Kratom is an herb that is used to treat moderate pain, fatigue, depression, and anxiety; however, its usage can lead to kratom constipation. In this article, we intend to discover what kratom is and, more importantly, if it is capable of causing constipation. We will then discuss how one can go about managing kratom-induced constipation; this include, hydrating by consuming plenty of water, consuming foods rich in fiber, engaging in physical activity, taking probiotics, experimenting with natural laxatives, and trying a kratom dosage tapering schedule regularly.
Furthermore, we will get to know about the diverse forms of consumption of Kratom that one can use, such as the strongest kratom capsules, pills, gummies, tinctures, and extract forms. Last but not least, we will discuss the dosage of kratom that is advised and certain factors that may turn the otherwise beneficial supplement into a dangerous substance if taken in large amounts.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom, officially named as Mitragyna speciosa, belongs to the coffee family and is originally grown in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The leaves of this tree have been known by most people for centuries due to their medicinal functionalities. Kratom has active alkaloids, in most abundance mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine – the ones partially responsible for acting on the opioid receptors in the brain and, thus, having effects similar to both stimulants and opioids.
When used in moderation, kratom may produce effects in the form of energy, optimistic mood, and sociability as a potent stimulant. When taken in large quantities, it has sedative properties, and it is used to treat pain and sleeplessness. Due to these multiple uses, the use of kratom when it comes to the management of pains, fighting exhaustion, as well as to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms is common.
It is easily available in the form of powder, capsules, extracts for ingestion, and different types of teas. Though in many ways kratom use is helpful, its application is considered rather problematic because of possible negative effects and addiction capability. Employing kratom should also be done responsibly for users to make the most of it without experiencing the negative impacts resulting in an infringement of their rights.
Can Kratom Cause Constipation?
Yes, kratom intake can lead to constipation depending on the dosage, being one of the potential effects of the drug. This is an area that many people complain about, but it is a common side effect of many brands. Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are the main alkaloids of kratom, work by binding to opioid receptors located mainly in the CNS and the gastrointestinal tract. As with numerous other opioids of similar kind, this interaction is characterized by alteration in the speed of digestion, thus causing a reduced frequency of bowel movements and leading to constipation.
The severity of constipation can range from mild to severe depending on kratom consumption, dosage, frequency, and, most importantly, tolerance among the users and the overall health statuses of their bowels. It is more likely to have severe constipation if one has to take higher doses of the drug and equally if the patient has to take it for a very long period. Possible Signs of Low GI include constipation, formation of small and hard or dry stools, gas formation, and stomach rumbling.
To overcome constipation related to kratom, it is crucial to make changes in the daily routine, such as taking a lot of water, eating foods that contain fiber, physical activity, as well as using certain natural stimulants such as laxatives with natural origin or probiotics.
There is also common advice to watch the trends or perhaps change the dose of kratom to manage this side effect. However, if the problem continues, it is advisable to see a doctor because this might be a sign of a health complication, and treatment should be administered.
With proper consciousness of what kratom does to the body, specifically in regard to frequent bowel movements, a kratom user can even avoid constipation without needing to give it up entirely.
How to Deal With Kratom Constipation?
Increase Water Intake
One of the easiest and proven methods to treat kratom constipation is to drink water, especially double or triple the amount that you normally drink. Drinking too much liquid encourages the formation of more soft stools with regular bowel movements. It is important to drink at least eight glasses of water in a day to help your body remain hydrated. Other nonalcoholic beverages that you must remember are those made from herbs, and clear broths are also helpful in increasing your fluid intake.
Fiber-Rich Diet
Incorporating more fiber into your diet can significantly help alleviate constipation. Fiber adds bulk to your stool and facilitates smoother digestion. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds in your meals. Foods like apples, berries, beans, lentils, and oatmeal are particularly high in fiber and beneficial for digestive health.
Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity can stimulate intestinal function and help alleviate constipation. Activities like walking, jogging, yoga, or any form of moderate exercise can enhance bowel movements. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week to keep your digestive system active.
Try Probiotics
Probiotics were defined as useful bacteria creating favorable conditions for the formation of the beneficial population of the intestine. They play a vital role in stimulating bowel movements and in the enhancement of bowel movement in general. To increase the intake of water-soluble vitamins, one may consume vitamin-C-enriched fruits and vegetables like oranges, lemons, strawberries, bell peppers, spinach, broccoli, or grapefruit. On the other hand, there are formulated products known as probiotics and they can effectively enhance healthy digestion.
Use Natural Laxatives
In this way, the work of natural laxatives can afford comfort in regard to constipation without causing the negative impact of artificial laxatives. To treat constipation, one can try prunes, prune juice, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and aloe vera juice, which, of course, is mild in nature but works perfectly. Data from this list reveal that natural remedies may be used to promote bowel movements as well as reduce the pain that is linked with constipation.
Gradually Reduce Kratom Dosage
If kratom constipation persists, consider gradually reducing your kratom dosage. Lowering the amount can lessen its constipating effects. Additionally, taking breaks from kratom use can help your digestive system recover and function more normally—experiment with finding the minimum effective dose that provides the desired benefits while minimizing side effects.
What Are the Ways to Use Kratom?
Kratom Capsules
Kratom capsules are the most famous because of their convenience. They come in measured portions of the powdered kratom, thus making it easier to calculate and regulate the quantity needed for the dose. They are also not messy, easy to carry, and do not require portion control, factors that can be considered advantages of the capsules.
Kratom Pills
The benefit of taking pills is that they do not have any taste, just like capsules, and are very convenient to use. These are compressed pills made of kratom powder, which is very convenient for use since one can easily swallow it with some water, and the dosing is well measured, so goes for users.
Kratom Gummies
Kratom gummies are produced by mixing Kratom extract with gelatin or a similar product, which is usually made tasty to hide the bitter taste of kratom. They are microwavable and also very tasty; they are pre-dosed, which is helpful if you want to have the same dosage each time. Nonetheless, constant intake should be avoided to prevent overuse due to its pleasant taste to most people.
Kratom Tinctures
Kratom tinctures are concentrated liquid preparations that are made by dissolving the kratom alkaloid in a solvent, given that it is a solvent such as alcohol. Taken beneath the tongue due to speed in dissolving and effect, tinctures provide fast dissolving and specific dosages. They can also be mixed with beverages if one prefers it that way.
Kratom Extracts
Kratom extracts are more potent forms of kratom since they contain high concentrations of mitragynine compared to the common kratom powder. Extracts come in the form of powders, liquids, or resins and have small amounts placed to achieve the same quantities. That is why I warn its users concurrently since they are potent, especially for those who want a higher offset of risks and better results for those with heightened exposure levels and skill.
What is the Recommended Dosage of Kratom?
Some general guidelines for the safe use of kratom are as follows: The dosage can range from a small amount of powder, such as half a teaspoon or even a quarter of a teaspoon, in first-time usage, but establishes tolerance quickly and can take large quantities, such as 15 grams or more if using the finely ground kratom. In particular, novices should follow the rule of beginning with a small amount and gradually raising the dose to the optimal usage.
Kratom's dosage comes in amounts that are within 1-2 grams of kratom powder on average. Users can perform the basic urge to get stimulated at this level, increasing energy and concentration. They recommended that three to five grams is usually adequate for moderate conditions.
It can have pain-relieving effects, improve mood, and cause mild euphoria within this range. At slightly greater doses of 6-8 grams, the consumer feels strong sedative effects, which relieve pain and cause the consumer to become relaxed.
As it has been mentioned, doses above eight grams should not be taken to avoid possible side effects and addiction. Also, it is important to note that the potency of Kratom may also differ from one strain to another, and therefore, caution should be placed on this as concentration may vary.
Aspects such as body weight, metabolism, and tolerance must be considered when establishing the dosage for use. In the recommended dosages, the users are supposed to begin with a small quantity, check the body response, and gradually increase the amount. One may also increase the efficiency or intensity of the drug by taking the kratom on an empty stomach since some users may prefer this.
The safe approach to using kratom, since taking breaks and not using it every day, is advised to prevent dependency and construction of tolerance. Hence, it is advisable that one should first seek the advice of a doctor before one can engage in the use of kratom, especially if one is suffering from certain pre-existing medical conditions or is under the management of certain drugs.
Can You Overdose On Kratom?
Overall, kratom, although legal and when used appropriately, is safe, but it is addictive and causes harm when used excessively or mixed with other substances like opioids. Overdose basically results from a situation where the amount of kratom taken overwhelms the body system of the user and triggers serious, risky side effects.
The signs of kratom toxicity can be similar to those shown by opiate drugs and include nausea, vomiting, excessive drowsiness, confusion, tremors, and difficulty in moving or speaking. In severe form, its manifestations include respiratory depression, seizures, or even obtundation. These effects are often associated with higher concentration as well as regular use, that is when an individual takes more than eight grams of kratom at a go or uses it often without taking a break.
These effects are aggravated when kratom is combined with other opiates or substances that can influence the central nervous system, such as alcohol, benzodiazepine, or opioids. Combining alcohol or opioids with kratom can also increase the sedative effects and raise the likelihood of side effects and overdose.
Recognizing the hazards of overuse of the drugs, users should make use of the recommended dosages, take a small amount initially, and progressively build up doses as tolerated and as recommended by doctors while gauging the effects that these drugs have on the body. Another is to employ kratom together with other ingredients, especially when those that have sedative properties are involved.
In case you find out that a person is having symptoms of a kratom overdose, then it is very important to rush the affected individual to the nearest hospital or clinic. In particular, such consumption sometimes leads to fatal overdoses; however, the overall rate remains low, though the presence of side effects – significant health risks require attention. When used properly, this herb can do extremely well and reduce the dangers involved by being prepared how to manage the same safely.
Conclusion
Kratom, which has many uses, such as relieving body pains and enhancing one’s mood and energy levels, also has one disadvantage, and this is constipation. Moreover, this article aims to discover the reasons for kratom-induced constipation and ways to avoid it, including drinking more water, including more fiber and probiotics, exercising, using natural stimulants, and decreasing kratom consumption. Also, ways to take kratom are considered, including in the form of capsules, pills, gummies, tinctures, and extracts.
For safety measures regarding the use of drugs, it is necessary to have adequate knowledge concerning the recommended dosages and the dangers of cases of overdose. For more information about the effects of kratom, it is wise to visit the websites of the different brands named above. As with any supplement product, it is highly advised to seek the opinion of a doctor before using this product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kratom safe to use?
Kratom is generally safe when used responsibly and in moderation. However, it can cause side effects and potential addiction. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Can Kratom withdrawal cause constipation?
Yes, kratom withdrawal can cause constipation. This is due to the body's adjustment to the absence of the substance, which can temporarily disrupt normal digestive functions.
Is Constipation a Common Side Effect of Kratom Use?
Yes, constipation is a common side effect of kratom use. The alkaloids in kratom can slow down digestive processes, leading to reduced bowel movements.
How Long Does Constipation from Kratom Use Last?
Constipation from kratom use can last from a few days to a week. The duration depends on individual factors like dosage, frequency of use, and overall digestive health.
Is Kratom legal?
The legality of kratom varies by location. It is legal in some regions but banned or regulated in others. Check local laws before purchasing or using kratom.
