FAQ
FAQs – Your Questions, Answered
- Kratom
- Kava
- 7-OH
Kratom
1. What is Kratom traditionally used for?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, traditionally used for its stimulating and pain-relieving properties. It has been used for centuries by local communities in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea to relieve pain, increase energy, and enhance mood.
2. Is Kratom legal in the United States?
Kratom is legal in most states within the United States, but regulations vary. Some states and cities have banned its sale, possession, or use. It is essential to check your local laws before purchasing or using Kratom.
3. What are the side effects of Kratom for the heart?
Kratom may have potential side effects, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and palpitations in some users. Those with pre-existing heart conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using Kratom.
4. Does Kratom show up as an opioid on drug tests?
Standard drug tests do not typically detect Kratom. However, specialized tests can identify the presence of Kratom’s active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
5. Is Kratom classified as an opioid?
While Kratom is not an opioid, its active compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain, which can produce similar effects. However, it is botanically classified as a member of the coffee family (Rubiaceae).
6. What is the slang word for Kratom?
Common slang terms for Kratom include "Thang," "Kakuam," "Thom," "Ketum," and "Biak."
7. What is Kratom similar to?
Kratom’s effects can be similar to caffeine at low doses (stimulant) and opioid-like effects at higher doses (sedative and pain-relieving).
8. What states is Kratom banned in within the US?
As of the latest information, Kratom is banned in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. It is also restricted in certain cities and counties.
9. Does Kratom change the way you look?
Kratom does not directly change one’s physical appearance. However, excessive use can cause side effects like weight loss, darkening of the skin, or dehydration.
10. Why is Kratom illegal in some places?
Kratom is illegal in some regions due to concerns about its potential for misuse, addiction, and adverse health effects. Regulatory bodies have imposed bans to ensure consumer safety.
11. What are the benefits of using Kratom?
Kratom is used for energy enhancement, pain relief, mood improvement, anxiety reduction, and as an alternative for managing opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, these benefits are user-reported and not fully confirmed by the FDA.
12. How many people use Kratom in the US?
It is estimated that between 10 to 16 million people in the United States have used Kratom, according to surveys from the American Kratom Association.
13. What class of drug is Kratom?
Kratom is classified as a botanical substance and is not currently scheduled as a controlled substance under federal law. However, its active compounds (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) are classified as psychoactive substances.
14. Does Kratom get you high like opioids?
Kratom can produce euphoric effects at higher doses, but it is not classified as a traditional opioid. Its effects can range from stimulating at low doses to sedative at high doses.
15. Is Kratom safe for the heart?
Kratom’s effects on heart health can vary. While moderate use may not cause issues, excessive use has been linked to elevated heart rate, hypertension, and palpitations. People with pre-existing heart conditions should consult a doctor before use.