Kratom is a botanical plant native to Southeast Asia that has long been used for its medicinal properties. The plant’s leaves contain alkaloids, which are chemicals that have a variety of effects on humans. The plant is not regulated by the FDA and is sold over-the-counter, but it is known to help with opioid withdrawal symptoms and has been used to reduce pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue. It is also believed to have mood-enhancing properties and can aid in achieving relaxation and sleepiness.
Traditionally, the plant has been consumed by chewing the leaves or drinking tea made from them. But more recently, consumers have been turning to kratom supplements like powders and capsules that offer a more convenient way to consume the plant and avoid the bitter leaf taste. There are many different types of kratom products on the market, and each has its own unique benefits and uses. One of the most popular options is red kratom, which has been found to have many health and wellness benefits.
The color of the veins in the kratom leaves determines what effects it produces, and this is reflected by the strain name. Red kratom has high levels of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are chemicals that boost mood and increase energy levels. This is why it has become a favorite among newcomers and experienced users alike.
Red kratom is available in several forms, including powders and capsules. People often brew the powder in a cup of water to make a soothing tea, and it can be added with other herbs to enhance flavor. Capsules are another popular option because they allow the user to take a precise dose without worrying about the strong taste of kratom powder or the potential for nausea. Capsules are also portable and discreet, making them an excellent choice for first-time kratom users who want to ease into the herb’s effects.
Aside from boosting mood and increasing energy levels, red kratom has been shown to aid in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It is also a powerful pain reliever and has been used to treat chronic and acute pain, such as back pain, fibromyalgia, headaches, and muscle spasms. The alkaloids in kratom are believed to interact with receptors in the brain and nerves to alter the user’s perception of pain and to produce analgesic effects.
In a survey of kratom users, red kratom was ranked as the most beneficial for the motivation to treat pain, with the second highest ranking being for mood enhancement. The third highest ranking was for achieving relaxation, followed by the motivation to manage stress. This is likely because kratom’s natural analgesic properties can help alleviate the symptoms of pain and reduce anxiety and depression. These effects are thought to be the result of the alkaloids in kratom, which act as a mood modulator and help improve sleep quality. The research also showed that a hierarchy existed between green, white, and red strains of kratom for motivation to focus, achieve sleepiness, and feel stimulated.