Is Kratom Addictive? 

Abuse of new psychoactive substances like poppers and kratom has increased in recent years. With these new drugs, it’s hard to know what to think. There is a lack of research, but there are enough studies of kratom that express safety issues and concerns. The negative side of this substance is worth considering. 

Kratom is an herbal extract that comes from a plant, so it’s natural for people to assume this drug cannot cause harm. Many people who use kratom turn to it as a way to help their bodies, but there is not enough evidence to prove it is safe or helpful in treating medical conditions. Let’s take a look at kratom and the potential risks of addiction. 

What is Kratom? 

Kratom comes from a tree found in Southeast Asia. This plant is called Mitragyna speciosa , and the leaves are used for brewing tea, making tablets, a liquid extract, or turning into powder form. Kratom is often sold as a supplement marketed as an energy booster or remedy for several ailments. Kratom can produce stimulant or opioid-like effects, and some use it as a way to help quit opioid use. 

Kratom-based products are legal in many places, but this could always change. Kratom use has increased over the past few years. Many calls are made to poison centers across the United States each year about kratom ingestion. These calls increased from once a month to two a day just a few years ago. While kratom is legal, there are a handful of deaths associated with exposure each year. Death from kratom issues is rare but not impossible. 

Side Effects of Kratom May Include: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Liver damage
• Muscle pain
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• High blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Depression
• Difficulty breathing
• Hallucinations

Is Kratom Addictive?

More studies and research need to be conducted to understand kratom and the effects it brings fully. As with many drugs, it’s likely that the effects of kratom depend on how strong it is, the amount taken, the way it was made, the way it was taken, and the person using the drug. 

Even though the drug isn’t fully understood at this time, the abuse of kratom has only increased with each passing year. The DEA has labeled it as a drug of concern. When the body gets used to kratom, and substance use stops, it’s common for physical and mental withdrawal symptoms to pop up. 

Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms May Include: 

• Restlessness
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Muscle pain
• Stiff joints
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Hot flashes
• Sweating
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Depression

What is Kratom Detox? 

Detox is the process of removing toxins from the body. Detoxing involves stopping the consumption of substances. In some cases, doses should be lowered gradually to minimize symptoms associated with withdrawal. Drugs like kratom can be dangerous to cut out all at once because the body has developed a dependence on them. That’s where kratom detox comes in handy. 

Get Help Today

Detoxing from kratom at home can be challenging and even risky. The best way to stop kratom use when it’s reached a certain point is to do so under medical supervision. Relapse may happen when detoxing at home, so seeking assistance from a supportive team of well-trained professionals can make all the difference. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with kratom addiction, what are you waiting for? Seek treatment today with Q Space Detox. We offer personalized LGBTQ+ drug addiction programs to help you find sobriety, including rehab and detox. Call us at 305-745-7768 to speak with our addiction specialists today. You deserve the compassionate and individualized care we offer. Start your recovery journey now.