The Truth About Kratom: Why It’s Not as Harmless as It Seems.

In recent years, kratom has gained attention in the U.S. as a “natural” way to boost energy, relieve pain, or manage stress. Its easy availability and marketing as a safe alternative make it appealing, but the reality is far darker than that.

Kratom carries serious health risks and can be habit-forming, leading to dependence and withdrawal as well as harmful mental and physical side effects.

With its growing popularity in Alabama and across the U.S., it’s more important than ever to know the truth about this widely misunderstood (and underestimated!) plant.

What is Kratom?

Kratom is a plant that grows naturally in Southeast Asia, especially in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Its leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The leaves are often chewed or brewed into tea and then consumed for their stimulating or pain-relieving effects.[1]

In the United States, kratom is usually sold as a powder, capsule, or liquid extract. Many people turn to it because they believe it can boost energy, improve mood, or help with pain. Some even use it as a substitute for opioids, thinking it’s a “natural” alternative.

Kratom’s legality varies state by state. Some states have regulated the substance, requiring people to be 18 or 21 to buy kratom, while others have banned it completely. Alabama designated kratom a Schedule I Controlled Substance in 16. As of September 2025, Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin have prohibited the sale and possession of kratom. Other states are currently looking into prohibiting and/or restricting the sale of kratom, too.[2]

While kratom is legal in many states, it is not approved by the FDA for medical use. This means it hasn’t gone through the same testing and safety checks as prescription medications. As a result, kratom products can vary widely in strength and may contain harmful contaminants.

Side Effects of Kratom

In small doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, causing increased energy and improved mood, but in higher doses, it acts as a depressant, producing euphoric and pain-relieving effects.

In smaller quantities, side effects include:

Increased energy
Boosted mood
Improved focus
Talkativeness and sociability
Jitters or restlessness
Anxiety or irritability
Sweating
Loss of appetite
Insomnia
Nausea or stomach upset

Larger doses of kratom produce opioid-like side effects, such as:

Temporary pain relief
Sedation or relaxation
Feelings of euphoria
Reduced anxiety (short-term)
Severe nausea and vomiting
Constipation
Itching and sweating
Drowsiness or dizziness
Confusion or poor coordination
Slowed breathing (dangerous in high amounts)
Hallucinations or delusions (rare)
Risk of dependence and withdrawal

The Rise of Kratom Use in the U.S. Explained

Kratom use has grown steadily in the United States over the past decade. In 2021, an estimated 1.7 million Americans used Kratom, but in 2024, Harvard Health estimates that these numbers may be as high as 15 million.[3]

Many people turn to kratom as a “natural” alternative to prescription pain medications or to manage stress and anxiety. Its availability online and in specialty stores has made it easy to access, and marketing often encourages people to focus on its supposed benefits while downplaying the potential risks.

While some see kratom as a harmless supplement, health experts warn that its unregulated nature, inconsistent potency, and potential for dependence make it a serious public health concern.

Is Kratom Habit-Forming?

Yes, kratom can be mentally and physically habit-forming. While some people may use it occasionally without problems, repeated use, especially at higher doses, can lead to dependence. This means the body starts relying on the substance to function normally, leading to intense cravings as well as withdrawal symptoms.

Kratom withdrawal can look a lot like opioid withdrawal, resulting in flu-like symptoms if someone suddenly stops using the substance. Symptoms of kratom withdrawal include:

Anxiety and irritability
Depression
Mood swings
Fatigue or low energy
Muscle aches and joint pain
Insomnia
Sleep disturbances
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Runny nose
Watery eyes
Cravings for kratom
Difficulty concentrating
Loss of appetite

The risk of dependence is higher for people who use kratom daily, take large doses, or combine it with other substances such as alcohol or prescription medications.

Breaking Down the Risks of Kratom Use

Kratom is often marketed as a “natural” or “safe” alternative to painkillers or stimulants, but its use comes with serious risks. Understanding these risks is essential for anyone who is considering it.

Physical Health Risks

In higher doses, kratom can slow breathing, cause extreme drowsiness, or lead to other life-threatening complications. Long-term use may also increase the risk of liver damage and other chronic health issues.

Mental Health Risks

People who use kratom may experience anxiety, depression, mood swings, or irritability. In some cases, high doses or prolonged use can even trigger hallucinations, confusion, or disorientation. These effects can make daily life difficult and may worsen underlying mental health conditions.

Drug Interactions

Kratom can be especially dangerous when combined with alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. It is particularly dangerous when combined with other central nervous system depressants, like alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines. These interactions can amplify negative effects and increase the risk of overdose.

Overdose Risk

Although rare, a kratom overdose is possible. From 2016-2017, the CDC reported that 91 lives were lost as a result of an overdose involving kratom. In 84 of these 19 cases, other substances were also at play.[4] Additionally, toxicology reports have linked kratom to other serious medical outcomes, such as hallucinations, delusions, and more.

Symptoms of a kratom overdose may include:[5]

Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Nausea
Agitation
Irritability
Drowsiness
Seizures
Coma

Always call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is overdosing on kratom or any other substance.

What to Do if Someone You Love is Using Kratom

If someone you care about is using kratom, approaching the situation with understanding is key. Start with an open-minded conversation:

Talk openly and calmly: Ask why they are using kratom and listen without judgment.
Share credible information: Explain the health risks, potential for dependence, and unpredictable nature of kratom.
Discuss warning signs: Highlight any changes in mood, secrecy, fatigue, or difficulty managing responsibilities that you’ve noticed. Express why you’re concerned and how you feel.
Encourage professional help: Medical professionals or counselors can guide people who are using kratom to promote safe use, reduction in use, or safe detox and withdrawal.

Early intervention can help your loved one make safer choices and reduce the risk of serious health issues.

Find Help and Resources Near You

If you or a loved one wants to quit using kratom but is struggling to do so, it may be time to seek professional support. Recovery is possible for everyone, and there’s no shame in asking for help.

At the Addiction Prevention Coalition, we offer resources to connect you with the care you need. Visit https://apcbham.org/findhelp/ to find help today!

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