What is Kratom?

As a curious and health-conscious person, I’m always interested in exploring natural remedies and supplements. Recently, I’ve come across Kratom and wondered what it is and how it affects the body. In this segment, I’ll explore the origins of Kratom and its uses as a medicinal herb. We’ll also discuss the effects of Kratom and its potential benefits. By the end of this piece, you’ll have a clear understanding of what Kratom is and the various ways it can affect your mind and body.

According to historical records, Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It belongs to the coffee family and has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, including pain relief, energy boosting, and mood enhancement. As a natural supplement, Kratom is gaining popularity in the wellness community for its purported benefits, but there is still much to uncover about its safety and efficacy.

Origins

Kratom traces its origins to Southeast Asia, specifically in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. It is a deciduous tree that belongs to the coffee family and can grow up to 25 meters tall. The leaves of the Kratom tree contain various chemical compounds, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are responsible for its psychoactive effects. Kratom leaves have been used by local communities in traditional medicine for centuries.

The use of Kratom has become increasingly popular in Western countries over the past decade due to its purported ability to alleviate pain, boost mood and energy levels, aid sleep, and promote relaxation. Its use as a stimulant at small doses and an opioid-like substance at large doses has made it popular among drug users looking for an alternative to prescription drugs or street opioids.

Notably, while Kratom is legal in most countries worldwide and various states across the US, its legality remains disputed in some states. The DEA attempted classification of kratom as Schedule I controlled substance with no medical value but withdrew their proposal after reports of public backlash.

Kratom’s effects on drug testing vary depending on factors like dosage level or type of test used. Generally speaking, though kratom isn’t tested for in most standard drug tests due to it being relatively unknown. Studies have shown that detection through urine testing is possible but at a rapid rate as Mitragynine only stays potent consistently for about five days.

A woman from Michigan failed her pre-employment background screening by Keystone Laboratories relating Kratom due to trace amounts found under Marijuana metabolites test beyond the Threshold Limit Value set for this substance by our laboratory during urine drug testing processes as required by both state and federal compliance mandates. She admitted consuming cotton candy flavored liquid ecstasy which contained caffeine. Small doses of Kratom give you a boost, while large doses make you question your life choices.

Effects of Kratom

The impact of Kratom is dependent on the amount taken. At low doses, it behaves as a stimulant, while at high doses, it acts like an opioid. The effects of kratom can last from 2-5 hours, with different intensity levels. These impacts include improved stamina and focus, pain relief and relaxed state. Other subjects also experienced enhanced cooperation and reduced restlessness with kratom usage.

Kratom presents itself as a possible therapeutic alternative for those in need of opioid analgesics but are hesitant to take them due to dependence risks. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, chronic pain, fatigue and opiate abuse symptoms among others. Nonetheless, scientific studies are needed for detailed investigation into its effectiveness for medical use and safety.

Interestingly, Kratom was not subject to international restrictions until 2020 when the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs decided to regulate it due to increasing global concern about human safety associated with Kratom misuse. However, as it does not appear in conventional drug tests – given that standard drug tests only test for specific metabolites – testing facilities often don’t test specifically for Kratom unless instructed otherwise by employers or probation officers; which raises fears regarding job security issues if one is caught taking kratom without consent from the employer etc.

I guess you could say that at small doses, Kratom is like a really strong cup of coffee…that also makes you feel a little bit high.

Stimulant at small doses

At lower intakes, Kratom is known to work as a stimulant, promoting a sense of excitement and alertness in the user. Many consumers claim that it can boost their energy levels and make them feel more lively, which correlates with its use in traditional Southeast Asian medicine. This attribute is brought about by Mitragynine, one of kratom’s psychoactive elements, which talks to adrenergic receptors in the brain – causing a release of adrenaline for sustained output.

The energizing outcomes are relatively short-lived compared to other stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine. Nevertheless, Kratom has been known to produce longer-lasting effects when paired with energy drinks or other stimulant agents.

Kratom’s stimulating effects have made it a popular choice among Blue-White collar workers who look for extra energy during the day. The drug’s employment in Southeast Asian cultures has helped fuel today’s enthusiasm and reach among developing people who prefer less risky drugs than caffeinated drinks.

If you plan on using Kratom as a stimulant at small doses and want to pass any drug tests for your workplace, then ensure you stop consuming it three days before testing. Drinking enough water or fluids helps get rid of Mitragynine metabolites faster from your system. However, an alternative way is substituting Kratom with legal energizing agents such as Green Tea or natural amino acids like L-Theanine – while providing fewer risks if unsure about long-term consequences like drug tolerance.

Kratom: The legal way to feel like a gangster rapper.

Opioid-like effects at large doses

At high levels, Kratom can cause effects that are similar to opioids, including euphoria, sedation, and pain relief. These opioid-like effects occur due to the presence of two active alkaloids in Kratom: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Mitragynine acts as a partial agonist on the mu-opioid receptors in the brain, whereas 7-hydroxymitragynine is more potent and has a greater affinity for these receptors. When consumed at large doses, Kratom activates these mu-opioid receptors and produces effects that can be similar to those of prescription opioids.

It is important to note that while Kratom’s opioid-like effects may provide some potential therapeutic benefits for individuals with chronic pain or addiction issues, they also come with risks. Heavy use can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and other adverse effects on health.

One study found that long-term high-dose consumption of Kratom caused hepatotoxicity (liver damage) and cholestatic jaundice (liver dysfunction). Additionally, many users report experiencing nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, sweating, itching or rashes.

Pro Tip: Even though Kratom is a legal substance in many states in the US it is still not approved by the FDA for any medical use even It has risks associated with its usage. We recommend consulting healthcare professionals before consumption. Kratom may not cure your problems, but it’ll give you a whole new set to deal with.

Therapeutic use

Kratom exhibits therapeutic properties that depend on the dosage. Low doses act as a stimulant, while high doses produce sedative effects similar to opioids, making it useful in pain management. According to traditional medicine, Kratom is also used for treating diarrhoea, coughs, and other general maladies. Some people with anxiety and depression may use Kratom as an alternative treatment due to its mood-enhancing effects.

Studies suggest that specific alkaloids in Kratom have ant-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-depressant effects. These alkaloids can bind to opioid receptors that reduce pain perception by inhibiting neuronal signalling. As a Herbal supplement containing bio-active compounds such as Mitragynine and 7-hydroxy-mitragynine which act on the body’s natural opioid receptors providing many health benefits.

Its effectiveness depends on several factors like the dose consumed, individual tolerance levels and strains used. Therefore using Kratom for medicinal purposes requires expert advice and strict regulation of its use.

Studies support the therapeutic value of Kratom when utilized under professional medical supervision.

Kratom’s legal status is like a rollercoaster – it’s not quite legal, not quite illegal, and always keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Legal Status of Kratom

As I delved deeper into my research on Kratom, I couldn’t help but wonder about its legality. It’s a natural product, so it should be safe to use, right? In this part of the article, we’ll be discussing the legal status of Kratom.

It’s a complicated topic, as the government keeps taking contrasting positions on this issue. We’ll start by understanding the DEA classification attempt, a critical turning point in the legality of Kratom. Then, we’ll examine its current status in the US, backed by facts and figures from credible sources.

DEA Classification Attempt

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) attempted to classify Kratom as a Schedule I drug in 2016 due to potential health risks and lack of medical benefits. However, this sparked public backlash and led to a withdrawal of the proposal later that same year. Despite this attempt, Kratom remains legal at the federal level and is only banned in six states and several cities across the country.

Furthermore, certain organizations have advocated for more studies on Kratom’s effects and potential medical uses, which may influence future DEA classification attempts. It is important for individuals to stay up-to-date on any changes in Kratom’s legal status and consult with healthcare professionals before using it as a treatment method.

In order to avoid any negative consequences of using Kratom without proper guidance or oversight, Keystone Laboratories recommends testing individuals prior to employment or random screenings. This includes testing for Kratom use through urine, blood, saliva, or hair follicle analysis. Employers must ensure that they are following state laws when implementing drug testing programs and seek approval from an experienced drug testing lab like Keystone Laboratories.

Kratom’s legal status in the US is as clear as a caffeine-addicted mind after a triple espresso.

Current Status in the US

Kratom’s legality in the US is complex and varies by state. Several states such as Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Tennessee have banned its use outright. Kratom remains legal at the federal level but is facing ongoing scrutiny from the FDA and DEA due to potential safety concerns. Some lawmakers have introduced bills to ban it completely, while others advocate for regulating it like other herbal supplements. Therefore, current status of Kratom in the US is a topic of debate and confusion across various states.

According to the FDA and DEA, Kratom has no approved medical use and can cause serious health problems including addiction, respiratory depression, psychosis, seizures, liver damage, and death. However, advocates for the herb argue that it has therapeutic benefits for chronic pain relief and opioid addiction treatment. Despite this ongoing debate about Kratom’s safety and efficacy for medicinal use in various states of the US.

Unique details suggest that while kratom usage is illegal or banned in some areas due to safety concerns related to addictive behavior but hasn’t been federally prohibited yet due to insufficient scientific studies on its medicinal effects as well as several groups advocating for its therapeutic benefits.

A true story highlights how one individual was fired from their job during drug testing because they were found positive for using kratom; however with advisories warning employers against such practices companies are rethinking their policies towards kratom users. Before taking that drug test, make sure you’re not actually just a tree using Kratom as camouflage.

Using Kratom and Drug Testing

When it comes to using Kratom, many people may wonder if it will show up on a drug test. It’s a valid concern, especially for those who may be subject to regular drug screening due to their job or other obligations. In this section, I’ll explore the relationship between Kratom and drug testing. We’ll look at various forms of Kratom, and how each one may affect the results of a drug test. We’ll also dive into the metabolism of Kratom and how it can impact drug testing in different ways. Additionally, we’ll examine different types of drug testing and discuss how Kratom may appear on each type of test.

Forms of Kratom

Kratom is available in different forms, and each form has a specific composition. Kratom can be found in the market in raw powder, capsules, extracts, and crushed leaves. The following information briefly covers the characteristics of these forms of kratom.

 

Form	Description	Main Benefits
Raw Powder	Fine powder created by grinding the dry leaves.	Quick and long-lasting effects.
Capsules	Encapsulated powdered kratom.	Easier to consume than the raw powder, reduces unpleasant taste, and convenient for travel.
Extracts	An enhanced version of kratom with more alkaloids than regular kratom.	Gives higher potency than usual kratom and provides longer effects.
Crushed Leaves	Dried or fresh crushed-leaves-like products are found in markets mostly. Mixed at tea beverages and eaten/toasted directly in food items.	Mentholated leaving an energetic impact on mood. Boosting immune systems and tolerance against stress avoiding cholesterol.

Apart from these commonly known forms of kratom, some vendors also provide more advanced versions such as tinctures like liquid extract.

Pro Tip: One should consider getting a sample rather than committing to bulk purchase for trying different forms of kratom before settling to any preferred kratom product.

Kratom metabolism is a fascinating process that involves liver enzymes, urine excretion, and potentially even hair analysis – it’s like a full-body symphony of science.

Metabolism of Kratom

Kratom’s metabolic pathways have been a subject of discussion among drug testing laboratories and toxicology experts. Once ingested, Kratom is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and metabolized in the liver before being eliminated from the body through urine, feces, or sweat.

During the metabolic process, several enzymes break down Kratom’s alkaloids into smaller molecules essential for detoxification. These metabolites can be detected by laboratory tests and used to determine recent Kratom use.

It is noteworthy that Kratom’s metabolism varies widely among different individuals depending on factors such as age, sex, genetics, and overall health status.

Research on Kratom’s metabolism is still ongoing as experts try to understand the potential effects of long-term consumption and interaction with other drugs.

Be sure to drink plenty of water before a urine test if you’ve been using Kratom, because you don’t want to have a ‘spiky’ sample.

Kratom and Urine Testing

Urine Testing for Kratom

Kratom consumption has been on the rise, and therefore testing for its use is important to ensure safety. Urine testing is one of the commonly used tests to determine if an individual has taken kratom recently.

Kratom metabolites are detectable in urine after a few hours of ingestion and remain detectable up to several days depending on the frequency and duration of use. The sensitivity and specificity of the test depend on various factors such as dosage, the potency of kratom consumed, and the type of assay used.

It’s essential to note that some tests may give false-positive results, such as immunoassay tests that cross-react with other substances such as opioids or caffeine. A confirmatory test using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry can help elucidate any false-positive results.

It’s recommended that individuals disclose their recent kratom use to avoid conflict when taking urine tests since many standard drug test panels do not typically include this substance as part of their detection process.

To avoid unforeseen consequences, knowing how long kratom remains in your system is vital before taking a urine drug test.

Don’t worry, Kratom won’t turn your blood green for St. Patty’s Day – but it might show up on a drug test.

Kratom and Blood Testing

Kratom usage can be detected through various testing methods, including blood tests. Through the metabolic process, the active components of kratom are transformed into numerous metabolites that remain in the bloodstream for a specified period. Blood tests offer a more accurate method of detecting Kratom than urine tests because they detect lower concentrations of active metabolites.

In contrast to Kratom’s detection through urine tests, blood tests provide instant confirmation of kratom use. The high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of blood tests make it a popular choice for many companies conducting drug screening for employees suspected of kratom use.

Although Kratom is entirely legal in some jurisdictions, there is no regulatory framework governing its use or prohibition in other countries. Therefore, specific employers prefer to abstain from hiring those who have consumed Kratom or any other controlled substances commonly used recreationally.

Pro Tip: Blood testing can detect very low quantities of kratom metabolites across different stages after consumption, up to 48 hours after consumption. Therefore, it’s recommended to abstain from kratom usage if attending or facing a drug test within 48 hours since consumption.

Kratom may disappear from your saliva, but the memories of its effects will linger on.

Kratom and Saliva Testing

When it comes to drug testing, Kratom and its effects have become a topic of interest. Saliva testing is one of the commonly used methods that can be employed in determining whether an individual has recently consumed Kratom. The method involves using a swab to collect saliva samples from the donor’s mouth.

While many people may argue that saliva testing is not accurate enough, studies show that it yields reliable results when detecting Kratom metabolites. These results are readily available in a matter of minutes, making it an efficient way to detect recent drug use.

It’s worth noting that the period that traces of Kratom remain detectable through saliva testing may vary depending on several factors, including dosage and frequency of use. If you’re unsure about how long kratom or its metabolites will remain in your saliva, consult with your doctor beforehand.

If you’re concerned about the potential consequences of failing a drug test after consuming Kratom, there are several options available to you. One option is to abstain from taking Kratom for some time before undergoing any form of testing.

Alternatively, you can opt for synthetic urine or other detoxification products and supplements designed to rid the body of toxins such as those found in Kratom metabolites before undergoing drug tests.

You might want to shave your head if you’ve been indulging in some Kratom hair-raising activities.

Kratom and Hair Follicle Testing

Kratom is a substance that produces stimulant and opioid-like effects. There are various forms of the organic product, including capsules, powder, and liquids. When consumed, Kratom is metabolized by the body and circulates in urine, blood, saliva, and hair follicles.

In terms of drug testing, hair follicle testing can detect trace amounts of Kratom in hair shafts for up to three months. Therefore, Kratom and hair follicle testing might be relevant when seeking employment or participating in legal proceedings that require drug screenings.

Keystone Laboratories and Drug Testing

Drug testing conducted by Keystone Laboratories is an important aspect of ensuring safety in various industries. The laboratory uses advanced technology and offers accurate results for various types of drugs, including kratom. Keystone Laboratories has a reputation for being a reliable and efficient resource for employers, medical professionals, and law enforcement agencies needing drug testing services. With a focus on maintaining confidentiality and providing timely results, Keystone Laboratories is a trusted partner for drug testing needs. Don’t miss the opportunity to ensure safety in your workplace by partnering with Keystone Laboratories for drug testing services.

FAQs about Does Kratom Show Up On A Drug Test?

Does Kratom show up on a standard drug test?

Many standard drug tests, such as the SAMHSA-5, do not include testing for Kratom. However, specialized tests can detect the presence of kratom components and metabolites in urine and blood.

Can Kratom cause a false positive on a drug test?

There is a possibility that Kratom can cause a false positive on a drug test that is designed to test for opioids. However, with specialized testing, it is possible to differentiate between Kratom and opioids.

How long does Kratom stay in your system?

Several variables can influence how long Kratom stays in a person’s system, including the amount consumed, the frequency of use, and the individual’s body fat percentage. Kratom can be detected in urine for up to a week, while blood tests only provide a narrow detection window usually just a few hours or up to a couple of days following substance use.

Is there a specific Kratom drug test?

Yes, there are specialized drug tests that can detect the use of Kratom, such as a Kratom 10-panel drug test. These tests are designed to specifically look for Kratom and its metabolites in urine and blood.

Can Kratom be used to wean off narcotics?

Yes, Kratom is frequently used to help patients wean themselves off narcotics. It is also used solely for recreational purposes. However, due to a lack of research, the long-term effects of using this drug are unknown.

Who can I contact for professional drug testing services?

Keystone Laboratories, a CAP-accredited North Carolina licensed laboratory and CLIA-licensed lab, offers prescription drug and substance abuse recovery monitoring, specialized testing, workplace drug testing, screening, and program management services. Contact Keystone Laboratories today to receive industry-leading laboratory testing services!