Is Kratom Really Safe? What You Need to Know Before You Use

Kratom has gained significant attention in recent years as a “natural” remedy, praised by many for its purported ability to alleviate pain, improve mood, and boost energy. Marketed as a safer, plant-based alternative to traditional medications, it’s become increasingly popular among those seeking alternative treatments. However, just because something is derived from a plant doesn’t necessarily mean it’s free from risks. In this blog post, we’ll explore the question, ‘Is kratom really safe?’. We’ll dive into the health risks, potential for dependency, long-term side effects, and what you need to know before deciding whether or not to try it. If you’re concerned about addiction or misuse, Palm Beach rehab offers support for those seeking help with kratom dependency.

What is Kratom, And Why Do People Use It?

Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea. Its leaves have been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine. ​Common uses include:

• Pain Relief: Many users turn to kratom for its analgesic properties, seeking relief from chronic pain conditions. ​
• Increased Energy: At lower doses, kratom enhances energy levels, alertness, and sociability. ​
• Anxiety and Mood Management: Some individuals use kratom to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, though evidence supporting its efficacy is limited. ​

Depending on the dosage, kratom exhibits both stimulant and sedative effects. At low doses, it acts as a stimulant, promoting increased energy and alertness. At higher doses, it can have sedative effects, providing relaxation and pain relief. ​

In recent years, kratom has gained popularity in the U.S. wellness space, often marketed as a natural supplement for pain management and mood enhancement. Its availability in various forms, including powders, capsules, and teas, has contributed to its widespread use. ​

However, it’s essential to approach kratom with caution. Despite its natural origins, kratom can lead to serious side effects, including nausea, aggression, hallucinations, and, in severe cases, death. Long-term use has been associated with dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to those of opioids. It’s important to understand the difference between synthetic and organic drugs, as natural does not always mean safe. While kratom is plant-based, its effects and risks can mirror those of synthetic substances.

Is Kratom Addictive? Understanding the Potential for Dependency

While kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is not classified as a controlled substance in the United States, its use can lead to addiction and dependency. Regular consumption, especially in increasing amounts, can result in physical and psychological dependence. Can kratom cause addiction or dependency? The answer is yes, and it’s important to understand the signs.

Signs of kratom addiction or dependency:

• Increased Tolerance: Needing higher doses to achieve the same effects.
• Daily Use: Consuming kratom every day or multiple times a day to function normally.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing discomfort when not using kratom, including nausea, insomnia, irritability, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and mood swings

A study found that 25.5% of kratom users met the criteria for a substance use disorder, highlighting the risk of developing dependency. It’s important to note that while some users may not experience severe withdrawal symptoms, others might face more significant challenges when trying to quit. If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom use, seeking professional drug rehab in Palm Beach is advisable.

Is Kratom Really Safe? Side Effects of Daily Kratom Use

Daily kratom use can lead to a range of side effects, particularly in the short term. Common issues include:

• Nausea
• Irritability
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Dry mouth
• Increased urination
• Sweating
• Headaches

As the use of kratom continues over time, these side effects can worsen and lead to more serious health concerns. One of the most notable issues is sleep disturbances, where users may experience insomnia or poor-quality sleep. This can contribute to further exhaustion and mood changes, which may include increased anxiety or feelings of depression. Another common side effect is constipation, which can become chronic with long-term use, affecting overall digestive health.

As these side effects escalate, the question remains: Is kratom safe to use long term? For many, the risks associated with prolonged use may outweigh the benefits, particularly as dependence and long-term health issues become more pronounced.

What Happens If You Use Kratom Every Day?

Is kratom painful? Regular use of kratom can lead to significant physical and psychological changes. Over time, the body begins to adapt to the effects of the substance, leading to increased tolerance. This means that users may need to consume larger amounts to experience the same effects, whether it’s pain relief or mood enhancement. As tolerance builds, the risk of developing dependency grows, creating a cycle of increased use.

Physically, health risks associated with kratom include sleep disturbances, digestive issues, and constant fatigue. The body becomes reliant on the substance; without it, normal functions may feel disrupted. Emotionally, users may experience instability, including mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. These emotional shifts can make it difficult to manage daily life without the substance. In fact, there’s a clear connection between anxiety and addiction, as kratom may initially seem to alleviate stress and anxiety but can worsen these conditions with continued use.

As dependence sets in, users may experience withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to reduce their intake or quit entirely. These symptoms can include nausea, muscle pain, and irritability, all of which can be overwhelming. In some cases, kratom withdrawal can mimic the patterns seen in opioid withdrawal, as the body has grown accustomed to the substance in much the same way it would to opioids.

The signs of dependency often mirror other substance use patterns. Users may find themselves reaching for kratom daily, experiencing cravings, and using it in larger quantities despite negative effects. These behaviors signal that the user may have developed a dependency, and it becomes harder to break free from the cycle of use.

Kratom Health Risks You May Not Know About

Kratom is often touted as a natural remedy, but there are significant health risks associated with Kratom that many may not be aware of. While it’s marketed as a plant-based solution for pain, anxiety, and mood enhancement, regular use can lead to serious health complications, some of which are lesser-known.

One of the more concerning risks is liver damage. While rare, long-term or excessive kratom use can strain the liver, leading to liver toxicity and, in extreme cases, liver failure. This is particularly alarming considering that many people use kratom to avoid prescription medications without realizing that this plant-based alternative can still pose significant harm to organs like the liver.

Another potential health risk is hormonal imbalances. Kratom has been shown to affect the endocrine system, leading to changes in hormone levels. This can cause issues such as reduced libido, weight gain, and irregular menstrual cycles in women.

Many users also report experiencing cognitive fog with regular kratom use. This can manifest as difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and a general sense of mental sluggishness. Over time, this cognitive decline can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life, making it harder to perform routine tasks.

An often overlooked risk is the potential for kratom products to be contaminated or mislabeled. Because kratom is not regulated in many countries, it’s easy for products to be adulterated with harmful substances or to contain inaccurate labeling, leading to unintentional overdose or exposure to dangerous chemicals.

Moreover, kratom can have dangerous interactions with prescription medications. Combining kratom with drugs that affect the brain, such as antidepressants or painkillers, can lead to life-threatening complications, including serotonin syndrome or respiratory depression.

Is Kratom Safe to Use Long Term? Experts Say: Maybe Not

The answer from experts is often more cautious than many realize. While kratom has gained popularity as a natural remedy for pain relief and anxiety, current research and medical opinions suggest that long-term use may not be safe.

One of the primary concerns is the lack of FDA approval for kratom as a supplement. This lack of regulation means that there is no standardized dosage, and the purity of kratom products can vary significantly. As a result, long-term studies on kratom’s safety are limited, and what we know is primarily based on anecdotal evidence and smaller-scale research.

Experts agree that the health risks of kratom may escalate with prolonged use. These include the potential for liver damage, hormonal imbalances, cognitive fog, and an increased risk of addiction. Kratom’s stimulant and sedative properties can have a cumulative effect, leading to emotional instability and physical dependence over time.

Given these unknowns and the risks involved, it’s critical to consult a healthcare provider before using kratom, especially for long-term use. Medical professionals can help assess whether kratom is appropriate for your situation and guide you in making informed decisions based on your specific health needs.

When to Seek Help for Kratom Use

If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom use, it’s important to recognize the signs that professional kratom addiction treatment may be needed. Here’s a simple checklist of symptoms that may indicate it’s time to seek help:

• Intense cravings for kratom, making it difficult to go through daily life without using.
• Anxiety when not using kratom, or a constant feeling of discomfort and unease.
• Failed attempts to quit, despite the desire to stop or reduce usage.

These are signs that kratom use is starting to affect your well-being and that professional intervention could be necessary. Kratom addiction can develop over time, particularly when used for extended periods without proper guidance or monitoring.

If you’re seeking help, Bright Futures offers safe outpatient support for individuals dealing with substance use, including kratom addiction treatment. We provide programs like partial hospitalization in Palm Beach that offer structure and care while allowing individuals to maintain their everyday lives.

What You Really Need to Know?

It’s important to understand that while kratom may be natural, that doesn’t mean it’s without risk. As we’ve explored, kratom can lead to a variety of side effects, including nausea, anxiety, and cognitive fog. More concerning, however, is the potential for addiction or dependency, especially with long-term use. Is kratom really safe? The answer depends on the individual, but the dangers of kratom are certainly real. If you’re considering using kratom or already using it, it’s crucial to make an informed decision. Be aware of the possible side effects and their impact on your physical and emotional health. If you or someone you know is struggling with kratom use, remember that support is available. Seeking help is an important step, and there are treatment options to guide you through recovery.