Frequently Asked Questions

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant used for hundreds of years in Asia that can boost energy, reduce anxiety and depression, or act as a natural painkiller. It has gained traction in the U.S. over the past 40+ years. 

Millions of Americans use kratom, mainly for its pain-relieving properties and as a safer alternative to opioids. In fact, surveys suggest that many use kratom to reduce opioid use and manage opioid withdrawal.

High doses of kratom can lead to side effects such as dizziness or nausea; however, most side effects appear to be mild. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), fatal overdoses from kratom use alone appear to be extremely rare. Reports suggest polysubstance use — the use of multiple drugs — involving kratom can lead to more severe adverse effects, such as death and liver problems.

Reports of kratom addiction are low. Research suggests that some regular kratom users experience withdrawal symptoms, but these are short-term, manageable and rarely interfere with family, social and work activities. Plus, many kratom consumers say the plant actually helps them withdraw from dependent use of opioid drugs.