Kratomtea has been used traditionally in Southeast Asia to boost energy and productivity.
It has more recently gained popularity for managing pain, depression, anxiety, and substance use withdrawal symptoms.
Similarly, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has labeled kratom a drug and chemical of concern.
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That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
What Is Kratom Tea?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa)is a tree native to Southeast Asia.
Kratom tree leaves contain two chemical compounds that are known to have psychoactive effects:mitragynineand 7-hydroxymitragynine.
Kratom leaves are crushed and dried to make kratom tea leaves.
The leaves can also be smoked or made into a powder, extract, or capsule.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, animal studies suggest that kratom has antidepressant and pain-relieving properties.
Kratom is gaining popularity in Western societies.
Stimulant-like effects include increased energy and alertness, while opioid-like effects include pain relief and relaxation.
There are still a lot of unknowns about the chemical compounds related to kratom.
How long does kratom take to work and how long does it last?
Stimulant-like effects are more pronounced at lower doses (1-5 grams) of kratom.
These effects are generally felt within 10-15 minutes of ingesting and last up to 2 hours.
Is Kratom Legal?
Is Kratom Safe?
The benefits and side effects of kratom are under debate.
Before you purchase kratom tea, get as much information as possible regarding its origin and processing.
Because the FDA does not regulate kratom, there is a risk of buying products contaminated with harmful substances.
you’re free to find countless recipes for kratom tea online.
Many recipes recommend steeping the tea for 15 to 20 minutes.
Flavor enhancers like lemon and honey may also be added to the tea to help mask the bitter taste.
The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use and warns against its potential adverse effects.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Kratom.
Drug Enforcement Administration.Drug Fact Sheet: Kratom.
Legislative Analysis and Public Policy Association.Kratom: Summary of State Laws.
United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs.
2016;17(4):580.
Published 2016 Apr 16. doi:10.3390/ijms17040580
