What to Know About Kratom and Where to Buy It
Curious about Kratom? Here’s an overview of what this unique plant
has to offer.
Kratom has become one of the most popular alternative herbs over the years and is known for its groovy-feeling side effects. Sure, you may have heard about it, but you’re probably wondering exactly what kratom is and where to buy Kratom in a smoke shop or other nearby stores. So if you’re interested in the hype and finding out more about the potential healing effects, keep reading for a quick rundown of the plant, its benefits, side effects, and more.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree related to the coffee family and is native to Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia but can also be found in Myanmar and Papua New Guinea. The tree’s scientific name is Mitragyna speciosa, and the leaves contain different types of beneficial alkaloids. Among them are mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, two chemicals known for their psychoactive and painrelieving effects. Kratom behaves like an opiate receptor agonist similar to morphine and other opiates.
This healing herb has been used traditionally for centuries in Southeast Asia as a natural remedy for pain, anxiety, diarrhea, and fatigue. The leaves can be dried, consumed like tea or ground to powder, and dosed into capsules. You can smoke the leaves, but it is a less common form of consumption.
Since the early 2000s, Kratom has become a popular alternative for pain management and recreational purposes in the United States. It’s sold in various forms, including leaves, powder, capsules, and extracts. Like many herbal alternatives, Kratom has yet to be approved by the FDA but is widely considered safe when used correctly and in moderation.
Why Do People Use Kratom?
As with many herbal supplements, there are many known benefits to using Kratom, which is still being studied and tested. Here are the most common uses for Kratom.
Pain relief
Kratom has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for pain, and some studies suggest that it may have the potential as a pain reliever. Kratom appears to work by activating the mu-opioid receptors in the brain, which are involved in pain perception.
Anxiety reduction
Some people use Kratom to reduce anxiety and may promote relaxation by activating the GABA receptors in the brain, which promote calmness and reduce stress.
Opioid withdrawal
Kratom has been used to reduce the symptoms of opioid withdrawal, which can be severe and difficult to manage. Kratom may help to reduce withdrawal symptoms by interacting with the same receptors in the brain as opioids without producing the same level of dependence or respiratory depression.
Energy boost
Kratom has stimulant-like effects that some people use to boost their energy and improve their concentration. Kratom may also help to increase power by increasing the release of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain.
Mood enhancement
Kratom may have mood-enhancing effects that some people find beneficial. Kratom may help to enhance mood by increasing the release of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain.
Common Effects of Kratom
While people use Kratom for several different ailments or alleviation, people enjoy several common effects for recreation and medicinal reasons. Here are the most common effects of Kratom:
● Sedation
● Stimulation
● Euphoria
● Enhanced focus
● Muscle relaxation
● Pain relief
What are all of the Different Kratom Strains?
Kratom has several strains or “vein types.” Each type has its own unique and distinct properties and effects. Here are the most common.
Maeng Da– Maeng Da is one of the most popular strains known for its energizing effects. It is available in three different colors, red, green, and white.
Bali– Bali is a classic strain known for its relaxing and pain-relieving properties.
Borneo– Borneo is a highly potent red, green, and white strain. It is known for its analgesic and sedative effects.
Thai– Thai Kratom is another highly potent strain in red, green, and white varieties. It is known for its mood-boosting and energizing effects.
Indo– Indo Kratom is a milder strain in red, green, and white varieties. It is known for its painrelieving and relaxing effects.
Malay– Malay Kratom is a milder strain available in red, green, and white varieties. It is known for its mood-boosting and energizing effects.
Potential Side Effects of Kratom
Even though Kratom may remedy or alleviate some ailments, It’s important to know the potential side effects that may occur with Kratom. Negative side effects are uncommon, they can happen if you don’t consume it as advised. Kratom may cause some unpleasant side effects, including nausea and vomiting, constipation, dizziness, sweating, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia.
Just be sure to always follow directions when dealing with Kratom, and remember, you can always take more, not less! You never want to overdo it, especially when trying an herb for the first time. Consult a doctor if you plan to mix Kratom with other supplements or medicines.
Where to Buy Kratom at Your Local Smoke Shop
Some health food stores, smoke shops, and online retailers carry kratom products. Researching and ensuring that the retailer you buy from is reputable and offers high-quality products is essential. When purchasing Kratom from a smoke shop online, it is important to look for a vendor that offers lab-tested products and provides information about the source and quality of their Kratom.
Most of the time, you’ll be able to find Kratom at your local smoke shop, along with similar items such as CBD and other natural herbs. While kratom is not legal in all fifty states, you can pick up some of the most trusted kratom brands like Just Kratom, OPMS, and K Shot one of our World of Smoke & Vape locations across Florida, Oklahoma, and Texas. To learn more about kratom and its legality and potential benefits, hop over to the Just Kratom blog!
