Kratom hangover – is this something real? You must have heard about it, or you may have just experienced an episode of kratom hangover yourself. Surely, it is hard for you to believe that this herbal remedy can cause a hangover effect. If that's the case, you are not alone. Even fanatic kratom users do not know that Mitragyna has the potential to cause hangovers.
In this piece, we will dig deeper into all the essential information you must know about Kratom hangover, also known as kratom sickness. From its initial symptoms and potential causes to powerful preventive measures to recover from kratom hangover fast, this blog post has got you covered.
So, let's get straight into it without further ado.
Kratom Hangover Info You Must Know
Before we get started, it is essential to know what a Kratom hangover is.
According to the NIAAA (National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism), hangovers occur when someone has taken too much of a substance.
Therefore, when kratom users consume larger amounts of kratom, which is entirely not recommended, they experience the symptoms associated with hangovers.
The typical recommended kratom dose is 2-4 grams. However, we always recommend starting with an even smaller dose – a mere 1 or 2 grams. 2 grams of kratom should be more than enough for a beginner, whilst 4 grams is a high dose suitable only for experienced users with a high tolerance to the herb.
It is essential for the users to watch their doses and not take more than the required amount. Additionally, there should be a gap of good 8-10 hours if one desires to take the next dose the same day.
What Can Be the Possible Causes of Kratom Hangover?
I am pretty sure you must have come across a situation where your friend or a loved one is in a hangover state, and it goes without saying that hangovers are absolutely horrible at times. But are the hidden causes that lead to kratom sickness? The possible causes can be both herb-specific and person-specific.
Let's have a look at them in detail.
The Brutal Combo of Kratom and Alcohol
Alcohol and kratom can form a deadly combo when combined. Although Mitragyna alone, with controlled doses, won't cause any harm, when mixed with alcohol, you must expect a prolonged hangover. So take this honest advice and never mix kratom and alcohol for the sake of your health.
Say No to Heavy Kratom Doses
What happens when you take high doses of coffee? You experience JITTERS, high blood pressure, and extremely high energy levels.
Just like that, when you take high doses of Mitragyna, usually more than 5 grams, it is evident that hangover symptoms will pop up anytime soon.
Hence, it is recommended to take low to moderate doses of kratom, as your body is accustomed to them. When you forcefully let your body fall prey to higher doses, you will end up with a not-so-pleasant state of kratom sickness,
Poor Quality or Contaminated Mitragyna Speciosa
If you are a regular kratom user, it is essential for you to come across the fact that you cannot expect every vendor to sell 100% safe, all-natural, superior-quality, and lab-tested Mitragyna Speciosa. Hence, it is recommended to stick to your vendor if you are satisfied with the value.
If you want to switch, ensure that the new vendor sells lab-tested Mitragyna and has reasonable positive user reviews under his belt. Since poor quality kratom is a known cause of kratom hangover, you need to be cautious.
Never Mix Two Sedative Strains
Red vein Mitragyna Speciosa strains are known sedative strains. When you mix two sedative strains (for instance, Red Horn and Red Maeng Da), the subsequent blend becomes unimaginably more potent. When consumed, the blend is known to cause an intensifying hangover.
If you want to blend two different strains, why not go for a mixture of a slow strain like White Maeng Da and White Elephant with a sedative strain like Red Bali and Red Indo? Still, you have to make sure you do not consume more than 3 grams.
Using Stronger Kratom Strains
Do you know there are a few stronger kratom strains that can cause hangovers if you overlook your kratom dosage? The red strains like Red Maeng Da, Red Bali, Red Jongkong, Red Ketapang, and Red Indo are more potent, and you need to consume 1-2grams once a day if you want to keep the kratom hangover symptoms at bay.
Are You Practicing Strain Rotation?
Have you ever heard about the strain rotation technique? Users rotate strains on a weekly basis so that their bodies do not get used to a single strain. It is one of the healthiest techniques that help folks stay on the right track and keep a disciplined schedule of their doses.
Those who keep taking a single strain for a long time are vulnerable to experiencing a hangover since they eventually end up taking more of Mitragyna. Therefore, do not stick to a single strain like Red Thai or Red Bali, and introduce the mellow and moderate strains in your regime, too.
Lack of Fluid Intake
Kratom has the potential to cause dehydration. Therefore, experienced users recommend consuming more fluids and fresh water throughout the day if they are regular Mitragyna users. Folks who are not particular about their fluid intake and take Mitragyna in a dehydrated state are surely going to experience kratom sickness.
Lack of Sleep
Having a poor sleep pattern is one of the unhealthiest habits one can have. Kratom hangovers are more common among folks who do not practice the 8-hour sleep rule. The lethargy, spinning head, and lower energy levels escalate when you take your dose. Therefore, experts always recommend getting proper sleep and taking your morning dose afterward.
Empty Stomach
According to user reviews, it is essential to take kratom on a partially filled stomach. Or if you want to have your kratom dose first, you must take a snack after 10 – 15 minutes. Consuming Mitragyna Speciosa on an unfilled stomach may cause vomiting and kratom headaches, and the symptoms may escalate to a hangover state.
Individual Sensitivity
Kratom effects may vary based on many factors. Hence, it may be the case that you are just more sensitive to kratom than others and require smaller doses. If you are prone to hangover-like symptoms, lowering your dose should do the trick.
Beware of These Signs and Symptoms of Kratom Hangover
We are not 100% sure about it, but according to professionals, kratom-induced hangovers are somewhat similar to the ones caused by too much alcohol. However, the data is still limited, and only future research can prove it.
If you are concerned about kratom sickness, you must know about its initial symptoms. Read below to understand the symptoms of a kratom hangover. Here are common side effects of improper kratom usage:
Dryness in mouth
Brain fog
Diarrhea or stomach upset
Mild to severe dehydration
Inability to sleep properly
Abdominal cramps
Bodily pain
Other symptoms may include:
Muscle cramps
Soreness in body
Low energy levels
Demotivation
Irritability
Mood swings
Exhaustion
Loss of appetite
Instant weight gain or weight loss
Sweating
Anxiety
Note: You can easily manage these symptoms; do not worry. Head over to the Kratom hangover prevention guide below.
Do You Want to Avoid Kratom Headaches and Hangover? Do Not Ignore These Eight Tips
We cannot close our eyes to the fact that kratom hangovers can become deadly at times, right? But you won't even want to leave Mitragyna Speciosa, even in your wildest dreams. So, let's find a middle ground here that would allow you to take Mitragyna Speciosa while keeping kratom sickness at bay. Have a look at the pro eight tips we have sorted out below (just for you).
Watch Your Dose
You need to play your cards right when using kratom, and this lands to the dose you are taking. Do not take more than 2g of Mitragyna Speciosa if your body is not used to it. After multiple doses, you will start to understand how your body responds to each different kratom consumption.
If you already know your sweet spot, you are good to go, but if you are just starting out, be vigilant about your dose. Moreover, start with small doses when you are switching to another strain or brand since the potency levels vary across strains and brands.
Healthy Diet
If you maintain a healthy diet, especially one rich in proteins, your body will have sufficient energy to keep the hangover at bay. So make sure your appetite is good, and you are nurturing your body right.
Sticking to Routine
If you have a solid routine, make sure you stick to it. If you take kratom at a fixed time, for instance, after breakfast in the morning or after coming back from the office to relax, do not change the time of your dose.
Since your body gets accustomed to the routine, when you take your dose at an inappropriate time, you may feel a sudden headache or nausea.
Do Not Mix with Alcohol
Since Kratom and alcohol are extremely potent substances, it's a BIG no-no to mix them. Whoever has given you this suggestion is not aware of how this can trigger a kratom hangover. So, be cautious and never mix Mitragyna Speciosa and alcohol or other substances.
Do Not Mix Sedative Strains
Red strains are known for their potency levels. When you mix two reds, you are making an extremely strong blend that your body won't be able to ingest, and you will experience the hangover symptoms right after some time. Hence, do not mix sedative strains ever.
Quality
Do you know the quality of your kratom directly impacts your experience? Before you make a purchase, make sure you are not compromising on quality for the sake of saving a few bucks. Contaminated kratom products make you feel nauseated, cause frequent headaches, and altogether initiate a terrible hangover. Therefore, always buy top-of-the-line products.
Brand
A GMP-certified kratom brand sells high-quality and lab-tested Mitragyna Speciosa. You have to make sure that your go-to vendor is GMP-certified and that the products go through extensive third-party lab testing.
Strain Rotation
If you practice strain rotation and keep all three vein colors in your schedule, you will never experience a hangover. You can take red stain on Monday, green on Tuesday, white on Wednesday, and yellow on Thursday and repeat the same strains in the same order for the rest of the days. This technique would help you have the safest kratom experience of all time.
Adjust Kratom Dosage
If you frequently experience kratom hangovers, consider adjusting your kratom dosage by decreasing it. Whenever you increase the kratom dose, always monitor how your body reacts.
How to Get Rid of a Kratom Hangover Fast?
Do you want to get rid of your kratom hangover fast? Follow our 5-tip guide below, and you will eventually become proficient at handling the hangover symptoms.
Relax
First of all, you have to accept the symptoms and relax. You may feel fatigued, hence, giving your body some rest will help you alleviate this symptom.
You have to understand the situation and work out the right management patiently. Panicking will further exaggerate the symptoms, and you do not want that, right?
Hydrate
Drink plenty of water or any of your favorite fluids. Water will help kratom leave your system quickly, and the hangover symptoms won't last long. Drinking plenty of water will also help you avoid headaches.
Exercise
No, we are not asking you to go for a HIIT workout or start lifting heavy dumbbells. Just get up, stroll around, and do some basic exercises or relaxing yoga poses to slow down the symptoms.
Apart from that, you can also distract yourself by watching your go-to TV show or movie.
Sleep
Do you know the more time passes, the more hangover symptoms slow down? So, to get rid of the symptoms, you have to pass the time. Relaxing your body and taking a nap for some time will certainly prove to be one of the safest remedies to fight a kratom hangover.
Avoid Stimulants
It is best to avoid caffeinated substances, like coffee, so that your mind and body stay calm and get enough rest.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medicines also come in handy when you have to deal with symptoms like inflammation, muscle pain, nausea, and when you experience headaches.
But, make sure that the medicine does not overburden your system, which is already fighting the hangover state.
The “Hair of the Dog” Approach– DO NOT FOLLOW THIS STRATEGY!
Wait, you need to prepare yourself because this strategy is going to blow your mind.
So what's all about this strategy to fight kratom hangover?
The hair of the dog approach suggests taking the hangover-causing substance once again to slow down the symptoms. Yes, it couldn't be weirder. This is a complete myth, and we have just busted it. Never follow the hair of the dog approach; it will just further worsen the symptoms.
Kratom Hangover vs Kratom Withdrawal – Know the Difference
It is essential to make it clear here that kratom hangover and kratom withdrawal are two different states.
Kratom hangovers result when you take a higher dose once. Kratom withdrawal, in comparison, refers to a situation where an individual has been taking higher doses for a long time and suddenly stops taking the substance. Although the symptoms do overlap (kratom headache, nausea, and vomiting), there's a clear difference between them.
Kratom withdrawal symptoms usually appear when you stop using kratom abruptly and start consuming smaller doses than usual. Unlike kratom hangovers, withdrawal symptoms may include mood swings and irritability.
Another notable difference is that the kratom hangover symptoms occur after taking a larger dosage of the herb and disappear within a day or so. On the hand hand, withdrawal can last for a more extended period.
Kratom Hangovers vs Kratom Overdoses – Are They the Same?
The symptoms of hangover and overdose often overlap, and one gets confused about the two. Folks, when you experience kratom sickness, you know that you have overdosed and that too on a single occasion.
On the other hand, a kratom overdose means you are regularly taking higher doses, and it is the worst-case scenario for a kratom user. Since overdosing leads to dependence, you have to be watchful about the quantity you are taking.
Kratom Hangover Reddit User Reviews
Reddit is a legit forum for Kratom enthusiasts, and if you search for a kratom hangover, you will see numerous threads popping up. In one of the Reddit threads, a user said
“I seem to get a mild hangover when I take large doses, like 8-10g or so.”
And she had this viewpoint that maybe kratom depletes most of the minerals from her body. Here's what other users recommend about the causes:
“I only got a headache the next day if I didn't drink enough water. If you take a larger dose, you should drink more water, I think the more you take, the more dehydrated it can make you.”
Another user said that red strains cause hangovers if taken in large amounts.
“I just get this from certain strains. For me, I get a depression hangover from some, typically reds (but not all). I don't get the hangover with many whites. That is just me.”
Final Thoughts on Kratom Hangovers
Kratom hangovers are common now, and it is essential to understand that they go away with time. It would be best to follow the tips we have mentioned above to avoid a kratom hangover. In case you are in a hangover state, the tips to get rid of a kratom hangover fast would prove to be worth it for you.
So make sure you watch your dose, keep your diet healthy, rotate strains, and buy lab-tested kratom from a reputable vendor to have the best kratom experience every time you take your dose.
Frequently Asked Questions from Kratom Users
How long does a kratom hangover last?
Kratom hangovers can last up to 2-3 hours. If you manage your symptoms, the hangover may become easy on your nerves.
What causes kratom hangovers?
A kratom hangover is mainly caused by the consumption of a high dose of kratom. However, there are other factors that may have contributed to hangover-like symptoms, like your individual sensitivity, strain potency, and dehydration.
Does kratom hangover cause vomiting?
In a few cases, kratom hangovers do cause vomiting. However, most of the users report nausea-like feelings.
Is it safe to use kratom?
Yes, recreational kratom use is very common and safe. You just need to be watchful about your dose and your medical condition with your doctor.
How much kratom is safe to use?
The safest dose of Mitragyna Speciosa is 1-3 grams. The moderate dose of 3-5 grams is also safe if you are a regular user and your body is accustomed to this dose.
How to get rid of a kratom hangover?
It is essential to manage the symptoms of Kratom sickness. Make sure you are hydrated and rested. You can also listen to a soothing song or do a little workout to distract your mind. If the symptoms aggravate, over-the-counter medicine is essential to use.
Should we take kratom on an empty stomach?
No, you should never take Mitragyna on an empty stomach. Either take on a partially filled stomach or take a mini snack after consuming your dose.
Can a kratom hangover be confused with kratom withdrawal?
Yes, both kratom hangover and withdrawal have similar symptoms. However, a kratom hangover is associated with a single high dose, while a kratom withdrawal happens when kratom consumption is stopped or taken in lower doses than usual. Hence, depending on the situation, you will likely understand whether you have a hangover or not.
Abdullah Mamun, founder of Authentic Kratom, is a notable expert in the kratom industry, blending technology, finance, and advocacy skills to promote kratom's benefits and legal status.
Since founding Authentic Kratom in 2013, Mamun has been a vocal advocate for kratom, joining the American Kratom Association (AKA) in 2016 to combat regulatory challenges. He has played a crucial role in advocating for the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA), emphasizing the need for safety...
