Kratom, An Antidepressant; Not Safe To Consume
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant that grows in the rainforest of Southeast Asia. People use its leaves to make tea and chew stem for its psychoactive properties.
When it comes to the use of an antidepressant, there are many questions people have.
What is an effective treatment for the downturn? Is kratom effective as an antidepressant? Are there any potential side effects associated with it? Is kratom safer than prescription antidepressants? Are there any interactions between kratom and other medications?
Kratom As An Antidepressant
An antidepressant is a medication used to treat discomfort and other mental health conditions.
Kratom is a herbal supplement used as a natural antidepressant for centuries. It is effective in treating mild to moderate depression in some people.
It works by altering the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, in the brain. It stimulates the opioid receptors in the brain, leading to increased dopamine levels.
So, whenever people feel like they have lost control over their lives or may stick in a cycle of negative thoughts, self-blame, and uneasiness, kratom helps them relieve the symptoms of discomfort.
It contains several alkaloids that have antidepressant-like effects. The most potent compounds are mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which are ten times stronger than serotonin.
It also treats restlessness and fatigue. Several studies have shown that it may be helpful for people who have experienced severe abrasion.
It can also help alleviate trauma symptoms, especially in people who have not responded well to other medications or therapy.
Kratom Effects
Kratom has several effects on the body. For example, it can create a feeling of calmness or relaxation and stimulate the mind. It can also cause drowsiness and help with insomnia. These effects include:
Sedative Effects
The sedative effects of kratom are both physical and psychological. The physical impacts include calmness, drowsiness, and lethargy. The psychological effects include feelings of well-being, increased focus and concentration, and decreased discomfort.
These effects are due to the alkaloids present in the plant. They are comparable to a strong cup of coffee or tea and can last up to four hours.
It is because kratom works by binding to sedative receptors in the brain, which activates them. However, this only occurs during the acute phase of kratom use, which lasts about 8 hours.
High doses over a more extensive period (up to 72 hours) produce mild euphoria and a sense of well-being.
Stimulating Effects
Kratom is a stimulant that increases energy levels, improves mood, and increases alertness. It also stimulates the nervous system and may cause jitters, rapid heartbeat, tremors, sweating, and tingling sensations in the hands and feet.
It is a stimulant for those with trouble with energy levels or lack of focus. The stimulating effects can last for 3–4 hours after ingestion. It increases alertness and wakefulness without causing drowsiness or fatigue.
It makes it a popular alternative for people experiencing trouble sleeping, energy levels, lack of focus, or tiredness due to discomfort or downturn.
Side Effects: Is Kratom Safe Or Not?
Kratom is dangerous if people consume its high dosage.
Some kratom side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Sweating
- Constipation
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate (irregular pulse)
- Upset stomach or diarrhea
The safety of kratom is a contested issue with strong opinions on both sides. On the one hand, many believe it is a safe and natural way to manage discomfort and uneasiness.
On the other hand, there is evidence that it can be dangerous and potentially compulsive. While there is little research about the plant, it is essential to understand the risks before using it.
Depending on their body size, age, and health condition, it can affect users differently. It is also essential to consult a healthcare professional before taking the substance. They can help you understand the potential risks and their safe use.
Can Moderate Dose Make Kratom Safe?
First, people need to know how much kratom is safe to use.
To make it safe, people must take a moderate dose at first. Then as tolerance increases, slowly increase the dosage until they reach the desired effect.
This way, people will know what kratom dosage is correct for them and how much kratom is too much or too little.
According to experts, a moderate dose of kratom is safe to consume regularly as long as one does not take more than the recommended dosage.
Here are some tips on how to make it safe for use:
1) Always start with low doses and observe your body’s reaction to the substance before taking higher doses.
2) If you have any medical condition or condition that may affect your health negatively, always consult your doctor before taking any medication.
3) Never take more than the prescribed dosage of kratom regularly.
The following are the dose guidelines for it:
Low dose: 1 to 5 g
Medium dose: 5 – 10 g
High dose: 10 – 15 g
Conclusion
Kratom is an antidepressant that helps treat restlessness and other mood disorders. However, it can be dangerous in large quantities, as it can cause dehydration and other serious medical issues.
Kratom is safer than prescription antidepressants, but it is still essential that you counsel a doctor before commencing treatment.
The best way to ensure you get all the benefits of kratom is to keep your dosage low and consistent throughout the day. Do not take too much at once or too often. It will help eliminate any possible side effects at higher doses.
The correct dosage and careful monitoring can be a safe and effective way to treat uneasiness and other disorders.
Disclaimer
There is limited research on the safety and efficacy of kratom, and people should use it cautiously. It can have serious side effects if taken in high doses. So it is vital to approach with caution while using this herb.
