Kratom Withdrawal
KRATOM WITHDRAWAL
**Disclaimer**
Kratom is not approved or regulated by the FDA. This article contains data about kratom for informational purposes only. None of the information contained herein should be considered medical advice. Kratom is not intended for use in diagnosing a disease, or for treating, curing, or preventing diseases or other health conditions. Anyone considering the use of kratom should speak with their physician to answer any questions before doing so.
Table of Contents
Kratom withdrawal is possible for people who consume large amounts of the product on a regular basis and have become dependent on kratom.
Why Do People Use Kratom?
People use kratom for a variety of reasons, but primarily due to the wide range of benefits that come with kratom consumption. The kratom effects include benefits such as relaxation, enhanced productivity, and improved focus. Kratom dosage plays a significant role in its effects on the body. Although there are many benefits that arise from kratom consumption, there is always the possibility of withdrawal symptoms. Kratom is not fatally addictive, but similar to natural stimulants such as chocolate or caffeine, there is always a small risk of becoming dependent.1
History of Kratom
Kratom has been consumed by humans seeking the plant’s benefits for hundreds of years. The plant is indigenous to Southeast Asia and has been documented as being used as an herbal remedy for relaxation and energy enhancement. The plant was given the official name mitragyna speciosa in 1859 by a British surgeon named George Darby Haviland. Throughout history, people have consumed liquid kratom or its powdered form to achieve its many benefits.
Ways to Use Kratom
There are several different ways to use or consume kratom. Here are the three most common ways to use kratom to receive the desired kratom effects:
Kratom Tea
Kratom powder or leaves can be steeped in boiling water to create a liquid kratom that is easy to consume. This is the fastest and easiest way to consume kratom. Making kratom tea is also the most sanitary method for consumption, as boiling water eliminates any presence of bacteria.
Kratom Powder
Someone can choose to consume kratom powder on its own. This method involves putting a spoonful of kratom powder into one’s mouth, then washing it down with water or another liquid. It is another quick method for consumption, but some may find this method unpleasant due to the taste.
Kratom Capsules
Kratom capsules are a great way to consume kratom for those who have an aversion to the distinct, earthy taste of the herb. This method can be tedious if filling the capsules by hand, but it is an excellent way for people who do not enjoy the earthy taste of the product to still use kratom.
The Benefits of Kratom Use
Several benefits come with kratom use. People have been consuming the herb for hundreds of years in pursuit of the kratom effects and benefits.
Relaxation
Relaxation is one of the main benefits of kratom consumption. Kratom is a natural analgesic that can reduce tension in the body and relieve physical discomfort. Large doses are typically needed to achieve the relaxation effect.
Increased Focus
Those who use kratom may experience improved focus and enhanced productivity with low dosage. The stimulating properties of kratom are more prominent in certain strains, such as white vein kratom. These properties can bring about feelings of motivation and concentration.
Energy
Another benefit of kratom consumption is increased energy. This kratom effect typically takes place when consuming less than five grams of the product. Kratom strains such as a white vein or green vein are effective for people seeking an energy boost.
Improved Mood
Kratom can also be used as a mood-enhancer. People can consume kratom to add a pep to their step or make their day more pleasant. Consuming kratom can lead to feelings of euphoria and well-being. All strains of kratom can provide mood enhancement and euphoric experiences.
Is Kratom Addictive?
Kratom is not a fatally addictive substance, and it does not have abuse potential when taking the physical effects into account.2 However, there is a small risk of dependence and withdrawal that can come with the regular consumption of kratom. Because there are pleasurable benefits that come with consuming kratom, there is a risk of an individual becoming physically dependent and experiencing withdrawals when kratom consumption is ceased.3
If you believe that you or a loved one are suffering from a kratom addiction, seek help. There are resources available to overcome kratom addiction.
Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
The Issue with Kratom Legalization
Kratom struggles with legalization due to its relaxing and discomfort relieving properties that are like the effects of opioids. The FDA has not approved kratom for consumption and has made inaccurate claims that kratom can result in overdose. The overdoses cited by the FDA involved other substances, so kratom could not be proven to be the sole cause of the overdose cases.
Why Kratom Dependency Forms
Kratom dependency forms because frequent use can cause one to gain a tolerance to the effects over time and may require higher doses. When consumed frequently, there is a risk of the individual becoming dependent on kratom.
Since kratom does not cause addiction on the same levels as opioids and other fatally addictive substances, it has been compared to the addiction a person would have when becoming dependent on caffeine or chocolate. The improved focus is very similar to the effects of caffeine. When ceasing kratom consumption, some people may experience withdrawal symptoms while others will not. The experience of withdrawal symptoms will depend on each individual and their past consumption patterns.
Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
People who use kratom and have become dependent on kratom effects may experience withdrawal symptoms when they cease consumption. Several distinct symptoms can be used to identify kratom withdrawal:
- Runny Nose: Kratom-dependent individuals may experience a runny nose or excess mucus production after ceasing kratom consumption.
- Muscle Aches: Ceasing kratom consumption can cause muscle aches in people who have formed a dependence on powdered or liquid kratom.
- Joint Pains: Joint pains are another common withdrawal symptom for those who are dependent on kratom. These pains can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Mood Swings: Those who are dependent on kratom consumption may experience mood swings or irregular behavior patterns after stopping their regular consumption.
How Long Do Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
Withdrawal symptoms can begin as soon as six to twelve hours after the last dose wears off. Typically, these symptoms peak after two to three days and can last up to two weeks.
Kratom for Detoxing
Kratom is frequently used for detoxing purposes for people who want to overcome other addictions to harmful substances because the kratom effects can be comforting and stimulating in nonaddictive ways.
People use kratom to overcome other addictions because of kratom’s ability to relieve discomfort and provide feelings of well-being. Kratom’s nonaddictive properties and stimulating effects make it ideal for people wanting to overcome addictions.
