Users of Kratom have stated that consuming the plant in the appropriate doses has major health advantages. But significant concerns arise, such as whether Kratom is safe for older people. It’s crucial to consider potential concerns before giving kratom powder or leaves to an older person to prevent an adverse reaction:
What Is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant native to Southeast Asia and is commonly consumed as a dietary supplement for its psychotropic effects. The leaves of the kratom plant contain compounds known as alkaloids, which are believed to interact with the brain and produce effects similar to opioids, such as pain relief and a sense of well-being, as well as stimulant effects like increased energy and alertness.
How Do Elderly People Use Kratom?
Superior Kratom is used by people of various ages, including older adults. It is marketed as a natural remedy for various health problems, including chronic pain, anxiety, and depression. However, there is limited scientific research to support these claims, and Kratom can have adverse side effects and may interact with other medications. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using Kratom, especially for older adults who may be more sensitive to its effects.
Is It Good For Elderly People?
There is limited research on using Kratom in older people, and its safety and efficacy have not been established. It is also not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has been associated with severe side effects and interactions with other medications. Therefore, it is not recommended to use Kratom in the elderly population without the guidance of a healthcare professional.
The following properties of kratom make it suitable for elderly people:
Utilize appropriate doses of Kratom
Although the Kratom Association-approved kratom herbal supplements can alleviate discomfort, older persons may have adverse effects. It is advised that they administer a small amount of powdered Kratom, such as one to two grams, and then gradually raise it to the appropriate dosage for the senior. This will enable you to determine the ideal dosage for each elderly person, reducing any adverse side effects caused by kratom. If the older person takes different strains of kratom powder, use the same process.
Keep a record of doses
A digital scale must be used to measure each dose of Kratom. Keeping a kratom intake log that includes the date, dose, time, strain, and adverse effects may also be beneficial. It can assist you in determining whether there are any issues and whether the elderly need a break from drinking.
Observe effects when using other medications
Popular kratom strains like maeng da kratom can replace some drugs, although the elderly patient may still require other treatments. There may be interactions with these drugs that can result in adverse effects, just like with any natural substance. Because of this, it’s crucial to check for any potential effects of kratom medication interactions.
Drink a lot of water and eat foods high in fiber and vitamins
Kratom may be difficult for elderly persons to digest. To prevent adverse side effects like kratom constipation, it’s crucial to provide them with digestive support. Start by getting enough water. To determine the best dosage, review prescription drug lists and medicine lists. These details may be available from the senior’s medical facilities.
Purchase lab-tested kratom
Older people have weakened immune systems and numerous health problems. When purchasing kratom for the elderly, selecting a trustworthy internet seller is essential. Verify that the vendor is adhering to all safety requirements and that the product is being lab-tested appropriately in a reliable third-party laboratory. Only purchase tested kratom as its quality tends to fluctuate, and it is less likely to have undergone adequate testing.
Avoid taking large pills
If you take smaller Kratom capsules, you could find them simpler to swallow. The effects of aging, decreased muscle tone, poor oral health, and other medical disorders can all contribute to swallowing problems. A disorder that affects swallowing called dysphagia can take more severe forms. Giving the older adult fewer pills, kratom tea, or Kratom combined with orange juice, yogurt, or smoothies may be preferable.
Final Thoughts
Healthcare providers do not generally recommend Kratom for older adults due to limited scientific research. In older adults who may have more health issues and are taking multiple medications, kratom may not be best for them due to weakened immune systems.
In addition, the quality and purity of kratom products can vary widely, making it difficult to determine the correct dosage and potential risks.
Veronica Baxter is a writer, blogger, and legal assistant operating out of the greater Philadelphia area.
