Have you ever thought Kratom can help you in terms of anxiety and depression? If not, then you may not know that it’s one of the main effects is to reduce anxiety and depression. Are you thinking about using top-quality kratom to manage depression? There are several things to consider before trying it. First, it’s important to understand how kratom works. There are no human clinical trials and no case reports. However, if you look at Google Trends, you’ll notice an increase in searches for kratom for depression management strategies in general. You’ll see a sharp rise in blue searches, followed by a gradual increase in red searches. These numbers show the use of kratom for depression on a large scale.
Note: Anyone considering using kratom should thoroughly research the topic and consult with a healthcare professional to understand the potential risks and benefits.
Contents
Research on Kratom
There is a large body of evidence to suggest that kratom can help a depressive person, but no clinical trials have been conducted on humans. However, two animal studies have been conducted to measure its antidepressant effects. These studies used the forced swim test and the tail suspension test to measure immobility and escape-oriented behaviors. The results of these studies are promising, but are not conclusive.
People with depression are prone to substance abuse, and often turn to drugs to help alleviate their symptoms. While kratom does have similar stress-relieving effects to other drugs, it’s not recommended for those with major depressive disorder. It’s important to talk to a licensed mental health care provider about its safety and effectiveness. Even if you don’t have a diagnosable depression, you should not try kratom on your own.
Side Effects
A recent study, presented with a depressive mood and ruminative thinking, suggests that Kratom may be beneficial for depression. Previously, the patient had used alcohol to cope with depression and developed an addiction. After a period of abstinence, he began to use Kratom three to four times a day seven years ago. In addition, the patient experienced reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
As with other prescription drugs, the drug can produce side effects in some people, and higher doses can lead to an altered state of consciousness. While users of kratom often report euphoria, they may also experience constipation, nausea, and itching. In some cases, kratom may lead to a loss of appetite and motivation, and it is important to consult with a physician before taking any new medications or adjusting to an existing medication regimen.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of kratom as a treatment for depression has been disputed. Despite the numerous reports, there is no clinical trial available. However, two animal studies have been published evaluating the drug’s effect on depressive symptoms. The studies assessed the drug’s effects on the absence of escape-oriented behaviors and immobility in animals. However, these findings are not conclusive.
The effects of kratom on the brain are complex, with several possible effects, including sedation, pleasure, and reduced pain reception. The main active ingredient in kratom is mitragynine, which works in other areas of the brain to produce sedative effects. The drug’s effects on the brain depend on the amount taken. Lower doses may act as a stimulant, while higher doses produce sedative effects.
Some people use kratom as a self-medication for depression. This drug may help relieve their symptoms in the short term, but the effects may not last. The substance can also cause side effects, including stomach upset, lethargy, anxiety, and emotional bluntness. Kratom is addictive, and users may become dependent on it. Therefore, talking to a mental health professional before taking it is best.
Current Legal Status of Kratom
| Country/Region | Legal Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Legal in most states | Illegal in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin. Some cities and counties have local bans. |
| Canada | Illegal | Not approved for sale |
| United Kingdom | Illegal | Class C drug under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 |
| European Union | Varies by country | Legal in some countries, controlled in others |
| Australia | Illegal | Considered a Schedule 9 substance |
| Thailand | Legal | Recently legalized for medical and industrial use |
| Malaysia | Illegal | But widely used traditionally |
| Indonesia | Legal | Major exporter, but ban planned for 2024 |
| Japan | Legal | But strictly regulated |
| South Korea | Illegal | Classified as a new psychoactive substance |
| New Zealand | Prescription only | Classified as a prescription medicine |
Please note that legal statuses can change, and local regulations may vary. This table provides a general overview, but it’s always advisable to check the most current local laws and regulations.
Side Notes
There is no scientific evidence supporting kratom’s use for major depressive disorder. Its use for this purpose carries significant risks. In addition, it may increase the desire for drugs such as opiates or nicotine. While kratom may be useful in the self-management of major depression, it has not been proven to be a viable treatment for addiction risk or depression. Some experts have also warned that the use of kratom for this purpose can lead to addiction. The researchers still believe that kratom can help those at risk of addiction and depression.
Reported Uses
- Pain Management
Many users report using kratom for pain relief. The alkaloids in kratom, particularly mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are thought to interact with opioid receptors in the brain, potentially producing analgesic effects.
- Mood Enhancement
Some individuals report using kratom to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Users often describe feeling more relaxed, sociable, and positive after consuming kratom.
- Energy Boost
At lower doses, kratom is reported to have stimulant-like effects. Some users consume it as an alternative to caffeine for increased energy and focus.
- Opioid Withdrawal
There are reports of individuals using kratom to manage withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using opioids. However, this use is controversial and not medically endorsed.
- Sleep Aid
Some users report that certain strains of kratom, particularly red vein varieties, help with sleep issues.
Conclusion
While some individuals report benefits from kratom use, it’s crucial to approach its use with caution. The lack of regulation, potential for dependence, and possible side effects make it a controversial substance. Anyone considering using kratom should thoroughly research the topic and consult with a healthcare professional to understand the potential risks and benefits.