What is kratom?
The leaves of the kratom tree have been used as an opium substitute for hundreds of years. The tropical tree, also known as mitragyna speciosa, grows in marshy areas around Asia, such as Thailand and Malaysia. The leaves are fat and oval with a point, and contain the active chemicals mitragynine, mitraphylline and 7-hydroxymitragynine (don’t worry, we’ll explain what the effects of these are further down). People usually chew, smoke or mix them into food and drink.
What are the effects of taking kratom?
Every new substance you put in your body can change the way you feel. Kratom effects include the following:
- A kratom high can put you in an opiate-like sedation where users experience a tranquil, dream-like state.
- A stimulating state with alertness, increased energy and mild euphoria.
- Menial physical tasks, like cleaning or strenuous labour, seem more interesting.
- Strobing when your eyes are open and visuals when your eyes are closed.
- Can cause constipation and has been used as a treatment for diarrhoea.
Effects usually last between two and four hours, with the possibility of an ‘afterglow’ feeling the next day.
What are the risks of taking it?
You’re basically rolling the dice with any substance you take. Here’s some info on the side effects if you draw the short straw.
- High doses can trigger severe nausea and vomiting.
- Regular use can lead to physical dependency, and some individuals may find it difficult to stop. Withdrawal symptoms can include irritability, yawning, diarrhoea, a runny nose and muscle pain.
- Heavy use can cause constipation, darkening of the skin, insomnia, dry mouth and can also be a factor in anorexia.
- It’s illegal so you could get in trouble with the law.
Is kratom legal in UK?
It’s illegal to buy and sell in the UK due to its psychoactive nature.
Street names
Ketum, mitragyna speciosa, kakuam, ithang, and thom.
If you are planning on taking it:
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of kratom.
- Try not to mix it with other sedatives (including alcohol) or stimulants.
- Do not take it if you are on antidepressants that contain MAO (Monoamine Oxidase) inhibitors.
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