As you walk through life, you may come across natural substances that seem enticing yet concerning. One such substance is kratom. Derived from a tropical tree, kratom offers benefits like pain relief and mood enhancement. However, it also brings risks like addiction and side effects. Before deciding whether to try kratom, educate yourself on its uses, side effects, and safety concerns. Consider how it could impact your health and life. Seek guidance from professionals like those at Evoke Wellness at Hilliard. Their treatment programs for addiction and other issues equip people to make wise choices. Let their experience inform you as you determine the wisest path forward.
Seeking professional addiction treatment can transform your life. At Evoke Wellness, our comprehensive programs are designed to address the root causes of substance abuse. We offer:
- Drug addiction treatment program
- Opioid addiction treatment program
- Polysubstance abuse treatment program
- Aversion therapy program
- Psychotherapy program
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness at Hilliard invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. In Hilliard, you’ll find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (833) 949-1347 today or reach out online.
What Is Kratom?
A Botanical Substance
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree indigenous to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that produce mind-altering effects when consumed – most notably mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
Growing Popularity
While kratom has been used for centuries in regions like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, its popularity has surged in the US and Europe over the past decade as an unregulated psychoactive substance.
Potential Benefits and Risks
Proponents claim kratom can relieve pain, boost energy and elevate mood. However, experts warn it carries risks of addiction, side effects like nausea and seizures, and dangerous interactions with other substances. Proceed with caution.
How Does Kratom Affect the Body?
Physical Effects
Kratom acts on the opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to opioid painkillers. At low doses, it can give a stimulant-like energy boost. At higher doses, it produces sedative effects.
Mental Effects
Kratom can cause euphoria and feelings of calmness. However, it may also lead to anxiety, delusions, and psychosis – especially with long-term use or abuse.
Addiction Potential
Though not an opioid itself, kratom acts on the same brain receptors. This means it carries risks of dependence, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms with long-term use.
Kratom Use Statistics
According to recent studies, the use of kratom has been steadily increasing in the United States and worldwide. Here are some key statistics on kratom consumption:
Prevalence
- Approximately 10-16 million people globally consume kratom, with a majority residing in Southeast Asia.
- In the US alone, an estimated 3-5 million people use kratom regularly or occasionally.
User Demographics
- Kratom use is most prevalent among adults aged 18-48 years old.
- Users are typically employed and have higher education levels compared to the general population.
- Males account for around 60-70% of kratom consumers in Western countries.
Sourcing Kratom
- Most users (95%) obtain kratom from online vendors or specialty stores.
- A minority (5%) reportedly grow their own kratom plants or procure from local sources.
Understanding these statistics is crucial for developing informed policies and harm reduction strategies surrounding kratom use.
Benefits of Addiction Treatment at Evoke Wellness
Seeking professional addiction treatment can transform your life. At Evoke Wellness, our comprehensive programs are designed to address the root causes of substance abuse. We offer:
Drug Addiction Treatment Program
- Personalized treatment plans
- Evidence-based therapies
- Dual diagnosis support
Opioid Addiction Treatment Program
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Behavioral therapies
- Relapse prevention strategies
Polysubstance Abuse Treatment Program
- Integrated approach
- Multidisciplinary team
- Holistic healing methods
Aversion Therapy Program
- Counterconditioning techniques
- Cognitive-behavioral interventions
- Motivation enhancement
Psychotherapy Program
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy sessions
- Family counseling services
Our compassionate team guides you towards lasting recovery. Take the first step towards a healthier, substance-free life at Evoke Wellness today.
Kratom Side Effects and Safety Concerns
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness
- Seizures, psychosis, liver damage with long-term use
- Increased risk of addiction and withdrawal symptoms
Safety Risks
Kratom’s effects and composition are not fully understood. There are concerns about contamination and uncertain potency levels. Combining kratom with other substances like alcohol can amplify side effects.
Addiction Potential
While kratom is sometimes used to manage opioid withdrawal, it carries its own addiction risk. Long-term, excessive use may lead to kratom dependence requiring professional treatment.
Evoke Wellness offers comprehensive drug addiction treatment programs to address substance abuse issues safely and effectively. Our evidence-based therapies include medication-assisted treatment, psychotherapy, and holistic wellness support. Take control of your health – reach out today.
FAQ: What Is Kratom?
An Herbal Supplement From Southeast Asia
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves have been used for centuries as an herbal supplement and stimulant in countries like Thailand and Malaysia.
Active Compounds and Effects
The main active compounds in kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing stimulant effects at low doses and sedative effects at higher doses.
Potential Uses and Risks
Some people use kratom to boost energy, relieve pain or treat opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, kratom itself can be addictive and has serious safety concerns like toxicity and risk of overdose. More research is still needed on its efficacy and safety profiles.
Conclusion
As you can see, kratom is a complex botanical substance with potential benefits as well as risks. While some tout it as a natural pain reliever or tool to wean off opioids, it also carries dangers like addiction and overdose. If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid dependence, a supervised medical detox followed by addiction treatment can help you reclaim your life in recovery. The caring team at Evoke Wellness at Hilliard offers evidence-based treatment options like medication-assisted therapy, individual and group counseling, 12-step integration, and holistic therapies to help you overcome addiction for good. With compassion and medical oversight, you can get your life back on track and learn healthy coping skills to live substance-free. Start your journey today by reaching out – you deserve to be well.
Begin Your Journey with Evoke Wellness at Hilliard
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness at Hilliard invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. In Hilliard, you’ll find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (833) 949-1347 today or reach out online.
