What are the Effects of Kratom?

DISCLAIMER: The following statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Kratom is a plant containing many complex alkaloids that interact with one another for a complex effect on the consumer.

One may think of energy derived from a plant or supplement as similar a having a few strong cups of coffee: speedy, jittery, restless. One may also think of relaxation derived from supplements as sleepy, cozy, lethargic.

People often use terms like energy or relaxation to describe kratom's effects, but kratom is different from other supplements. Restlessness and lethargy are not generally part of the mix. The effects of a low to moderate dose of kratom (1-2 teaspoons of plain leaf powder) can be better described as calm energy.

Here are some ways the effects of kratom, at a responsible dose, can be accurately described.

1. Relaxation and Calmness: The calm half of kratom's calm energy, consumers report, brings a sense of tranquility and serenity, without being a lethargy-causing downer, or taking away from productivity or focus.

2. Natural Energy Boost: The energy half of kratom's calm energy boosts our vitality and alertness, again without the caffeine jitters, according to some consumers. Kratom has been traditionally used for this purpose by farm workers in the hot and humid climates of Southeast Asia. About 70% of respondents to a scientific survey conducted by researchers from National Institutes on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and Johns Hopkins University responded that they take kratom to "Boost energy/stamina/endurance for work/exercise". 

3. Cognitive Functioning: Some users suggest that kratom can support cognitive function, such as focus and mental clarity, cognitive sharpness and acuity.

4. General Well-Being: Kratom potentially contributes to a holistic sense of wellness, encompassing various aspects of physical and emotional well-being. In fact, 75% of respondents to a the NIDA/Johns Hopkins survey say they take kratom "Just to feel less crappy, improve quality of life".

Keep in mind, even though most people seem to tolerate low to moderate doses of kratom well, even with long term consumption, kratom also comes with risks. Scientists believe that high doses of kratom (often administered via highly concentrated liquid extracts) increases the chance of negative and toxic effects like nausea and vomiting, seizures, physical dependency, and even life threatening conditions like heart complications and liver failure.