Many people buy kratom, both in loose and capsule forms. It can be used as a pain reliever and also as an aid for breaking addiction to opiates. If you are thinking of buying kratom for the first time, there are a few facts you should know.

It is legal in the United States.

Perhaps because it has properties of opiates, there are often rumors that kratom is illegal or will become illegal very soon. However, kratom is still legal on the federal level. The DEA withdrew its 2016 plans to make it a Schedule I banned substance. There are a few states in which kratom is banned or illegal. They are:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Indiana
• Tennessee
• Wisconsin

Several other states — Illinois and New Hampshire — restrict the sale of kratom to those over 18. And some states, like California and Florida, have city- or county-specific rules.

It's really hard to overdose on kratom.

Kratom does have opiate effects and binds to opiate receptors, which makes some people nervous about the potential for overdosing. But here's where kratom differs from the more common opiate medications: it makes you feel quite ill if you take more than a certain amount. Therefore, an overdose is very unlikely. You'll start to feel nauseous, and you will probably vomit up most of the kratom you just took, far before you take enough to overdose. While an overdose on kratom may theoretically be possible, it is really not anything you need to worry about or that would happen without intentional action.

Kratom can be stimulating or sedating.

You might know some people who take kratom for more energy and others who take it to calm themselves down. Neither of these groups of people are lying. At lower doses, kratom tends to be stimulating. Taking one or two grams, which is usually one or two capsules, tends to stimulate the mind and body in a manner similar to caffeine. At higher doses, kratom tends to have a sedative effect. Taking four or six grams will help you relax and drift off to sleep. This is why most kratom capsules only contain one gram, or in some cases 0.75 grams, of kratom. Small capsules make it easy to adjust the dose.

With these facts in mind, you are now far more prepared to buy kratom capsules. Remember to use the substance responsibly and therapeutically. It's a great option for those who need pain relief, a little stimulation, or some deep relaxation.