The other day I was in a smoke shop looking for a new pipe. As I walked around the store I noticed some packets of Kratom and I asked the salesman about them. I have seen this stuff being sold all over the place. Gas stations, smoke shops, and even a couple dispensaries. The salesman explained a little about the plant, how to prepare it, and what it does.
It sounded pretty good to me. I'm always looking for some new and improved way to alter my reality. I decided to give it a try. On top of that, I got an ounce of the stuff for under $10. The stuff I bought was Bali Kratom.
The salesperson told me that in small amounts it was very relaxing. In larger doses it could act as a stimulant. He did warn me to take a small amount the first time to see how I reacted to it. He also stated that large amounts could make you nauseous. He also said several people use it for addiction. People trying to get off heavy narcotics, and also alcoholics. Which is weird because it is an addictive compound in itself. You're literally trading one addiction for a new one if you're using it on a regular basis.
When I got home, I did some additional research on the internet. Reviews were mixed. Some people touted it as the next legal wonder drug, while others said, "STAY AWAY". I decided to proceed cautiously. I also read several warning about it's addictive qualities. So I spaced my trials weeks apart.
The internet suggested I start out with no more than two teaspoonfuls seeped in tea. So that's where I started. Two measured teaspoons seeped in a tea pot.
First attempt effects:
I have to admit, I really enjoyed this. My first time was very mellow. I got a nice cup of tea out of it. It was very bitter and I sweetened it with A LOT of honey.
I smoked a little weed with it. The effects were very subtle. Giggly. Warm. Relaxed. It definitely enhanced the weed high A LOT. It was the perfect buzz for a cold winter night curled up on the couch watching TV.
Attempt 2 effects after a two week break:
This time I took 2 heaping teaspoons full. These were measured teaspoons. Again a single cup seeped in tea with lots of honey. This time the effects were a little stronger. I waited to smoke any weed. I wanted to feel the straight effects of the Kratom alone. The buzz was very mild. Again relaxing, giddy, and that warm feeling you get before you start rolling hard on ecstasy without the hard roll ever reaching you. Definitely in need of a little weed enhancement. With a little weed it almost felt like a very mild MDMA ecstasy roll without the super dopey feeling.
Attempt 3 effects after another 2 week break:
This time I took 2 heaping teaspoons. I drank this in 2 small tea cups. A couple hours later, I decided to push the limits and make one more cup with 1 heaping teaspoon. All together I drank three cups of tea.
So the first two times, the buzz was really pleasant. Very relaxing. No nausea. Just a nice pleasant, chill, buzz. After 3 cups of this stuff and several puffs of weed. The buzz was pretty intense. Very high, with that warm fuzzy feeling. Perfect for relaxing on the couch and playing guitar. 3 teaspoons was a nice buzz, but.....
Holy Kratom Hangovers
I had no idea this stuff gave you a hangover. One of the reasons I rarely drink these days. The hangover the following day was absolutely brutal. I could only compare it to my club days, when I'd down a half bottle of Jack Daniels at my favorite goth bar back in the day. One of the reasons I rarely get that drunk anymore. My head pounded, I had the dry heaves. I wasn't sure if I had the flu or had gotten sick.
I looked it up on the internet and low and behold, too much consumption will cause hangover's. Jeepers, I wish someone would have told me before I went to town on the stuff. The hangover after 3 teaspoons was absolutely dreadful. NEVER AGAIN. The nausea passed quickly but the crappy hungover feeling lasted all day!
I can't imagine someone trying to quit drinking alcohol with this. The hangover was even worse than alcohol and I've had some real doozies. Especially considering I had only drank 3 cups.
Well, I don't regret trying it. It's OK in small doses and I may even have an occasional cup when the moods just right. However, once this bag is gone, I'm done buying it. It's a nice addition to a weed high when you want just a little something more. Besides that, I just don't see it.
I suppose if you were addicted to heroin, and this helps keep you off it. Then yes I get it. For the average psychonaut just looking for a good time. I don't think so. The buzz was to mild and the hangover to extreme.
Further research also showed that it is toxic to the liver. Addictive if taken regularly. Reactions can vary from person to person. Seems like to many ill effects and dangers for just casual use IMHO.
Ai images from ChatGPT prompt: Kratom hangover in anime style. Kratom hangover puking anime style.