Kratom Tea: Benefits, Safety Concerns, and What You Need to Know

Kratom tea has emerged as a topic of significant interest and debate in recent years. Made from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, this traditional Southeast Asian beverage has attracted attention for its purported ability to relieve pain, boost energy, and improve mood.

Despite its growing popularity, kratom tea remains controversial. While proponents praise its natural properties, health authorities have raised serious concerns about its safety and potential for abuse. Understanding both sides of this debate is crucial for anyone considering kratom tea.

This comprehensive guide explores what kratom tea is, how it works, its potential effects, and the important safety considerations you should know before trying it.

Understanding Kratom Tea: Origins and Traditional Uses

Kratom tea comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, a tropical evergreen plant that belongs to the coffee family (Rubiaceae). The tree is indigenous to several Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea.

For centuries, people in these regions have used kratom leaves in various ways. Workers in agricultural fields traditionally chewed fresh kratom leaves or brewed them into tea to combat fatigue, increase endurance, and maintain energy levels during long workdays in hot climates.

Kratom goes by many regional names, including:

• Ketum or Biak in Malaysia
• Thang or Krathom in Thailand
• Maeng Da (a popular strain name)
• Kakuam

In traditional medicine practices, kratom leaves were employed as herbal remedies for various ailments, including digestive issues, fever, wounds, and as a substitute for more potent substances. The leaves could be chewed fresh, dried and crushed into powder, brewed into tea, or even smoked.

How Kratom Tea is Prepared

Traditional kratom tea preparation involves steeping fresh or dried kratom leaves in hot water, similar to making regular tea. The leaves are typically simmered for 15-30 minutes to extract the active compounds.

Modern preparation methods include:

• Powder form: Ground kratom leaves are mixed with hot water and strained
• Tea bags: Pre-packaged kratom tea bags for convenient brewing
• Crushed leaves: Dried whole or crushed leaves steeped in hot water
• Extract-enhanced: Regular kratom tea with added concentrated extracts

The resulting beverage typically has a bitter, earthy taste that some users mask with honey, lemon, or other flavorings.

Active Compounds: How Kratom Tea Works

Kratom leaves contain over 40 naturally occurring alkaloid compounds, but two primary alkaloids are responsible for most of kratom tea’s effects:

Mitragynine: The most abundant alkaloid in kratom, accounting for up to 66% of the total alkaloid content in some varieties. This compound interacts with opioid receptors in the brain but in a different way than traditional opioids.

7-Hydroxymitragynine: Present in smaller amounts but more potent than mitragynine. This alkaloid also affects opioid receptors and contributes significantly to kratom’s pain-relieving properties.

These alkaloids interact with various receptor systems in the body, including:

• Opioid receptors (mu, delta, and kappa)
• Adrenergic receptors
• Serotonin receptors
• Dopamine receptors

This complex interaction with multiple receptor systems explains why kratom tea can produce varied effects depending on the dose consumed.

Dose-Dependent Effects of Kratom Tea

One of the most distinctive characteristics of kratom tea is that its effects change dramatically based on the amount consumed. This dose-dependent action makes kratom unique among natural plant substances.

Low Doses (1-5 grams)

At lower doses, kratom tea primarily acts as a stimulant, producing effects that may include:

• Increased energy and alertness
• Enhanced focus and concentration
• Greater sociability and talkativeness
• Improved mood and reduced anxiety
• Heightened physical endurance

These stimulant-like effects typically begin within 10-15 minutes of consumption and can last 2-5 hours.

Moderate Doses (5-15 grams)

At moderate to higher doses, kratom tea’s effects shift toward sedation and pain relief:

• Significant pain reduction
• Feelings of calmness and relaxation
• Euphoria and contentment
• Reduced anxiety
• Sedation and drowsiness

These opioid-like effects are why some people have used kratom tea to manage chronic pain or to help with withdrawal symptoms from other substances.

High Doses (Above 15 grams)

Very high doses significantly increase sedative effects and risks:

• Extreme sedation
• Loss of coordination
• Potential loss of consciousness
• Increased risk of adverse reactions

It’s important to note that alkaloid content varies significantly between kratom varieties and sources. Thai kratom leaves may contain up to 66% mitragynine, while Malaysian varieties may contain only 12%, meaning effects can vary considerably even at similar doses.

Reported Benefits and Uses

While scientific research remains limited, users and traditional practitioners have reported using kratom tea for various purposes:

Pain Management

Many people turn to kratom tea as a natural alternative for managing chronic pain conditions. The alkaloids in kratom interact with pain receptors in ways that may provide relief, though the extent and safety of this use require more research.

Energy and Focus

At lower doses, some users report that kratom tea helps them maintain energy levels and mental clarity throughout the day, similar to coffee but with different effects.

Mood Enhancement

Some individuals use kratom tea to help manage feelings of anxiety or depression, reporting improvements in overall mood and emotional wellbeing.

Substance Withdrawal Support

Kratom tea has been used by some people attempting to reduce dependence on other substances, though this practice carries its own risks and is not medically approved.

Important note: These reported uses are not FDA-approved medical treatments. Anyone considering kratom tea for health purposes should consult with a healthcare provider first.

Legal Status and Regulatory Concerns

The legal status of kratom tea varies significantly around the world and even within different U.S. states.

United States

At the federal level, kratom remains legal in the United States, but it is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical purpose. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has designated kratom as a “drug of concern.”

Several U.S. states and cities have banned or regulated kratom, including:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Indiana
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Wisconsin
• Several counties and cities in other states

International Status

Many countries have classified kratom as a controlled substance:

• European Union: Several countries including Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Sweden have banned kratom
• Asia: Ironically, some countries where kratom is native, including Thailand (recently reversed), Malaysia, and Myanmar, have restrictions
• Australia and New Zealand: Kratom is controlled under medicines regulations

The regulatory landscape continues to evolve as more information about kratom becomes available.

Safety Concerns and Health Risks

Despite its traditional use and current popularity, kratom tea raises several significant safety concerns that cannot be ignored.

Lack of FDA Approval

No kratom products, including kratom tea, have been approved by the FDA for medical use. This means there is no official recognition of kratom as safe or effective for treating any health condition.

Quality Control Issues

The FDA does not regulate kratom products, meaning:

• Kratom products may not contain what their labels claim
• Alkaloid concentrations can vary widely
• Products may be contaminated with heavy metals, bacteria, or other substances
• Some products have been found to contain undisclosed ingredients

Adverse Events

According to data from poison control centers, thousands of adverse events related to kratom have been reported. The FDA has documented dozens of deaths associated with kratom use, though many cases involved kratom combined with other substances.

Side Effects of Kratom Tea

Users of kratom tea have reported a wide range of side effects, varying from mild to severe:

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Dry mouth and increased thirst
• Loss of appetite
• Increased urination
• Drowsiness or sedation
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Itching

Serious Side Effects

More concerning adverse effects that have been reported include:

• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Psychosis
• Confusion and cognitive impairment
• Tremors and loss of coordination
• Liver damage
• Respiratory depression
• Rapid heart rate
• High blood pressure

Dependency and Withdrawal

One of the most significant concerns about kratom tea is its potential to cause physical dependence, similar to opioid medications.

Risk of Dependence

Regular use of kratom tea can lead to tolerance, where increasingly larger amounts are needed to achieve the same effects. This can progress to physical dependence, where the body adapts to the presence of kratom and experiences withdrawal symptoms when use stops.

Withdrawal Symptoms

People who have developed dependence on kratom may experience withdrawal symptoms including:

• Muscle aches and pain
• Insomnia and sleep disturbances
• Irritability and mood swings
• Aggression or hostility
• Emotional instability
• Anxiety
• Restlessness and jerky movements
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Hot flashes and sweating
• Fever
• Decreased appetite

Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the duration and amount of kratom use.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Kratom tea may interact dangerously with various substances and medications.

Potential Drug Interactions

Kratom may interact with:

• Sedatives and sleep medications
• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Pain medications
• Alcohol
• Other substances affecting the central nervous system

If you are taking any medications, you should consult with a healthcare provider before considering kratom tea, as interactions could be dangerous or life-threatening.

Who Should Avoid Kratom Tea

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with liver or kidney disease
• Individuals with heart conditions
• Those with mental health disorders
• People with a history of substance abuse
• Anyone taking prescription medications without medical supervision

Harm Reduction Considerations

For those who choose to use kratom tea despite the risks, certain harm reduction strategies may help minimize potential dangers:

• Start with very low doses: Begin with the smallest possible amount to assess individual response
• Source carefully: Purchase only from vendors who provide third-party lab testing results
• Avoid daily use: Regular daily use increases the risk of dependence
• Don’t mix substances: Never combine kratom with alcohol, medications, or other substances
• Stay hydrated: Kratom can cause dehydration, so drink plenty of water
• Monitor effects: Keep track of how kratom affects you and watch for concerning symptoms
• Seek medical help: If you experience severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention

The Current State of Research

Scientific research on kratom remains relatively limited, though interest is growing. Most existing studies have been conducted in animals or in laboratory settings, with limited well-controlled human trials.

What Research Shows

Current research has identified:

• The mechanism by which kratom alkaloids interact with brain receptors
• The chemical composition and variations in kratom strains
• Potential therapeutic targets that kratom affects
• Documentation of adverse events and safety concerns

What Remains Unknown

Many critical questions remain unanswered:

• Long-term health effects of kratom use
• Optimal dosing for any potential therapeutic applications
• Full understanding of addiction potential and withdrawal
• Comprehensive safety profile
• Interactions with medications and other substances
• Effects on special populations

More rigorous, well-designed clinical studies are needed to fully understand kratom’s benefits and risks.

Alternatives to Consider

For those seeking the effects that kratom tea reportedly provides, several safer, well-studied alternatives exist:

For Energy and Focus

• Green or black tea
• Coffee in moderation
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep
• B-complex vitamins

For Pain Management

• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Over-the-counter pain relievers (with medical guidance)
• Prescription medications under medical supervision

For Mood Support

• Regular physical activity
• Meditation and mindfulness practices
• Therapy and counseling
• Social connections and support
• Medical treatment when appropriate

Anyone dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, or mood issues should consult with a healthcare provider to develop a safe, effective treatment plan.

Making an Informed Decision

Deciding whether to use kratom tea is a personal choice that should be made with full awareness of both the potential benefits and significant risks.

Consider These Factors

• Legal status: Is kratom legal in your location?
• Health conditions: Do you have any conditions that could be affected?
• Medications: Are you taking any substances that might interact?
• Goals: What are you hoping to achieve, and are there safer alternatives?
• Risk tolerance: Are you comfortable with the unknown long-term risks?
• Support system: Do you have medical supervision and support if needed?

Professional Guidance

Before trying kratom tea, especially if you have any health conditions or take medications, speak with a healthcare provider. Be honest about your intentions and listen to their professional advice. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your individual circumstances and may suggest safer alternatives.

Conclusion

Kratom tea occupies a complex and controversial space in the wellness world. With roots in traditional Southeast Asian medicine, it has found a modern following among people seeking natural alternatives for pain relief, energy, and mood enhancement.

However, the lack of FDA approval, limited scientific research, safety concerns, potential for dependence, and regulatory restrictions make kratom tea a risky choice. The dose-dependent effects—from stimulation at low doses to sedation at higher doses—add another layer of complexity and potential danger.

While some users report benefits, the documented cases of adverse events, including serious side effects and deaths, cannot be ignored. The absence of quality control standards means that kratom tea products may vary significantly in potency and purity, adding unpredictability to an already uncertain situation.

For most people, safer and better-studied alternatives exist for managing pain, boosting energy, or improving mood. Anyone considering kratom tea should carefully weigh the limited potential benefits against the known and unknown risks, check local laws, and consult with healthcare professionals before making a decision.

The most responsible approach is to prioritize proven, regulated treatments and lifestyle modifications while waiting for more definitive research on kratom’s safety and efficacy.

Sources:

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Kratom Pharmacology
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration – FDA and Kratom
• National Institute on Drug Abuse – Kratom
• Drug Enforcement Administration – Kratom Fact Sheet
• National Library of Medicine – Kratom Toxicity
• American Association of Poison Control Centers – Kratom
• European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction – Kratom Profile