Written by Angi Allphin, LPC, NCC
Last reviewed: March 2026
You may have heard of kratom being sold in stores or online as a “natural” way to help with pain, anxiety, or even opioid withdrawal. Because it’s marketed as an herbal product, it can seem safe. But kratom is not as harmless as it sounds, and it can be especially risky for people in recovery.
This guide is meant to help patients and families better understand what kratom is and why it can be dangerous.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a plant that comes from Southeast Asia. It is usually sold as a powder, capsule, or liquid. Some people take it to boost energy, while others use it to relax or relieve pain.
Even though it’s a plant, kratom affects the brain in ways similar to opioids. That means it can change mood, create a “high,” and lead to dependence.
Why Do People Use It?
People may turn to kratom for different reasons, such as:
- Trying to manage pain
- Coping with anxiety or stress
- Attempting to reduce or stop opioid use
- Believing it is a “safer” or “natural” option
While these reasons are understandable, kratom often creates new problems instead of solving existing ones.
What Are the Risks?
Kratom can affect each person differently, but there are several important risks to be aware of:
1. It Can Be Addictive
Over time, the body can get used to kratom. This means a person may need more to feel the same effects. This is called tolerance.
Some people develop a dependence and feel like they can’t function without it.
2. Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone stops using kratom, they may feel uncomfortable or sick. Common symptoms include:
- Irritability or mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or sweating
- Anxiety or restlessness
These symptoms can make it hard to quit without support.
If you or someone you care about may be misusing kratom, immediate help is available. Take a confidential self-test to determine if these is a problem or explore clinical care options for addressing kratom addiction.
3. Health Concerns
Kratom use has been linked to several health problems, including:
- Liver issues
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Seizures in some cases
- Trouble breathing, especially when mixed with other substances
Mixing kratom with alcohol, opioids, or medications like benzodiazepines can be especially dangerous.
4. Unknown Ingredients
Kratom products are not well regulated. This means:
- The strength can vary from one product to another
- Some products may be contaminated with harmful substances
- Labels may not always be accurate
In other words, you may not really know what you’re taking.
Why Is Kratom a Concern in Recovery?
For individuals working toward sobriety, kratom can be a major setback. Even though it may seem like a substitute, it can:
- Activate the same parts of the brain involved in addiction
- Trigger cravings for other substances
- Interfere with treatment progress
It can also be difficult to detect, which sometimes leads people to believe it’s “okay” to use, but it still puts recovery at risk.
What Should Families Look For?
If you’re concerned a loved one may be using kratom, some signs might include:
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Increased secrecy
- Needing more of a substance over time
- Complaints of withdrawal symptoms when not using
How to Help
If you or a loved one is using kratom, you’re not alone and help is available. Consider:
- Talking openly with a healthcare provider
- Seeking support from an addiction professional
- Encouraging honest conversations about substance use
- Focusing on long-term recovery, not quick fixes
The Bottom Line
Kratom may be marketed as “natural,” but natural does not always mean safe. It can be addictive, unpredictable, and harmful especially for those in recovery.
Staying informed and asking questions is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
If you or someone you love has questions about kratom or substance use, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Valley Hope offers confidential guidance and addiction treatment support to help you take the next step. Call at (800) 544-5101 to learn more.
Written by Angi Allphin, LPC, NCC
Angi is the Executive Director of Valley Hope of Missouri and North Central Regional Vice President for NAADAC, representing seven states across the Midwest. A Licensed Professional Counselor with a lifelong passion for addiction education, Angi began her career as a Nebraska Children’s Division investigator, where she witnessed the profound impact of addiction on families. She later earned her Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Central Methodist University and spent six years teaching Addiction Studies there, further solidifying her role as an educator and advocate. A former President of Missouri’s NAADAC affiliate, Angi is known for her engaging and accessible speaking style, with expertise in addiction as a disease, motivational communication, leadership in behavioral health, and strengthening professional standards across the region.
