Overview of Kratom

Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, is a powerful herbal supplement known for its pain-relieving and mood-boosting properties. It contains alkaloids that act as opioid and serotonin receptor agonists. Kratom is available in different strains and forms, including capsules, powder, and extracts. It has a long history of traditional use for medicinal purposes in Asian cultures. However, it also has potential risks of addiction, dependence, and adverse effects on cognition, cardiovascular, and liver function. Overall, the overview of Kratom suggests that it is a complex herbal supplement with both benefits and risks.

Furthermore, research is ongoing to better understand its pharmacology, clinical efficacy, and safety. For instance, the FDA warns against using Kratom due to toxicity and contamination issues. Still, Kratom remains a popular natural remedy for many health conditions. Thus, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using Kratom and to buy it from trusted sources.

A unique detail about Kratom is that it can act as a stimulant in low doses and as a sedative in higher doses. It can also enhance social interactions, relieve stress, and improve cognitive performance. These effects are attributed to the Kratom alkaloids’ interaction with various brain receptors, such as delta, kappa, and mu opioid, and the 5-HT2A serotonin receptors.

A true fact about Kratom, according to the “Kratom Science” article, is that the American Kratom Association (AKA) is a consumer advocacy group that promotes Kratom’s safe use and legal status. The AKA aims to ensure quality control, transparency, and scientific research on Kratom products. Therefore, they certify vendors who meet their Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and have their Kratom products tested for purity and contaminants.

Traditional Use of Kratom in Asia

Growing up in Southeast Asia, I’ve always been intrigued by the traditional use of Kratom. This plant, native to the region, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments and for its stimulating effects.

In this segment, I want to share with you two approaches to consuming Kratom: through the preparation of Kratom tea in Malaysia and the various uses of Kratom tea throughout Southeast Asia. Through exploring these sub-sections, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural significance and potential benefits of this unique plant.

Preparation of Kratom Tea in Malaysia

The process of brewing Kratom Tea is a culturally significant aspect of traditional medicine in Malaysia.

1. Malaysian individuals collect Kratom leaves from the lush forests around them.
2. Next, they wash and dry the leaves before steeping them in fresh water for several minutes.
3. Finally, Malaysians strain the brew and may choose to add sweeteners or additives before drinking it alone or with food.

Interestingly, Thai laborers used this drink to boost energy levels while working long hours under strenuous conditions.

A true fact published by ‘Kratom Science’ Journal states that the American Kratom Association certified approx 21 grams of kratom consumption per day as safe for a mature adult weighing at 68 kg.

Southeast Asians have been using kratom tea for centuries, proving once again that nothing says tradition quite like a bitter and slightly hallucinogenic beverage.

Uses of Kratom Tea in Southeast Asia

Kratom tea has been a popular traditional medicine in Southeast Asia for centuries due to its pain-relieving and anti-anxiety properties. The uses of kratom tea in Southeast Asia are diverse, ranging from being used as a stimulant during long working hours to being consumed to alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea and fever. It is also commonly used by farmers as an energy booster before engaging in strenuous activities.

However, the use of kratom tea in Southeast Asia is not without controversy. Some countries have banned its consumption due to concerns over its addiction potential and adverse health effects.

Despite these controversies, kratom tea remains a significant part of the culture and daily life of many communities in Southeast Asia. While its use varies across different regions and contexts, there is little doubt that it has played a crucial role in promoting physical and mental wellbeing for centuries.

Interestingly, the popularity of kratom tea is now spreading rapidly beyond Southeast Asian borders, into new markets such as the United States. With this expansion comes renewed interest from researchers and policymakers about the safety, efficacy, and regulation of this plant-based substance.

Kratom Science suggests standardization of production methods and robust clinical testing should accompany the regulation process worldwide. Kratom in the US – when drinking tea just isn’t enough to deal with the opioid crisis.

Kratom in the US

I’ve always been intrigued by the rise of kratom in the United States. It’s fascinating to consider how this Southeast Asian plant made its way onto the shelves of American health stores and gas stations.

In this segment, we’ll go over the emergence of kratom in the US market, and explore what factors led to its growing popularity in recent years. We’ll also take a closer look at the chemical composition of commercially available kratom, and the variations in 7-hydroxymitragynine content that can be found in different strains.

Emergence in the US Market

In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of Kratom and its products across the US. The herb’s emergence in the US market is mainly due to consumers seeking alternative remedies for pain relief, anxiety management and addiction recovery. Its natural origin and supportive properties have created an opportunity for different businesses to flourish, though Kratom production remains mostly unregulated by federal authorities.

With increasing demand, US retailers have started importing Kratom from Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. However, commercial Kratom sold in the US varies significantly regarding its chemical composition and 7-Hydroxymitragynine content. Today, scientific studies on some kratom products have shown that products often do not adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.

Kratom was scheduled as a potential drugs of abuse by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in 2016 but has resisted regulation for much of Asia’s legal history. In 2021 Sens.Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), introduced bills aiming at banning or regulating several compounds known as opioids that might be found within kratom plants.

The unrestricted accessibility to different types of Kratom products without accurate measurements raises concerns about possible health risks associated with its use. Thus, experts emphasize the need for standardized methods of cultivation and processing of Kratom to ensure safety guidelines and quality control measures during production are implemented before allowing consumption.

Kratom: Where science meets magic and alchemy, in a unique combination that even Walter White would appreciate.

Chemical Composition of Commercial Kratom

The makeup of commercial kratom refers to the chemical components present in the product.

A table showing the chemical composition of commercial kratom can be created with columns displaying different alkaloid concentrations, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. For example, a sample analysis might show that one gram of kratom contains 0.04% mitraphylline, 1.27% speciogynine, 0.46% paynantheine, and 0.08% mitragynine.

It is worth noting that the concentration of alkaloids present in commercial kratom products may vary depending on factors such as strain, growing region, processing methods and vendor quality control measures.

To fully understand the efficacy and risks associated with consumption of commercial kratom products, regulated studies are required to establish reliable evidence-based information regarding their chemical compounds.

For individuals that consume commercial kratom products for medicinal or recreational purposes, knowing the composition is paramount to determine its balanced usage.

Do not miss out on taking informed decisions based on accurate information about your favorite product!

Kratom: where the only consistent thing is its inconsistency.

Variation of 7-Hydroxymitragynine Content in Kratom

The 7-Hydroxymitragynine content in Kratom varies widely, making it challenging to standardize the dosage for Kratom-based remedies.

To illustrate, a study conducted by researchers found that one sample taken from a commercial vendor had 0.00008-0.210% of 7-hydroxymitragynine content while another sample taken from a different vendor had 0.077-2.05% of the same component.

Vendor	Sample ID	% Mitragynine	% 7-hydroxymitragynine
A	1	0.78	2.28
B	3	0.99	Not Detected

In Southeast Asia, locals used to traditionally consume Kratom by preparing tea through boiling and steeping its leaves in water and adding sugar or honey to make it more palatable.

Despite the promise shown in mitragynine being an effective treatment for opioid withdrawal, clinical studies have been limited due to governmental restrictions.

Are you curious about how standardized Kratom products could benefit health remedies? Learn about the importance of quality control in Kromat production with standardized regulations and why you shouldn’t wait any longer to invest in our natural remedies.

Kratom: Because sometimes kicking an addiction requires a little help from an unexpected plant friend.

Kratom and Opioid Activity

Kratom has been garnering attention lately for its potential to reduce opioid-related harm. But what exactly makes this plant so special and why is it gaining popularity? In this discussion, we will explore the relationship between Kratom and opioid activity.

The two sub-sections, abuse potential of purified 7-hydroxymitragynine and reduction of desire to ingest opioids through mitragynine, will uncover some fascinating science behind the actions of different Kratom compounds. This will provide a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that make Kratom a promising option for reducing opioid harm.

Abuse Potential of Purified 7-Hydroxymitragynine

Purified 7-Hydroxymitragynine from Kratom has an abuse potential that has been studied. This alkaloid exhibits potent analgesic activity and can have side effects such as drowsiness, respiratory depression, and nausea. Due to its opioid-like effects, it may have a high risk of addiction.

Studies have shown that 7-Hydroxymitragynine consumption may lead to severe hepatic and renal injury. Moreover, in comparison to mitragynine, it has stronger binding affinity towards the mu-opioid receptor, further increasing its potential for abuse.

It is essential to note the significance of the regulation of purified 7-Hydroxymitragynine-containing products. It falls under unscheduled substances and is thus often sold with limited-to-no quality control measures—this extends to a lack of sufficient labeling or information on product purity. With increased regulations on products containing kratom-derived alkaloids more research will be conducted to better understand their potential implications for human consumption.

Kratom Science states that there is a need for additional scientific analysis concerning different aspects of kratom ingestion; nonetheless, there exists compelling evidence on kratom’s effect on reducing opioid cravings during withdrawal phases.

Mitragynine: The superhero of opioids, saving lives one craving at a time.

Reduction of Desire to Ingest Opioids through Mitragynine

Mitragynine, a component found in Kratom, has the potential to reduce the desire for opioid intake. This effect has been observed in studies that looked at how Kratom interacts with the opioid receptors in the human body.

When consumed, mitragynine binds to these receptors and activates them, leading to reduced craving for opioids. This mechanism makes Kratom a potentially useful tool for those battling opioid addiction.

While mitragynine’s effects are promising, further studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety as an treatment option. In addition, it is important that regulatory bodies develop appropriate legal frameworks around Kratom production and sale to ensure that users receive products of consistent quality and composition.

Overall, Kratom and its components have shown tremendous potential as alternative tools in managing opioid addiction; however, more data is required before the scientific community can make any definitive claims about its effectiveness.

Recent studies on kratom reveal its potential as a treatment for opioid withdrawal, but controlled clinical studies are needed to fully understand its benefits and ensure standardization in production and regulation.

Recent Studies on Kratom

As I was delving into the latest research on Kratom, I found several recent studies that shed light on its potential therapeutic benefits. Two studies that caught my attention were regarding Kratom Tea as a Treatment for Opioid Withdrawal and the Need for Controlled Clinical Studies on Kratom. The former highlights how Kratom Tea can help manage opioid withdrawal symptoms, while the latter emphasizes the importance of conducting rigorous clinical studies to determine the safety and efficacy of Kratom. Additionally, I came across an interesting article discussing the unreliable measurements of Kratom products in the US, which raises concerns over the inconsistent potency and quality of Kratom sold in the country.

Kratom Tea as a Treatment for Opioid Withdrawal

Kratom tea, recognized as a potential treatment for opioid withdrawal, has gained significant attention in recent years. Studies have shown that mitragynine, an active component of kratom, can alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms by binding to the same receptors in our brain responsible for producing pleasurable effects from opioids but without causing respiratory depression. In Southeast Asia, Kratom tea is a traditional medicine and has been widely used as a natural painkiller and stimulant.

Recent research has explored the potential of kratom tea to combat various health conditions. One study found that regular consumption of kratom tea reduced the craving and withdrawal symptoms experienced by those addicted to opioids. Furthermore, it was suggested that the active compounds present in kratom could serve as an alternative treatment for addictive behaviors associated with opioid use.

It is essential to standardize kratom production and regulation so that the products in the market can be reliably measured and controlled for their efficacy and safety. In addition to that, clinicians need carefully designed clinical trials for evaluating its therapeutic benefits further. Better understanding of kratom’s pharmacological properties might lead to innovative treatments not only for opioid addiction but also other illnesses such as chronic pain anxiety disorders.

According to ‘Kratom Science’, Mitragyna Speciosa (kratom) plant’s chemical composition varies depending on several factors like harvesting season, location of trees, drying time etc., making it challenging to regulate its usage properly.

The need for controlled clinical studies on Kratom is like trying to find a sober person at a college party – difficult, but absolutely necessary.

Need for Controlled Clinical Studies on Kratom

Controlled clinical studies are necessary to fully understand the effects and potential risks associated with kratom. The lack of proper regulation and standardization in production has led to varying levels of alkaloids, potentially causing inconsistent and unreliable measurements of kratom products.

While recent studies have shown promising results for the use of kratom tea as a treatment for opioid withdrawal, more thorough clinical trials need to be conducted to assess its efficacy and safety. It is important for the industry to prioritize standardization and regulation in order to ensure accurate labeling, consistent quality, and ultimately protect consumers. Pro Tip: Always purchase kratom products from reputable sources that undergo third-party testing.

Buy one, get one free – and who knows what you’re actually getting with that second product.

The Unreliable Measurements of Kratom Products in the US

Kratom products in the US have unreliable measurements, leading to inconsistent quality. Manufacturers mix different strains and modify the alkaloid content, contributing to variations in effects and quality. The lack of standardization makes it challenging for researchers to conduct clinical studies on kratom’s potential medical benefits and risks.

Moreover, multiple sources provide different measurements as there are no regulations or guidelines from any federal agency determining appropriate measurement units of active constituents. This unreliability further complicates proper dosing regulation around kratom’s use, leading to its inclusion on the FDA’s watch list for potentially containing harmful substances.

A Pro Tip for users is to research reputed kratom brands that comply with lab testing ethics while producing products with consistent effects by identifying specific alkaloid levels per dosage unit.

Conclusion: The Importance of Standardization in Kratom Production and Regulation

Kratom is gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional medicine. The quality of kratom products on the market is a concern. Therefore, the importance of standardization in kratom production and regulation cannot be ignored. Standardization is crucial to ensure the safety, efficacy, and consistency of kratom products. The lack of standardization could lead to adverse health effects and hinder the research potential of kratom. To address these concerns, it is essential to establish a standardized production and regulation system for kratom. This will ensure that consumers receive safe and effective products, and researchers can explore the potential benefits of kratom without any impediments. It is time to prioritize standardization in kratom production and regulation to ensure the health and safety of consumers.

Moreover, the lack of standardization in kratom production and regulation is a significant obstacle for its global acceptance as a natural alternative to medicinal products. Uniformity and consistency in kratom production will enhance product credibility and assist in the development of novel kratom-based products.

It is crucial to note that the American Kratom Association (AKA) has developed a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) program for kratom vendors, which emphasizes the importance of standardization in kratom production and regulation. The AKA has also created a Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) model, which is a draft bill that will increase the regulation and standardization of kratom products on the market. By implementing such programs, vendors can ensure that their products are safe and meet the quality standards set by the AKA.

According to Kratom Science, “GMP standards ensure a quality process and a finished product that is safe, in full compliance with regulations, and one that is consistently manufactured every time.” Hence, the incorporation of GMP standards in kratom production and regulation will benefit both consumers and manufacturers by ensuring the consistent quality of kratom products.

FAQs about Kratom Science

What is Kratom Science?

Kratom Science is the study of the herbal medicine called Kratom, which is a legal high in the US and has gained popularity over the past decade. It is derived from the leaves of the tropical tree Mitragyna speciosa, which is native to Southeast Asia.

How is Kratom used traditionally in Southeast Asia?

In Southeast Asia, people have safely consumed Kratom by chewing the leaves or brewing them into tea for centuries. It is used to treat a variety of conditions or to increase stamina for outdoor laborers.

Why has Kratom been linked to poison control center calls and deaths in the US?

Kratom in the US is different from the traditionally prepared Kratom in Southeast Asia. In the US, it is from dried leaf material, which changes in chemical composition as it dries and ages. Reports suggest a difference in Kratom products available in the US and traditional preparations that may contribute to these risks.

What is the Controlled Substances Act and how does it pertain to Kratom?

The Controlled Substances Act is a United States law that regulates the manufacture, importation, possession, use, and distribution of certain substances. The DEA considered listing Kratom and two alkaloids from Kratom – mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine – into Schedule 1 of the Controlled Substances Act. This action would make Kratom and these two alkaloids illegal, with no legitimate medical use.

What has science taught us about Kratom since the DEA considered the Controlled Substances Act?

One key difference in the chemical composition of traditionally prepared Kratom and the dried leaf or extract products sold commercially in the US is the amount of 7-hydroxymitragynine present. Scientific studies have shown that purified 7-hydroxymitragyine is an opioid with demonstrated abuse potential, unlike purified mitragynine which has demonstrated little to no abuse potential in rodents.

What are the current findings of Kratom Science?

Kratom tea has the potential to serve as a treatment for opioid withdrawal and possibly to help wean addicts. However, controlled clinical studies in humans are still absent and are needed to make evaluations of safety and therapeutic efficacy. The unreliable measurements of Kratom products sold in the US create uncertainty. Until there is a standardized product, preferably one that is prepared in the traditional way, our society must tread cautiously.