AMA #9: Kratom Risks, Does Infrared Sauna Work & Journaling Benefits

About this video

In this AMA, Huberman addresses kratom risks, whether infrared sauna works, and journaling benefits, focusing in the excerpts on kratom. Huberman explains kratom comes from the tree Mitragyna speciosa, whose leaves have long been chewed for a mild stimulant effect and are now sold in concentrated capsule and powder forms. He argues kratom’s effects are dose-dependent: at low dosages it has a mild stimulant effect, while at higher dosages it has analgesic and sedative effects and acts as an opioid in the body, which he says makes it controversial amid the opioid crisis. Huberman distinguishes habit-forming from addictive, describes tolerance and the need for escalating doses, and warns he cannot in good faith say kratom is safe for everybody, especially people who strongly like opioids’ effects. He also explains the endogenous opioid system and the runner’s high.

Key takeaways

• Huberman explains kratom has stimulant effects at low dosages and opioid-like analgesic, sedative effects at higher dosages.
• Huberman describes kratom as acting on the body’s endogenous opioid system.
• Huberman warns tolerance leads some users to continually ratchet up their dose.
• Huberman argues kratom is not safe for everybody, especially those at risk for opioid addiction.
• Huberman distinguishes habit-forming from addictive, defined by continuing despite negative consequences.

Episode details: published July 28, 2023 · 169.3K views · 26:32 long. Summary written by Self Growth Videos from the episode itself. The science and protocols described are Andrew Huberman’s, presented for education — not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional before changing your own health practices.

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