Sadness, irritability, anger, and helplessness are common symptoms related to anxiety and depression. Desperate for relief, some people are turning to a mild kratom dosage as an alternative to prescription medications.
Kratom use is new to the western society. Despite positive user reports, many are still unsure of its treatment capabilities.
Various types of plants, including red kratom capsules, allegedly benefit mental health by enhancing moods and alleviating worry.
Let’s look at the herb’s effectiveness and which form is best for anxiety and depression.
What is kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditional users chew leaves to increase energy levels and enhance productivity. Mitragynine, the active alkaloid inside the foliage, induces effects by binding to opioid receptors in the brain.
In western culture, users ingest kratom as a recreational drug. It also reportedly offers medicinal benefits, such as pain relief, easing symptoms of those experiencing burnout, and alleviating opiate withdrawal.
Common ways of consuming kratom include powders, capsules, gums, or brewing the leaves in tea. Each variation is said to have different effects and offers varying potency levels.
Kratom for anxiety and depression
With minimal research conducted on the herb, scientists are still unsure of its effects related to mental health. A 2017 study on kratom for anxiety and depression showed that people using the extract reported noticeable relief from symptoms.
Mitragynine isn’t labelled an opioid, although its side effects are similar to morphine and codeine. Users report a positive shift in mindset and relief from negative thoughts.
Regarding kratom and depression, low doses of specific strains offer a stimulant-like effect, increasing energy and improving mood. Higher quantities work as a sedative and are effective in anxiety treatment.
Kratom capsules vs. powder differ in strength. Tablets offer a higher alkaloid content with more prolonged effects. The ground leaves are effective for lower potency treatments.
Kratom strains
There are three main kratom strains, with each having unique applications and recommended dosages:
- White vein kratom. Harvesters provide this strain by picking a kratom tree’s young, white-veined leaves. These juvenile blades hold the highest mitragynine content, making this variation the most potent of the three. This kratom type acts as a stimulant, helping to improve energy and mental fatigue.
- Red vein kratom. Labelled the best strain of kratom for anxiety, many regards the red vein variation as the “mellow strain.” It’s known for its sedative effects and has the lowest potency level.
- Green vein kratom. Gathered mid-growing cycle, green vein kratom is a stimulant. It’s not as potent as the white vein type but is stronger than red vein strains. This increased efficacy is due to a slightly higher alkaloid content.
Another popular type of kratom is the yellow vein variation. This strain isn’t derived from the tree but is a product of blending two main versions, like white and green.
Producers create additional kratom variations using the three main types, each treating various ailments:
Maeng da
While originally from Thailand, Malaysian and Indonesian Maeng Da strains are also available. These types of kratom are potent and have long-lasting effects. They can be red, green, or white and reportedly treat low mood and fatigue.
Indo
A Thailand original with red, green, or white variants, Indo kratom offers a less stimulating effect, though some types boost energy. This variant induces relaxation and calm and instils a state of well-being. Users choose Indo kratom for its alleged effectiveness as a treatment for anxiety.
Bali
Said to be the most potent strain, Bali is a red variant used for chronic pain relief and anxiety treatment. It’s best to follow the recommended kratom dosage when using this type, as it’s considered the most “opioid-like.”
Thai
As its name suggests, this strain originated in Thailand. It comes in red, green, and white, each color providing different effects. The green and white variants offer stimulation and euphoria, while red vein strains relieve pain.
Borneo
A Borneo original, this variant is available in red, green, or white and offers soothing effects, recommended for users battling anxiety. Users of various strains have reported positive mental health changes when using kratom according to its recommended dosage.
The bottom line
There’s no definite answer to which strain and form is the best kratom for depression and anxiety. It depends on individual preference and dosage tolerance.
Consuming the correct quantities of kratom could effectively treat these ailments. Why not consider using the plant as an alternative to prescribed medications? Ensure to consult your doctor before adding new supplements to your regimen.
Simona LeVey did her degree in psychology at Tel Aviv University. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
