she’s taking Kratom thrice a week.

The concept behind this theory is that in a week, it’s necessary to stay Kratom free for five days.

If you consume Kratom on day 1, then wait for 3 days and take Kratom on day 4 to prevent addiction. So, addiction can set in immediately if you take Kratom more than two to three times in a week.

It also sets in quicker if there is no strain rotation and you are taking one strain, for example, Maeng da repeatedly.

Kratom addiction sets in rapidly if you are using ultra enhanced Kratom or extracts as these types of Kratom are highly concentrated. Plain leaves are recommended.

A dosage of 8-10 grams per day is fine but doses greater than this can lead to rapid addiction.

Some people are tolerant to Kratom, so they need higher doses.

This should make them realize that they are addicted to Kratom; therefore, they require more doses.

Keep the starting dose as low as 2 grams. Incorporation of some Kratom stem in your Kratom routine can also reduce tolerance and thus addiction.

One of the main causes of addiction is Stagnant strain syndrome or single strain syndrome.

This occurs when the user only consumes one type of strain that has the same quantity of alkaloids. This is why we recommend rotating strains to avoid addiction.

Effects of Kratom addiction

In the long term, Kratom addiction has severe side effects. There have been several cases reported of psychosis in long-term reporters.

Short time side effects of Kratom addiction include dry mouth, nausea, sweating, appetite loss, itching, sun burning, frequent urination, and constipation.

Side effects that result from long-term use include skin discoloration, psychosis, and chronic loss of appetite resulting in weight loss, insomnia, and confusion.

Psychosis may be accompanied by hallucinations, delusions, and confusion.

What medication can be used for Kratom addiction?

There’s no specific medication for Kratom addiction. The treatment is usually symptomatic. This treatment includes giving antidepressants, NSAIDS, anxiolytics, dihydrocodeine-lofexidine, methadone, etc.

Psychological treatment that includes cognitive behavioral therapy is also needed for patients who are depressed and have increased cravings for Kratom. This treatment allows one to recognize triggers and how to tackle them.

A detoxification program, supervised by a medical practitioner also helps in the treatment of Kratom addiction.

This includes medical care as well as therapy. To start any such program, see if it’s cost-effective and the facility is duly licensed and accredited and the qualification of staff.

Conclusion

Since Kratom is relatively cheaper than Opiates and other narcotics, people are buying in surplus quantities and consume it in surplus quantities, damaging their health.

This should be avoided at all costs and a check and balance on the use of Kratom must be ensured too.

Self-control is the best way to avoid addiction and the complications associated with it.