Kratom: The “Natural” Supplement That Isn’t as Safe as Some Might Think
Psychiatrists and hospital emergency rooms have seen a pretty significant uptick in acute psychosis episodes that are linked to the use of a product generally referred to as kratom. While kratom is often marketed as a “natural” supplement for pain relief or mood enhancement, case reports and literature reviews have documented incidents of hallucinations, paranoia, delusional thinking, and other psychotic symptoms in users—especially when used in high doses or alongside other substances. These reports suggest that kratom can either trigger or exacerbate psychosis, particularly in individuals with preexisting mental-health vulnerabilities.
This dangerous product isn’t being sold in the dark shadows of our streets. Instead, it is being openly sold and marketed to us, and our children, very much in the same manner as candy; often near the checkout line in gas stations, smoke shops, convenience stores, and other shops, as well as online. Often they are even designed to look like enticing treats such as candies, gummies, and even ice cream. Unfortunately, Kratom and kratom-based products are currently legal and accessible in many areas, thoughout the U.S. “Kratom” commonly refers to an herbal substance that can produce opioid- and stimulant-like effects. You’ve probably seen it before — little green bags at gas stations, herbal powders sold online, or teas advertised as “plant-based energy.” It’s often marketed as a harmless, natural alternative for pain, stress, or fatigue. Behind the “all-natural” label hides a substance that acts on the brain much like opioids — and can bring real health risks that most people never hear about. The truth is that Kratom isn’t nearly as “innocent” or harmless as some would have you believe. In fact, it is extremely dangerous. The FDA even describes it as, “The Next Wave of the Opioid Epidemic”
Chart taken from the FDA’s “Preventing The Next Wave of the Opioid Epidemic: What You Need to Know About 7-OH”
So, What Exactly Is Kratom?
Kratom comes from the leaves of a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. For centuries, people there have used it for its stimulant and pain-relieving effects. In small doses, it can feel energizing; in larger ones, it can feel sedating or even euphoric.
7-OH (formally known as7-Hydroxymitragynine) is a powerful psychoactive compound that occurs naturally in very small amounts in the Kratom plant. 7-OH products are concentrated derivatives often falsely marketed as being natural Kratom. They are not the same. 7-OH presents significant risks
Those mood-changing effects come from two main compounds: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Both interact with the same receptors in the brain that opioids do — which means they can trigger dependence, withdrawal, and dangerous side effects.
And because kratom isn’t regulated, no one really knows what’s inside each batch. Some products are mild. Others are concentrated extracts or contaminated with heavy metals, bacteria, or synthetic drugs.
Why People Try It — and Why It’s a Problem
People often turn to kratom hoping for natural pain relief, an energy boost, or help managing anxiety or opioid withdrawal. Unfortunately, the effects are unpredictable. One dose may make someone alert and talkative; another may leave them dizzy, nauseated, or half-asleep.
Regular use can cause:
Nausea and vomiting
Sweating, dry mouth, and constipation
Heart palpitations or restlessness
Liver damage or seizures in high doses
Hallucinations or confusion
psychisis
And yes — addiction.
Kratom can create tolerance and dependence just like other drugs that act on opioid receptors. People find themselves needing more to feel the same effects, and when they try to stop, they may experience withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, muscle aches, irritability, or insomnia.
A small number of deaths (relative to death from other drugs) have been linked with Kratom products. Nearly all deaths from kratom also involved other drugs or substances that might have been harmful and contributed to the deaths.
Can Kratom Use Be Detected?
No, standard drug tests usually do not detect kratom. Its compounds don’t show up on most routine screens.
That means someone could be struggling with kratom dependence even when a typical drug test says “all clear.” Specialized lab tests can detect mitragynine or 7-hydroxymitragynine, but they’re not commonly ordered unless a doctor knows what to look for.
Clinically, kratom use may be suspected when a person shows a confusing mix of stimulant and sedative symptoms — or when their mood, sleep, or energy levels fluctuate wildly without another clear cause.
What can you do to protect yourself and your family?
Obviously avoid buying any products being marketed as Kratom or 7-OH.
When buying candy or other treats for you or your family, examine the packaging and label so you don’t accidentally buy a treat containing Kratom.
Talk with your kids about the dangers of treats not always being what they seem to be.
Talk to your health care professional if you or a loved one needs help with opioid addiction, anxiety, mood disorders, pain, or other ailments.
If you believe someone is experiencing an adverse event from Kratom, contact the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222)or visit www.poisonhelp.org for help. If someone is unresponsive, dial 911 immediately!
The Takeaway
Kratom’s biggest danger isn’t just its chemistry — it’s the illusion of safety. Because it’s legal in many places and sold next to protein powder or herbal tea, it’s easy to assume it’s harmless. But like many “natural” substances, kratom can absolutely be harmful, especially when used often or alongside other drugs.
If you or someone you love is using kratom to cope with pain, stress, or withdrawal, there are safer and more effective options. Talking with a licensed mental health or medical professional can help you understand what’s really going on — and find support that doesn’t come with such risky side effects.
You Don’t Have to Manage This Alone
If you’re feeling stuck in a cycle of dependence or using substances to cope, reaching out for help is the first step. My practice helps people untangle the emotional and physical side of substance use — with compassion, not judgment.
Reach out today to schedule a confidential appointment and take the first step toward clarity and control.