By Mandy Froelich / Life in Bloom
Hey, friends.
What are your thoughts on kratom? If anything, the herb is controversial. Ordinarily, I wouldn’t even think about the stigma that surrounds the plant, which traditionally is sourced from Thailand and Bali. However, after I was approached to try kratom (which I did to officially have an opinion), I suddenly cared much, much more.
What is kratom?
Kratom is a tree. The leaves are used as a recreational drug and as medicine. As a recreational drug, the leaves are chewed or drank as a tea to elevate mood (as a euphoriant) and enhance physical endurance.
As a medicine, kratom is used for anxiety, cough, depression, diabetes, diarrhea, high blood pressure, pain, to improve sexual performance, and to lessen symptoms of opiate withdrawal.
– Rx List
Possible benefits:
The positive effects are similar to drugs like morphine but are generally less intense. Effects of high doses of kratom can include sedation, pain reduction, euphoria and cough suppression. There can also be negative effects of high doses, however, including constipation, nausea and itching, among others.
-The Recovery Village
Side effects:
Kratom can cause many side effects when taken by mouth, including nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, frequent need to urinate, constipation, aggression, hallucinations, delusions, and thyroid problems.
People who use kratom regularly and then stop taking it may experience a decreased appetite, diarrhea, muscle pain, muscle spasms, twitches, watery eyes, anxiety, trouble sleeping or restlessness, negative mood changes, tension, anger, nervousness, hot flashes, and fever.
There is also concern that the sedative effects of kratom might cause people to breathe too slowly. This might prevent people from getting enough oxygen.
– Rx List
Is it legal?
Kratom is legal in Colorado, with an exception in Denver where it is “illegal for human consumption.” There are several other cities, including San Diego, that have banned it.
My experience:
All in all, I did not enjoy my experience with kratom.
Have you taken kratom? Was your experience similar or different? What are your thoughts? Please comment below.
-Mandy
