If you've never heard of kratom, you're certainly not alone. However, more and more people are being introduced to its health benefits, especially for relief of pain and anxiety. If you are looking for an alternative for prescription pain relievers, kratom capsules may be a healthier option. Here's what you need to know about this herbal remedy.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom comes from the leaf of a tree (Mitragyna speciosa), which is native to Southeast Asia. It has been used as an herbal medicine in that part of the world for hundreds of years. It is also known as biak, ketum, kakuam, or thom.

Kratom contains 2 chemicals, mitragynine and 7-α-hydroxymitragynine, which act on opioid receptors in the brain to produce sedation, decreased pain, and pleasure. Mitragynine also acts on different receptors to produce stimulant effects at low doses.

Traditionally, kratom users chew the leaves or boil them for tea. The leaves can also be dried and ground into a powder that is sold in packets or capsules or processed into an extract or tincture. It can easily be purchased over the counter at convenience or health food stores, as well as over the internet. No prescription is required,

Long-Term Pain Relief

People who need long-term pain relief, such as those who suffer from arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraines, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, or chronic back pain, often are hesitant to take prescription medicines such as opioids because of side effects and addictive properties. Many patients are instead turning to kratom for relief. Kratom, because of its actions on opioid receptors, is also being used to treat opioid addiction and help addicts reduce withdrawal effects while reducing or eliminating opioid use.

Possible Side-Effects

Although kratom is considered safer than opioids, it does have a few side effects, especially when used at high doses. It can cause increased sweating, itching, loss of appetite, nausea, dry mouth, and constipation. In rare cases, it has caused seizures and hallucinations. Long-term use can also cause a tolerance creating a need for higher and higher doses to create the desired effect. When long-term users stop taking kratom, they can experience withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, muscle aches, emotional changes, and aggression.

Because there has been only limited research about kratom's effectiveness, most evidence is anecdotal, but as its popularity increases, that will likely change. Although kratom is currently legal in most US states, some states and cities have banned it or have legislation pending so it's important to check your location's status on kratom.