In recent years, the quest for natural alternatives to traditional medication has led many to buy kratom, a botanical substance that has garnered both acclaim and controversy. Originating from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree found in Southeast Asia, kratom has risen in popularity as a natural remedy for various ailments, most notably for opiate withdrawal, pain relief, and as an alternative to narcotic pain medication. However, with its increasing use, understanding the benefits and risks associated with kratom is crucial for those looking to explore its potential.
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In this guide to safely buying kratom, we will cover some of the key points you need to know before you buy kratom online or in a local store so that you can make an informed and safe decision. When you buy an herbal product such as kratom, it’s important to feel good about what you’re doing for your health and your body. Let’s take a look at some of the key factors to consider before safely buying and using kratom.
Table of Contents
The Rising Popularity of Kratom
Kratom’s surge in demand is largely attributed to its ability to relieve opiate withdrawal symptoms. Many individuals now buy kratom to ease the discomfort of opiate detox. Kratom enthusiasts say that kratom helps with withdrawal symptoms as well as works to relieve pain as effectively as pharmaceutical alternatives. Because pharmaceuticals such as oxycodone and hydrocodone can be so addictive, it’s no wonder people are searching for a natural remedy to their pain. Kratom alkaloids can produce pain-relieving effects similar to narcotics but without the heavy side effects, making it an attractive option for those who want to avoid synthetic pharmaceutical drugs.
Buy Kratom From a Safe Vendor
For your convenience, we have compiled a list of safe kratom vendors based on the qualifications and guidelines for safely buying kratom that we will list in this article. Although these vendors have been vetted by senior kratom experts and professionals in the herbal supplement field, we encourage you to read on to find out how we chose these vendors and to learn more about how to safely buy kratom.
- Kratom USA (KratomUSA.com) – Kratom USA was one of the first vendors to sell kratom within the US. They have decades of experience and a proven track record for providing high-quality products their customers trust. They have a solid reputation within the kratom community as a vendor with not only reliable products but also reliable customer service and high levels of customer satisfaction. Overall, we ranked Kratom USA as #1 because of its long-standing presence within the kratom community.
- Bogo Kratom (BogoKratom.com) – Bogo Kratom made our list at #2 because of its commitment to purity. Bogo Kratom’s company policy is to source kratom from farmers who practice sustainable farming methods that result in stronger alkaloid content. The best alkaloid composition begins in the soil, and Bogo Kratom works directly with farmers who maintain the quality of their products by protecting and nourishing the oldest kratom trees. These trees are known to produce the most sought-after full-spectrum alkaloid-packed leaves that give the user stronger results. In addition to their commitment to quality, Bogo Kratom also offers buy-one-get-one-free deals on every kratom product. This makes it easy to try out their vast kratom selection to find the perfect strain for your needs.
- Kratom Wholesale (KratomWholesale.US) – Kratom Wholesale made our list at #3 because of its excellent quality and wholesale pricing. As one of the original wholesale kratom vendors in the US, this vendor has stood the test of time serving its customers with trusted kratom products for over a decade.
Pros of Using Kratom
Natural Pain Relief – Kratom offers a natural alternative to narcotic pain medicine, with many users reporting effective pain management without the strong risk of addiction associated with pharmaceutical opioids.
Opiate Withdrawal Relief – For individuals struggling with opiate addiction, kratom has been a beacon of hope, helping to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and facilitating a smoother transition to sobriety. Many kratom users have shared testimonials and reviews claiming that kratom has changed their lives. Some even claim kratom made such an impact on helping them through opiate withdrawal that they describe kratom as a life-saving plant.
Accessibility and Versatility – Kratom is easily accessible online for those looking to buy kratom and comes in various forms, including powder, capsules, and teas. The varying forms of kratom make it easy for the user to choose a convenient method of use. Whether blending kratom into a smoothie or steeping a warm cup of tea, kratom users have multiple options for consumption.
Cons and Considerations
While kratom presents promising benefits, it is not without its controversies and potential drawbacks. Here are a few things to consider before you buy kratom.
Regulatory Scrutiny – The FDA and DEA have expressed concerns over kratom’s safety and potential for abuse. In 2017, there was a nationwide push to ban kratom, although it was met with significant public and political opposition. The movement to keep kratom legal was so strong that the DEA withdrew its position and took a more neutral stance on the matter. Kratom is currently legal at the federal level.
Side Effects – Kratom can cause side effects similar to opioids, including nausea, sweating, dry mouth, and increased urination, albeit generally much less severe. If not used responsibly, kratom can be mildly habit-forming. Some kratom users have likened kratom dependency to that of coffee dependency, saying they experienced slight discomfort upon cessation of use if their use had been daily with multiple doses per day. Other kratom users reported no withdrawal symptoms. Because each individual is different, it is always best to approach the use of any product with moderation.
Lack of FDA Approval – Kratom is not approved by the FDA for any medical use, leading to a lack of standardized dosing and quality control. Because kratom is not a pharmaceutical drug, it does not have FDA-recommended dosing. Many kratom users get their dosing guidelines directly from their vendor. Responsible vendors will offer dosing guidelines either on their website or on the product label.
The Legal Landscape and Advocacy
In 2016, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced its intent to classify the herbal supplement kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance, which would have made it illegal to possess or distribute in the United States. The DEA cited concerns about the potential risks associated with kratom, including its alleged links to adverse health effects and its potential for abuse.
However, this decision was met with significant opposition from advocates of kratom, including individuals who used it for various purposes such as pain management and opioid withdrawal. They argued that kratom had potential therapeutic benefits and that scheduling it as a controlled substance would deprive people of a potentially useful and less harmful alternative to opioids.
In response to the public outcry and concerns raised by lawmakers, the DEA decided to withdraw its intent to schedule kratom in October 2016. Instead, the agency initiated a public comment period to gather more information and input from the public and experts on kratom’s safety, potential benefits, and risks.
The public comment period allowed individuals and organizations to share their views and scientific evidence related to kratom. After reviewing the comments and available research, the DEA chose not to proceed with the scheduling of kratom in 2017. As a result, kratom remains legal at the federal level in the United States, although its status can vary at the state and local levels, with some areas implementing restrictions or bans on its sale and use.
American Kratom Association
The American Kratom Association (AKA) has been at the forefront of advocacy, pushing for the Federal Kratom Consumer Protection Act. This act aims to regulate the production and sale of kratom, ensuring purity and safety for consumers and preserving their access to this potentially life-changing substance.
The AKA is a non-profit organization that advocates for the responsible use of kratom. The AKA was founded in 2014 with the goal of protecting access to kratom, promoting its safe and legal use, and supporting scientific research on the plant.
The AKA was established by a group of individuals and organizations concerned about the potential regulatory actions that could restrict or ban kratom in the United States. They believed that kratom had therapeutic potential and could be used as a safer alternative to opioids for pain management and opioid withdrawal.
The key beliefs and objectives of the American Kratom Association include:
Advocating for Consumer Rights
AKA advocates for the rights of individuals to make informed choices about using kratom as a natural supplement while ensuring that it is manufactured and sold in a safe and responsible manner.
Ensuring Access
AKA works to protect access to kratom for consumers, emphasizing that it should be available as a dietary supplement and not be classified as a controlled substance.
Promoting Regulatory Standards
The organization supports regulations that establish quality control and safety standards for kratom products, including good manufacturing practices (GMP) guidelines for vendors.
Advocating for Scientific Research
AKA encourages and supports scientific research on kratom to better understand its potential benefits, risks, and safety profile. They believe that scientific evidence should guide regulatory decisions.
Educating the Public
AKA provides information about kratom to the public, lawmakers, and healthcare professionals, aiming to raise awareness about its potential uses and safety when used responsibly.
State and Local Advocacy
The organization is involved in state and local advocacy efforts to combat proposed bans and restrictions on kratom at the regional level.
It’s important to note that the AKA’s stance on kratom is contested. While supporters argue that it can be a valuable tool for individuals seeking alternatives to opioids and other prescription medications, critics, including some healthcare professionals and government agencies, have expressed concerns about its safety and potential for abuse. The regulatory status and public perception of kratom continue to evolve, and the AKA remains a prominent advocacy group in the ongoing debate surrounding this botanical substance.
Can Kratom Help with Opiate Withdrawal?
Kratom is a natural plant with alkaloids that have been reported by some individuals to help with opiate withdrawal symptoms. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects, here’s how some people believe kratom can assist with opiate withdrawal:
Pain Relief
Kratom has analgesic properties, and its alkaloids may help alleviate some of the physical discomfort associated with opiate withdrawal, such as muscle aches, joint pain, and headaches.
Mitigation of Withdrawal Symptoms
Many users claim that kratom can help reduce the severity of opiate withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and restless legs.
Mood Enhancement
Some people report that kratom can enhance mood and provide a sense of well-being, which can counteract the anxiety and depression often experienced during opiate withdrawal.
Energy Boost
Certain kratom strains are believed to provide an energy boost, potentially counteracting the fatigue and lethargy that come with opiate withdrawal.
Reduction of Cravings
Kratom may help reduce cravings for opioids, making it easier for individuals to transition away from opioid use.
Things to Consider When Using Kratom for Opiate Withdrawal
Dosage
The right dosage of kratom can vary from person to person. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it, if necessary, is advisable. Overuse or high doses can lead to dependence and other adverse effects.
Strain Selection
Different kratom strains have different properties, and some may be more effective for managing withdrawal symptoms than others. Experimenting with various strains may be necessary to find the one that works best for you.
Potential for Dependence
Kratom itself has mild potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms if used excessively or for extended periods. It is essential to use kratom responsibly and avoid long-term, heavy use.
Lack of Regulation
The production and sale of kratom products are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that product quality can vary significantly among different vendors. To ensure safety, purchase kratom from reputable sources that provide lab-tested products.
Consultation with a Healthcare Professional
Before using kratom to manage opiate withdrawal, it may be helpful to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or addiction specialist. They can provide guidance on the potential risks and benefits and help you create a withdrawal plan tailored to your needs.
Buy Kratom Safely
Buying kratom safely requires careful consideration and research to ensure you are purchasing a high-quality and safe product. Here are some steps to help you buy kratom safely:
Research Kratom
Educate yourself about kratom, its strains, and its potential benefits and risks. Understanding the different types and strains of kratom will help you make an informed decision.
Find a Reputable Vendor
Look for established and reputable vendors who have a track record of providing high-quality kratom. Consider reading customer reviews and checking for any certifications or third-party lab testing to verify the product’s purity.
Check for GMP Compliance
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) compliance is a sign of a reputable vendor. Ensure that the vendor adheres to GMP guidelines for the manufacturing and packaging of kratom products.
Verify Lab Testing
Reputable vendors often provide lab reports from independent third-party testing to confirm the purity and safety of their products. Review these reports to check for contaminants and alkaloid content.
Understand Product Labels
Pay attention to the product labels, which should include information about the strain, origin, and recommended dosage. Avoid vendors that make exaggerated health claims.
Avoid Adulterated Products
Be cautious of vendors selling kratom products that are mixed with other substances or chemicals. Pure, unadulterated kratom is what you should seek.
Start with a Small Quantity
If you are new to kratom, start with a small quantity to assess its effects on your body and to ensure it is well-tolerated.
Know the Legal Status
Be aware of the legal status of kratom in your area. Regulations can vary by state and even at the local level. Ensure that the purchase and possession of kratom are legal where you live.
Use Secure Payment Methods
When making an online purchase, use secure payment methods and consider using a reputable and secure website for the transaction.
Contact Customer Support
Reach out to the vendor’s customer support if you have any questions or concerns. Reputable vendors should be responsive to inquiries.
Store Kratom Properly
Once you have purchased kratom, store it in a cool, dry place, and ensure it is sealed properly to maintain its freshness.
Monitor Your Health
Pay attention to how your body responds to kratom, especially if you are new to it. Stop using it if you experience adverse effects and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
Remember that safety is a top priority when buying kratom. By conducting thorough research and choosing a reputable vendor, you can increase the likelihood of purchasing a safe and high-quality product.
Kratom is a subject of ongoing research, and its effectiveness in aiding opiate withdrawal remains a topic of debate. While some people report positive outcomes, it’s essential to approach its use cautiously and consider seeking professional guidance when dealing with opioid dependence or withdrawal.
Kratom’s role as a natural pain reliever and aid in opiate withdrawal has positioned it as a significant alternative to traditional medicine for some. However, navigating the complexities of its use requires a careful approach. By staying informed about the legal status, potential benefits, and risks, and by choosing to buy kratom from reputable sources, individuals can make more informed decisions regarding its use in their wellness routines. With ongoing research and advocacy, the hope is to ensure safe access to kratom for those who stand to benefit from it the most!
