AMA #9: Kratom Risks, Does Infrared Sauna Work & Journaling Benefits

Kratom, derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, offers a mild stimulant effect at low dosages but acts as a sedative and an opioid at higher doses, raising concerns about its addictive potential.

The opioid crisis, characterized by the overconsumption and addiction to opioids like morphine and oxycodone, highlights the dangers of opioid addiction, which Kratom, despite its differences, also poses due to its opioid properties.

While some people have used Kratom to wean off more potent opioids, it remains controversial and potentially habit-forming, with the risk of addiction especially at higher dosages.

The response to Kratom varies significantly among individuals, with a subset of the population particularly prone to developing an addiction to opioids, making Kratom a risky choice for these individuals.

Kratom's pharmacology reveals that it acts similarly to other opioids by targeting the mu-opioid receptor, indirectly affecting dopamine and serotonin systems, and suggesting a strong potential for addiction.

Despite being marketed as a supplement, Kratom lacks regulation, and its potency can vary significantly between products, complicating dosage recommendations and increasing the risk of adverse effects, including potential death from respiratory suppression when combined with other substances.

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