How Does Kratom Work? Effects And Mechanism

How Does Kratom Work? Effects And Mechanism

Key Takeaways:

  • Kratom’s Dual Nature: Kratom offers stimulant- and opioid-like effects, depending on dosage, making it versatile for various needs.
  • Active Compounds: The primary alkaloids, mitragynine, and 7-hydroxymitragynine, play crucial roles in kratom’s mechanisms, influencing mood, energy, and pain relief. 
  • Different Strains & Effects: Red, White, Green, and Maeng Da strains offer distinct effects, catering to various preferences for energy, relaxation, or pain management. 

The process is crucial.

Kratom holds the potential to ease discomfort, boost energy, or promote relaxation — but how does it work, and what happens in your body to create these effects? Understanding the mechanism behind kratom isn’t just fascinating; it’s the key to using it effectively and confidently.

In this article, we’ll break down the science of how kratom works, from its unique compounds to its impact on your system. This way, you’ll understand its effects and the insights needed to make informed decisions. 

Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. Its leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and rituals, offering a variety of effects that have recently garnered significant attention worldwide.

What Makes Kratom Unique?

Kratom contains natural compounds called alkaloids, the most notable being mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds interact with the body’s opioid receptors and other receptors in the central nervous system, which is central to understanding how kratom works.

Kratom has surged in popularity due to its versatile effects. Users turn to kratom for a variety of reasons:

  • Pain Relief And Relaxation: Kratom has been used to alleviate discomfort and promote a sense of calm.1
  • Energy Boost: Some strains, particularly those with higher concentrations of mitragynine, provide a stimulating effect, potentially enhancing focus and productivity.
  • Mood Enhancement: The plant is also valued for improving mood and reducing anxiety.1
  • Natural Alternative: As a natural remedy, kratom is seen by many as a safer, more accessible alternative to pharmaceutical medications for managing physical and mental health.
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How Does Kratom Work? Understanding Its Active Compounds

Kratom leaves contain over 40 different alkaloids, with mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine being the most prominent. These alkaloids are credited with the plant’s unique effects and potential benefits. But how exactly do they interact with your body?

Mitragynine And 7-Hydroxymitragynine: A Dual Approach

Mitragynine is the most abundant alkaloid found in kratom, and it’s known for its ability to influence the body’s opioid receptors.2 However, unlike conventional opioids, mitragynine’s action is selective and subtler, which might explain the lower risk of dependency associated with kratom. This alkaloid primarily interacts with delta-opioid receptors, serving to soothe discomfort and help manage pain without producing the intense high or severe side effects typical of opioids.

7-Hydroxymitragynine, although present in much smaller quantities, plays a significant role in kratom’s effects. This compound has a higher affinity for the mu-opioid receptors, is known for pain relief, and is considered more potent than mitragynine.3 Together, these alkaloids create a balance, offering potential pain relief and mood-enhancing effects without the high risk of dependency or overdose associated with stronger opioids.

Beyond Opioid Receptors: Other Effects Of Kratom

Kratom does more than just interact with opioid receptors. It also affects other systems in the body, contributing to its diverse range of effects. For instance, kratom may act as a stimulant in smaller doses, improving energy levels and providing increased focus and alertness. This is believed to be due to the interaction of kratom alkaloids with adrenergic receptors. On the other hand, in larger quantities, kratom may offer sedative effects, helping with relaxation and easing anxiety.4

The Role Of Opioid Receptors: Why Kratom Isn’t Just Another Opioid

While kratom interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, it’s crucial to understand that it’s not simply another opioid. Here’s why:

Complex Interactions:

  • Mu-opioid Receptors: Kratom interacts with mu-opioid receptors, which are the primary targets of traditional opioids like morphine. However, kratom’s interaction is more complex and nuanced. It acts as a partial agonist, meaning it can both activate and partially block these receptors. This unique mechanism contributes to its diverse effects, which can include both opioid-like (pain relief, sedation) and stimulant-like (increased energy, alertness) properties. 
  • Other Receptors: Kratom also interacts with other receptors in the brain, such as alpha-2 adrenergic and dopamine receptors. This multi-receptor interaction further differentiates kratom from traditional opioids and contributes to its unique pharmacological profile.

Distinct Effects:

  • Kratom’s Effects can vary significantly from traditional opioids. While it may produce some opioid-like effects, such as pain relief and sedation, it can also have stimulant-like effects, such as increased alertness and energy.  
  • They’re Also Dose-Dependent: Low doses tend to produce stimulant-like effects, while higher doses can produce more opioid-like effects.

Kratom’s Dual Nature: Stimulant At Low Doses, Sedative At High Doses

Kratom’s dose-dependent effects are intriguing. This “biphasic” nature means:  

  • Low Doses (1 to 5 grams): At lower doses, kratom can produce stimulant-like effects, such as:
    • Increased Alertness: Enhanced focus and mental clarity.  
    • Increased Energy: Reduced fatigue and increased motivation.  
    • Sociability: Enhanced mood and social interaction.  
    • Euphoria: Feelings of happiness and well-being. 
  • Higher Doses (5 to 15 grams): At higher doses, kratom tends to produce more opioid-like effects, such as:
    • Pain Relief: Reduced pain perception and improved pain tolerance.  
    • Sedation: Relaxation, drowsiness, and potentially euphoria.  
    • Muscle Relaxation: Reduced muscle tension and spasms.  

Possible Mechanisms:

  • Receptor Interactions: This dose-dependent effect is likely due to the complex interactions of kratom alkaloids with various receptors in the brain.
  • Neurotransmitter Modulation: Kratom can influence the release and activity of various neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.5 The specific neurotransmitters affected and the extent of their modulation may vary depending on the dose.  

Different Strains Of Kratom And How They Affect Your Experience

Understanding the different strains of kratom can empower individuals seeking holistic and alternative healing methods to make informed choices.

Red Vein Kratom

Red vein kratom is harvested from the most mature kratom trees and is generally considered the most potent strain for pain relief and sleep issues. This strain is favored for its calming effects, making it an excellent option for those dealing with anxiety or looking to unwind after a stressful day.

Its sedative effects are attributed to its high levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine, an alkaloid that interacts with the body’s opioid receptors like morphine but without the risk of being strongly addictive.

White Vein Kratom

In contrast, white vein kratom is harvested from younger kratom trees and tends to have more invigorating effects. It is often recommended for those seeking a boost in energy or mood and can be an alternative to caffeine for enhancing focus and concentration. White vein strains are especially popular among individuals needing a lift in the morning or pushing through long work hours without the jitteriness associated with coffee.

Green Vein Kratom

Green vein kratom falls somewhere in between the red and white strains, delivering a balanced effect that provides mild energy boosts and pain relief without strong sedation or stimulation. This strain is ideal for those new to kratom or for users seeking a more subtle effect. Green vein kratom is often used for social engagements or daytime relief because it helps maintain alertness while providing a sense of well-being.

Maeng Da Kratom

Maeng Da kratom is a specialized strain that is engineered to contain higher concentrations of both mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. This makes Maeng Da both potent and versatile, offering a powerful energy boost, pain relief, and improved mood. Because of its potency, it is recommended that new users approach Maeng Da with caution and start with lower doses to gauge their tolerance and desired effects.

How Long Do Kratom’s Effects Last? A Guide To Timing And Dosage

Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the timing and dosage of Kratom, ensuring you can make informed decisions suited to your personal health goals.

Timing Of Kratom’s Effects

The onset of Kratom’s effects can vary significantly depending on the strain, dosage, and individual metabolic factors. Generally, users can expect to feel the effects within 10 to 15 minutes of consumption. When taken on an empty stomach, these effects can peak around 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. For those consuming Kratom with food or using certain slower-acting strains, onset can be delayed, taking upwards of an hour to feel the full effects.

Duration Of Effects

The duration of Kratom’s effects largely depends on the dose taken. At lower doses (1 to 5 grams), effects typically last about two to three hours. The effects can be prolonged for higher doses (5 grams or more), lasting up to five hours or more. It’s important to note that individual experiences with Kratom can vary, with some users reporting longer or shorter durations of effects.

Kratom Dosage

As with any supplement, finding the right dosage of Kratom is essential for achieving the desired effects while minimizing potential side effects. It’s advisable to start with a low dose, especially for those new to Kratom.

A dose of 1 to 5 grams is often recommended for beginners. Individuals can gradually increase the dosage from there to achieve the desired effects. However, proceeding cautiously and increasing doses incrementally is important to avoid negative side effects.

Factors Influencing Duration And Effects

Several factors can influence how long Kratom’s effects last and how intense they are, including:

  • Strain Type: Different Kratom strains have varying levels of potency and effects. For example, Red Vein strains are typically associated with more sedative effects, while White Vein strains are more stimulating.
  • Quality Of Kratom: The quality and purity of Kratom can also impact its effects. High-quality, lab-tested products, like those offered by Pure CBD Now, are more likely to provide consistent and predictable effects.
  • Individual Differences: Metabolism, body weight, and tolerance levels also play a significant role in how an individual may experience Kratom’s effects.

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Final Thoughts

Kratom is a fascinating natural supplement that interacts with the body’s unique receptors to offer several effects — from pain relief and relaxation to energy boosts and mood enhancement. Understanding how its active compounds, like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, work together to influence different systems highlights its complexity. As with any natural remedy, it’s essential to approach Kratom with informed usage, starting with lower doses and gradually finding what works best for your individual needs.

At Pure CBD Now, we are dedicated to guiding our customers — whether first-time users or experienced consumers — toward making informed decisions about their wellness journey. While we primarily focus on high-quality, lab-tested CBD products, we recognize the value of exploring other natural compounds like kratom.

We believe in the power of education and transparency, providing our customers with all the information they need to form healthy relationships with CBD and other natural supplements.

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Frequently Asked Questions About How Does Kratom Work?

What are the side effects of Kratom?

Kratom, derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, can offer therapeutic benefits but may also lead to side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, sleep disturbances, itching, and sweating. Starting with a low dose is essential to assess your body’s reaction and consult healthcare professionals if you experience adverse effects.

Can Kratom cause addiction?

Yes, prolonged and frequent use of Kratom can lead to dependency and addiction. Kratom acts on the opioid receptors in the brain, similar to opioids, which means it can potentially be addictive. Users may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, yawning, nausea, sweating, and muscle aches when they stop using it. It’s crucial to be mindful of your intake and approach Kratom use with caution.

The legality of Kratom varies by country and within countries by state or region. In the United States, Kratom is legal at the federal level but is regulated or banned in several states, such as Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Internationally, countries like Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, and several European Union countries have restrictions or outright bans on Kratom. Always verify the legal status of Kratom in your specific location before purchasing or consuming it.

How long does Kratom stay in the system?

Kratom alkaloids can stay up to 9 days in urine and up to 7 to 9 days in blood.6 However, these detection windows can vary significantly based on several factors, including metabolic rate, age, body mass, hydration level, and the frequency and amount of Kratom use. 

Can Kratom be detected on drug tests?

Standard drug tests, such as the SAMHSA-5, do not screen for Kratom since it does not typically cause false positives for other narcotics. However, specialized drug tests have been developed specifically to detect Kratom metabolites like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Such tests may be used in settings requiring detailed drug screening profiles or in areas where Kratom is regulated or banned.

How does the route of administration affect Kratom’s effects?

Kratom can be ingested in various ways, including capsules, tablets, gum, tinctures, extracts, or by brewing the dried leaves as tea. The onset and duration of effects can vary based on the method of administration. Oral ingestion results in slower onset but longer-lasting effects, while more direct methods like tinctures or teas lead to quicker onset but shorter duration of effects. The alkaloid content of Kratom can also be affected by how it is prepared and consumed, influencing its potency and effects.

Sources:

  1. Hossain, R., Sultana, A., Manit Nuinoon, Kunwadee Noonong, Jitbanjong Tangpong, Kazi Helal Hossain, & Md Atiar Rahman. (2023). A Critical Review of the Neuropharmacological Effects of Kratom: An Insight from the Functional Array of Identified Natural Compounds. Molecules, 28(21), 7372–7372. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28217372
  2. Nur, Ummi Kalthum Azlan, Mediani, A., Tong, X., Han, R., Ebtesam Al-Olayan, Syarul Nataqain Baharum, Hamidun Bunawan, Murni Nazira Sarian, Hamizah Shahirah Hamezah, & Ibrahim Jantan. (2024). An insight review on the neuropharmacological effects, mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of mitragynine. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 171, 116134–116134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116134
  3. Phipps, S. M., & Grundmann, O. (2017). Pharmacology and Structure-Activity Relationship of Natural Products With Psychoactive Effects From Salvia divinorum , Mitragyna speciosa , and Ayahuasca. Studies in Natural Products Chemistry, 1–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-444-63930-1.00001-6
  4. ‌Swogger, M. T., Smith, K. E., Garcia-Romeu, A., Grundmann, O., Veltri, C. A., Henningfield, J. E., & Busch, L. Y. (2022). Understanding Kratom Use: A Guide for Healthcare Providers. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.801855
  5. ‌Johnson, L. E., Balyan, L., Magdalany, A., Saeed, F., Salinas, R., Wallace, S., Veltri, C. A., Swogger, M. T., Walsh, Z., & Grundmann, O. (2020). The Potential for Kratom as an Antidepressant and Antipsychotic. The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 93(2), 283. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7309668/
  6. Dr. Andre Waismann. (2020, October 6). How Long Does Kratom Stay in Your System? ANR Clinic – Advanced Opioid Treatment Center. https://anrclinic.com/blog/how-long-does-kratom-stay-in-your-system/
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