Kratom for Anxiety and Depression: Does It Help?
Kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa seed and tree, is gaining attention as a potential remedy for anxiety disorder and substance abuse. This tropical tree, native to Southeast Asia, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. With its increasing popularity in Western countries, many individuals are exploring kratom as an alternative treatment for depression, addiction, mood disorders, and other conditions. However, the scientific community remains divided on its efficacy and safety. Read on to learn more about kratom’s safety and if it’s a good choice for anxiety and depression treatment or if kratom makes depression worse.
Understanding Kratom
It’s easy to think the kratom plant is a safe and benign “natural” product, as it’s sold at many gas stations, CBD shops, and convenience stores. However, it’s essential to understand all the nuances of kratom before ingesting it, as there are many risks.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a psychoactive herb that has been used for various medicinal purposes in Southeast Asia. Traditionally, its leaves were chewed or brewed into tea to manage pain and enhance energy. The use of kratom for anxiety and depression symptoms was also common. The active compounds in kratom, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects that can range from stimulation to sedation, depending on the dosage.
Historical Context
Historically, kratom has been employed in Southeast Asia as a natural remedy. The use of kratom for alcohol withdrawal and addiction recovery has been common. Laborers would consume it to combat fatigue and enhance productivity, while others used it to manage pain and opioid withdrawal symptoms. With the rise of the internet, kratom's reach has expanded, making it accessible to a broader audience in North America and Europe.
Forms of Consumption
Not only is kratom consumed in many different ways, but there are various strains of the leaf as well. You might hear kratom described as Red Bali kratom, White Borneo kratom, Maeng Da, and many other names. It is all the same thing. 7-hydroxy mitragynine tablets are also kratom.
Kratom can be consumed in various forms, including
Leaf (uncommon)
Powder
Capsules (pre-measured powder)
Tea (brewed from dried leaves)
Extracts (high potency)
Each method of consumption may influence the effects experienced by users.
The Science Behind Kratom
Kratom has been used for years in Southeast Asia, but what is the science behind this ambiguous leaf?
What Is Kratom’s Mechanism of Action?
Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are the primary alkaloids responsible for kratom's effects. They interact with multiple receptors in the brain, including:
Mu-opioid receptors: Similar to traditional opioids, these receptors mediate pain relief and euphoria
Serotonin receptors: Potentially influencing mood and anxiety levels
Adrenergic receptors: Affecting energy levels and alertness
This multi-faceted interaction suggests that kratom may have both stimulating and sedative properties, depending on the dosage.
Research on Efficacy
While anecdotal evidence supports kratom's use as a supplement for depression and anxiety, scientific research is still in its infancy. Some studies indicate that those using kratom report improvements in mood and reductions in anxiety symptoms. A systematic review highlighted that while some users experienced enhanced mood and relief from anxiety, the overall body of evidence remains limited and requires further investigation.
The Benefits of Kratom for Anxiety and Depression
Many individuals have chosen to self-medicate anxiety and depressive disorders with kratom. While it can provide some short-term benefits as a medication for depression or anxiety, in the long run, kratom poses serious risks.
Mood Enhancement
Many users claim that kratom helps elevate their mood, providing a sense of wellbeing. This effect may be attributed to its action on serotonin receptors, crucial in regulating mood. Some individuals report feeling more sociable and less anxious after consuming kratom.
Pain Relief
For those whose anxiety or depression is compounded by chronic pain, kratom as a pain alternative has been discussed. Its analgesic properties can help alleviate physical discomfort. Reducing pain may allow individuals to engage more fully in daily activities, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Opioid Withdrawal Support
Kratom in addiction recovery has been explored as a potential aid for individuals struggling with opioid addiction. Its ability to interact with opioid receptors may mitigate withdrawal symptoms, providing a more manageable transition for those seeking to reduce or eliminate opioid use. This aspect could indirectly support mental health by addressing the underlying issues of substance dependence.
Some users have also reported improvements when using kratom for ADHD and efficacy with kratom and bipolar disorder. However, remember, this is all anecdotal evidence.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Kratom?
While some have reported good outcomes after kratom use, the reality is the bad aspects of kratom highly outweigh the good. Because kratom works on the opioid receptors, it naturally acts like a mild opiate in the brain. Because of its mechanism of action, it has the propensity to be a highly addictive substance. Instead of treating addiction, depression and addiction can be caused by kratom use.
Potential for Dependency
Despite its benefits, kratom is not without risks. There is a growing concern regarding its potential for dependency and addiction. Regular use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. Withdrawal symptoms, including the following, can occur when discontinuing use and are similar to opiate withdrawal:
Nausea
Muscle pain
Mood swings
Restlessness
Restless legs
Insomnia
Muscle spasms
Adverse Effects
Even if a person reads about kratom and follows a kratom dose guide, using the leaf can still cause problems. In addition to the adverse side effects listed below, kratom can cause physical dependence—the kratom withdrawal timeline is long and arduous. Common side effects associated with kratom consumption include
● Nausea and vomiting
● Dry mouth
● Constipation
● Dizziness
● Increased urination
In some cases, high doses may lead to more severe complications, such as respiratory depression and seizures. This underscores the importance of cautious use, particularly for individuals with preexisting health conditions. Others may experience kratom hangover symptoms, which are similar to an alcoholic hangover.
Lack of Regulation
Kratom is classified as a dietary supplement in the United States, which means it is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This lack of oversight raises concerns about product quality and consistency. Consumers may unknowingly purchase kratom products contaminated with harmful substances or lacking the advertised potency.
Proven Treatments for Anxiety and Depression
Many other avenues other than kratom use can help a person manage depression or anxiety symptoms. Some of these helpful therapies and tools are listed below.
Traditional Therapies
Individuals struggling with anxiety and depression have a range of treatment options available, including
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): A structured approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns.
Medication: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can provide relief for many people.
Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are crucial to mental health.
Self-Care Strategies
In addition to professional treatment, self-care practices can significantly impact mental health. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, journaling, and spending time in nature can help individuals manage symptoms of anxiety and depression without the risks associated with kratom. Kratom support groups are also an excellent way to connect with those who have had adverse kratom experiences or to share your own
Anecdotal Evidence & Kratom
Many individuals share personal stories of how kratom has positively impacted their mental health. While these accounts can provide insight into potential benefits, they should be approached cautiously. Personal experiences vary widely, and what works for one person may not be effective for another. Not everyone will indeed become addicted to kratom, but the risks for physical and psychological dependence are real and should be taken very seriously.
Community Support
Online forums and support groups have emerged for kratom users, creating a sense of community among those seeking relief from anxiety and depression. These platforms allow individuals to share their experiences, discuss dosages, and provide support to one another. However, it is essential to verify information and consult healthcare professionals when considering kratom use.
Overall, the risks of using kratom far outweigh the potential benefits, and it’s best to consult a doctor if you’re exhibiting signs of depression or anxiety, as they are skilled in providing you with the proper treatment to get you back on the road to recovery.