For centuries, people in Southeast Asia have used kratom in traditional remedies. It’s been gaining much more attention in the United States over the last decade or so. But because kratom is relatively new to the U.S.–despite its long history in Eastern culture–there are a lot of misconceptions about this natural plant product.
Below, the folks at Joe’s Botanicals have compiled data on some of the myths surrounding kratom health and wellness. We aim to debunk these kratom health myths and give you real information so that you can make up your own mind.
We hope you’ll do your own research and come to your own conclusions about kratom and kratom suppliers you can trust. As with any health or medical issue, it’s also important to consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Kratom Health Myth: Weight Gain
If there’s any connection between kratom and body weight, users report that it’s more likely that kratom may cause weight loss rather than weight gain.
For example, scientists looked at kratom’s potential connection to metabolic syndrome (MetS)–a group of risk factors for conditions like heart disease and diabetes. One of the primary risk factors for MetS is obesity. Researchers found that kratom may actually help prevent MetS, specifically by causing weight loss (and potentially affecting body fat levels).
Furthermore, animal testing suggests that kratom may inhibit the part of the brain responsible for cravings and appetite, which might help explain the reported weight loss.
It’s important to note that individual reactions to kratom and other substances can vary. Different factors like dosage, body composition, experience with kratom, and even whether kratom is taken on an empty stomach can impact how kratom affects people.
Also, there’s still a limited amount of human trials and clinical studies about kratom. This contributes to the proliferation of kratom health myths. Always consult with your trusted healthcare professionals before taking any substance meant to help with weight loss or to treat any condition.
Kratom Health Myth: Liver Injury
Some folks have expressed concerns about how kratom might affect the liver. As with other medical subjects pertaining to kratom, research on this topic is still limited.
Some users may have experienced elevated liver enzymes and other liver-related issues after using kratom, especially at higher doses or with frequent use. However, the exact mechanisms and prevalence of liver injury linked to kratom are not fully understood, and such cases are rare.
If you’re considering using kratom or are already using it and have concerns about liver health, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and monitoring. Regular check-ups can help ensure that your liver function remains healthy.
If you experience symptoms like fatigue, nausea, pruritus (unusual itchiness), dark urine, or jaundice, see a doctor immediately.
Kratom Health Myth: Hair Loss
Another kratom health myth comes from some internet commenters blaming kratom for losing their hair. The reality is that there is no definitive scientific evidence linking kratom to hair loss. There have been anecdotal reports, but there’s no substantial proof that kratom is the culprit.
Even among people who claim kratom causes hair thinning or shedding, many reported the effects only when using low-quality products from untrustworthy vendors. These same users reported no problem when taking high-quality kratom from reputable suppliers. Low-quality kratom might be contaminated with toxins that can affect hair follicles and have other adverse side effects.
Hair loss can have any number of causes, including nutritional deficiencies, aging, hormonal changes, stress and anxiety, and other individual elements. If you’re concerned about your hair thinning, talk to your doctor for personalized advice. And always make sure you’re getting your kratom from a trustworthy provider.
Reality: Joe’s Botanicals Kratom is 100% Pure, Fresh, and Lab Certified
Don’t let these kratom health myths bog you down. Do your research, consult with your healthcare professionals, and make up your own mind. Most importantly: Get your kratom from a vendor you can trust.
If you’re looking for lab-tested, premium-quality kratom without any unsavory additives, look no further than Joe’s Botanicals. Our kratom products are always natural, always fresh, and always ethical. Check out our online store for all your favorite strains of kratom powders and capsules.
