Kratom is a tropical tree from Southeast Asia and a relative of the coffee plant. People take kratom leaf powder to self-treat pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal, but the FDA hasn't approved kratom to treat anything.
Some people have reported hair loss after taking kratom, but that doesn't show kratom caused it. So, in this article, we're going to take a look at what's known about kratom and hair loss. We'll also cover what the FDA says about kratom's safety, because that's the bigger concern.
Does Kratom Cause Hair Loss?
There is no clear evidence linking kratom to hair loss. However, scientific research on kratom and how it affects the body is generally lacking. With such a small body of research, it's impossible to state for sure whether kratom does or does not cause hair loss. Much of the information we know about kratom comes from its users rather than science.
Although there isn't evidence supporting it, there are theories that may explain the potential connection between kratom and thinning hair.
Here are some possible links between the reported cases of kratom use and hair loss.
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Kratom May Interact With Testosterone
Male pattern baldness is related to a byproduct of testosterone, called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While the exact link isn't known, some long-term kratom users report symptoms that parallel those found with low testosterone.
The Kratom Might Be Incorrectly Treated With Pesticides
It is speculated that some kratom farms use chemical pesticides or fertilizers to protect their crops. When used correctly, pesticides should wear off by the time the final product is packaged.
However, if the crops are improperly sprayed, some chemicals may be left behind and contribute to hair loss.
Kratom Might Act as an Opioid
Kratom contains alkaloids (natural plant compounds) that act on the same receptors in your brain as opioid drugs. According to the FDA, one of them, called 7-OH, acts on those receptors more strongly than morphine.
Long-term opioid use can lower testosterone, and most of that research is in men. Kratom's effects aren't clear, and the limited research hasn't shown that testosterone changes from kratom cause hair loss.
There May Be Heavy Metal Contamination
Recently, the FDA performed tests on various kratom products available on the market. Worryingly, some of the products showed significant heavy metal contamination.
Heavy metals, like lead and nickel, can build up in the body and cause heavy metal poisoning. Heavy metal poisoning can lead to illnesses that cause hair thinning.
Something Else Is Behind the Hair Loss
Some of the people reporting hair loss due to kratom could be losing their hair because of other reasons. It might just be the timing that makes it seem like the two are related. Common causes of hair loss include:
- Genetics
- Stress
- Changes in hormone levels
- Weight loss
- Poor diet
- Medical conditions
- Aging
With kratom increasing in popularity in the past few years, there are more users than ever taking to the internet to share their experiences. We'll dive into what they're saying below.
What Users Are Saying About Kratom and Hair Loss
Despite the lack of scientific evidence, some users have reported experiencing hair loss after using kratom.
It should be noted that many of these commenters say other factors might have also been at play and that they were using high doses.
These reports are anecdotal, so they can't tell us how often hair loss happens or whether kratom caused it.
Most hair loss claims come from kratom users in the United States. Users from Southeast Asia, where the plant originated, don't report hair thinning as a side effect.
This may point to contamination (i.e., adulterated kratom powder) as a potential origin of kratom's reported hair thinning effects.
Is Kratom Safe to Take?
The FDA warns consumers not to use kratom because it has been linked to serious side effects, including liver damage, seizures, and substance use disorder (addiction).
Kratom's Legal Status in the U.S.
There are no FDA-approved drugs that contain kratom. The FDA has also determined that kratom can't lawfully be sold as a dietary supplement or added to conventional food in the U.S.
Contamination in Kratom Products
Some kratom products have tested positive for Salmonella or for high levels of heavy metals.
Kratom Dependence and Withdrawal
Some people who take kratom regularly develop tolerance or physical dependence. They may need more to get the same effect or have withdrawal symptoms when they stop.
Kratom and Pregnancy
If you're pregnant, this matters even more. The FDA is aware of cases in which newborns had withdrawal symptoms after prolonged kratom exposure during pregnancy.
Where to Get Help
If you use kratom for pain, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal, talk to a doctor about treatments that have been tested for those conditions. If you're finding it hard to cut back, SAMHSA's National Helpline is free and confidential: 1-800-662-4357.
What To Do If You Experience Hair Loss After Kratom
If you're losing hair after taking kratom, you can take steps to reduce and potentially reverse it. Let's get into those below.
See a Doctor About Your Hair Loss
Hair loss can indicate a serious health problem, so it's best to seek medical attention if you notice a drastic change in your hair. A medical professional will be able to get to the root cause of your hair loss and inform you on how best to proceed.
Reduce Your Stress to Limit Hair Shedding
High levels of stress and chronic stress can contribute to an overactive immune system and increase inflammation. Depending on the cause of your hair loss, reducing your stress levels might help you retain your locks.
Here are some easy ways to reduce your stress levels.
- Make sure you're getting the proper amount of sleep each night.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
- Carve out more "me time," even if it's only a few minutes at a time.
- Improve your work-life balance.
- Get regular exercise.
Stop Using Kratom
The FDA warns consumers not to use kratom. If you're taking it and notice hair loss, tell your doctor about both so they can help you decide what to do next.
If you take kratom every day, ask your doctor how to stop safely. Stopping suddenly after regular use can cause withdrawal symptoms.
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Despite the lack of evidence, a few heavy users have reported thinning hair as a side effect of kratom. However, these reports are in the minority.
A link between kratom and hair loss hasn't been established. But hair loss isn't the main concern. The FDA warns consumers not to use kratom because it has been linked to liver damage, seizures, and substance use disorder.
We hope this article has helped you understand what's known about kratom and hair loss. If your hair is thinning, a doctor is the best person to find out why.
