The kratom industry often operates in a gray area of the law. With little to no regulation by the FDA, it is difficult for consumers to find honest answers to the questions they may have. It is up to companies to self regulate and educate their customers. This is imperative for the safety and integrity of the kratom industry as a whole.
With that being said, here are some FAQs with upfront answers.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree (Mitragyna speciosa) native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds with stimulant, mood enhancing and sedative effects, depending on the dose.
What Are The Benefits Of Kratom?
Kratom is used for pain relief, mood enhancement, energy boosting (low doses), and relaxation (high doses).
Is Kratom Legal?
The legality of Kratom varies by country and state. Some places ban it, while others regulate its sale and use.
Is Kratom Habit Forming?
Yes, Kratom can be, and often is habit forming. Similar to caffeine, using it once a day or multiple times a day for a long period of time can result in undesired side effects when you stop. Although they are short lived and much less intense than pharmaceutical drug withdrawal, it is important to be aware of this before consuming any kratom product. Remember - moderation is key!
Is Kratom Safe?
Millions of people use Kratom every day safely. In the vast majority of cases it is a safe and effective alternative to many things (ie. alcohol/perscription drugs). It becomes unsafe when other illegal drugs are involved or when the kratom itself is adulterated or synthesized to be a much stronger compound. With the lack of regulation and direction from the FDA, companies are essentially allowed to put whatever they want into their product. This lack of regulation means there is no protection for consumers and no standard expected to be up held. With that in mind, do your research on any product you are planning to consume. Look at reviews and ensure that the company is operating ethically and not adding or changing alkaloids. Following these steps will make kratom a much safer alternative to many of the things we consume daily - some of which end up hurting us in the long run.
How Long Do Kratom's Effects Last?
Kratom effects typically last 2–5 hours, depending on the dose and strain.
Can You Overdose On Kratom?
While Kratom overdose is rare, consuming very high doses can lead to severe side effects like extreme sedation and respiratory issues.
What Is Kava?
Kava is a drink made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, traditionally used in the South Pacific for relaxation and stress relief.
What Are The Benefits Of Kava?
Kava is known for its calming effects, helping with anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It may also improve social interactions by reducing social anxiety.
Is Kava Safe?
Kava is generally safe when used in moderation. However, excessive or improper use has been linked to liver damage. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting.
Does Kava Make You High?
Kava doesn’t produce a "high" like recreational drugs but induces a state of relaxation and mild euphoria.
Can You Mix Kava With Alcohol Or Other Substances?
Mixing Kava with alcohol or sedatives is not recommended due to the risk of excessive sedation or liver strain.
Is Kava Habit Forming?
Kava is not considered physically addictive, but overuse could lead to psychological dependence.
How Long Do Kava's Effects Last?
The effects of Kava typically last 2–6 hours, depending on the dose and individual tolerance.
While both Kratom and Kava have traditional uses and are consumed for their potential effects, it's crucial to approach them with caution. They can have side effects, and their safety is a subject of ongoing research and debate. Additionally, individual responses to these substances can vary, and interactions with medications or other substances should be considered. Always seek reliable information and consult with healthcare professionals if you're considering using either Kratom or Kava.