Hi, @kansasgal - since Maeng Da is a type of kratom, I wanted to be sure and point out the following:

- The post by @colleenyoung talking about Kratom and possible side effects
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/intractable-pain-ip-doctors/?pg=1#comment-316645

- mayoclinic.org Healthy Lifestyle information on Kratom https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/kratom/art-20402171

@kansasgal I would start out with the smallest package of it that you can get, and maybe get a few strains to switch off with. Check the slow strains that say they are for easing discomfort. Take the smallest amount you can, and still get relief. If you feel nothing from it, try a bit more. I would start at about 1 gram, or so, and see what happens. I take about 5 grams at a sitting, but I only take it when my pain is excruciating. I have found that Kratom is absolutely the only thing that really works for pain. There is nothing like it. But you have to play around with it, to find the right amount. Just mix into water, and chug it down. It is quite vile tasting, but I use my sense of humor and just knowing I will be pain free in about 10 minutes or so. Good luck, and your pain will be better. Lori Renee

@lorirenee1, kansas girl, et al: there was a very informative enlightening article in the 1/21 issue of “Wired” magazine which I read online. It explains the stigma and negativity associated with the drug and also the benefits of the plant which is soon to be legalized in one of the Asian countries in which it is grown and has been used for centuries for medicinal reasons.