As kratom use increases in the United States, so does the likelihood of addiction and dependence on the substance. In fact, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, estimates that 1.7 million Americans age 12 and older used kratom in 2021.
With the increase in kratom use comes the question: how safe is the substance and what are the adverse effects of taking it? And what are the resources available if you want to detox from kratom? We’ll cover the effects the substance can have on your physical and mental state and the types of psychological and therapeutic support available during kratom detox.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a plant native to South America. It’s typically consumed in tea and powder form and can have a stimulant or sedative effect, depending on how much of it is taken. The effects of kratom can be similar to the psychological effects of opioids. However, it’s important to note that this substance has not been approved by the FDA and isn’t regulated in the U.S.
When kratom is taken in small doses, it can act as more of a stimulant and give you more energy. On the other hand, higher doses can have a sedative effect, producing feelings of euphoria or calmness. Kratom is often used by individuals to self-manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, pain, coughing, diarrhea, opioid use disorder, and opioid withdrawal.
Kratom And Opioid Withdrawal
While some use kratom as a way to ease opioid withdrawal, it can lead to further health risks. This is because kratom contains several compounds that are psychoactive and can result in dependence. Essentially, using kratom during an opioid detox could cause you to replace one drug with another. It’s important to find a safe way to detox from opioids if you or a loved one is struggling with addiction.
Side Effects Of Taking Kratom
While kratom can help treat the symptoms of certain conditions, it can come with some dangerous side effects. Some of the negative consequences of taking kratom can include:
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Hallucinations
- Itching
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Psychosis
- Risk of addiction
- Sweating
- Seizures
Kratom Overdose
While kratom overdose is rare, it’s still possible. Many of the kratom-related deaths involve other drugs or substances, with kratom use alone linked to a small number of deaths. However, it’s important to remember this substance still runs the risk of addiction, which can lead to dependence and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
Premier Detox Center Near Nashville
At Brentwood Springs Detox, we offer a comprehensive drug and alcohol detox program in a safe and serene environment. Our compassionate team of clinicians and addiction specialists is there to walk with you every step of the way. Call (615) 560-7545 to learn more about how we can help you get on the road to recovery.
Withdrawal From Kratom
Withdrawing from kratom can cause many symptoms that are similar to opioid withdrawal. However, kratom withdrawal symptoms tend to be less severe and can include:
- Abdominal cramps
- Anxiety
- Blurred vision
- Changes in mood
- Decreased appetite
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Dilated pupils
- Fever
- Heart rate changes
- Hot flashes
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Jerky movements
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Watery eyes
How Long Does Kratom Withdrawal Last?
Each person’s kratom withdrawal timeline will be different, depending on how long and how much of it was taken. The initial symptoms can come on as quickly as a few hours or could take as long as 24 hours. The total process can take anywhere from 3 to 10 days.
Once the physical symptoms of withdrawal subside, you may still have lingering psychological symptoms like depression and cravings. This is where mental health support and holistic therapies can help you deal with triggers and avoid relapse.
Weighing Your Options For Kratom Detox
If you or a loved one has decided to detox from kratom, it’s important to know what options are available. If your symptoms are mild, you may be able to detox on your own. However, if the symptoms of kratom withdrawal become more intense, you might benefit from detoxing at a medical detox center.
Kratom Withdrawal At Home
If you are taking kratom less frequently and in smaller quantities, a detox from home may be possible. Before you start your detox, you’ll want to make sure you are prepared. You may want to have over-the-counter (OTC) drugs on hand to cope with symptoms like headaches, fever, and digestion issues.
You’ll also want to make sure you stay hydrated to counteract any sweating and vomiting you may experience. Eating bland foods can help you deal with any gastrointestinal symptoms. Finally, make sure you have an emotional support system in place to help you cope with kratom withdrawals.
The Benefit Of Kratom Detox Centers
For those who are more heavily dependent on kratom, you may want to find a detox center to treat withdrawal symptoms. When you choose a detox center like Brentwood Springs, you’ll receive a treatment plan tailored to your needs. You’ll have the benefit of being in a safe and serene living space where you can take time to focus on your healing. Therapies offered may include:
- Medically-assisted detox
- Weekly meetings
- Recreational activities
- Wound care
- Drug and alcohol screening
- Holistic therapy
- Aftercare services
What Is Medical Detox?
Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging to deal with and sometimes cause individuals to relapse in an attempt to avoid discomfort. When you are at a medical detox facility, you’ll partner with a team of professionals who can walk with you every step of the way and help you better manage any challenges you may face.
Medical detox uses medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help ease withdrawal and manage any medical issues that may come up during detox. It’s a structured and supervised approach that can help you stay safe throughout the process.
Holistic Therapy For Kratom Detox
Holistic detox has many benefits as it focuses on healing the mind, body, and spirit. It uses all-natural methods to relieve pain and stress and gain a better understanding of yourself.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses essential oils to reduce stress and promote relaxation during the detox process. These oils can be applied to the skin or inhaled using a diffuser. Essential oils that may have health benefits include:
- Chamomile: Improves mood and relaxation
- Lavender: Relieves stress
- Lemon: Aids digestion, headaches, and mood
- Peppermint: Helps digestion and boosts energy
- Rose: Reduces anxiety and improves mood
- Sandalwood: Aids focus and calms nerves
Meditation
Meditation can be especially helpful when you’re trying to establish healthy ways to deal with triggers. It allows you to clear your mind and ignore negative thoughts that aren’t helpful in your healing journey. It can also change how you perceive the stress and discomfort that can accompany detox symptoms.
Yoga
Incorporating exercise like yoga can be a great way to reduce cravings and cope with symptoms of withdrawal. Like other holistic methods, it can be a healthy practice to take with you after recovery to decrease the chances of relapse.
Nutrition
Being dependent on a substance can cause poor eating habits and keep you from getting essential nutrients. During holistic detox, healthy meals and proper hydration can help you feel better and improve your overall well-being.
The National Institutes of Health gives these guidelines for incorporating a healthy diet into your detox program:
- Eat at a consistent mealtime
- Stay away from foods high in fat
- Opt for foods high in protein, dietary fiber, and complex carbohydrates
- Talk to a medical professional about adding vitamins to your diet (this could include vitamins A and C, B-complex, and zinc)
Mental Health Support
While healing from your physical dependence on a substance is a crucial part of detox, focusing on your mental health also plays an important role. Mental health services can help you deal with any triggers you may face and avoid relapse, even after your physical dependence is gone. These services could include individual counseling, group therapy, or support groups.
Counseling During Kratom Detox
Participating in counseling during detox can help you cope with kratom withdrawal symptoms and also address any underlying causes of your addiction. Medical detox facilities, like Brentwood Springs, typically offer 24/7 mental health support during your stay.
Support Groups
Support groups connect you with other people who understand the challenges you’re facing in your detox journey. It’s a safe place where you can learn from one another and support your peers in a healthy way. As you learn to cope with triggers and temptations, it can be an excellent way to understand that you aren’t alone in your journey.
Kratom Detox Center In Nashville
If you’ve chosen to detox from kratom, know that you’re not alone. At Brentwood Springs Detox, we offer comprehensive treatment services to help address addiction and get you on the path to healing. Contact our team at (615) 560-7545 to learn more about the ways we can help you break free from kratom addiction.
