The Diverse Effects Of Kratom

The type of effects you will experience when taking kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) depends on two main factors: the dose and the strain of kratom.

It may seem contradictory, but different doses produce completely opposite effects. If you take a low dose, kratom works as a stimulant; you will likely feel alert and awake, more social, happy, and upbeat. You may also notice an increase in motivation and attention span. Higher doses of kratom, on the other hand, put you in a relaxed, dreamlike state that can also promote sleep.

In this article, we take a deeper look at the main effects of kratom, and explore a little about how this unique plant works in the body.

Kratom Maeng Da Yellow Powder

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How does kratom interact with the body?

Due to the number of active compounds in kratom, it interacts with the brain and body in a range of different ways, some of which may seem counterintuitive.

First, it has an affinity to the brain’s serotonin receptors, which likely explains—at least in part—its energising, mood-boosting effects. Second, and somewhat paradoxically, it can also bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, which means that, over a certain threshold, it actually has sleep-promoting, physically soothing effects.

Importantly, kratom also has an affinity to the dopamine D2 receptor, which presents certain issues. As a consequence of this interaction, people who use kratom can develop dependence and substance use disorders. As such, you should only take kratom infrequently and be aware of your behavior regarding it.

Do different types of kratom produce different effects?

Next to the actual dose, the different colors of kratom leaves also produce different effects. There are three main types of kratom: red, white, and green—these are the colors of the center vein on the leaf.

White kratom leaves usually produce a more energising, stimulating effect, uplifting your mood, increasing your alertness and mental vigilance, and making you feel more motivated. It can also be used as a stimulant to increase concentration and wakefulness in place of caffeine during those working long hours.

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Red kratom, the most common type of kratom that is sold, typically has a more soothing effect. This strain is suitable for releasing tension and relaxing your mind. Finally, green kratom’s effects are best described as a mix of white and red kratom’s effects. It can provide a mild boost of energy, alertness, and focus, while at the same time making you feel relaxed and comfortable.

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Top 8 effects of kratom

As mentioned, kratom exhibits a range of different effects, which explains its widespread popularity in some cultures. The following list is arranged in no particular order, but showcases the potential influence of kratom leaves and extracts.

Boosts mood

One of the most pronounced effects of kratom is that it can lift your mood! Kratom can make you feel positive and happy while also inducing a sense of overall well-being. All types of kratom can do this, although white and green are more likely to lead to an upbeat mood, whereas red is more likely to lead to a relaxed feeling.

Increases concentration

In small doses, kratom is great for increasing concentration, mental vigilance, and focus. It can bring clarity and clear brain fog, which is one of the most valued effects in Thailand, where kratom is mainly used as a work-enhancing stimulant. However, red kratom is not well suited to this; small doses of the more energising strains are better for concentration.

Kratom may aid opiate withdrawal symptoms

Although kratom itself has addictive potential, it is also sometimes used in hopes of alleviating symptoms of opiate withdrawal. Of course, in such cases, the doses are finely tuned for the best results. Though research is in the early stages, there are studies that suggest kratom could indeed play a role in treating opiate withdrawal (Boyer et al., 2008). That said, much more comprehensive research needs to be carried out to confirm and expound upon this hypothesis.

Encourages a healthy night’s sleep

Especially in higher doses, kratom can promote relaxation and sleep readiness, which might be suitable for achieving a good night’s sleep. This is great news for people who want to wake up refreshed in the morning. Some people have even reported that they experience more, and more vivid, dreams while using kratom. Red kratom is likely the best suited to this use.

Be warned, though, relying on any substance to help you sleep—let alone one with the potential to cause addiction—can be a tricky path, so proceed with caution.

Offers stimulating sensations

When taken in smaller doses, kratom can be used to kickstart the morning. It acts like a stimulant to give you more energy and make you feel awake without feeling restless. Depending on the dose and the type of kratom, this wakefulness is usually accompanied by a feeling of mental clarity and focus. This effect can be beneficial for those who need to work long hours without getting tired, or those who do tough mental work. Green and white kratom are best suited to these purposes.

Provides relaxing properties

Larger doses of kratom will exhibit a relaxing effect. You may find that it temporarily helps to ease negative thoughts and release tension. Not only does kratom help to relax your mind, but it can also relax your muscles, relieving physical and emotional tension. If you’re after pure soothing sensations, then your best bet is red-veined kratom.

May make social situations less awkward

With its relaxing yet energising effects, some people find that kratom helps them feel more comfortable in social situations. For many, meeting strangers and talking to new people can be difficult. Kratom can help to bring out your inner confidence and make socialising with new groups of people enjoyable and fun. Again, like with sleep, be cautious about using any substance to help you with feelings of anxiety, as it’s easy to become reliant.

Is kratom an aphrodisiac?

Kratom is also sometimes used as an aphrodisiac or sexual performance enhancer for both men and women to increase sexual excitement and heighten sensations. Typically, lower doses are taken to achieve this, although some may prefer the more relaxing influence of larger doses.

Possible kratom side effects

Kratom is known to exhibit side effects, some of which can be severe.

Common kratom side effects include:

• Sedation
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Dry mouth
• Increased urination
• Loss of appetite
• Itching
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Confusion

Rarer side effects, often associated with long-term usage and higher doses, include:

• Addiction
• Withdrawal
• Hypothyroidism
• Liver injury
• Aching of muscles and bones
• Jerky limb movements

Embark on your own kratom adventure

If you opt to try kratom, be cautious. It’s not a well understood plant compared to some, and although it’s generally legal and tolerated, this does not mean it’s safe—it just means it’s not so common in the US and Europe. So do adequate research and know what you’re getting into.

If taken safely, kratom is an interesting substance that offers an array of effects depending on how it’s consumed. Just don’t become reliant on it!

Max Sargent

Max has been writing for over a decade, and has come into cannabis and psychedelic journalism in the last few years. Writing for companies such as Zamnesia, Royal Queen Seeds, Cannaconnection, Gorilla Seeds, MushMagic and more, he has experience in a broad spectrum of the industry.

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