Kratom
( KRA )
Cut-Off Levels (ng/mL) | Window of Detection |
---|---|
250 ng/mL (Urine) | 5 - 7 Days (Urine) |
What is Kratom?
Kratom, or Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree within the coffee family, native to Southeast Asia, and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of different ailments. The leaves of the the tree are often crushed into a fine powder and mixed with water, like a tea, or put into gel capsules and then consumed for the desired effects.
Common Nicknames
Herbal K
Hanging with Tom
Tom Bombs
Kray Kray
Kray Town
Kraymer’s
How is it Used?
Typically Kratom leaves are crushed into a fine powder and is consumed by oral ingestion in the form of capsules, tea, or extract. The leaves can also be chewed.
What Does it Look Like?
Mitragyna speciosa is a green plant typically with reddish or white veins. It is often grinded into a greenish brown to greyish colored powder, which then can be added to liquid to make a tea or drink for consumption. It has also been put inside of gel capsules.
Common Symptoms
Nausea
Itching
Sweating
Dry Mouth
Constipation
Increased Urination
Tachycardia
Vomiting
Drowsiness
Loss of Appetite
Anorexia
Weight Loss
Insomnia
What Are the Effects?
In low doses, Kratom, will often produce stimulant “like” effects, similar to that of caffeine, with symptoms of increased alertness and energy. When Kratom is taken in high does, often users will experience sedative “like” effects and have been compared similarly to the effects of Opioids.
Legal Status
Kratom is not controlled under the Federal Controlled Substances Act and remains legal, although some states have banned and criminalized the manufacture, distribution, and possession of Kratom and products containing Kratom. Kratom is readily available for purchase and has become highly desired among people suffering from drug addiction or those recovering from drug addiction. Users have claimed that Kratom can help ease the symptoms of Opioid withdrawal, anxiety, and stress. However, there might be potential for abuse because of the “sedative like” effects Kratom can produce. There is an ongoing debate over the legality and use of Kratom as a natural alternative to certain pain and anxiety medications. No matter the legal status or fate of Kratom, we are fully aware of the need for testing.