Kratom

At low doses, kratom has a stimulating effect similar to caffeine, enhancing alertness, performance, and libido. In Southeast Asia, the powder is used in traditional medicine to treat, among other things, diarrhea, inflammation, fever, pain, anxiety, and depression. At higher doses, opioid-like effects occur. At these doses, it has analgesic, anxiolytic, sedative, and euphoric effects. The euphoric effect is generally described as rather mild. High doses can lead to a dreamlike state.

Onset of effect

After 20-40 minutes.

Duration of action

2-4 hours.

Dried leaves, chewed or drunk as a tea (rarely smoked):

Light: 2-3g

Medium: 3-5g

Strong: 5-8g

The effect and active ingredient content can vary greatly depending on the dosage and country of origin of the leaves.

Appearances

Fresh or dried leaves, as powder, tea or in capsules.

Possible unwanted side effects include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and dry mouth. Certain varieties can cause extreme fatigue to the point of drowsiness. In addition, psychosis can be induced.

Overdose

High doses, like opioids, can cause respiratory depression.

Long-term risks/consequences

Regular use can lead to physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, sleep disturbances, sweating and craving. In addition, weight loss, fatigue, constipation, bowel obstruction, and hyperpigmentation of the cheeks are other long-term risks.

Take regular breaks from use. As with opioids, tolerance builds up quickly.

Consumption of stomach acid neutralizing drugs (antacids), turmeric with pepper, grapefruit juice, watercress or the dietary supplement agmatine enhances the effect of kratom. There is a risk of overdose.