Kratom has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia as a natural remedy for pain, a sedative, and, in smaller doses, a stimulant for increased energy and focus. The power of kratom is in its leaves, but what do they contain, and how does kratom interact with the body?

In this article, you will learn the answers to these questions:

• How does kratom work?
• What are the effects of kratom?
• What are the side effects of kratom?
• What are popular strains for an energy-focused boost?
• What are popular strains for soothing and analgesic effects?

How does kratom work?

Kratom contains over 40 alkaloids, which are plant-derived nitrogen-containing chemical compounds that have a physiological effect on human beings. The two main alkaloids of kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These act in a similar way to opioid drugs by interacting with the opioid receptors in the brain, although they are reported to be much less addictive and much safer than other opioids.

In small amounts, these alkaloids can boost focus and energy and give a general feeling of well-being. They interact with the neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

In more significant amounts, kratom can have sedative and analgesic effects and is used for relaxation and relief from discomfort. These effects are due to their interaction with the opioid receptors in the brain, which lowers pain perception and causes the skeletal muscles to relax.

What are the effects of kratom?

Kratom can depend on the strain and vein, but the main determining factor is the dosage.

Generally, low doses of kratom provide the following effects:

• Mood elevation and a feeling of euphoria or well-being
• Increased ability to concentrate or focus
• Increased energy and endurance
• Increased sociability and confidence
• Possibly increased sexual desire

In small doses, the effects can be felt within 30–40 minutes of taking kratom, depending on the form (powder/capsule/tea/extract) you take, and usually last about an hour and a half.

Generally, higher doses of kratom have the following effects:

• It may ease discomfort from aches
• It may help with reducing anxiety and give a feeling of calm
• It may sometimes help with weaning off more dangerous opioids
• It may produce a dreamlike state

The effects can also be felt in higher doses within 30-40 minutes. Depending on the form (powder/capsule/tea/extract) you take, the effects can last up to six hours.

What are the side effects of kratom?

Some people experience no side effects, while others experience a few. It’s a good idea to start with small doses of kratom to see how it affects you. Then, if desired, increase the dosage gradually. If you start with a hefty dose, you may be more likely to experience side effects. We also recommend taking kratom on an empty stomach to help avoid the most common side effect, which is nausea.

Generally, low doses of kratom have the following side effects:

• Sweating and increased body temperature
• Shaking or tremors
• Increased heart rate
• Tingling in the fingers or toes
• Nausea

Generally, higher doses of kratom have the following side effects:

• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Blotchy skin on the face
• Constipation
• Depressed breathing
• A delayed orgasm (mainly in men)
• Addiction

What kratom strains give an energy and focus boost?

Taking a smaller dose for these effects would be best, and you can even microdose (1 gram) for a boost. White and green vein kratom are good for stimulating and energizing effects.

• White Super Strains and White Horn often give a stimulant effect.
• Green or White Maeng Da can have a soothing effect.
• Green Malay helps with focus and acts as a stimulant.
• Green Bali may act as a stimulant, while White Bali can give a feeling of well-being.
• Green Velvet, Super Green strains, and White Samarinda may boost mood and lift spirits.

What are the popular strains for soothing effects?

A higher strain of mitragynine is recommended to relieve discomfort because this alkaloid acts on the opioid receptors to reduce your perception of pain.

• Red Thai and Red Bali are reported to have dull aches.
• Red or Green Maeng Da can also be taken for pain relief.
• Green Super Strains have a soothing effect.
• Borneo Kratom is known for its soothing effects. Indo-Kratom is said to bring relaxation and serenity and relieve pain.
• Gold Bali, Yellow Vietnam, and Green Velvet may help relieve anxiety.

Takeaway

Locals in Southeast Asia have used kratom for many years to help them get through the workday or to relax and relieve pain. Like any chemical compound that interacts with your physiology, there may be side effects, so the best route is to start small and increase your dosage a little at a time to see how your body reacts and how strongly you feel the effects.

If you would like guidance about what kratom strain and dosage to take, our team of passionate experts at Kingdom Kratom is available to answer your questions. Try our sample packs to determine which strain best fits you.