Kratom is a tropical tree (Mitragyna speciosa) native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The leaves of the kratom tree contain compounds that can have stimulant or sedative effects depending on the dosage. Traditionally, kratom leaves have been used by workers in Southeast Asia for their stimulant properties to help alleviate fatigue. In more recent years, kratom has been used in the United States as an herbal supplement to manage pain, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal. However, its use has sparked controversy due to its potential for dependence, addiction, and health risks.

Street Names for Kratom:

•Biak-biak

•Ketum

•Thom

•Ithang

•Herbal Speedball

How is Kratom Made?

Kratom is made from the leaves of the kratom tree, which are harvested and either dried or crushed. These leaves can be consumed in several forms, including powder, capsules, tea, or even chewed raw. The leaves contain alkaloids, particularly mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which bind to opioid receptors in the brain. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs like fentanyl, kratom is not synthesized in a lab but is a naturally occurring substance that is cultivated and exported, often under less regulated conditions.

While kratom is legal in many areas, it is unregulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning its production and purity can vary significantly. This lack of regulation raises concerns about contamination and potency.

Why is Kratom Dangerous?

Though kratom is often marketed as a natural remedy for various ailments, it can pose significant risks. The active compounds in kratom interact with opioid receptors in the brain, making it potentially addictive. Additionally, its unregulated status means that users may not know the true strength or purity of the product they are consuming. Long-term use can lead to dependence, and withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids may occur. There have also been reports of kratom being mixed with other substances, increasing the risk of overdose.

How Kratom is Used:

•Traditional Use: In Southeast Asia, kratom leaves are chewed or brewed into tea for their mild stimulant effects.

•Modern Use: In the U.S., kratom is consumed as a powder, capsule, or liquid extract. Some people use kratom to self-treat chronic pain, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal, but these uses are not backed by reliable clinical research.

Effects of Kratom:

•Low doses (1–5 grams): Mild stimulation, increased energy, alertness, sociability

•Moderate doses (5–15 grams): Sedation, euphoria, pain relief

•High doses (more than 15 grams): Extreme sedation, loss of consciousness

Kratom Overdose Symptoms:

•Drowsiness

•Nausea and vomiting

•Respiratory depression

•Agitation or irritability

•Delusions or hallucinations

•Seizures (in severe cases)

Kratom vs. Fentanyl:

While kratom is a naturally occurring plant-based substance, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. Both substances bind to opioid receptors in the brain, but fentanyl is much more potent—50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Unlike fentanyl, which is primarily used for pain management under medical supervision, kratom is often taken without medical oversight and can vary widely in potency and purity. Both substances carry a risk of addiction and overdose, but fentanyl poses a far greater immediate threat due to its potency and the growing issue of fentanyl-laced street drugs.

Recovery Syndicate understands the complex nature of substance use disorders, whether from powerful synthetic opioids like fentanyl or more naturally derived substances like kratom. We offer comprehensive addiction recovery programs tailored to meet individual needs and ensure long-term sobriety.

If you, or someone you love, is struggling with kratom or opioid addiction, please call Recovery Syndicate at 480-409-4787 or visit us at recoverysyndicate.com for help or more information.