Over recent years, Kratom has drawn the attention of doctors and addiction specialists alike.
It offers numerous benefits, including pain relief, libido enhancement, and mood enhancement. It’s also used to help heroin and pill addicts taper off opioids.
All these fantastic benefits have led Kratom to take the world by storm. Nowadays, you can find it in just about any smoke shop or gas station.
However, many people overlook the short and long-term side effects of Kratom. Effects on the body vary depending on dosage and frequency of use.
Thus, today we’ll discuss everything you need to know about how Kratom affects the body and how to use it safely. So read on!
Kratom Effects on the Body
Although side effects vary, some of the more common side effects of Kratom include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Itchiness
- Sleepiness
Some of the more severe side effects (which result from high doses) include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Extreme nausea
- Paranoia
- Liver damage
- Overdose
It’s important to note that side effects can vary by strain. For instance, Yellow Kratom has a higher chance of causing anxiety or paranoia because of its stimulating effects. On the other hand, Red Kratom may result in sleepiness since it’s a more sedating strain.
Long-term Effects of Kratom
Because it’s a relatively new drug, there are very few studies on the long-term effects of Kratom on the body.
However, according to Healthline, repeated Kratom use often leads to constipation. Thus, passing a bowel movement can become difficult and potentially painful.
Another common side-effect of repeated Kratom use is insomnia. Long-term Kratom users have reported having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Other long-term side effects of Kratom use include weight loss, skin-darkening, loss of appetite, and dry mouth.
Kratom Withdrawals
One of the most significant drawbacks when it comes to Kratom usage is its potential for abuse. Kratom is frequently used to help opiate addicts taper off drugs.
Although, often, drug users end up becoming addicted to Kratom. Consequently, suddenly stopping Kratom can result in withdrawal symptoms.
Some of these symptoms include:
- Hostility
- Inability to work
- Flu-like symptoms
- Muscle and bone pain
- Twitching of the limbs
- Aggression
How to Use Kratom Safely
Because Kratom poses the risk of abuse, it’s essential to keep several things in mind when using it. Some of the most important tips include:
- Only take it as needed
- Don’t increase your dosage over time
- Be on the lookout for signs of addiction (cravings, withdrawals, dosage increases)
The recommended dose for new Kratom users is around 2 grams. Each capsule contains about 500 mg of Kratom. Therefore, you should take approximately four capsules to start.
On the other hand, if you buy Kratom in powdered form, you will need a scale to measure your dosage. Never attempt to eyeball your dosage, as this could result in an overdose.
Is Kratom Right for Me?
Kratom, when used in small and infrequent doses, can offer an array of benefits. Some of these benefits include mood enhancement, increased libido, and pain relief.
However, before taking Kratom, it’s essential to know its side effects.
More common side effects include dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, sweating, and itchiness. Long-term usage can result in skin darkening, insomnia, weight loss, and anorexia.
It’s always important to consult a doctor before taking Kratom. Effects on the body may vary, and it may not be suitable for you.
If you found this article beneficial, be sure to check out our other health-related articles.