Kratom tea, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, is a popular herbal beverage known for its potential health benefits and diverse effects on the mind and body.
Katom has gained attention worldwide for its reported ability to provide pain relief, boost energy, enhance mood, and aid relaxation.
However, its use is not without controversy, with concerns about safety, regulation, and potential interactions with other substances.
Knowing kratom tea’s properties, benefits, and considerations is crucial for those interested in exploring its use.
What Is Kratom Tea?
Kratom tea is a beverage made from the leaves of the kratom tree, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa.
It’s native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.
Kratom has been traditionally used for centuries for its stimulant and pain-relieving properties, and it’s consumed in various forms, including as a tea.
Kratom contains alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are thought to be responsible for its effects.
However, kratom can also have side effects and risks, including addiction, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.
Reasons People Drink Kratom Tea
People drink kratom tea for various potential benefits, including [1]:
Pain Relief
Kratom contains alkaloids that may have pain-relieving properties, making it appealing to individuals seeking relief from chronic pain conditions.
Mood Enhancement
Some users report that kratom can elevate mood and promote feelings of relaxation and euphoria, which may be beneficial for managing stress and anxiety.
Energy Boost
Certain strains of kratom are believed to have stimulating effects, providing users with increased energy and focus.
This can be particularly useful for individuals looking for a natural alternative to caffeine or as a pick-me-up during periods of fatigue.
Enhanced Productivity
Due to its potential energizing and focus-enhancing effects, some individuals use kratom to improve productivity and concentration, whether for work, studying, or other tasks.
Relaxation and Stress Reduction
Kratom tea is often consumed as a way to unwind and relax after a long day, similar to how some people use herbal teas like chamomile or valerian.
Improved Sleep
Certain strains of kratom are said to have sedative properties, which can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality for some individuals.
Kratom Tea Interactions
Kratom tea may interact with various substances, including medications, supplements, and other drugs. Here are some potential interactions to consider:
- Central Nervous System Depressants: Kratom tea may enhance the effects of central nervous system depressants such as alcohol.
Combining kratom with these substances can increase the risk of sedation, respiratory depression, and other adverse effects.
- Stimulants: Kratom tea may interact with stimulants like caffeine or amphetamines, potentially leading to overstimulation, increased heart rate, and anxiety.
- Medications Metabolized by Cytochrome P450 Enzymes: Kratom contains alkaloids that may inhibit certain cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in drug metabolism.
This could affect the metabolism of medications that are metabolized by these enzymes, potentially altering their effectiveness and increasing the risk of adverse reactions.
- Serotonergic Medications: Kratom may have serotonergic activity, and combining it with other serotonergic medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) could potentially increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
- Other Herbal Supplements: Kratom tea may interact with other herbal supplements, such as St. John’s wort or kava, leading to additive effects or adverse reactions.
- Liver Function: Kratom use has been associated with liver toxicity in some cases. Individuals with liver conditions or those taking medications that affect liver function should exercise caution when using kratom.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited information on the safety of kratom use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult with a healthcare professional before using kratom.
Side Effects of Kratom Tea
Kratom tea, like any substance, can have side effects, especially when used in high doses or over extended periods. Some potential side effects of kratom tea include:
- Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects, particularly among individuals who consume large doses of kratom or have low tolerance.
- Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Some users may experience dizziness or feelings of lightheadedness after consuming kratom tea, especially if they are prone to low blood pressure.
- Constipation: Kratom can have constipating effects, leading to difficulty in passing stools and potential discomfort.
- Dry Mouth: Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common side effect of kratom use. It may result in increased thirst and a dry, uncomfortable feeling in the mouth.
- Sweating: Sweating, including both increased perspiration and cold sweats, can occur as a side effect of kratom use.
- Increased Urination: Some individuals may experience an increase in urination frequency after consuming kratom tea.
- Appetite Changes: Kratom use may affect appetite, leading to changes in hunger levels or eating patterns.
- Mood Swings: While kratom may have mood-enhancing effects for some individuals, others may experience mood swings, irritability, or agitation.
- Sleep Disturbances: Kratom use, especially in higher doses or certain strains, may disrupt sleep patterns and lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Tremors or Jitters: Some users may experience tremors or jitteriness, particularly when consuming high doses of kratom or if they are sensitive to its effects.
- Liver Toxicity: There have been reports of liver toxicity associated with kratom use, although such cases are relatively rare. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking medications that affect liver function should use caution when using kratom.
How to Steep Kratom Tea
Steeping kratom tea is a straightforward process, but it requires some patience and attention to detail to ensure you extract the most beneficial compounds from the leaves.
Here’s a basic guide on how to steep kratom tea:
- Measure the Kratom: Start by measuring out your desired amount of kratom leaves or powder. A common starting dose is around 2 to 3 grams for beginners, but you can adjust this based on your tolerance and desired effects.
- Prepare the Water: Bring water to a boil in a pot or kettle. You’ll need enough water to cover the kratom leaves or powder and allow them to steep effectively.
- Add Kratom to Water: Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the measured kratom leaves or powder to the simmering water.
- Steep: Let the kratom steep in the simmering water for about 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, you can occasionally stir the mixture to ensure even extraction.
- Strain: After steeping, remove the pot from the heat and allow the kratom tea to cool slightly. Then, strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or coffee filter to remove the kratom leaves or powder. This will give you a smooth tea without any gritty texture.
- Serve or Store: Once strained, your kratom tea is ready to be served. You can add sweeteners, lemon juice, or other flavorings to enhance the taste if desired. Alternatively, you can let the tea cool completely and store it in the refrigerator for later use.
- Enjoy: Sip your kratom tea slowly and pay attention to how your body responds to it. Remember that kratom can have varying effects depending on factors such as dosage, strain, and individual tolerance, so start with a lower dose if you’re new to kratom.
Is Kratom Tea Legal?
The legality of kratom tea varies depending on your location. In many places, it is legal to buy, possess, and consume kratom for personal use.
However, there are also regions where kratom is banned or regulated due to concerns about its potential health risks and abuse.
It’s essential to check the specific laws and regulations in your area before purchasing or using kratom tea.
Is Kratom Tea Safe?
The safety of kratom tea largely depends on several factors, including dosage, individual health conditions, and potential interactions with other substances.
While some people use kratom tea for its purported benefits, such as pain relief or relaxation, there are concerns about its safety and potential for dependence or addiction. It’s important you buy kratom from reputable kratom brands to avoid side effects.
The Bottom Line
Kratom tea is a herbal beverage made from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia.
It has gained popularity in recent years for its potential medicinal properties, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and energy boost.
However, its use is not without controversy, as kratom can have side effects and may interact with medications. Understanding the benefits, risks, and legal status of kratom tea is essential for informed consumption.
As such, individuals should research thoroughly and consult with healthcare professionals before using kratom tea.
References:
- Veltri C, Grundmann O. Current perspectives on the impact of Kratom use. Subst Abuse Rehabil. 2019 Jul 1;10:23-31. doi: 10.2147/SAR.S164261. PMID: 31308789; PMCID: PMC6612999.
