Health Effects & Risks of Kratom, Opioids & Other Natural Occurring Medicines | Dr. Chris McCurdy
In this episode of the Huberman Lab, Dr. Chris McCurdy explores kratom, a plant traditionally used in Southeast Asia for energy, pain relief, and mood enhancement. The discussion covers the plant's origins, its historical use among farmers and laborers, and how its consumption has evolved since being introduced to Western markets—shifting from fresh leaves to dried preparations and concentrated extracts.
McCurdy examines the current state of kratom use in the United States, where an estimated 20 million people use it daily. He details the potential benefits of traditional kratom leaf usage while explaining the risks associated with modern concentrated products, including their effects on respiratory function and the possibility of physical dependence. The conversation also addresses the need for clinical trials to better understand this complex plant's effects on multiple neurotransmitter systems.
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1-Page Summary
The [restricted term] Plant: Origins, Traditional Uses, and Properties
[restricted term], scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a plant native to the Malaysia-Thailand border region with a rich history of traditional use. In Southeast Asia, farmers and laborers have long used [restricted term] leaves, either chewed or brewed into tea, for various purposes including energy enhancement, pain relief, and mood improvement. The plant has also been traditionally used as a substitute for heroin or opium to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
Understanding Different Forms of [restricted term]
As Huberman and Chris McCurdy discuss, [restricted term]'s introduction to the Western world has led to significant changes in how it's consumed. While traditional use involved fresh leaves, Western markets primarily offer dried [restricted term] in various forms, including capsules and concentrated extracts. McCurdy explains that the drying process changes the plant's chemical composition, and modern concentrated extracts can be significantly more potent than traditional leaf preparations.
Benefits and Risks
McCurdy highlights that while traditional [restricted term] leaf usage may offer benefits like mild stimulation and pain relief, concentrated products pose significant risks. He notes that a compound called 7-hydroxymitragynine can cause dangerous opioid-like respiratory depression. Additionally, prolonged [restricted term] use may lead to physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
With an estimated 20 million daily users in the U.S., McCurdy emphasizes the urgent need for controlled clinical trials to better understand [restricted term]'s effects, appropriate dosing, and potential interactions with other substances. The plant's complex pharmacology, which affects multiple neurotransmitter systems, makes safety assessment particularly challenging.
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Counterarguments
- The estimated number of daily [restricted term] users in the U.S. may not be accurate or may have changed since the time of the statement.
- The benefits of traditional [restricted term] leaf usage, such as mild stimulation and pain relief, may not be well-documented or may vary significantly among individuals.
- The risks associated with concentrated [restricted term] products may be overstated or may not apply to all forms of these products.
- The potential for physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms may be comparable to or less severe than those associated with other substances that are legally and widely used, such as caffeine or prescription medications.
- The need for controlled clinical trials may be acknowledged, but the current regulatory environment may hinder such research, making it difficult to obtain clear data on [restricted term]'s effects and safety profile.
- The statement that [restricted term]'s complex pharmacology makes safety assessment particularly challenging could be seen as an oversimplification, as many substances with complex pharmacologies are used safely with appropriate research and regulation.
- The comparison of [restricted term] to heroin or opium in terms of alleviating withdrawal symptoms may be misleading or may stigmatize the plant, as its pharmacological profile and societal impact are quite different.
- The assertion that drying [restricted term] changes its chemical composition may not fully acknowledge that many traditional herbal preparations involve drying and that this process does not necessarily lead to increased risks.
- The claim that modern concentrated extracts can be significantly more potent than traditional leaf preparations may not take into account that traditional methods of preparation and use may also result in variable concentrations of active compounds.
Actionables
- You can educate yourself on the traditional and modern uses of [restricted term] by reading ethnobotanical studies and user experiences to make informed decisions about its use. Look for academic journals or online forums where users discuss their personal experiences with [restricted term], focusing on the traditional methods of consumption and the effects they describe. This will give you a broader understanding of how [restricted term] is used culturally and personally.
- Create a personal journal to track any [restricted term] use, noting dosage, form, effects, and any side effects to monitor your body's reactions and establish a responsible usage pattern. Start with small doses if you decide to try [restricted term], and use your journal to record the specific times you take it, how you feel before and after, and any changes in your physical or emotional state. This can help you notice patterns and decide if [restricted term] is beneficial for you.
- Engage with online communities or local groups focused on herbal remedies to exchange knowledge about [restricted term]'s benefits and risks. Participate in discussions, ask questions about others' experiences, and share non-confidential insights from your personal journal to contribute to a collective understanding of [restricted term]'s effects. This can provide a platform for mutual learning and support, especially for those considering [restricted term] as an alternative to traditional pain relief or energy enhancement methods.
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The Kratom Plant: Origins, Traditional Uses, and Properties
[restricted term], botanically known as Mitragyna speciosa and referred to as Kertam in Southeast Asia, is a plant with a history of traditional use for various purposes, ranging from a stimulant to a pain-reliever.
[restricted term] Is Native to Southeast Asia, Especially the Malaysia-Thailand Border, With a History of Traditional Use
[restricted term] originates from the peninsula where Malaysia and Thailand meet, believed to be the birthplace of this species of tree.
[restricted term] Leaves Used by Workers For Energy, Pain Relief, Mood Boost, and Treating Erectile Dysfunction
Farmers and outdoor laborers in Southeast Asia have used [restricted term] traditionally by chewing the leaves or brewing them into a tea for energy to sustain a workday in harsh environments. The plant has been utilized to treat pain and has also been referred to as nature's [restricted term] for erectile dysfunction. It improves mood and is consumed socially, often in the evenings and on weekends, providing a calming effect in larger amounts. People also use [restricted term] as a pre-workout stimulant for endurance and post-workout for pain relief, reducing the discomfort associated with lactic acid buildup.
[restricted term] Traditionally Substitutes Heroin or Opium, Aiding Withdrawal
When individuals ran out of heroin or opium, they would turn to increased consumption of [restricted term], which alleviated withdrawal symptoms. Anecdotally, [restricted term] has been reported to reduce alcohol consumption, suggesting it may act as a harm reduction agent in alcohol use disorders.
Traditional Use of [restricted term]: Chewing or Brewing Leaves
The traditional consumption of [restricted term] involves either chewing the leaves or boiling them to make a decoction. This approach involves harvesting the plant with a deep understanding of its characteristics which may be innate knowledge or quickly learned. By traditionally brewing and consuming the plant, individuals engage with the process and become acquainted with the mo ...
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The Kratom Plant: Origins, Traditional Uses, and Properties
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Counterarguments
- [restricted term]'s status as a natural remedy does not guarantee safety, and its effects can vary widely among individuals.
- The claim that [restricted term] is nature's [restricted term] for erectile dysfunction lacks robust scientific evidence and should be approached with caution.
- While [restricted term] may alleviate withdrawal symptoms for some, it can also lead to dependence and its own set of withdrawal symptoms.
- The traditional use of a substance does not inherently validate its safety or efficacy; historical use should be critically evaluated alongside contemporary scientific research.
- The comparison of traditional consumption methods to concentrated extracts may overlook the potential risks associated with higher ...
Actionables
- You can explore the potential of [restricted term] for personal wellness by starting a journal to track its effects on your energy and mood. Begin with small doses to assess how it affects your energy levels throughout the day, noting any changes in your mood or pain relief. This personal record can help you understand your body's response to [restricted term] and determine the most beneficial dosage for your needs.
- Consider creating a tea blend using [restricted term] leaves to incorporate traditional consumption methods into your routine. Experiment with different brewing times and leaf quantities to find a balance that suits your taste and desired effects. This approach allows you to experience the plant's benefits in a more controlled and gradual manner, similar to traditional use.
- If you're interested in the potential benefits of [restricted term] for pain management, ...
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Kratom: Leaf, Extract, and Isolate Differences and Effects
As [restricted term] gains popularity in the Western world, understanding its various forms and the implications of its use is increasingly important. Huberman and Chris McCurdy discuss how the differences between dried [restricted term] leaf and its more concentrated extracts and isolates can affect users in terms of effects, risk of dependence, and potential harm.
[restricted term] in the West vs. Traditional Southeast Asian Products
[restricted term] is traditionally used in Southeast Asia, but the product found in the United States and other Western countries differs due to it being dried, which alters its chemical composition. This dried [restricted term] is typically ground and then put into capsules or powdered products for consumption or brewing tea.
McCurdy explains that over time, [restricted term] in the West has evolved. While the market consisted solely of leaf [restricted term] in 2007, it now includes concentrated extracts and isolates. He also notes that color-coded strains like white vein, red vein, and brown vein [restricted term] relate to different curing or drying methods post-harvest rather than significantly different alkaloid contents.
Dried [restricted term] Differs Chemically and in Effects From Fresh Leaves
The drying of [restricted term] leaves, caused by environmental factors and shipping from Indonesia, changes its chemical composition. This dry leaf material is typically what users consume for mood elevation or an energy boost. Huberman observes a disconnect where users experience effects without traditional experiential steps like brewing, which might provide more information about a product’s concentration.
Potent Opioid Effects of Concentrated [restricted term] Alkaloid Extracts
McCurdy discusses the risks associated with potent [restricted term]-derived extracts and isolates. These products, often sold in gas stations and resembling energy shots, can be mistaken for benign supplements but may lead to abruptly powerful effects and increased risk of dependence, especially when consumed in the high doses provided by a concentrated product.
Potency and Pharmacology Differences: Leaf [restricted term] vs. Extracted Products
Leaf [restricted term] May Have Stimulant-Like Effects, While Extracted Products Can Dangerously Mimic Opioids in Potency and Risk of Dependence
Leaf [restricted term] at lower dosages might act as a stimulant with aphrodisiac qualities, while higher dosages trend towards sedative effects. McCurdy indicates most survey respondents use [restricted term] responsibly, not seeking a high but utilizing it for directed purposes such as pain relief.
In contrast, extracted [restricted term] products or isolates can mimic powerful opioids in their effects. McCurdy mentions this is because of certain isolated compounds like 7-hydroxy mitragynine, produced by our bodies from [r ...
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Kratom: Leaf, Extract, and Isolate Differences and Effects
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Clarifications
- When [restricted term] leaves are dried, their chemical composition changes due to environmental factors and the drying process. This alteration affects the concentration of active compounds in the [restricted term], which can impact the effects experienced by users. Fresh [restricted term] leaves may have a different balance of alkaloids compared to dried leaves, leading to variations in the overall experience when consumed. The drying process can also influence the potency and efficacy of [restricted term] products, influencing how they interact with the body.
- [restricted term] alkaloid extracts are highly concentrated forms of [restricted term] that can have potent effects on the body, similar to opioids. These extracts contain specific compounds, like 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain, leading to powerful effects. Due to their concentrated nature, these extracts can pose a higher risk of dependence and adverse effects compared to traditional forms of [restricted term]. Consumers should be cautious when using these potent extracts to avoid potential harm and addiction.
- Extracted [restricted term] products can mimic powerful opioids due to the presence of compounds like 7-hydroxy mitragynine. These compounds interact with opioid receptors in the body, leading to effects similar to opioids. This mimicry can result in potent analgesic and sedative effects, which can be concerning in terms of addiction potential and risk of dependence. The concentrated nature of these extracts can amplify these opioid-like effects, potentially leading to unintended consequences for users.
- [restricted term] is a tropical plant known for its stimulating and sedative effects. At lower doses, some users report experiencing increased energy, focus, and heightened mood, which could contribute to feelings of arousal or enhanced libido. These effects are subjective and can vary among individuals, with some users attributing aphrodisiac-like qualities to [restricted term] when consumed in smaller amounts.
- Understanding the potency and effects differences between various [restricted term] products can be challenging due to the evolving market that now includes concentrated extracts and isolates alongside traditional leaf [restricted term]. Consumers may struggle to differentiate between these products, leading to confusion about their potency and potential effects. Factors such as labeling inconsistencies and varying serving sizes further complicate understanding the differences in potency and effects between different forms of [restricted term]. This lack of clarity can increase the risk of uni ...
Counterarguments
- The chemical differences between dried and fresh [restricted term] leaves may not necessarily lead to a significant difference in effects for all users, as individual responses can vary.
- Some users may not experience mood elevation or an energy boost from dried [restricted term] leaf, as the effects can be subjective and influenced by various factors such as dosage and individual tolerance.
- The potency of opioid effects from concentrated [restricted term] alkaloid extracts may be overstated, and these effects can vary widely among individuals.
- Not all extracted [restricted term] products may mimic powerful opioids in potency, as the extraction process and the specific alkaloids present can influence the final product's effects.
- The stimulant-like effects of leaf [restricted term] at lower dosages and sedative effects at higher dosages may not be consistent across all users, and some may not experience these effects at all.
- Consumers may be more informed about the potency or effects differences between various [restricted term] products than suggeste ...
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Potential Benefits and Risks of Kratom Use
The dialogue between experts highlights the delicate balance between the potential benefits and significant risks of [restricted term] use, emphasizing the need for increased public awareness and scientific research.
Traditional [restricted term] Offers Benefits, Extracted Products Pose Risks
[restricted term], a plant native to Southeast Asia, has been traditionally used for its mild stimulant effects and as an opioid substitute. Its usage patterns are varied: some use it like caffeine, others in higher doses for an opioid-like effect, and many use it to manage opioid dependence. These different patterns point to varied risk profiles depending on how and why [restricted term] is used.
[restricted term] With 7-Hydroxymitragynine Causes Opioid-Like Respiratory Depression, Risking Overdose
Chris McCurdy discusses the risks associated with the use of [restricted term], particularly the danger of potent extracts like 7-hydroxymitragynine. He notes this [restricted term] can cause opioid-like respiratory depression, which raises the risk of overdose. A forthcoming paper suggests that in a rat model, this compound causes respiratory depression equivalent to opioids. These findings from animal studies suggest that similar effects could be expected in humans.
Prolonged [restricted term] Use May Cause Dependence With Withdrawal Symptoms Similar to Opioids
There's a general consensus that prolonged [restricted term] use can lead to physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms range from mild, akin to caffeine withdrawal, to severe, resembling opioid withdrawal, such as restless leg syndrome. As with opioids, there can also be tolerance to [restricted term]'s pain-relief properties, leading to increased consumption and potential off-target effects.
[restricted term]'s Complex Pharmacology Complicates Safety Assessment
[restricted term]'s varied effects are due to its complex pharmacology, which makes a generalized safety assessment challenging. The plant contains multiple alkaloids that influence various neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and adrenergic systems. McCurdy compares [restricted term]'s pharmacological complexity to a symphony orchestra with various instruments, or components, each affecting the brain differently.
[restricted term] Concentrated Products Pose Higher Risks to Younger and Opioid-Naive Users
McCurdy emphasizes that concentrated [restricted term] products pose higher risks, especially to younger and opioid-naive individuals. Regulations in some states restrict [restricted term] use based on age due to concerns about its effects on brain development. The potency of concentrated products like 7-hydroxymitragynine presents significant risks that are not well understood.
Research Needed On [restricted term]'s Benefits, Risks, Uses, and Dosing
McCurdy and Huberman advocate for controlled clinical trials to understand [restricted term]'s potential benefits and risks. They acknowledge the anecdotal antidepressant effects and mood elevation properties of [restricted term]. However, there are also real ...
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Potential Benefits and Risks of Kratom Use
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- 7-hydroxymitragynine is a compound found in [restricted term] that can lead to respiratory depression, a potentially dangerous condition where breathing slows down. This effect is similar to what opioids can cause in the body. Respiratory depression is a serious concern as it can lead to overdose and other health complications.
- [restricted term]'s complex pharmacology involves various alkaloids that interact with neurotransmitter systems in the brain, such as serotonin and adrenergic systems. These interactions contribute to the diverse effects of [restricted term], including its stimulant and opioid-like properties. Understanding how these alkaloids affect neurotransmitters is crucial in assessing both the potential benefits and risks associated with [restricted term] use. The intricate interplay between [restricted term]'s components and neurotransmitter systems underscores the need for comprehensive research to fully grasp its pharmacological effects.
- [restricted term]'s effects on brain development in younger and opioid-naive individuals are a concern due to the potential impact of its active compounds on the developing brain. The brain undergoes significant changes during youth, and introducing substances like [restricted term] could potentially interfere with this process. Opioid-naive individuals, who have not previously been exposed to opioids, may be more vulnerable to the effects of [restricted term] due to their lack of tolerance and experience with such substances. This concern underscores the need for further research to understand the specific risks and implications of [restricted term] use on brain development in these populations.
- The lack of data on the combined effects of [restricted term] with other substances means there is limited scientific understanding of how [restricted term] interacts with drugs like alcohol or [restricted term]. This gap in knowledge hinders the ability to assess potential risks or benefits when [restricted term] is used alongside other substances. Understanding these interactions is crucial for providing accurate guidance on safe usage and avoiding unintended consequences. Further research is needed to explore these combined effects comprehensively.
- [restricted term] is reported anecdotally to have effects that can elevate mood and potentially act as an antidepressant. Users have described experiencing improved mood and feelings of well-being after consuming [restricted term]. These effects are not scientifically proven and are based on personal accounts rather than formal research studies. The impact of [restricted term] on mood can vary am ...
Counterarguments
- While [restricted term] has traditional uses, the evidence for its efficacy is largely anecdotal and not well-supported by rigorous scientific research.
- The risk profiles associated with [restricted term] use may not be as clear-cut as suggested, with some studies indicating potential for harm even in traditional use patterns.
- The comparison of 7-hydroxymitragynine to opioids in terms of respiratory depression may be oversimplified, as the pharmacodynamics and kinetics in humans can differ significantly from those in animal models.
- The degree to which [restricted term] causes physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms may vary widely among individuals, and some research suggests that these effects may be less severe than those associated with traditional opioids.
- The complexity of [restricted term]'s pharmacology could potentially be leveraged to isolate beneficial compounds with fewer side effects, rather than viewing it as a barrier to safety assessment.
- Regulations based on age may not be the most effective way to mitigate risks, as they do not address the root causes of misuse or provide education on safe use.
- The call for research into [restricted term]'s benefits and risks is important, but it is also necessary to consider the ethical imp ...
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