What Is Kratom

Kratom is a tree that grows naturally in South East Asia and is a part of the coffee family. Kratom is typically consumed by chewing on the natural leaves or to brew them in a tea.Kratom has been used safely in Southeast Asia for centuries as an energy boost, for increased focus, as well for general well-being. Kratom has also been safely used in the U.S. since the early 1970’s.

In the United States, where it is estimated between 11 – 15 million American consume kratom regularly, and kratom products are typically sold as powders, capsules, or liquid tinctures (like a 5-hour energy drink). Importantly, Southeast Asian authorities have not reported any kratom overdose deaths.

The reasons for kratom use in this region largely mirror those in the U.S., including as a mild stimulant by agricultural workers and as an alternative to opioids for pain relief and addiction treatment. Such traditional use is reported to benefit quality of life, and improve social and occupational behavior, with little evidence of serious personal or social harm. Kratom is currently legal for sale as a food in all but 6 states

Is Kratom Addictive like Classic Opioids

 Withdrawal from kratom dependency generally matches caffeine withdrawal (4-5 days of mild headache, upset stomach, etc.)ii. Kratom’s alkaloids, like caffeine in coffee, can result in a consumer developing a dependency with regular use. Classic opioid withdrawal mostly involves severe symptoms and typically requires extensive in-patient detox treatment programs that can last months.