Snorting Kratom: Risks, Effects, and Alternatives

We’re all familiar with the toss-and-wash method, and some of us have even combined raw powder with other ingredients to form smoothies or even cooked with it. Capsules, liquid shots, dried kratom leaves, and gummies are some other ways people take it.

What do these methods have in common? They are all oral ways to use kratom. But what about the nose? In this article, we will address what you’ve always wondered but were hesitant to ask: what about snorting kratom?

Understanding the Effects of Kratom

Kratom is a plant that has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential therapeutic effects. The leaves of the kratom tree contain two primary active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain. Those chemicals, combined with the 50+ other alkaloids that have been found in its leaves, exert other effects on the central nervous system, particularly at the serotonin, dopamine, and adrenergic receptors.

As a result, kratom has been used as an herbal remedy for various ailments. The effects of kratom are complex and can vary depending on the strain, dosage, and individual user. At low doses, kratom is known to act as a stimulant, providing users with increased energy, alertness, and sociability.

This effect is particularly prevalent in traditional use, where laborers in Southeast Asia would chew on the leaves to combat fatigue and increase productivity. In addition to these stimulating properties, some users also report enhanced cognitive function, improved focus, and a general sense of well-being.

Conversely, at higher doses, kratom can cause sedative and analgesic effects, making it popular among individuals seeking natural alternatives to more conventional options. These effects are primarily due to the interaction of kratom’s alkaloids with the brain’s opioid receptors, leading to feelings of relaxation and deeper or more restorative sleep.

Why Would Someone Snort Kratom Powder?

Snorting, also known as insufflation, is a way to take kratom in which a powdered substance is inhaled through the nose. This way to ingest kratom is sometimes chosen due to its rapid and efficient absorption into the bloodstream.

When it’s sniffed, kratom doesn’t travel through the digestive system, therefore it can be absorbed directly through the nasal mucosa and into the system quickly. As a result, a dose of kratom can also be felt faster compared to oral ingestion, making insufflation an attractive option for users seeking more immediate results.

Another reason some individuals choose to snort drugs is that this method can lead to a more intense and potent experience. Since the drug is absorbed directly into the blood, it avoids first-pass metabolism by the liver, which can break down and reduce the potency of some substances when ingested orally.

Consequently, a smaller amount of the drug may be needed to achieve the desired effect, increasing its perceived potency. This heightened intensity can be particularly appealing to recreational drug users who seek a stronger high or more profound experience.

Dangers of Snorting Kratom

Snorting kratom or any other substance presents several potential health risks that can have both short-term and long-term consequences. While the rapid onset of effects may be appealing to some kratom users, it is crucial to understand the potential dangers associated with insufflation and prioritize one’s health and well-being.

Nose Problems

One immediate risk associated with snorting substances is damage to the nasal passages. The delicate mucous membranes lining the nose can become irritated and inflamed by the introduction of foreign particles.

Over time, repeatedly snorting kratom can lead to chronic issues such as nosebleeds, sinus infections, and even a perforated septum – a hole in the cartilage separating the nostrils. Additionally, the loss of smell, known as anosmia, is another possible consequence of long-term use via the nasal route which can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.

Abuse Potential

Another health risk associated with using substances by way of the nose is the increased likelihood of developing dependence and addiction. The rapid absorption of drugs through the nasal passage can lead to a faster and more intense high, which can be particularly reinforcing for users.

This heightened intensity can contribute to compulsive use patterns. In the case of kratom, although it is often marketed as a natural alternative to “street drugs,” snorting it may still result in dependence. Kratom addiction is possible if users do not listen to their bodies and pay close enough attention to their tolerance and usage patterns.

Respiratory System Implications

Respiratory issues are also a concern when snorting substances. When you snort kratom powder, you can end up with particles becoming lodged in the lungs, causing inflammation and potentially leading to respiratory infections or pneumonia.

Moreover, substances like kratom, which are not intended for insufflation, may contain contaminants that can exacerbate respiratory complications and pose additional health risks. This is why it is so important to choose a vendor who is happy to provide test results.

Infection

The risk of infection is another significant concern when ingesting substances intranasally. Insufflating kratom can introduce bacteria or viruses present on shared snorting equipment, such as straws or rolled bills, directly into the nasal passages.

This can result in localized infections in the nose and sinuses or more severe systemic infections. In some cases, infections can even lead to life-threatening conditions such as endocarditis, an inflammation of the heart’s inner lining.

Alternatives to Snorting Kratom

One of the most traditional methods of consuming kratom is by simply chewing the fresh leaves. This practice dates back centuries and is still prevalent among laborers in Southeast Asian countries, who chew the leaves to combat fatigue and increase productivity. 

Chewing allows for the release of the active compounds – plant chemicals called alkaloids – which are then absorbed through the thin tissue in the mouth as they begin to get to work faster than with other methods.

Tea

Another popular method of consumption is to make kratom tea. The dried leaves or powder can be steeped in hot water, allowing the desirable components to be extracted into the liquid. Users can then drink the tea, which is often sweetened with honey or sugar to mask the bitter taste.

This method provides a more controlled dosage and allows users to enjoy the potential benefits of kratom without some of the risks associated with snorting it. Believe it or not, some people even smoke kratom leaves using various methods and preparations, but that’s a subject for another time.

Straight Powder

Traditional leaf powder can also be ingested through a method known as “toss and wash.” In this approach, the user places a measured amount of kratom powder directly onto their tongue before washing it down with a beverage, typically water or juice.

This quick and straightforward method enables rapid consumption and absorption of the active compounds but may be less palatable due to the strong, bitter taste of kratom.

Kratom Capsules

Capsules are another common method for consuming kratom, offering a convenient and discreet option for users. The kratom powder is encapsulated in often gelatin capsules, which are then swallowed like any other pill or supplement.

This method allows for easy and accurate dosing while avoiding the bitter taste of kratom powder. However, capsules may take longer to produce effects, as the body must first dissolve the capsule before the kratom can be absorbed.

Extracts & Edibles (Advanced Users)

Lastly, some users opt for kratom extracts, which are concentrated forms of active compounds. These extracts can come in various forms, such as powders, liquid shots, or even edibles like gummies. While extracts provide a more potent experience, they also carry an increased risk of tolerance, kratom dependence, and adverse side effects that, in extreme cases, may even be similar to opioid withdrawal.

In fact, all published cases of kratom overdose have occurred after ingestion of excessive amounts of these products. Taking even moderate doses for extended periods of time can even result in withdrawal symptoms. That said, they may be used successfully with discipline by people who have plenty of experience with these chemicals.

How to Find a Reputable Source for Buying High-quality Kratom

Finding a reputable source for high-quality kratom is crucial to ensure that you receive a safe and effective product. Numerous vendors have emerged in the market, making it challenging to determine which ones are trustworthy. By following some key guidelines, you can identify reliable suppliers and make informed choices when making a purchase.

Customer Feedback

First, do some research on the reputation of potential kratom vendors. Check places like Reddit to see if there have been bad experiences reported. You will want to look specifically for vendors whose reviews are verified by a third party. There will usually be an indication of this, sometimes in the form of a badge or similar, wherever the review may be featured. You should be able to find these reviews on the third-party’s website as well.

If they have a physical retail store, try to locate their Google Business profile and see what those customers have to say. Generally, companies with a brick-and-mortar presence hold themselves to higher standards because customers can actually see first-hand how they operate.

Lab Testing

Another essential aspect to consider is the vendor’s transparency. Reputable kratom suppliers will provide detailed information about their products, especially when it comes to the lab testing process. Third-party lab testing is particularly important, as it verifies the purity and potency of the kratom being sold.

The vast majority of vendors claim to lab test their products, but very few make the results readily available at all times to the public. When you can obtain a copy, oftentimes the testing date is not even remotely recent.

Forgery of results is not uncommon in the industry, either. A trustworthy vendor will have no issue sharing authentic test results, which should confirm the absence of contaminants such as heavy metals and harmful bacteria.

Support

Customer service is another vital factor in determining a reliable kratom source. A responsive and knowledgeable customer support team demonstrates that the vendor values its customers and stands behind its products.

You want a company that is going to be responsive in case you have questions or run into any issues. Look for an advertised response time within the same business day if possible. Even better, some companies will provide a phone number where they can be reached during their business hours in case you need to speak with someone right away.

Reach out to the vendor with any questions or concerns you may have, and gauge their willingness to provide accurate and helpful information. Do they make you feel like you are a bother to them, or are they warm and friendly? If they made a mistake, did they accept responsibility and inform you what steps they took to prevent it from happening again in the future?

Marketing Tactics

Additionally, pay close attention to the product descriptions. See how the retailer markets their different kratom strains. If they tell elaborate stories about the numerous locations they obtain their raw materials from or mention how many types of kratom trees and leaves they use for their powders, they are most likely stretching the facts.

Retailers may market their kratom strains based on the region they supposedly originate from, such as Bali, Thai, or Malay. However, the vast majority of kratom consumed in the United States as of the time of this writing comes from the island of Borneo in Indonesia. That Green Malay you’re used to using was not actually grown in Malaysia, sorry to say.

You should also pay attention to the claims made about products. Be cautious of vendors who make exaggerated statements or use marketing language that seems too good to be true. Remember that responsible vendors will avoid making specific health claims due to the current regulatory status of kratom.

Kratom Snorting in a Nutshell

The long-term health effects of snorting kratom may remain understudied and poorly understood until we see an end to the spread of false and exaggerated information surrounding it. While some users may experience relief from pain or anxiety through kratom use, the potential risks and complications associated with insufflation far outweigh the potential benefits.

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