Kratom may be relatively new on our collective conscience. However, this herb has been used to manage a broad spectrum of medical conditions for hundreds of years.
Scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, Kratom grows natively in Southeast Asia. The tree is indigenous to Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea. But due to its immense healing properties, Kratom is now cultivated in numerous countries worldwide.
This post examines several therapeutic benefits of Kratom that not everyone knows about.
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Kratom May Relieve Pain
Kratom has been used as an analgesic for hundreds of years. The herb is loaded with active alkaloids, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which relieve pain by interacting with specific opioid receptors in the brain.
When consumed, mitragynine is converted into 7-hydroxy mitragynine. Studies involving animal specimens have shown that 7-hydroxymitragynine can mitigate pain by affecting the mu-opioid receptor in the brain.
And the best part is that, unlike common analgesic medications, Kratom presents minimal and less severe side effects.
Kratom May Alleviate Inflammation
Pain and inflammation are generally inseparable. These conditions may either occur side by side or have a cause-effect relationship.
Now, Kratom is just as effective against inflammation against pain. The herb alleviates inflammation by inhibiting the proteins involved in transmitting inflammatory messenger activity, such as cytokines. Kratom and its various anti-inflammatory properties are linked to Rhynchophylline and epicatechin.
One such strain that helps pain and inflammation is the red sumatra kratom. As the name implies, red vein Kratom is identified by red hues on its leaf veins. It’s one of the most common Kratom strains prescribed for pain and inflammation relief. The strain is also effective against common pain-related side effects, such as depression.
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Kratom May Treat Anxiety and Insomnia
Kratom is a potent sedative. The herb produces incredible calming effects, which may help combat stress, anxiety, and sleeplessness.
Incorporating Kratom into your breakfast is an ingenious way to approach the day with a calmer and more focused mind. Similarly, consuming Kratom right before bedtime may boost your sleep by reducing your sleep onset time.
Selecting suitable strains is recommended to make the most of Kratom and its soothing properties. This is another area where you will benefit from red vein Kratom strains. Just remember to dose the herb in moderation to avoid becoming tranquilized in the process.
Kratom May Combat Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
Kratom impacts the opioid receptors in the brain in a near-similar manner as for regular opioid drugs, such as morphine, codeine, and heroin. Kratom is technically referred to as a partial opioid agonist, which means that the herb binds partially to opioid receptors. On the other hand, conventional opioids are known as full opioid agonists, implying that they bind fully to the opioid receptors.
The fact that regular opioid drugs exert their influence on opioid receptors in the brain explains why they are highly addictive. Since Kratom only binds partially to these receptors, the herb presents lower risks of addiction and dependency. That’s why medical experts now recommend treating specific opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Opioid withdrawal symptoms refer to the side effects experienced when you suddenly cut back or cut out on opioid drugs. Common symptoms include headache, drowsiness, irritability, insomnia, and nausea. Kratom helps your brain adjust to reducing opioid dosages without experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms when used during the withdrawal period.
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Kratom May Boost Your Energy Levels
Kratom belongs in the same family as coffee. Therefore, the herb produces the same effects as caffeine, boosting energy levels.
Studies have shown that Kratom enhances both physical and mental energy by inducing mild euphoria. The herb delivers effects similar to those of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), only more favorable.
You can administer a Kratom-infused supplement before hitting the gym or consume these products to relieve physical and mental fatigue throughout the day. However, note that Kratom’s energy-boosting properties largely depend on your dosage. The herb is more effective if consumed in small quantities.
Kratom May Protect Against Chronic Illnesses
We have already highlighted the role of Rhynchophylline and epicatechin in alleviating inflammation. These compounds are potent antioxidants packed with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
Like all antioxidants, Rhynchophylline and epicatechin protect against chronic illnesses by countering the effects of free radicals in body cells. Free radicals are unstable atoms that generally result from various metabolic processes.
A healthy body is generally effective at eliminating free radicals or neutralizing their potency. However, the overaccumulation of these atoms in the body may trigger oxidative stress, resulting in cell damage. Oxidative stress is associated with premature aging and a host of chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
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Final Word
Kratom contains numerous therapeutic properties that remain untapped. The herb has proven effective against pain, inflammation, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and specific opioid withdrawal symptoms. What’s more, Kratom may also guard against chronic illnesses due to its antioxidant properties.
But like most herbs, Kratom is most effective if consumed in moderation. According to experts, 5 grams of Kratom three times a day works for most medical conditions. However, the conventional wisdom is to begin small and work your way up gradually until you achieve your ideal dose.
