What is kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is an inconspicuous evergreen tree from Southeast Asia and belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is thus closely related to the coffee plant ( Coffea), which explains its stimulating properties.
Historical and traditional use
Since the early 19th century, workers in Asian countries have used kratom to prevent burnout. Traditionally, it has also been used to treat diarrhea, fever, wounds, and even as a dewormer. In the Western world, kratom has found a wide range of applications, although it is not used for all conventional medical purposes.
Effects of kratom
Kratom is unique because it possesses both stimulating and calming properties, depending on the dosage:
- Low doses (2–6 grams):These have a stimulating effect, similar to coffee, but without its side effects such as anxiety or nervousness. Users feel more alert, focused, and energetic.
- High doses (6–12 grams):These have a calming and pain-relieving effect. They promote relaxation, pain relief, and sleep.
Uses of kratom
Traditionally, the fresh leaves of Mitragyna speciosa are chewed. For worldwide shipping, they are dried and powdered. Here are some common methods for using kratom powder:
- Tea:Kratom tea works quickly and helps prevent stomach upset.
- “Toss and Wash”: The powder is “poured down” and rinsed with liquid.
- Capsules:Avoid the bitter taste, but are more expensive and require several capsules per dose.
Dosage of kratom
The correct dosage is crucial and varies depending on the variety, freshness, individual weight, tolerance, and desired effects. Generally speaking:
- Low-dose kratom:2–6 grams of dried powder
- High-dose kratom:6–12 grams of dried powder
One teaspoon of dried kratom powder contains about 2.5 grams, one tablespoon about 7 grams.
Effect and duration
The effects of kratom last approximately 3 to 4 hours and begin after about 30 minutes, peaking after about an hour. Taking it on an empty stomach can accelerate the effects, but may also increase side effects.
What does kratom feel like?
Kratom is a fascinating and complex plantcontaining approximately 40 different alkaloids.These alkaloids, each with its own effects, make every kratom strain unique and give it a specific effect profile. How kratom feels depends heavily on the dose and the specific strain.
Effect of low doses
In low doses, kratom has a restorative effect. Many compare it to coffee, but without the negative side effects such as anxiety or nervousness. At this dosage, kratom also has a mild euphoric effect, which helps to lift mood and promote clearer thinking.
These low doses are often used as a nootropic or stimulant to increase physical and mental energy and stamina. The user feels more alert, focused, and energized.
Effects of high doses
At higher doses, the effects of kratom change less. It then has a calming effect, making one feel relaxed, carefree, and tired. These dosages are particularly useful for promoting sleep, reducing anxiety, andrelieving chronic pain or muscle tension.
Summary
Kratom is a versatile plant with both stimulatingand calmingproperties, depending on the dose. Low doses can act as an energy booster and mood enhancer, while higher doses have a calming and pain-relieving effect.
Legal status
In Germany, kratom is currently not approved as a medicine and cannot be officially marketed as a food supplement. It is not on the list of controlled substances, therefore possession and use for personal purposes are not illegal. However, potential users should regularly inform themselves about the current legal situation.