Kratom tea has gained popularity in the West recently because of a number of benefits it brings. However, it had been common fare in Southeast Asia — specifically Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea — as traditional medicine. For centuries, the locals have been using the extracts and the leaves to cure a number of maladies and infections. It is also known as a pain reliever, an energy booster, and an aphrodisiac, among others.
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How Does Kratom Work?
Kratom, or Mitragyna speciosa, is a relative of the coffee family. Aside from the medicinal benefits mentioned above, it is also known for its opiate-like quality but minus the side effects. Thanks to the phytochemicals — mitragynine (9-methoxy-corynanthidine) and 7-hydroxy mitragynine — present in the plants.
According to experts, mitragynine is similar to the alkaloid ergine or LSA and psilocybin. Ergine is used for the synthesis of LSD, while psilocybin is the main compound found in psychedelic mushrooms. LSA, however, is not psychedelic in nature, but like kratom, it has a mood and energy-boosting qualities.
How is Kratom Ingested?
Traditionally, kratom leaves were dry under the sun and chewed. However, they are a bit tough, so others crush and boil them like tea. Kratom that is exported to Europe and the United States are either in powder or tea form.
How to make kratom tea
- Powdered kratom can be diluted in water and then drunk.
- It can also be mixed with your favorite drink or with other foods like yogurt and applesauce.
- Others put powdered kratom into capsules and ingest them.
You can also buy kratom in tea form. Just add hot water and steep it for a few minutes. When you evaporate the water from kratom tea, there’s a resin-like extract that you can use later. You can either swallow that extract or drink it like tea. Other kratom tea drinkers often mix it with black or green tea and add some sugar or honey to it.
Kratom is widely available online. One of its reliable vendors is Big Bear Kratom, which has been around the industry for a number of years. They sell different kratom strains in either powder or tea forms.
The Health Benefits of Kratom Tea
As mentioned earlier, the natives of Southeast Asia used kratom as a medicine or antiseptic. Locals believed that kratom could relieve a lot of sicknesses and maladies. Apart from that, here are the other health benefits of kratom tea:
Boosts energy – Kratom Tea
Mitragyna speciosa, or kratom, belongs to the coffee family; thus, it also has an energy-boosting quality like its caffeine-laden counterpart. But what makes kratom even better than coffee is that you get the energy boost you need without the caffeine. The effect of one cup of kratom tea lasts longer than a cup of java.
Studies also reveal that instead of just helping you feel energized, kratom relieves you of mental and physical tiredness. The active compounds found in kratom increases the oxygen levels in the bloodstream and also calms the nerves.
Improves focus and provides mental stimulation
The energy boost you get from drinking kratom tea improves your focus and stimulates your brain. The effect of kratom usually lasts up to six hours.
Kratom provides a healthy and legal alternative to amphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs are use to manage ADD and ADHD, but a lot of people use this to improve their focus and attention. They are very popular among students, especially during exam time. The only issue is that students often purchase them without prescription, which is considers illegal. On the other hand, kratom can be purchase without any legal restrictions.
Enhances sexual desire and performance
Kratom has been witness in Southeast Asia not only as a medicine but also as an aphrodisiac. Though there haven’t been substantial studies concerning this claim, initial research done in mice showed an increase in their sperm production. This study can be use as a basis for further research in the future.
Helps manage diabetes
A recent study showed that the active compounds found in kratom help manage the insulin and sugar levels in the blood. This can help minimize the sugar drops and spikes people with diabetes often experience.
Fights anxiety
Kratom has different strains — white, green, and red — all of which have different effects on the body. When fighting anxiety, the best strain is red kratom, which is known for its relaxing effect. On the other hand, experts say that white kratom can increase anxiety and nervousness. That’s because the active compounds present in each kratom strain acts differently.
Boosts the immune system
Some studies reveal that kratom also has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which means it is also good for your immune system.
Are There Any Side Effects Kratom Tea ?
Just like any food, medicine, or drink, too much kratom consumption has dire side effects. Because of kratom’s opiate-like effects, it can be addictive; thus, some users have abused using it. Other known side effects of kratom abuse include psychosis, weight loss, anorexia, skin pigmentations, and tremors.
Because of this, it is advise that it should be used with discretion. Furthermore, it is better to consult with your doctor first before purchasing or even using kratom.
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