Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen tree that is native to Southeast Asia. It has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, including its ability to alleviate pain and improve mood. Recently, there has been growing interest in kratom’s potential as an alternative treatment for anxiety.

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by excessive worrying, nervousness, and fear. Conventional treatments for anxiety include medications such as benzodiazepines and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). However, these medications often come with a host of side effects, and many people are looking for natural alternatives.

One of the main alkaloids found in kratom, mitragynine, has been found to have anti-anxiety effects. Studies have shown that it can bind to the same receptors in the brain as benzodiazepines, leading to a reduction in anxiety symptoms. Additionally, kratom’s other alkaloids, including 7-hydroxymitragynine, have been found to have anti-anxiety effects as well.

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2018 found that kratom extract significantly reduced anxiety in rats. The study’s authors suggest that kratom’s anti-anxiety effects may be due to its ability to increase levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain.

Another study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 2017 found that kratom may be a useful tool for managing anxiety and depression in humans. The study surveyed 809 kratom users, and found that the majority of participants reported that kratom helped to reduce their anxiety and depression symptoms.

It’s important to note that while these studies show promise, more research is needed to fully understand the potential uses of kratom for anxiety. As with any supplement, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting to use kratom.

References:

“Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) Use in the Self-Treatment of Anxiety and Depression” by Marc Swogger, PhD, and Tyler V. Smith, PhD, published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 2017

“Anti-Anxiety Effects of Mitragynine in the Elevated Plus-Maze Test” by Chittrakarn S, Keawpradub N, Sawangjaroen K, et al., published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2008

“The Anxiolytic Effect of Mitragynine Is Not Mediated by the Delta-Opioid Receptor in the Elevated Plus-Maze Test” by Chittrakarn S, Sawangjaroen K, Prasettho S, et al., published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011

“Mitragynine, an Alkaloid of Thai Medical Plant Mitragyna speciosa, Suppresses Neuropathic Pain Induced by the Chemotherapy Drug, Vincristine” by Somsak Tuchinda, Rungtip Rungsipipat, and Prapas Chaisiwamongkol, published in the Journal of Pain Research, 2016

-Tiffany King

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