Microdosing is a growing trend where people take small, sub-perceptual doses of psychedelic substances, typically around 1/10th to 1/20th of a normal dose, with the intention of improving cognitive function, creativity, and emotional well-being. Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in certain species of mushrooms, is one of the most commonly microdosed psychedelics, and its use has gained increasing attention in recent years due to the positive effects it can have on people’s lives.
Here are some of the potential benefits of microdosing psilocybin:
Increased Creativity
One of the most commonly reported benefits of microdosing psilocybin is an increase in creativity. Many people who microdose report feeling more open to new ideas and more capable of generating new and innovative solutions to problems. This may be because psilocybin can help to break down mental barriers and allow people to think outside the box. It’s worth noting that creativity is not just limited to artistic pursuits but can also include problem-solving in a variety of fields, from science and technology to business and finance.
CBD is a natural remedy that is used for a variety of health benefits for both humans and pets. Our new CBD dog treats are made with bone meal and sweet potatoes, and each container contains 150MG of CBD. This combination provides the perfect treat for your furry friend that not only tastes great but also provides health benefits.
Bone meal is a rich source of calcium and other essential minerals that are essential for the growth and maintenance of strong bones in dogs. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, which helps keep your dog’s digestive system healthy. Together, these ingredients make for a tasty and nutritious treat that your dog will love.
The CBD used in these treats is derived from industrial hemp, which is grown specifically for its high CBD content. CBD has been shown to have a range of benefits for dogs, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain and inflammation, and promoting overall health and wellness. It is also non-psychoactive, so it won’t get your dog high, and is considered safe for regular use.
Each container of our CBD dog treats contains 150MG of CBD, which is an appropriate dose for most dogs. It is important to note that all dogs are different, and the amount of CBD that is appropriate for your pet will depend on their size, age, and overall health. It is always best to consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new supplement or treat.
In conclusion, our new CBD dog treats are the perfect way to show your furry friend how much you care. Made with bone meal and sweet potatoes, these treats provide a delicious and nutritious snack that also provides the health benefits of CBD. Give your dog the gift of health and wellness today with our new CBD dog treats!
Introducing the all-new CBD and Kratom Weekly podcast show! Are you looking for the latest information and insights on the benefits of CBD and Kratom? Look no further! Our show features expert guests and in-depth discussions on the latest research and trends in the CBD and Kratom industry. From managing pain and anxiety to improving sleep and overall well-being, we cover it all. Tune in every week to learn about the many ways these natural remedies can enhance your life. Join our community of listeners and discover the power of CBD and Kratom today!
We are shutting down our CBD/Hemp only podcast and talking about other subjects as well in our new podcast! Info will be posted here and on our social media accounts next week!
Join an Episode of our Radio Podcast as a guest!
Are you a leader in the Kratom and CBD industry? Do you have valuable insights and information to share with our listeners? We want to hear from you!
We are excited to announce that we are currently seeking new guests for our podcast, which focuses on the latest trends and developments in the Kratom and CBD industry.
As a guest on our show, you will have the opportunity to share your expertise and experiences with our audience. You will also be able to promote your brand or business to a wider audience and connect with other industry leaders.
If you are interested in being a guest on our podcast, please send an email to info@hexacart.org with the following information:
A brief bio about yourself and your background in the Kratom and CBD industry
A summary of the topic(s) you would like to discuss on the podcast
A link to your website or social media profiles (if applicable)
Your availability for the upcoming recording schedule
We look forward to hearing from you and having you as a guest on our podcast!
Many people are seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals with harsh side effects – medicine more in synch with natural processes. By tapping into how we function biologically on a deep level, CBD can provide relief for chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, depression and many other conditions.
Extensive scientific research – much of it sponsored by the U.S. government – and mounting anecdotal accounts from patients and physicians highlight CBD’s potential as a treatment for a wide range of maladies, including (but not limited to):
CBD has proven neuroprotective effects and its anti-cancer properties are being investigated at several academic research centers in the United States and elsewhere. A 2010 brain cancer study by California scientists found that CBD “enhances the inhibitory effects of THC on human glioblastoma cell proliferation and survival.” This means that CBD makes THC even more potent as an anticancer substance. Also in 2010, German researchers reported that CBD stimulates neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells, in adult mammals.
Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years for its potential therapeutic benefits. CBD is one of over 100 compounds found in the cannabis plant, and it is distinct from the compound that causes the “high” associated with marijuana use – tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
CBD has been found to have a wide range of potential benefits, including reducing anxiety and depression, reducing pain and inflammation, and even fighting cancer. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the ways that CBD may be able to benefit our health and well-being.
Anxiety and Depression: One of the most well-known potential benefits of CBD is its ability to reduce anxiety and depression. A number of studies have found that CBD can have an anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effect, and it may also be able to help with depression. For example, one study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that CBD was able to reduce symptoms of social anxiety disorder in people who were giving a public speaking test. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that CBD was able to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Pain and Inflammation: Another potential benefit of CBD is its ability to reduce pain and inflammation. CBD has been found to have analgesic (pain-reducing) and anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful for a wide range of conditions. For example, one study published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD was able to reduce chronic pain in people with conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Another study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD was able to reduce inflammation and pain in rats with osteoarthritis.
Cancer: CBD has also been found to have anti-tumor properties, which means that it may be able to help fight cancer. For example, one study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that CBD was able to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells in mice. Another study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that CBD was able to reduce the spread of lung cancer cells in mice.
Other potential benefits of CBD include:
Improving heart health
Reducing symptoms of acne
Improving symptoms of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease
Helping with addiction and substance abuse
It’s important to note that while CBD is generally considered safe, it can interact with certain medications and may cause side effects such as drowsiness and upset stomach. It is also important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new supplement, including CBD, to discuss any potential risks or interactions with any medications you are currently taking.
One of the most frequent concerns is the origin of the CBD oil, as well as the quality of the product. It is important to purchase CBD oil from a reputable source, and to ensure that it has been lab tested to ensure that it is free of contaminants and contains the correct amount of CBD.
CBD has also catalyzed the rebirth of the U.S. hemp industry, which lay dormant for decades because of drug war politics. The 2018 Farm Bill includes a provision that legalizes the cultivation of hemp (cannabis with no more than 0.3 % THC) in large part because of the popularity and driving economic force of CBD.
Growing hemp is now a legitimate agricultural enterprise in the United States. But extracting CBD-rich oil from hemp biomass and marketing CBD oil concentrates and isolates for ingestion and inhalation steps on Big Pharma’s toes and is frowned upon by the DEA and the FDA.
Legalities aside, hemp-derived cannabidiol is just a mouse click or a phone tap away for anyone willing to roll the dice and purchase CBD oil products that are manufactured with little regulatory oversight.
The upside of all this is easy access to CBD oil; the downside is inconsistent quality.
Many hemp-derived CBD oil products are mislabeled as to cannabidiol and THC content. And poorly processed CBD oil may be tainted with toxic solvent residues, pesticides, corn syrup, artificial flavors and colors, and other contaminants.
Fortunately, good quality CBD oil products are also available for the conscientious consumer – the label reader, the brand researcher – who understands that cannabis and CBD are best used as part of a healthy lifestyle.
In conclusion, CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has been found to have a wide range of potential benefits, including reducing anxiety and depression, reducing pain and inflammation, and even fighting cancer. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD, the potential benefits and risks of using it as a treatment for any condition. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new supplement, including CBD, to discuss any potential risks or interactions with any medications you are currently taking and to purchase from reputable sources.
As pet owners, we want nothing but the best for our furry friends. We want to ensure that they are comfortable, happy, and healthy. One way to achieve this is by using CBD, or cannabidiol, on our dogs. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant that has been found to have a variety of benefits for both humans and animals. In this blog post, we will explore the use of CBD on dogs and how it can improve their overall well-being.
First, it’s important to understand what CBD is and how it works. CBD is a compound found in the hemp plant that is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a high. CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating various functions including pain, sleep, and mood. When CBD is introduced to the body, it can help regulate the ECS and improve overall well-being.
One of the most common uses of CBD on dogs is for pain management. Dogs, like humans, can experience pain due to a variety of reasons such as injury, arthritis, and cancer. CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce pain and inflammation in dogs. This can be especially beneficial for dogs that are suffering from chronic pain and may not respond well to traditional pain medications.
Another benefit of using CBD on dogs is its ability to improve sleep. Many dogs, especially older dogs, can experience difficulty sleeping. CBD can help regulate the body’s ECS and promote relaxation, making it easier for dogs to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can lead to improved overall well-being and a happier, more restful pet.
CBD can also help with anxiety and stress in dogs. Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety and stress due to a variety of reasons such as separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, and even changes in routine. CBD has been found to have anxiolytic properties and can help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs. This can lead to a more relaxed and calm pet, which can improve overall well-being.
CBD can also be beneficial for dogs that are suffering from seizures. Epileptic seizures can be debilitating for dogs and can significantly impact their quality of life. CBD has been found to have anticonvulsant properties and can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs. This can lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life for dogs suffering from seizures.
CBD can also be beneficial for dogs that are suffering from cancer. Cancer is a leading cause of death in dogs and can significantly impact their quality of life. CBD has been found to have anti-tumor properties and can help reduce the size of tumors and slow the progression of cancer in dogs. This can lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life for dogs suffering from cancer.
It’s important to note that while CBD has been found to have a variety of benefits for dogs, it is not a cure-all. It’s also important to consult with a veterinarian before starting your dog on a CBD regimen, as they will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your pet’s specific needs. Additionally, it is important to purchase CBD products from a reputable source and to ensure that the products are specifically formulated for pets.
In conclusion, CBD can be an effective tool for improving the overall well-being of our furry friends. It can be used to manage pain, improve sleep, reduce anxiety and stress, reduce seizures, and even slow the progression of cancer. By incorporating CBD into your dog’s wellness routine, you can help ensure that your pet is comfortable, happy, and healthy.
What CBD dosage should be used for pets?
Since there aren’t any FDA-approved products for use in animals, and we don’t have many studies looking at safety and efficacy, further research is needed to determine more exact doses. If your veterinarian recommends CBD, make sure to follow their instructions since dosing may vary depending on why you are using the product.
One study looked at the efficacy of CBD oil in helping to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs. Researchers found that 2 mg per kilogram of body weight given twice a day reduced pain without owners reporting any side effects.
However, blood test results suggested that there may have been some damage to the liver. This is why it’s important that your vet is involved in making sure that your pet is being monitored appropriately.
As with humans who have never taken CBD before, it is important to start your pet on a low dose and raise it slowly.
For example, you can start with one-quarter or one-half of the dose on the label to see how your pet reacts to a small amount of CBD. If your pet does not experience symptom relief, your vet may have you give another dose of the same amount in 30 to 60 minutes and continue to see how they respond.
What pet health problems might CBD help manage?
CBD has shown benefit for animals in a range of conditions including, but not limited to, inflammatory problems, seizures, pain relief, and anxiety. Using CBD for pet health problems is based on the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The goal of the ECS is to achieve and maintain balance of all processes in the body. This is thought to be the reason CBD may have so many potential benefits.
Keep in mind that every pet’s ECS functions a little bit differently, so CBD may work better for some than others.
Pain
Once absorbed by an animal’s body, CBD may play a role in lowering inflammation and relieving pain. While experts are still learning exactly how CBD may relieve pain, it’s believed to affect the ECS and other nerves that are involved in creating pain sensations. More specifically, studies have shown that reducing joint inflammation relieves osteoarthritis aches and pains in pets.
Anxiety
Much like humans, many pets experience anxiety, leading to several troublesome behaviors like urinating inappropriately. CBD is thought to ease nervousness and provide feelings of calm. Experts believe this is because CBD may activate some of the same areas of the brain as serotonin — the hormone that helps us feel happy and relaxed.
Seizures
CBD has been shown to help with epilepsy in dogs by lowering the frequency of seizures when used in combination with traditional antiseizure medications. Although experts don’t fully understand how CBD treats seizures, it is thought to prevent nerves in the brain from firing too much and lower the number of electrolytes believed to have a role in seizure conditions.
How can I tell if CBD is helping my pet?
Because our pets cannot tell us whether they are feeling better, the most reliable way to tell if CBD is working is to watch them and their behaviors. After giving a dose of CBD, keep a close eye on your pet to see if their symptoms seem to be improving or not. Depending on the condition your pet has, symptom relief may happen in as soon as 30 minutes or take up to a few weeks of consistent use.
As discussed before, CBD impacts every animal differently. If your vet recommends that you give it a try, you may go through several brands, doses, or forms to find what works for your four-legged companion. But even though finding the right product requires patience, it is worth it to see your pet be their best, happiest self.
Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a plant that is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly used for its medicinal properties. It is a member of the coffee family and has been used for centuries by traditional healers to treat a variety of ailments. In recent years, Kratom has gained popularity in the Western world as a natural alternative to traditional pain management and as a way to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The active compounds in Kratom, known as alkaloids, are primarily responsible for its medicinal properties. The two main alkaloids found in Kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids interact with the body’s opioid receptors, which are responsible for pain perception, and can provide pain relief similar to that of traditional opioid medications. However, unlike traditional opioids, Kratom does not have the same risk of addiction and overdose.
One of the most commonly reported benefits of Kratom is its ability to relieve pain. Many people who use Kratom report that it helps to alleviate chronic pain conditions such as back pain, fibromyalgia, and arthritis. Kratom is also said to be effective in treating headaches and migraines.
Kratom is also commonly used as a natural remedy for anxiety and depression. The alkaloids in Kratom interact with the brain’s serotonin and dopamine receptors, which can help to regulate mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Some people also use Kratom as a natural alternative to traditional antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.
Another benefit of Kratom is its ability to improve energy levels and focus. Many people report that Kratom helps them to feel more alert and focused and can even be used as a natural alternative to traditional stimulants such as caffeine.
Kratom is also said to have a number of other benefits, including helping to improve sleep, reducing inflammation, and increasing immunity. It may also be helpful in treating opioid addiction, as it can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
It’s important to note that the research on Kratom is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks. However, the anecdotal evidence from people who have used Kratom suggests that it can be a safe and effective alternative to traditional pain management and mental health medications.
When it comes to using Kratom, it’s important to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. It’s also important to only purchase Kratom from reputable sources to ensure that it is of high quality and free from contaminants. As with any supplement, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using Kratom.
Ninety-one percent of kratom users consume the herbal substance for pain relief. However, others may simply enjoy the euphoric mood boost and the energy spurt after ingesting kratom.
Are you tired of dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, or stress? Have you tried traditional medications, but find that they just don’t provide the relief you need? Are you looking for a more natural alternative? Look no further than the combination of Kratom and CBD!
Kratom is a plant-based substance that has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia for its pain-relieving and mood-boosting properties. It is made from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree and contains alkaloids that interact with the body’s opioid receptors to provide a natural form of pain relief.
CBD, on the other hand, is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has been found to have anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anxiety-reducing properties. When combined, Kratom and CBD can provide a powerful, synergistic effect that can help to reduce chronic pain, anxiety, and stress in a more natural way.
The combination of Kratom and CBD is a relatively new area of research, and there is currently limited scientific evidence on the safety and effectiveness of this combination. However, many users have reported that taking Kratom and CBD together can enhance the effects of both substances and provide a more potent pain relief and mood-boosting experience.
Kratom has several effects on the body, depending on the dose.
People use kratom in many ways, including chewing the leaves whole, brewing them as a tea, and crushing the leaves and swallowing or smoking them.
Stimulant effects
In very small doses, of 1–5 grams (g), kratom can act as a stimulant, giving users more energy. They may feel more awake and alert, social, and talkative.
Sedative effects
In higher doses, of 5–15 g, kratom can have a sedative effect. This is similar to the effects of opioids, which cause users to feel tired, calm, and euphoric.
People typically use higher doses to treat a severe cough, diarrhea, or the symptoms of opioid withdrawal or pain Managment.
Doses higher than 15 g can make a person very tired and sedated, even to the point of losing consciousness.
Forms of Consuming Kratom
Kratom can be consumed through a variety of methods, according to your preferences. Some typical forms include:
Beverages
Capsules
Gummies
Powder
In particular, kratom is popular in its powdered form, as you can brew it in tea, coffee, or smoothies. If you like, you can also add it to food or wash it down with water.
The history of Kratom
The history of Kratom is a long tale, steeped in tradition and steeped in mystery. It all began in the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia, where the Kratom tree, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, has grown wild for centuries.
The indigenous people of the region have known about the powerful healing properties of Kratom for generations, using it to relieve pain, boost energy, and even as a natural remedy for opioid addiction. They would gather the leaves of the tree and grind them into a fine powder, which they would then brew into a tea or mix into their food.
As word of the tree’s benefits spread, traders and explorers began to take notice. They brought Kratom back to their home countries, where it quickly gained popularity as a natural alternative to traditional pain medications.
As time went on, the story of Kratom continued to evolve. Scientists and researchers began to study the plant in more detail, uncovering the complex alkaloids that give Kratom its unique properties. Today, Kratom is used by people all around the world to help manage chronic pain, anxiety, and stress, and as a natural alternative to opioid addiction treatment.
Despite its growing popularity, Kratom’s romantic history remains a mystery. The traditional methods of harvesting and processing the leaves have been passed down through generations, and the tree’s unique healing properties continue to captivate and inspire. But one thing is for sure, this traditional plant has stood the test of time, and it continues to be used as a natural remedy for many ailments.
In conclusion, Kratom is a plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and has gained popularity in recent years as a natural alternative to traditional pain management and mental health medications. Its active compounds, known as alkaloids, interact with the body’s opioid receptors and can provide pain relief similar to traditional opioids, but without the risk of addiction and overdose. Kratom may also help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve energy levels and focus, and improve sleep, but more research is needed to understand its potential benefits and risks. It’s important to only purchase Kratom from reputable sources and to consult with a hea
Is Kratom legal in my State?
Selling and/or shipping kratom to the following states, cities, and counties in the US is prohibited: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Wisconsin. Sarasota County, Union County, Denver, San Diego.
Natural Herb Kratom May Have Therapeutic Effects And Relatively Low Potential For Abuse Or Harm, According To A User Survey
Credit: Johns Hopkins Medicine
Using results of a survey of more than 2,700 self-reported users of the herbal supplement kratom, sold online and in smoke shops around the U.S., Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers conclude that the psychoactive compound somewhat similar to opioids likely has a lower rate of harm than prescription opioids for treating pain, anxiety, depression and addiction.
In a report on the findings, published in the Feb. 3 issue of Drug and Alcohol Dependence, the researchers caution that while self-reporting surveys aren’t always entirely reliable, they confirmed that kratom is not regulated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and that scientific studies have not been done to formally establish safety and benefits. They say that U.S. drug agencies should seek to study and regulate rather than ban kratom sales outright because of its seemingly safe therapeutic potential, and as a possible alternative to opioid use.
The American Kratom Association (AKA), a consumer advocacy group, estimates that 10-16 million people in the U.S. regularly use kratom by either eating its ground leaves in food or brewing them in tea. Kratom is a tropical plant related to coffee trees, and grown mainly in Southeast Asia. It contains a chemical called mitragynine, an alkaloid that acts on the brain opiate receptors and alters mood. In Asia, where use has long been widespread, people use it in small doses as an energy and mood booster, similar to coffee use in the West. They use larger amounts for pain, or recreationally like beer and wine.
Kratom Leaves (left) Young kratom trees in Indonesia (right) Credit: American Kratom Association
Kratom products are unregulated and Non standardized, and reports — although sparse — have linked its use to hallucinations, seizures and liver damage, when combined with alcohol or other drugs. In 2016, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) proposed banning commercial sale and use, and the FDA has advised categorizing it as a Schedule I drug, meaning it has no proven medical application and has a high risk of abuse. These agencies were met with public and supplement industry pushback, and no action was taken. A salmonella contamination outbreak in 2018 among users increased concerns.
However, says Albert Garcia-Romeu, Ph.D., instructor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, the new survey findings “suggest that kratom doesn’t belong in the category of a Schedule I drug, because there seems to be relatively low rate of abuse potential, and there may be medical applications to explore, including as a possible treatment for pain and opioid use disorder.”
“There has been a bit of fearmongering,” he adds, “because kratom is opioidlike, and because of the toll of our current opioid epidemic.”
A 2015 study in Thailand that reported that people in Asia have been using kratom successfully to treat opioid addiction for decades renewed interest among researchers in the U.S.
For the current survey, Garcia-Romeu says, he and his team enrolled 2,798 people to complete an online survey on their use of kratom. They recruited participants online and through social media, as well as through the AKA. Overall, users were mostly white, educated and middle-aged. Some 61% of users were women, and 90% were white. About 6% reported being multiracial, 1.5% reported being Native American or Hawaiian, 0.5% reported being Asian and 0.4% said they were African American. Participants were an average age of 40. About 84% of participants reported having at least some college education.
Of these participants, 91% reported taking kratom to alleviate pain on average a couple times a day for back, shoulder and knee pain, 67% for anxiety and 65% for depression. About 41% of survey responders said they took kratom to treat opioid withdrawal, and of those people who took it for opioid withdrawal, 35% reported going more than a year without taking prescription opioids or heroin.
As part of the survey, participants completed a Substance Use Disorder Symptom checklist to assess whether their use qualified as a substance use disorder according to the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition guidelines. Fewer than 3% of responses met the criteria for moderate or severe substance use disorder for abusing kratom, but about 13% met some criteria for kratom-related substance use disorder. This is comparable to about 8%–12% of people prescribed opioid medications who became dependent, according to statistics from the U.S. National Institute for Drug Abuse (NIDA).
“Both prescription and illicit opioids carry the risk of lethal overdose as evidenced by the more than 47,000 opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2017,” says Garcia-Romeu. “Notably there’s been fewer than 100 kratom-related deaths reported in a comparable period, and most of these involved mixing with other drugs or in combination with preexisting health conditions.”
A third of the survey participants reported having mild unpleasant side effects from kratom, such as constipation, upset stomach or lethargy, which mostly resolved within a day. Only 1.9% reported that side effects were severe enough for them to seek medical treatment, such as feeling withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, depression or insomnia when the kratom wore off. Fewer than 10% of participants reported notable kratom-related withdrawal symptoms.
“Although our findings show kratom to be relatively safe according to these self-reports, unregulated medicinal supplements raise concerns with respect to contamination or higher doses of the active chemicals, which could increase negative side effects and harmful responses,” says Garcia-Romeu. “This is why we advocate for the FDA to regulate kratom, which would require testing for impurities and maintaining safe levels of the active chemicals. Otherwise, unregulated products run the risk of unsafe additives and dosing problems, which could be like getting a shot of grain alcohol when you were trying to order a beer.”
Garcia-Romeu adds that data is scant on whether one can overdose on kratom alone, or how it interacts with alcohol or other drugs. The researchers also say rigorous clinical research needs to be done to test kratom for its potential therapeutic benefits, for behavioral intoxication effects and adverse side effects to further help inform government policy and regulation. They also suggest that people err on the side of caution and not mix kratom with any other drugs or medications, and to always talk with their health care provider before taking any supplement.
Aside from Garcia-Romeu, authors on the study include David Cox, Kelly Dunn and Roland Griffiths of Johns Hopkins and Kirsten Smith of NIDA.
Support for this study was provided in part by grants from NIDA (R01DA003889 and R01DA035246).
