Ever heard of kratom? This Southeast Asian tropical tree has people talking and debating . Let’s explore this controversial plant, its effects, uses, and legal status.
What’s the Big Deal?
Kratom isn’t your typical houseplant. In its native regions, people call it thang, kakuam, and biak. Its leaves pack a punch with two main psychoactive ingredients: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds give kratom a split personality – it stimulates at low doses and sedates at high doses.
But here’s the twist: it’s not a simple upper or downer. Kratom’s effects can be as changeable as UK weather causing psychotic symptoms and both mental and physical dependence. It’s like that mate who’s great at first but turns into a bit of a problem later on.
From Leaf to Capsule: How Do People Use It?
Want a cup of kratom tea? Or maybe you’d like it in a small capsule? The ways people take kratom are as diverse as the reasons they use it. Some people stick to tradition chewing the leaves like folks in Southeast Asia. Others choose the newer method of swallowing pills or drinking extracts.
But don’t let its natural origins fool you. Just because it grows on a tree doesn’t mean it’s safe. As the saying goes even paradise has its snakes.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Kratom’s Effects
Now, let’s talk about what kratom does to your body. Small amounts work like a strong coffee – you become alert, talkative, and energetic. But increase the dose, and you’ll find yourself drowsy and ready for bed.
But it’s not all good news. Kratom has an impact on addiction quicker than you might think. And that’s not even the worst part. Some unfortunate users have gone through full-blown psychosis, including hallucinations, delusions, and confusion. It’s like a terrible experience without any enjoyment.
The Body’s Rebellion: Physical Effects of Kratom
Your body isn’t happy about kratom either. It might begin with mild nausea, itching, or sweating – nothing too alarming, right? But there’s more to it! Constipation frequent urination, and a rapid heartbeat are just the start.
The main event has an impact on potential anorexia, weight loss, insomnia, and even seizures. We should also remember the chance of liver damage. Your body starts a protest, and every organ wants to join.
Legal Limbo: Kratom’s Status Around the World
This is where things become interesting. Kratom’s legal status remains as clear as mud changing a lot from place to place.
In the UK, they’ve taken a tough position. Since 2016, the Psychoactive Substances Act has stopped the sale, import, or export of kratom. They’ve told kratom, “Sorry mate, you can’t come here.”
Take a trip across the Irish Sea, and you’ll see an even tougher stance. In 2017, the Republic of Ireland put kratom in the Schedule 1 category – the highest level for illegal drugs. They’ve told kratom, “You’re as welcome here as a fox in a henhouse.”
Meanwhile, in the US, kratom dances with legality. The Controlled Substances Act doesn’t regulate it (good luck saying that five times), but some states enforce their own laws. The FDA disapproves too denying its approval for medical use. And the DEA? They keep kratom under watch labeling it a “Drug and Chemical of Concern”. Kratom seems to be on a kind of double secret probation.
The Bottom Line: Be Careful
So, what can we take away from all this? Kratom isn’t just a harmless herbal supplement you’ll find at your local health food store. It’s a complex risky substance caught up in legal and health debates.
While some praise its benefits, the dangers are real and big. From addiction and psychosis to physical health issues, kratom’s downsides shouldn’t be ignored.
Keep in mind, natural doesn’t always mean safe. After all, poison ivy grows in nature too, but you wouldn’t toss it in your salad right?
To wrap up when it comes to kratom, it’s smart to stay alert and keep your money in your wallet. Like people often say, “It’s better to be careful than to regret later” – and this holds true for kratom.
Photo: “Kratom” by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Testing
Zoom Testing is a leading UK drug testing company and a supplier of Drug Test Kits.
