Kratom is a tree with the scientific name Mitragyna Speciosa. Its leaves contain compounds that have mind altering effects. Although it is not currently an illegal substance, long-term use can lead to dependence and abuse. But, can you test for Kratom? Read on.

What is Kratom?

Kratom is an evergreen tropical tree native to Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. This coffee species is best grown in hot, too muggy habitats.

Users eat the fresh leaves and crush and brew the dried ones. One unusual method of ingesting Kratom is called toss and wash. Users take a spoon full of the powder and put it in their mouth. They then wash that down with water or juice. Fast and easy!

There are two main active components in the leaves of Kratom: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These substances are responsible for Kratom’s psychoactive effects. Once they reach the brain, they influence mood and anxiety.

The physiological effects are similar to sedatives when consumed in high doses and stimulants when consumed in low amounts. Although it is not an opioid, it acts on the same brain receptors as opioids. Kratom’s effects intensify if someone takes it on an empty stomach.

Kratom street names include:

Biak
Ketum
Kakuam
Kratho
Ithang
Thom

Kratom is currently legal as sold in gas stations, convenience stores, head shops, and paraphernalia shops in most US parts. People can also order Kratom over the Internet with the following names.

Brand Names of Kratom include but not limited to:

Bali Halus
Club 13
Divinity Kratom
Edens Ethnos Kratom
Experience Kratom
Feng Shui Herbals
Golden Reserve Extract
Green Vein Borneo
Kratom Infusion
Kratom Kaps
Kratom Tea

Because it is legal and plant-based, they assume it is safe. However, it is not.The FDA is concerned that Kratom seems to have properties that predispose users to addiction, abuse, and dependence.

Why People Use Kratom

Traditionally, manual laborers, farmers, and fishers regularly used this herbal plant to relieve fatigue and manage pain. For centuries, they used Kratom in their socio-religious ceremonies as a source of spiritual transcendence to uplift their spirits.

However, modern science proved Kratom as an effective plant-based libido enhancer. It is because of its aphrodisiac properties.

Pain relief is the principal reason why people use Kratom. Its alkaloid components are responsible for the action. When ingested or consumed, kratom leaves produce complex dose-dependent stimulant and analgesic effects. Kratom’s mood-boosting properties helped users stop using other drugs, specifically opiates. Some use it to alleviate symptoms of morphine and ethanol withdrawal.

Moreover, it works as an antidepressant and a hunger suppressant.

Commonly reported benefits according to a review by Singh, et al include:

euphoria
a sense of wellbeing
relaxation
enhanced sociability
more energy
analgesia
sensory enhancement
a warm and tingly feeling

Side Effects of Kratom

Kratom has varying effects on people based on dosage amounts. Long-term effects can be unpleasant and potentially life-threatening.

Side effects of Kratom include:

agitation
tachycardia
drowsiness
vomiting
confusion
sensitivity to sunburn
nausea
itching
sweating
dry mouth
constipation
increased urination
loss of appetite

Graveside effects include:

seizures
respiratory and cardiac arrest
Symptoms of psychosis in some users
Liver damage
addiction

How long does Kratom stay in the body?

Thus far, it would take 24 hours to eliminate 50% of the Kratom in the body based on various research conducted.

Usually, it would take just over five days for Kratom to leave the system. However, other factors would come into play that may affect elimination time.

Factors may include:

Age
Genetics
Body fat
Food and water intake