Recent studies have proved that synthetic and chemical products are not beneficial for the body and mind. For better fueling, you can rely on plant-based products such as Kratom.
All around the world, people are shifting towards plant-based solutions and organic food, especially athletes, workout enthusiasts, and health-conscious people. In this article, we will find out the kratom benefits, drawbacks, and best alternatives to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Kratom: Benefits and Uses
Kratom or Mitragyna speciosa is a plant native to Southeast Asia. It is widely grown in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. People have consumed it for centuries to cure fatigue, pain, diarrhea, and muscle cramps. It is also used before or after a workout to gain more energy.
In Southeast Asia, kratom is used in religious ceremonies as the Mitragyna tree is known for its spiritual properties, but this has no research backing. There are multiple options to consume kratom; usually, its leaves are dried and brewed into tea. These days, it is also available in capsule, tablet, and extract form. You can also smoke it like tobacco.
Kratom contains alkaloids (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) that interact with the brain and give stimulant effects. These components also work on opioid receptors but have fewer side effects.
It is commonly used in Asian countries to treat pain, fever, coughs, and to gain energy and enhance mood. The effect of kratom mainly depends on the dosage, as high consumption of kratom produces sedative sensations.
Potential Drawbacks of Kratom
Kratom causes dependence on daily use and other side effects such as nausea, constipation, and dizziness at high doses. There are some legal restrictions on kratom as it is banned in some US states and countries.
Kratom Compared to Other Popular Supplements
1. Kratom vs. CBD
Kratom provides pain relief, focus, and energy. It offers immediate effect; however, it also carries a higher risk of dependence.
CBD is non-intoxicating and best for anxiety and mild pain relief. However, it does not have stimulating properties like kratom.
You can use kratom for severe chronic pain or energy, and CBD for anxiety and stress.
2. Kratom vs. Kava
Kratom offers mild relaxation and pain management, while Kava is much stronger for stress and anxiety, but does not affect pain.
Kava is non addictive, which makes it a better option for long-term consumption. Kratom comparatively poses a higher dependency risk due to the interaction of alkaloids with opioid receptors.
You can choose Kava to achieve deep relaxation, while kratom is used for pain management and mild energy.
3. Kratom vs. Ashwagandha
Kratom provides an immediate energy boost; however, it is not suitable for daily consumption due to tolerance build-up.
Ashwagandha is known to relieve chronic stress and anxiety. It helps in lowering the cortisol levels. Experts also call it an adaptogenic herb because it adapts to your body.
Ashwagandha is best for chronic stress, while kratom is best for short-term energy and mood enhancement.
4. Kratom vs. Opioids (For Pain Relief)
Kratom interacts with opioid receptors, and it is much safer than prescription opioids, with a lower risk of respiratory depression.
Pharmaceutical opioids are best for extreme pain; however, they can cause addiction and overdose risks. For moderate pain and harm reduction, kratom is a suitable option. For dealing with severe pain, you can consume opioids, but only under strict medical supervision.
Best Kratom Alternatives
- CBD has anti-inflammatory and non-intoxicating properties, which make it suitable for pain relief.
- You can consume turmeric and black pepper to reduce inflammation and pain.
- To support endorphin production to deal with chronic pain, you can consume DL-phenylalanine.
- For deep relaxation without addiction risk, you can consume kava.
- The Valerian root is also known to promote good sleep and relieve anxiety and stress.
- To calm the nervous system naturally, you can rub lemon balm on your neck.
- Rhodiola Rosea is best for boosting stamina and mental clarity.
- L-Theanine + Caffeine can be used to achieve smooth, jitter-free energy.
- Guayusa is another alternative to kratom, which is a natural stimulant similar to green tea.
Safe (and Unsafe) Supplement Combinations with Kratom
Kratom is safe to combine with magnesium to reduce tolerance and help in digestion, CBD to balance stimulating effects and reduce anxiety, and turmeric to enhance pain-relieving properties.
You should avoid mixing kratom with alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other stimulants such as Adderall, as it can cause overstimulation and nervous system depression.
Is Kratom Right for You?
Kratom naturally improves physical performance. With adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits, it helps the body sustain healthy activity levels.
For personalized advice, consult a healthcare provider to find the best herbs and supplements for your needs.
You can buy the best kratom online, pure, authentic, and lab-tested.
Occurs Naturally has 3 types of kratom tablets (Relief, Energy, and Focus), with 20mg per tablet in a pack of 6 servings.
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