Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree in the coffee family that contains alkaloids. It is consumed for its stimulant, pain-relieving and opioid-like effects. Kratom tea is an easy and convenient way to ingest the herb. However, to get the most benefit from kratom tea, you need to know how to make it correctly.
The best kratom tea recipe begins with a measured amount of crushed kratom leaf and hot water. The heat level should be moderately hot, not boiling, to ensure that beneficial compounds are preserved during the brewing process. When making kratom tea, it is also important to stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers to help evenly distribute the active ingredients throughout the tea. Finally, you should allow the tea to cool before drinking.
A number of studies have linked kratom use with increased energy, improved mood and decreased anxiety. These benefits are derived from kratom’s alkaloids, especially mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragyine, which have the potential to affect certain receptors in the brain and intestines. Despite these effects, kratom is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for any condition and experts warn that it can have serious side effects.
In a recent study, researchers enrolled 2,798 people to complete an online survey about their kratom use. They found that kratom was used by a large percentage of participants as a self-treatment for anxiety, depression or opioid withdrawal symptoms. In addition, many kratom users reported using it for pain relief and as an alternative to prescription or illegal opioid drugs. In fact, kratom is frequently used by opioid users to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
The most common side effect associated with kratom is nausea, which can be reduced by adding a small amount of milk to the tea. It is also important to store kratom tea in a well-sealed container and to refrigerate it, as the plant can spoil when exposed to air.
While kratom is available in powder and capsule form, a growing number of people are choosing to prepare the herb as a tea. The research suggests that kratom tea is a safe, convenient and effective way to consume the drug. The key to preparing the best kratom tea is to use hot — but not boiling — water, add a little acid, and sweeten it if desired.
The bottom line is that kratom is not regulated, so you don’t know where it was sourced or whether it may be laced with other substances. In addition, the herb has not been proven to treat any health conditions and is not recognized as an addiction by the DEA or insurance companies. Therefore, experts encourage those who seek pain relief and an altered state of consciousness to explore other treatment options. If you or a loved one are concerned about kratom, talk to your doctor or an addiction professional for help. There are plenty of ways to achieve these goals without putting your health at risk.