Kratom technology is being explored as a potential treatment for addiction. Researchers have discovered that the alkaloids found in the kratom products may interact with several nonopioid receptors. They have recently filed a provisional patent application for this research. Annie Ghosh, a Purdue Research Foundation office of technology commercialization researcher, is leading the study.
Kratom is a traditional Southeast Asian herbal medicine
As for where does kratom come from, it is a traditional Southeast Asian herbal medicine, and has become a controversial topic in the U.S. Recently, a supplement made with kratom was linked to a multistate outbreak of salmonella. This prompted the Food and Drug Administration to order a mandatory recall of kratom. Though the exact source of contamination is unclear, it is likely to have occurred during the growing process. Furthermore, an analysis of 30 kratom products in April 2019 revealed trace amounts of lead and heavy metals. Although it is not considered dangerous to most users, many users of kratom should consult with a healthcare provider before taking this supplement.
Kratom is traditionally consumed by chewing or smoking the leaves. However, new forms of consumption have emerged recently, making it even more popular among young adults in SE Asia. In Thailand, for example, kratom juice is mixed with a sweet beverage. Additionally, kratom merchandise is also available in the form of pills, gums, and tablets.
Pharmacological effects
Although the pharmacological effects of kratom are not yet known, some studies have shown that this plant can help with opioid withdrawal. These findings, however, require further research to confirm whether kratom is useful for opioid withdrawal. The kratom alkaloids have a variety of effects and many of them are opioid receptor agonists.
Despite its popularity, kratom does have some risks. Chronic use may lead to signs of physical dependence. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms, though these are not as severe as in opioid addiction.
Potential as a treatment for drug addiction
Although kratom is considered a drug of abuse in Thailand, the United States is investigating its potential as a treatment for drug addiction. Edward Boyer, a professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and the director of medical toxicology, is researching the plant. He has collaborated with Chris McCurdy, a professor of medicinal chemistry at the University of Mississippi. Both men have conducted studies on the effects of kratom and its stigma.
Anti-anxiety medication
Kratom, a substance derived from a Southeast Asian tree, may help people overcome anxiety. It may reduce stress, improve mood, and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety. People who suffer from anxiety have trouble coping with life's challenges. They may experience digestive problems, a racing heartbeat, or other symptoms. Symptoms can also develop if people live in stressful environments.
Kratom, also known as mitragynine, is not listed on the United Nations' list of controlled substances. However, it is available in some herbal stores, and online. It is cultivated in SouthEast Asia, most likely in Indonesia. Its leaves are either chewed or brewed into tea. Teas containing kratom often contain lemon juice or honey to facilitate alkaloid extraction. In some cases, the leaves may also be smoked.
Side Notes
Kratom is an extract from a plant that has opioid-like properties. In clinical trials, it has been used to treat opioid withdrawal. The FDA has announced that it is investigating whether kratom can relieve pain and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Scientists at the FDA created a computational model of the compounds that kratom contains to determine their effects on the body. This type of modeling is a useful tool in understanding drug behavior.
Those who use kratom say it is much safer than opioids. It has also been linked to fewer deaths than prescription opioids. However, kratom advocates say the relatively low number of kratom-related deaths is likely due to the fact that many other drugs are being used at the same time. Testimonials about kratom have appeared on a variety of websites.
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