People in Malaysia, Indonesia, and other locales across Southeast Asia have enjoyed the benefits of kratom for centuries. They’ve relied on kratom to boost energy and productivity, and folks in the United States are just beginning to explore what kratom has to offer.
As kratom’s popularity in the U.S. has boomed over the last decade, there’s been a lot of discourse online about the potential risks and benefits. Western research about kratom is still in the early days, and it can be difficult to sift through misinformation and false claims to find the truth.
One area of growing interest is whether kratom is a nootropic, a cognitive enhancer. Americans are always on the lookout for supplements to enhance their brains, and some people claim that kratom helps their mental performance in a variety of ways. Is kratom a so-called “smart drug?”
What is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, part of the coffee family. For generations, cultures indigenous to Southeast Asia have used kratom leaves in herbal supplements and holistic medicines. Kratom leaves continue to be prized for their stimulant and analgesic properties.
The active compounds in Kratom, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with the neuroreceptors in the brain, producing a range of effects. Kratom primarily acts as a stimulant, boosting energy and alertness, although depending on the strain and dosage, it can produce sedative or depressive effects. Kratom users claim it helps with pain relief, reduces anxiety, and treats various other ailments.
Different strains and variations of kratom can highlight different parts of the kratom experience. Kratom strains are produced by varying the harvesting and manufacturing processes. One of the most popular strains, for example, is known as “maeng da.” Maeng da is often called the “purest” form of kratom and is thought to be more potent than other varieties.
What is a Nootropic?
The term “nootropic” has evolved over the years. Originally, it was used to refer to chemicals that met very specific criteria. These days, people use “nootropic” to refer broadly to substances that may improve various cognitive functions.
Nootropics may promote the user’s memory, attention span, learning, reasoning, or other executive functions. They broadly include dietary supplements, prescription drugs, natural substances, and synthetic compounds. It’s believed that nootropics work through various mechanisms, such as increasing the release of neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin), improving blood flow to the brain, or supporting brain cell function.
Nootropics have gained popularity as people look for ways to gain an edge in today’s competitive environment. University students, in particular, are always on the hunt for effective brain drugs.
Types of Nootropics
Many Americans prefer natural alternatives to prescription medication, so herbal supplements are especially prized if they are able to enhance memory, focus, creativity, motivation, or overall intelligence. Some of the most popular natural nootropics include creatine, L-theanine, gingko biloba, and ginseng, although the effects of these supplements can vary.
In fact, the most common nootropic is something just about every adult has consumed: caffeine. Research indicates that caffeine doesn’t just make you feel more alert. It can actually increase the production of brain chemicals and assist with short-term memory and learning. Caffeine and other nootropics do, however, carry risks and side effects, so it’s important to do your research and stick to moderation.
Kratom as a Nootropic
Is kratom a nootropic? Is there truth to the “kratom nootropic effect?” Because the definition of “nootropic” is pretty loose these days, it’s easier to discuss the question in terms of nootropic properties. So, does kratom have cognitive benefits in the vein of a nootropic?
Kratom has a long history of use to promote productivity. Southeast Asian workers in the 1800s would chew kratom leaves or drink kratom tea in order to work longer hours with less fatigue. There’s science to back up the effects experienced by kratom users: Kratom’s active chemical compounds interact with neuroreceptors in the brain to boost energy and focus, promote feelings of physical wellness, and even affect a person’s mood.
Although still in the early days, there’s a lot of research being conducted about how kratom affects the brain and whether it may be a safe, effective treatment for mental health conditions.
Potential Cognitive Benefits of Kratom
Kratom enthusiasts advocate for kratom as a natural alternative to other nootropics. At appropriate doses, kratom users report a number of cognitive benefits, including:
- Stimulation
- Increased Energy
- Mood Enhancement
- Decreased Anxiety
- Improved Focus
- Better Memory and Data Retention
- Enhanced Motivation
As we’ve discussed, the specific effects of kratom can vary by strain and dosage. Effects can also vary by person, depending on factors such as body composition, metabolism, diet, genetics, and prior experience with kratom.
Additionally, kratom does carry some risks. When consumed in excessive doses on an overly frequent basis, kratom may be habit-forming, much like caffeine. Researchers have found, however, that the withdrawal symptoms associated with kratom dependence (including decreased appetite, fever, diarrhea, and trouble sleeping) tend to be relatively mild for most people. Some people also report experiencing a “kratom hangover” that can be similar to the morning after excessive alcohol consumption.
As with any other substance, it’s important to do your research, consult your trusted healthcare professionals, and listen to your body. We always recommend starting with small doses before experimenting with larger doses. Kratom, like anything else, is best enjoyed in moderation. Remember, kratom is not approved by the FDA or other government regulatory bodies as a medical treatment. If you have any medical conditions or take prescription medications, consult your doctor before using kratom.
Explore the Benefits of Kratom With Joe’s Botanicals
Whether or not kratom is technically a nootropic, it has plenty to offer.
If you’re looking for a natural supplement to boost your vitality and focus without the jitteriness of caffeine, Joe’s Botanicals is here to help! We have a wide variety of different kratom strains and products on offer, and we’re more than happy to answer your questions.
Check out our online store for premium quality kratom products delivered right to your doorstep.
