There’s a fair share of truths and myths surrounding kratom - both positive and negative. One claim that has gained traction recently is that kratom may potentially cause hair loss. So, can kratom cause hair to fall out?
That’s what we set out to find out. Today, we’ll dive deep into the topic, exploring possible causes, prevention tips, and whether hair loss due to kratom use can grow back.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The effects of kratom, including its impact on hair loss, are not scientifically proven. Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Does Kratom Cause Hair Loss?
Let’s start with the big question: does kratom make you lose your hair?
The good news is that current research offers no definitive evidence linking kratom to hair loss. Still, some kratom users have reported hair thinning or shedding after regular kratom use.
What’s more, a 2020 study involving 143 kratom users found that 5.6% reported excessive hair shedding. This might suggest a potential connection, but the study relied on self-reported data without controlled trials, leaving the potential relationship between kratom and hair loss inconclusive.
So, if not kratom, then what contributed to those users’ hair loss? Aging, stress, or genetics are the most obvious answers.
Can Kratom Contribute to Hair Loss?
While there’s little to no evidence linking hair loss to kratom use, some suggest it might contribute to it indirectly. How? There are several possible mechanisms involved:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Some users report kratom can sometimes reduce appetite, leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins. These deficiencies are known to affect hair health and may contribute to kratom hair loss.
- Toxicity: Impurities or heavy metals found in low-quality kratom products may damage hair follicles. Choosing lab-tested kratom from reputable vendors can help reduce this risk.
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Anecdotal evidence suggests that high doses of kratom might disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates cortisol levels. Disrupted cortisol levels may impact the hair growth cycle, potentially contributing to hair loss from kratom.
Again, while these theories are plausible, they remain unproven, and more research is needed to establish whether kratom directly impacts hair health.
How to Minimize Kratom Hair Loss Risk
If you’re still concerned about kratom potentially impacting hair loss, there are several good practices you can follow to minimize the risk:
- Avoid excessive doses and frequency of use. Start with small amounts and monitor your body’s response.
- Dehydration can affect overall health, including hair health, so drink plenty of water.
- Purchase kratom only from reputable vendors that provide lab-tested products free of contaminants.
- Include protein, iron, and nutrient-rich foods like eggs, salmon, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes to support hair growth.
If you notice that hair loss continues despite following these steps, it’s very likely that it’s genetics that cause your hair to fall out. It can be other factors, too, such as stress or aging. If you’re not sure, consult the matter with a specialist.
Summing Up
So, is kratom hair loss a myth or a genuine concern? The answer is nuanced.
While anecdotal reports suggest a possible connection, no definitive scientific evidence supports this claim. Factors like genetics, stress, or pre-existing health conditions could explain many cases of hair loss attributed to kratom.
More rigorous research is needed to determine whether kratom causes hair loss directly or if it is merely coincidental in reported cases.
If you’re concerned about persistent hair loss, consult a specialist for more personalized advice. The chances are it's not kratom that causes your hair loss.
With responsible use and attention to your body’s needs, you can still use kratom while prioritizing your well-being.
