Throughout modern history, people have used plant-based extracts to help fend off pest infestations, improve crop yields, protect skin from sun damage and support various systems throughout the body. Kratom is a plant that has long been utilized by human beings to treat pain and boost energy levels. Its leaves are typically chewed or brewed as a tea to produce invigorating effects and euphoria. It is also commonly smoked or taken as a tincture or capsule to experience more targeted therapeutic effects.
Kratom’s phytochemicals, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, have been isolated and used in medicinal research to treat anxiety, pain, insomnia and other ailments. However, these single compounds do not replicate the pharmacological benefits of the whole plant. This is why kratom extract is often sought after as a more potent form of the plant that contains the entire range of pharmacologically active phytochemicals.
When purchasing a high-quality kratom extract, it’s important to choose the best method of extraction. The type of extraction method, the amount of time and the solvents used will impact the extract’s dry yield and mitragynine content. This is why it’s critical to buy kratom extract from a trusted source.
The most popular extraction methods for kratom include maceration, Soxhlet and percolation. These methods use water and a solvent to create a liquid extract that is then filtered and preserved for later consumption. Another common extraction technique is microwave-assisted extraction, or MAE. This method uses a combination of heat and solvent to produce an extract that is usually more oil-soluble than other types of kratom extractions.
These incredibly high-concentration kratom extracts can be very potent, which is why it’s so important to start low and go slow when using them. Too much kratom extract can produce undesirable side effects, such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea and jerky muscle movements. It can also interfere with some medications that are broken down by the liver, such as birth control pills, antidepressants and drugs for seizures or blood thinners.
In addition to these potential side effects, consuming too much kratom can cause addiction and withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms can include muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, diarrhea, hot flashes, changes in heart rate and blood pressure, dilated pupils, mood swings and aggression. These symptoms can last for a few days to a week or more, and some users have reported that they are extremely difficult to overcome.
If you are suffering from a kratom addiction, it is important to get help immediately. Getting treatment and support from a reputable rehabilitation center can make the process of detoxing and recovering from kratom addiction significantly easier and more comfortable. In addition, seeking the help of a close friend or family member can also be beneficial during this challenging time. With the right support system, it is possible to overcome a kratom addiction and live a happy and fulfilling life.