Kratom is popular with many wellness enthusiasts. Whether you want to feel brighter or more grounded, kratom provides a pleasant boost. And the best part? It’s 100% natural. However, this leads many people to wonder about combining kratom with other herbal supplements.
At Joe’s Botanicals, we often get questions about supplements to take with kratom. Is it safe? If so, do other supplements impact the effectiveness and benefits of kratom? In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of taking kratom and other natural supplements. Whether you’re an experienced kratom enthusiast or a brand new user, this blog will provide valuable information about what you need to know concerning supplements to take with kratom.
Kratom Alkaloids: The Active Ingredient
First, understanding how kratom works alongside other herbal supplements requires a little bit of chemistry and biology knowledge. (Don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz after!)
As you’ve probably heard, kratom works because it’s rich in natural, bioactive compounds called alkaloids. When kratom is consumed, our bodies metabolize these alkaloids, which stimulate the opioid receptors in the brain. Depending on which strain of kratom you’re consuming, you’ll likely feel uplifted or more grounded (or a combination) as the alkaloids take effect.
However, certain factors can impact the effectiveness of kratom. These factors include:
The method of consumption: In Southeast Asia, where kratom originates, some people simply chew raw kratom leaves. However, in the United States, you’re more likely to encounter kratom as powder, capsules, tinctures, or extracts.
Some types of kratom may be more potent than others. The efficacy may also change based on your personal metabolism. For example, some people may be more sensitive to kratom extracts than kratom powder.
The dose of kratom: As with many natural substances, the amount you consume will dictate how strongly you feel its effects. When taking kratom — especially if you’re a new consumer who hasn’t tried it before — it’s important to always start with the smallest possible dose. Take time to experience how your body feels on kratom, then gradually increase the dosage over time.
Combining with other ingredients: This brings us back to our original question regarding supplements to take with kratom. Certain herbal supplements can enhance the effects of kratom.
They may cause your body to metabolize the kratom faster, which means you’ll feel the effects sooner and may also extend the amount of time you’ll feel them. Some herbal supplements may also intensify the effects of kratom. These substances are called “potentiators.”
Kratom Potentiators
In simple terms, a potentiator is any substance that enhances the effects of another substance. Potentiators can be artificial substances, like drugs or alcohol, or natural substances, like electrolytes, herbs, or even some types of fruit and fruit juice. For example, grapefruit is known to be a potentiator for certain medications.
When you’re considering supplements to take with kratom, it’s important to do some research and determine whether they are kratom potentiators or not. If they are, you may wish to take smaller doses of kratom until you know how the potentiator affects you. Some common kratom potentiators include:
- Turmeric
- Citrus juices (especially grapefruit)
- Apple cider vinegar
- Black pepper (also known as piperine)
- Chamomile
- Caffeine
- And more!
Best Supplements to Take with Kratom
Keep in mind that many supplements still pair well with kratom, even if they’re not true potentiators that enhance kratom’s effects. Adding herbal supplements to your kratom routine can help boost your wellness in a variety of ways. Here are some of our favorite herbal supplements to enjoy alongside kratom:
Watercress
When you hear “watercress,” you may think of tea sandwiches — but this variety of lettuce offers tremendous nutritional benefits. Watercress supplements provide an excellent source of iron and Vitamin C. They also may help boost digestion, support the immune system, and increase nutrient absorption. Taking watercress alongside kratom may help your body metabolize the kratom more efficiently.
Curcumin
Does curcumin sound familiar? You may know this powerful polyphenol compound as the active ingredient in turmeric. Not only does curcumin give turmeric its appealing gold-orange color, it acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent and an antioxidant.
Curcumin is a great supplement to pair with kratom because these qualities complement kratom’s own natural benefits. Turmeric is also known to be a kratom potentiator.
However, if you’re looking for turmeric or curcumin supplements to add to your kratom, make sure you choose a variety that includes black pepper (or add black pepper separately). Although curcumin is a very potent ingredient, our bodies have trouble absorbing it without the piperine found in black pepper.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a plant that’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and other folk healing traditions. It belongs to a class of herbs and other natural substances known as adaptogens, which contain chemical compounds that help our bodies handle stress. Adaptogens are also being studied for their ability to support the immune system, restore hormone balance, and promote cardiovascular health.
When taken with kratom, adaptogens like ashwagandha may help you release tension or unwind after a long day. Many people enjoy pairing ashwagandha with red vein kratom.
Ginger
Ginger root is closely related to turmeric, so it shares many of the same anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin. Additionally, ginger promotes better digestion and is known by many users to treat stomach issues.
Occasionally, new kratom users may experience nausea or upset stomach as a side effect — especially if you’re taking kratom without food. If this happens to you, consider adding a ginger supplement or drinking some ginger tea or ginger juice as you enjoy your kratom.
Safety Considerations
If you’re combining kratom with herbal supplements, it’s important to be mindful of certain safety considerations.
First, as with anything health-related, always talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before taking a new supplement — especially if you have any existing health conditions or if you are pregnant or nursing. If you take prescription medications, verify that there are no drug interactions with the supplement you’re considering.
Second, don’t mix herbal supplements and kratom with alcohol or other recreational drugs.
Finally, always make sure you acquire your kratom from a trusted, verified source. At Joe’s Botanicals, all our kratom is 100% pure, with no preservatives or fillers, and tested by an independent lab to guarantee quality, purity, and freshness. Shop now!
