Kratom has become a lifesaver for millions of people around the world. Thanks to its unique properties, many individuals have improved their quality of life and are able to manage their conditions and ailments in a natural and effective way. However, even though kratom’s side effects are generally not dangerous, they can still be unpleasant and uncomfortable. In this article, we’ll explore the most common kratom side effects and how to avoid them.
Properties and Effects of Kratom
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is an evergreen tree in the coffee family that grows naturally in Southeast Asia. The leaves of the kratom tree contain more than 20 alkaloids, with the most abundant being mitragynine and 7-OHM. Kratom’s alkaloids act as opioid agonists, which is why kratom can produce a wide range of effects—from analgesic to stimulant, and from anxiolytic to euphoric. Because of this, kratom can be used to:
- Relieve pain
- Fight symptoms of depression
- Manage anxiety and stress
- Combat insomnia
- Improve focus and memory
- Reduce fatigue and low energy
In addition, kratom has antioxidant properties and may even help support the immune system.
Kratom’s benefits are undeniable, and when used properly, it is considered a safe product. That said, some of its side effects can still be uncomfortable.
Kratom Side Effects
In most cases, kratom side effects are caused by taking doses that are too high. However, other factors can also contribute, such as taking kratom on an empty stomach or using certain strains. Everyone reacts differently, so side effects may vary from person to person.
Below, we’ll cover the most common kratom side effects and how to avoid them.
Kratom Side Effects: Constipation
If you use kratom regularly, there’s a chance you may eventually experience constipation. Kratom can slow the normal movement of the intestinal tract, leading to fewer bowel movements, harder stools, and constipation.
To prevent kratom constipation, make sure to drink plenty of water, maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber, and exercise regularly. At the first signs of constipation, adding fiber supplements to your routine can help. For moderate constipation, over-the-counter laxatives may also be effective.
Kratom Side Effects: Nausea
Nausea is one of the most common —and unpleasant— side effects of kratom. High doses or taking kratom on an empty stomach are the most common triggers of kratom nausea. The method of ingestion and the strain used may also play a role. Kratom tea, for example, tends to cause less nausea than methods like capsules or toss n’ wash. As for strains, green kratom varieties (especially Green Malay) are generally better tolerated, while red strains are more likely to cause nausea for some users.
Lowering your dose and avoiding kratom on an empty stomach are the first steps to preventing nausea. Trying different kratom strains can also help you find one that works best for your body. Combining kratom with chamomile may further reduce nausea. At the first signs of discomfort, ginger or an over-the-counter nausea medication can be helpful. If you’re using another ingestion method, switching to kratom tea may be a good option, as it’s gentler on the stomach and allows for full alkaloid extraction.
Kratom Side Effects: Dizziness
Kratom dizziness is relatively common among new users. In most cases, dizziness occurs because the dose is too high. Simply lowering your dose can often eliminate this side effect.
In some instances, dizziness may be related to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or mentally foggy even at low or moderate doses, consuming a spoonful of honey or maple syrup may help.
Kratom Side Effects: Headache and Migraine
Several factors can contribute to kratom-related headaches. A high dosage is one of the most common causes. Certain stimulating strains, especially Maeng Da varieties, may also be more likely to trigger headaches or migraines. Dehydration is another potential factor. To reduce the risk of headaches, stick to lower doses, avoid overly stimulating strains, and make sure to drink plenty of water.
Kratom Side Effects: Eye Wobbles
Eye wobbles —also known as nystagmus— are characterized by involuntary eye movements. Kratom eye wobbles are most often associated with very high doses, so reducing your dosage is the most effective way to prevent this side effect.
In some cases, eye wobbles may also occur if the kratom leaves used are too young. While it’s impossible to determine leaf age as a consumer, if you experience eye wobbles even at low doses, consider trying a different strain or purchasing kratom from another vendor.
Kratom Side Effects: Libido Loss
Libido loss is another potential side effect worth mentioning, even though some users report that kratom actually improves their sex life. That said, many users have noticed a decrease in libido after prolonged kratom use. If this affects you, try lowering your dosage or switching strains. You may also consider natural aphrodisiacs, such as muira puama or chuchuhuasi, to help support sexual health.
Kratom Dosage and Kratom Tolerance
As you can see, maintaining the correct kratom dosage is key to avoiding side effects. However, this isn’t always easy. With regular use, many people notice they need higher doses to achieve the same effects. This happens for two main reasons. First, the receptors that kratom’s alkaloids act on become less sensitive over time, requiring higher doses to respond. Second, the body’s alkaloid metabolism can speed up, meaning your body absorbs smaller amounts of alkaloids, again leading to the need for higher doses.
If you want to keep your dose low, using a potentiator (such as grapefruit or star fruit) can make kratom’s effects stronger and longer-lasting. However, potentiators should be used with caution.
Kratom tolerance is difficult to completely avoid, but you can slow its development by avoiding daily use and rotating different kratom strains. If you’ve already developed tolerance, it may be wise to take a break from kratom. This allows your body time to reset and regain sensitivity to its effects.
