We are unable to provide you with medical advice, only your doctor can. This is a very useful peer-reviewed publication aimed at educating healthcare practitioners about Kratom. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation about Kratom out there. Reading and sharing studies like this help to squash the misconceptions.
“Understanding Kratom Use: A Guide for Healthcare Practitioners” – https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.801855/full
How to Talk to Your Doctor About Kratom
When it comes to talking to your doctor about alternative natural botanicals, it can be difficult to know where to start. Kratom has gained popularity as a way to manage pain and boost mood. However, like any substance, it’s important to talk to your doctor about kratom before getting started. In this article, we’ll explore some tips on how to have an open and productive conversation with your doctor about kratom.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a botanical product derived from the leaves of the kratom tree, and native to Southeast Asia. It has been used for centuries as a traditional herbal tea in countries like Thailand and Malaysia. The alkaloid compounds in kratom, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are known to interact with receptors in the brain producing a range of effects such as energy, mental focus, improved mood, and relief from physical discomfort. Kratom is available in a variety of forms, including Kratom capsules, Kratom powder, and liquid Kratom extracts. However, it’s important to note that the efficacy of kratom is still being researched, and there are believed to be some risks associated with its use, such as nausea, constipation, and a build-up of tolerance. Therefore, it’s essential to talk to your doctor about Kratom before considering use. Your doctor can provide guidance on the potential benefits of using kratom and help you make an informed decision.
Why you should talk to your doctor about Kratom
At present, kratom has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any official use, meaning the information about Kratom’s risks, benefits, and safety is limited. While kratom has a long history of use as a traditional remedy throughout Southeast Asia, there is little scientific evidence to corroborate its reputation.
The lack of FDA approval means there are no standardized serving sizes and limited quality control measures for Kratom products. This can make it difficult to determine whether Kratom is safe and effective. As a result, it’s important to be cautious when considering the use of Kratom and to talk to your doctor about its potential benefits and uses.
How to Prepare to Talk to Your Doctor
Preparing to talk to your doctor about kratom is important, and will help you to have a better understanding of how kratom can help you. Taking a little time to prepare beforehand, ensures you will get the most out of your visit. Below, we have listed a few things you can do when preparing to speak with your doctor.
- Come Prepared with a List of Questions
Preparing your questions ahead of time ensures you don’t forget to ask important questions, and helps keep your visit focused on the information you need to know. Also, be sure to prioritize your concerns, and if any information is vague or unclear, be sure to ask clarifying questions while you have your doctor’s full attention.
- Take Detailed Notes
Come prepared to take detailed notes. Whether on your phone, or a small notebook, writing down your doctor’s answers will help to better remember what was said, and ensure you can look back to reference it later.
- Be Honest and Straightforward
While visiting your doctor, be honest and straightforward. Knowing all the facts about your current behavior, conditions, medication, and other factors will help ensure you get the most accurate information, applicable to you.
- Practice Active Listening
When engaged with your doctor, be sure to give them your full attention, and practice active listening. Be present, and don’t forget to ask clarifying questions. You may even go so far as to bring someone with you.
- Bring Someone with You
As they say, two heads are better than one, and when visiting your doctor it can be a good idea to have someone else you trust acting as a second pair of eyes and ears. Oftentimes, I’ve found having someone else present allows me to add additional details to my notes, or think of questions that I hadn’t accounted for.
- Know How to Access your Health Records
When preparing for a visit to the doctor, brush up on your health records. Know how and where to access them, and refresh yourself on the names, dates, and details of those visits. The information may come in useful, or even be incredibly important when you get the chance to talk to your doctor.
- Review your Vitamins and Other Medications
Consider making a list of the vitamins, supplements, botanicals, and other medications used on a regular basis. While talking to your doctor, questions may arise about how these products interact, how to maximize their benefits or avoid unpleasant side effects.
- Provide Feedback
After your visit be sure to provide feedback to your doctor. Keeping them in the loop and up-to-date allows them to monitor your situation, and fine-tune their advice in future discussions or as circumstances change.
How many people use Kratom in the United States?
It’s difficult to determine exactly how many people in the United States use kratom on a regular basis. However, surveys and anecdotal reports suggest that kratom use has been on the rise in
recent years. With some estimates based on survey data and membership information provided by the American Kratom Association range between 3 to 5 million kratom users.
Despite the lack of comprehensive data, it’s clear that kratom use is a topic of growing interest among healthcare providers. If you are considering using kratom, it is important to talk to your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks and determine whether it’s a safe and appropriate option for you.
What are the Benefits of Kratom?
Kratom users have reported gaining a variety of benefits over the years. Some of these effects include improved energy, mental focus, and a relaxed, pro-social attitude. At larger serving sizes, many have claimed to gain relief from physical discomfort, and restful sleep. According to an article published in Frontiersin.org, “In relatively low serving sizes (<5 g), kratom has stimulant properties similar to its coffee relative, while larger quantities may produce sedating and analgesic effects”.
Does Kratom have any Side Effects?
Kratom use has been associated with a range of potential side effects, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, hypertension, dry mouth, loss of appetite, dizziness, and confusion. More serious side effects can include liver toxicity, seizures, and an increase in tolerance. The severity and frequency of these side effects may depend on a variety of factors, including the serving size and frequency of use, individual health factors, and the quality and purity of the Kratom product.
Where to Buy Kratom?
From a Reputable Vendor – We recommend Happy Hippo!
They offer a broad selection of Kratom powder, capsules, and extract products, including Kratom Shots, and Liquid kratom extracts.
Disclaimer: Kratom is not intended to cure, diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or condition.
Please speak to a physician if you have questions.
