If you don’t know, mitragynine and 7 hydroxymitragynine are the active alkaloids in mitragyna plant species (often referred to as kratom). It was discovered in the early 19th century and since then has been used by millions of people across the globe. More than 5 million people in the world use kratom every day that proves its huge popularity. The only problem with this plant is it has no support of any scientific evidence or medical research that confirms its veracity to be used as a drug or for any other recreational purpose.
Why do people consume kratom?
Kratom leaves contain the compound mitragynine and 7 hydroxymitragynine which produce the plants’ psychoactive effects. People who consume kratom often make all sorts of medical claims. However, none of the medical research shows that this compound can be used as a drug. More research needs to be invested into the herb before understanding its full properties. At the moment, the FDA has warned against using kratom.
There are many different forms in which kratom is consumed. The most common form is a powder that can be purchased from online vendors. Other ways to consume kratom include consuming it as a drug, kava, tea, capsules, weed, etc. The net worth of the kratom industry has already reached the $1 billion mark and continues to march towards the $5 billion club in future.
What are the effects of this compound on the brain?
People who consume kratom claim it has many benefits but forget to acknowledge the side effects of using this compound. Some of the side effects of this compound include:
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Hallucinations
- Itching
- Dry mouth
- Increased urination
- Seizures
- Weight loss
What are the effects of mitragynine on the brain?
There isn’t much medical research available to support any positive effect of kratom on the body. However, people who are frequent users of kratom claim relaxes the mind and provides relief from stress for odd number of hours. Furthermore people who drink kratom infused tea and kava claim it has the power to provide a soothing effect to the body for odd number of hours. However none of these facts are supported by modern science.
Mental health is a major issue that continues to be a major topic of concern for many people. More than 300 million people in this world suffer from depression that is described by some as an underestimated figure. Everyday doctors have to cater to new patients suffering from anxiety disorders and depression. A lot of people who have recovered from depression claim that kratom helped them during the rehabilitation process. Kratom is a tropical herb that is exported by Indonesia and Thailand in the greatest quantities, yet it is banned in both of these countries.
What is the future of kratom?
The use of kratom continues to rise as manufacturers continue to come up with interesting ways to consume it. Many bars have started selling kratom infused beverages and desserts. This means that the market for this plant is not coming down any sooner, even if several governments try to eradicate it.