Mitragyna Speciosa, popularly known as Kratom is one unique plant. It has attracted a lot of attention in the past two to three years. But, did you know that this plant has used for hundreds of years? It grows wildly in the jungles of Southeast Asia. This is also its origin. Experts recommend that Mitragyna Speciosa cultivated from these areas is more potent than those grown from other parts of the world. But, have you always wondered what Mitragyna Speciosa is? Below, is a guide that will teach you all you need to know about this unique plant.
The History
We cannot truly determine when this plant was discovered. This is because the Mitragyna Speciosa was passed from generation to generation as a medicinal plant. This, therefore, shows how ancient it is in Thailand, Malaysia, and nearby parts. In these regions, it was used to relieve pain, reduce fevers and treat a couple of ailments.
The plant was first scientifically tried out by humans. Scientists then noticed how it offered stimulant effects. Later in 1960, another group of researchers was able to isolate the 7-hydroxymitragynine compound from the Mitragyna Speciosa.
Within this time frame, Mitragyna Speciosa had faced a lot of challenges. For instance, it was a ban in Thailand in 1943. In the 21st century, when this plant finally found its way into the western countries. It also faced a lot of opposition.
Nonetheless, it has been able to bypass all these obstacles because of its effectiveness in treating several conditions. Two years ago, the DEA was forced to withdraw their case against it. They are thus making it legal to consume. As we speak, the Mitragyna Speciosa has proven to be quite helpful in relieving patients from pain, anxiety, depression and opiate withdrawal.
The Chemistry Behind the Plant
The Mitragyna Speciosa is one among the rare plants that have shocked the medical world. Being a phytochemical, it contains 7-hydroxymitragynine and 9-methoxy-corynatheidine. However, the 7-hydroxymitragynine compound is more potent and has a higher bio-availability than other compounds found in the plant. It is the element that is responsible for binding with receptors in the brain and producing effects such as numbness to pain and improved mood.
How Is It Taken?
About three hundred years ago, most natives simply used to chew Mitragyna Speciosa leaves. But, with the onset of modernization. People began drying up the leaves of the plant, crushing them to powder and mixing it with water or tea. Powdered leaves of Mitragyna Speciosa are easy to be swallowed. It’s why most vendors do sell them in the form of powder. There are also Kratom capsules which are also convenient to consume. How one takes Kratom is all entirely up to their preferences. There are some who prefer powder whereas others capsules.
The Different Strains of the Mitragyna Speciosa
Their colors can easily identify the strains of the Mitragyna Speciosa. There’s the red, green and white strain. These colors are evident on the leaves and stem. The different strains require varying conditions for growth and each does have its unique effects.
• The Red Vein
This is the most consumed strain of the Mitragyna Speciosa. This is because it is said to be stronger than the three. It’s a pain reliever, aids people with insomnia, elevates mood and much more. Experts also recommend the red vein Kratom for beginners because it does offer one calming effect. It’s also a natural painkiller.
• The White Vein
This particular strain is excellent at enhancing mood and improving focus. It is slowly becoming an alternative to coffee because it increases one’s concentration and stamina. If you are always feeling gloomy, then White Vein is the best strain for you. It should only take in the morning hours. If taken at night, it could cause sleeplessness.
• The Green Vein
The Green vein lies in between the above two strains. It’s both an analgesic and a mood enhancer. By taking it, you will, therefore, experience the effects of the red and white vein Mitragyna Speciosa.
What are Its Effects?
It is normal for people to wonder why such a rare plant is this popular. But this is all because of the health benefits of the Mitragyna Speciosa. It is living in an era where over the counter medication has become a menace. A lot of people are opting for natural alternatives that can help them fight against ailments.
Below are the effects of the Mitragyna Speciosa:
1. It’s a Great Analgesic
Did you know that Mitragyna Speciosa is mostly used for pain management? Most users who purchase it are suffering from conditions associated with chronic pain. As we mentioned earlier, the 7-hydroxymitragynine blocks pain by binding with brain receptors. Therefore, taking the plant in powder or capsule form can relieve you from muscle, back and other types of pain.
2. It Minimizes Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
In the world we are living today, anxiety and depression has become a serious mental health concern. However, Mitragyna Speciosa can help minimize the symptoms of these two conditions. Mitragyna Speciosa users have acknowledged how good it is in improving mood and reducing stress. It is also known to calm one’s mind.
3. It’s an Energy Booster
There are some strains of the Mitragyna Speciosa that are ideal for boosting energy. Therefore, taking some grams of that strain will improve your performance at work. Currently, it has become an alternative to coffee. This effect can only observe if it’s taken in small doses. High doses of Mitragyna Speciosa can lead to sedation.
4. It Aids in Opiate Withdrawal
Another reason why Mitragyna Speciosa is a famous plant. It’s because it is also used as an opium substitute. The plant is known to provide a certain level of calmness which in turn relieves symptoms of opium withdrawal.
5. It Minimizes Inflammation
Mitragynine is responsible for also minimizing inflammation. It does so by inhibiting inflammation receptors in the brain.
Conclusion
The above is all you need to know about the popular Mitragyna Speciosa. As you can see, it’s not a plant like any other. Despite the many controversies that it has faced, most legal systems have taken into consideration its health benefits and have legalized it. Nonetheless, if you have decided to take the plant, make sure that you start with low doses. Whether you are taking it in the form of powder or capsules, start with less than 5 grams and slowly increase the dosage depending on your body’s reaction.
