Kratom, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, has garnered attention in recent years for its use as an herbal supplement. Its leaves have been traditionally used for their stimulant and opioid-like effects. While kratom has been touted for its potential benefits in pain relief, mood enhancement, and as an aid for opioid withdrawal, it is not without controversy. One area of concern is its potential impact on cardiovascular health, particularly whether kratom can cause high blood pressure.
Table of Contents
What is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), originating from regions like Thailand, contains several active compounds, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds interact with the body’s opioid receptors, leading to varied effects. Depending on the dosage, kratom leaves can have stimulating effects at lower doses and sedative effects at higher doses, leading some to use it for pain-relieving purposes.
It is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and extracts. However, concerns regarding toxicity, contaminants such as heavy metals and salmonella, and the potential for substance abuse have been raised, prompting scrutiny from agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). There are also concerns about potential interactions with prescription drugs and the possibility of kratom overdose, particularly when used in combination with other substances or in high doses.
Given the interactions with opioid receptors, there are discussions on its potential role in addressing opioid addiction, but further research, including a comprehensive review and systematic review, is needed to understand the full scope of its effects on kratom users and its potential for both therapeutic and harmful outcomes. There are also concerns about arrhythmia related to kratom use, and the potential interactions with enzyme systems in the body.
The risk of opioid use and other substance use disorders is also a concern. It is important to remember that naloxone may not be effective in reversing a kratom overdose.
The Link Between Kratom and Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood. High blood pressure (hypertension) occurs when this force is consistently too high, which can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke.
Stimulant Effects and Blood Pressure
At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, similar to caffeine. It can increase alertness, energy, and physical activity. However, these stimulating effects may also cause a temporary increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Stimulants generally activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), which can elevate blood pressure.
Sedative Effects and Blood Pressure
In contrast, higher doses of kratom can have sedative and opioid-like effects. While opioids typically cause a drop in blood pressure due to their depressant effects on the central nervous system, kratom’s complex pharmacology can make its cardiovascular impacts less predictable. Some users report experiencing elevated blood pressure even at higher doses, possibly due to individual variations in response to the different alkaloids in kratom.
What are the common effects of Kratom?
Kratom’s effects vary based on dose, strain, and individual sensitivity, but here are the most common ones:
Low doses (1–5g) – typically stimulating:
- Increased energy
- Improved focus
- Enhanced sociability or talkativeness
- Mild euphoria
- Reduced fatigue
Moderate to high doses (5–15g) – typically sedating/analgesic:
- Pain relief
- Relaxation
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Calmness or reduced anxiety
- Euphoria (more pronounced at higher doses)
- Cough suppression
Side effects (especially with frequent/high use):
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Itchiness
- Dry mouth
- Dependency or withdrawal symptoms
- Anxiety or irritability (with long-term use or comedown)
Absolutely — kratom can cause withdrawal, especially with regular or high-dose use. While it’s often promoted as a “natural” alternative, its active compounds (like mitragynine) interact with opioid receptors, and long-term use can lead to physical dependence.
Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms
Often described as milder than full opioid withdrawal, but still very uncomfortable:
- Anxiety / irritability
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches / body pains
- Restless legs
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Runny nose / watery eyes
- Fatigue or low mood
- Cravings
Onset: ~12–24 hours after last dose
Duration: Usually 3–7 days, sometimes longer depending on use pattern
Research and Evidence
Scientific research on kratom’s long-term effects on blood pressure is limited. Most available data come from anecdotal reports, case studies, and small-scale observational studies. Some users report experiencing episodes of high blood pressure after using kratom, especially at higher doses or with prolonged use. However, these findings are not yet well-established in the scientific community.
A 2019 study published in the journal Clinical Toxicology reviewed adverse effects associated with kratom use and found that cardiovascular issues, including increased heart rate and hypertension, were among the reported side effects. Another study published in the “Journal of Psychoactive Drugs” in 2020 highlighted the need for more research to understand the cardiovascular impacts of kratom, particularly given its increasing popularity.
Potential Risk Factors
Several factors may influence the likelihood of kratom causing high blood pressure:
- Dosage: Higher doses may increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular effects.
- Individual Differences: Genetic factors, existing health conditions, and concurrent use of other substances can affect how kratom impacts blood pressure.
- Frequency of Use: Regular or chronic use might lead to more pronounced effects on blood pressure.
Recommendations for Users
If you use kratom and are concerned about its impact on your blood pressure, consider the following steps:
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Regularly check your blood pressure to detect any changes.
- Use in Moderation: Avoid high doses and frequent use of kratom.
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Discuss your kratom use with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or other cardiovascular conditions.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with new research and evidence on kratom’s health effects.
Conclusion
While anecdotal evidence and limited studies suggest that kratom can potentially cause high blood pressure, particularly at higher doses, more research is needed to fully understand this relationship.
Users should exercise caution, monitor their blood pressure, and consult with healthcare providers to mitigate potential risks. It’s also important to acknowledge that for some, problematic kratom use can lead to dependency, requiring exploration of addiction treatment options.
Furthermore, the impact of kratom use on mental health should not be overlooked, as pre-existing conditions or new issues may arise. In severe cases, especially where dependency has developed and significant health risks exist, inpatient treatment may be necessary. As with any substance, being informed and cautious is key to ensuring safe use.
Published on: 2024-08-08
Updated on: 2025-03-21
