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Shamanism goes far beyond a primarily self-concerned transcendence of ordinary reality. It is transcendence for a broader purpose, the helping of humankind. The enlightenment of shamanism is the ability to light up what others perceive as darkness, and thereby to see and to journey on behalf of a humanity that is perilously close to losing its spiritual connectedness with all its relatives, the plants and animals of this good Earth
Quote from the book Psychedelic Shamanism: The Cultivation, Preparation & Shamanic Use of Psychoactive Plants
On Kratom
Originating from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia, Kratom has been a staple in herbal medicine since the 19th century, offering opiate-like and stimulant effects. It can be chewed, smoked or consumed as a tea; and it is available in various forms such as dried powdered leaves, enriched extracts, resins, tinctures, capsules and edibles.
With diverse strains like the pain-relieving Red Vein, stimulating White Vein, and balanced Green Vein, kratom holds cultural significance in its regions of origin and sparks contemporary debates on legality and public health. In this article, we delve into gratom's history, uses, strains, and the nuanced discussions surrounding its regulation, unraveling the complex narrative of this botanical substance.
Indigenous to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea, kratom has been utilized in herbal medicine since the 19th century. Traditionally consumed for pain relief and mild stimulation in Southeast Asia, millions of Americans use kratom, citing its efficacy in alleviating chronic pain and addiction symptoms - a critical tool, amid rising drug overdose deaths.
There are several types of kratom strains, each touted for their efficacy in different areas. Red vein kratom is known for pain relief, sedation, stress relief, and relaxation, this strain offers temporary relief for chronic pain or anxiety. White vein kratom is renowned for its stimulating effects; this strain supports focus, alertness, concentration, and productivity without the jitters commonly associated with stimulant use, often leading to feelings of euphoria. Green vein kratom is the most popular strain; combining stimulation and soothing benefits, offering mental clarity, focus, and calmness for everyday use, ideal for managing daily stress. Gold kratom is a blend of different kratom strains, providing a broad spectrum of positive effects without specifying vein coloration. Most commercially available Gold kratom is a blend of white and green vein kratom. Black Kratom remains a bit of a mystery - subject to varying definitions, it usually refers to red vein kratom that has been fermented multiple times and/or roasted, resulting in a darker color and strong sedative effects reminiscent of a powerful red vein strain.
Amid record opioid-related overdose deaths, kratom has gained attention as an alternative for chronic pain, with millions relying on it. However, federal agencies, particularly the FDA, have attempted to ban kratom, threatening potential consequences such as criminalizing users and hindering research on its effects. Critics argue that the FDA's stance lacks nuance and overstates risks, citing low poison control calls related to kratom compared to common household products. While some deaths have been reported while kratom is present in the system, a clear causal link is absent. Advocates stress the need for regulation to ensure safe production rather than outright prohibition. Research into kratom has been inhibited by the attempts of powerful entities to ban its production and use, but the anecdotal evidence to support its usefulness is overwhelming. In addition, despite some evidence to suggest that kratom use comes with the risk of addiction, any dose under 2 grams is considered a microdose when using kratom, and most commercially produced capsules weigh in at only 750 mg, well below the microdose line.
The FDA's arguments against kratom face scrutiny, with experts highlighting weaknesses in methodologies like the PHASE model. Some speculate that the FDA's resistance to kratom may be influenced by pharmaceutical interests commercializing synthetic versions, as there are many officials involved who would potentially benefit financially from kratom prohibition. Recall that cannabis was legal in the United States prior to 1952, and the motivating factors behind its prohibition were rooted in racism and capitalist interests, not medical or scientific fact.
When purchasing kratom, it is important to visit a retailer who sources their products from safe and reliable manufacturers. It is also beneficial to purchase from a retailer that employs staff who are experienced and knowledgeable about the products they’re selling. Here at beyond smoke, our staff have experience using kratom recreationally or to treat common ailments. For more information on kratom and to learn if kratom is right for you, stop by and visit us.
had such a magical cacao ritual/meditation experience this morning, feeling very blessed 💕