A tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, kratom (mitragyna speciosa) is a member of the rubiaceae family, which also includes coffee. Indigenous individuals have always used kratom leaves for their stimulant, analgesic, and mood-enhancing effects. Interest in kratom as a nootropic supplement has increased recently among individuals looking to improve alertness, focus, and cognition. This article offers a thorough introduction to using kratom responsibly as a nootropic supplement by examining its chemistry, health advantages, ideal dosage, side effects, and potential drug interactions.
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Nature of Kratom
Kratom leaves come in three primary color variations, each of which is linked to a different set of effects:
1. Red-veined Kratom: Known for its sedative and analgesic properties, red-veined kratom is frequently used for relaxation and pain reduction.
2. White-veined Kratom: This strain of kratom is known for its stimulating effects and is frequently used to increase energy, focus, and alertness.
3. Green-veined Kratom: Green-veined kratom combines the benefits of red and white kratom while avoiding the sedative effects of red-veined kratom. It is frequently used to give individuals a slight energy boost and improved focus.
Health Benefits of Kratom
A. Improved Cognition
Even though kratom isn’t typically thought of as a nootropic, its stimulant effects, especially those of the white- and green-veined kinds, can improve cognitive performance by boosting alertness and focus. The interaction between mitragynine and the adrenergic and serotonergic systems, which results in elevated levels of norepinephrine and serotonin, is thought to be the cause of these effects.
B. Mood Boosting Effects
According to some reports, kratom can elevate mood and lessen anxiety and depressive symptoms. These effects are probably brought on by how it interacts with opioid receptors and modifies levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.
C. Pain Relief
Kratom’s effects on mu-opioid receptors in the brain are principally responsible for its analgesic effects. It has been demonstrated that both mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine activate these receptors and produce pain alleviation comparable to that of opioid drugs.
D. Power and Stamina
Kratom’s stimulant properties, especially when taken with white- or green-veined kratom types, can raise energy and increase physical endurance. Manual laborers in Southeast Asia have historically used these properties to boost output and lessen tiredness.
The Chemistry of Kratom
Kratom contains a variety of bio-active alkaloids, the most well-known and researched of which are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids exert a variety of actions by interacting with opioid receptors in the brain, especially mu-opioid receptors. Kratom also includes other bio-active substances as paynantheine, speciogynine, and speciociliatine in addition to these main alkaloids.
Physiological Properties of Kratom
Kratom’s bio-active alkaloids, particularly mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with a variety of brain receptors and influence a number of neurotransmitter systems to produce its medicinal and nootropic effects.
- Opioid Receptor Agonism: Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine exhibit mu-opioid receptor agonist activity, which is the main property of the kratom alkaloids. This combination has analgesic effects, mood-lifting effects, and can cause sedation. In contrast to traditional opioids, these alkaloids exhibit partial agonism and skewed signaling, which reduces the risk of respiratory depression.
- Modulation of the Adrenergic System: Mitragynine interacts with the adrenergic system, particularly the Alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which contributes to the stimulant and nootropic effects of kratom. Norepinephrine, a substance that improves alertness, attention, and energy, is released as a result of this interaction.
- Modulation of the Serotonergic System: It has been demonstrated that kratom alkaloids have an effect on the serotonergic system, affecting the release and absorption of serotonin. This modulation helps kratom’s mood-lifting effects and can help with anxiety and depressive symptoms.
- Modulation of the Dopaminergic System: It has also been noted that the alkaloids in kratom modify the dopaminergic system, influencing dopamine release and reuptake. This contact can lead to improved mood and greater motivation.
- Other Receptor Connections: The alkaloids found in kratom have also been shown to interact with a number of additional receptors, including the delta-opioid, kappa-opioid, and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, in addition to the main processes already described. The varied spectrum of effects that kratom can have may be influenced by these interactions, but further research is required to fully understand their ramifications.
Overall, opioid receptor agonism, regulation of the adrenergic and serotonergic systems, and modulation of the dopaminergic system are all part of the complex and varied physiological properties of kratom. The stimulant, analgesic, mood-enhancing, cognitive-improving, and mood-improving properties of kratom are produced through a combination of these properties.
Optimal Dosage of Kratom
Due to the variable strength of various strains and individual sensitivities to the plant, it can be difficult to determine the ideal dosage of kratom for cognitive enhancement. Kratom generally has stimulating effects at lower dosages (1–5 grams), whereas sedative and analgesic effects can occur at greater doses (5–15 grams).
Starting with a smaller dose (1-3 grams) of white- or green-veined kratom and adjusting the dosage based on response and desired effects is advised for improving cognitive function. To ensure safety and effectiveness, it is crucial to use high-quality, laboratory-tested kratom products from reliable providers. Regular usage of kratom can lead to tolerance, thus it is best to use it occasionally or switch up the strains to reduce this danger.
Side Effects of Kratom
Kratom can have side effects, just like any dietary supplement, especially if used in greater quantities or for a longer period of time. Many frequent side effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
With excessive use or in individuals with pre-existing medical issues, side effects could become more severe. They can consist of:
- Liver toxicity
- Seizures
- Respiratory depression
- Addiction and withdrawal symptoms
It is crucial to use kratom sensibly, be aware of any potential side effects, and stop using it if any unpleasant effects appear. Before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions or those using prescription drugs, speak with a healthcare provider.
Potential Substance Interactions with Kratom
When taken appropriately, kratom is generally regarded as safe, although there are a few possible drug interactions to be aware of:
1. Drugs that Depress the Central Nervous System: Kratom can intensify the effects of drugs that depress the CNS, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, or alcohol, raising the risk of sedation and respiratory depression. The use of kratom in conjunction with these substances must be done with extreme caution.
2. Stimulants: Using kratom along with stimulants like amphetamines or caffeine can cause heightened anxiety, blood pressure, and heart rate. It is best to stay away from this combo.
3. Serotonergic Drugs: Kratom can interact with drugs that affect serotonin, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), raising the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal disease.
4. Substrates of the Cytochrome P450 Enzyme System: Kratom can inhibit the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, which can affect how drugs that are substrates of this system are metabolised. If you are taking drugs that are processed by this enzyme system, talk to your doctor first before starting a kratm supplement.
Responsible Use of Kratom as a Nootropic Supplement
The following actions are advised to ensure the optimum ethical use of kratom as a nootropic supplement:
1. Before starting a supplements regimen, speak with a healthcare provider, especially if you have a pre-existing condition or you’re using prescription medication.
2. Ensure that the kratom product you choose is of the highest caliber and has undergone lab testing from a trustworthy supplier.
3. To improve cognitive function, start with a small dose of white- or green-veined kratom (1-3 grams), and then increase or decrease the dosage in accordance with personal response and desired results.
4. Use caution and be aware of possible drug interactions when taking kratom with other prescription drugs or dietary supplements.
5. Keep an eye out for side effects and stop using the medication if they materialize.
Kratom: Conclusion
Kratom, derived from the mitragyna speciosa tree found in Southeast Asia and Africa, has gained attention as a potential alternative to opioids for pain relief and overcoming addiction. While low doses of kratom can enhance alertness, high doses can lead to decreased pain, pleasure, and sedation due to its interaction with opioid receptors in the brain.
However, it is essential to recognize that kratom is not without risks. Despite its natural origins, severe side effects such as aggression, altered mental status, and even fatalities have been associated with its use. Therefore, caution should be exercised when considering kratom as a supplement. Remember that individual responses to kratom can vary, and experimentation may be necessary to find the right strain and product format that aligns with your desired benefits and personal preference. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any supplements or alternative treatments.
References:
- Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) dependence, withdrawal symptoms and craving in regular users. Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376871614000326
- From Kratom to mitragynine and its derivatives: physiological and behavioural effects related to use, abuse, and addiction. Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763412001937
- Effects of an alkaloid-rich extract from Mitragyna speciosa leaves and fluoxetine on sleep profiles, EEG spectral frequency and ethanol withdrawal symptoms in rats. Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006899309006960
- Pharmacology of kratom: an emerging botanical agent with stimulant, analgesic and opioid-like effects. Link: https://jaoa.org/article.aspx?articleid=2094342
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
