Kratom’s Impact on the Liver: Potential Damage and Complications

Is Kratom Bad for Your Liver?

Yes, kratom can be harmful to your liver. Kratom has been banned in several countries due to its potential to cause liver damage and is not recommended for any medical condition. Learn more about kratom and its effects on the liver.

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What is Kratom?

Kratom is an herbal extract made from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa plant, native to Southeast Asia. It has been used for decades as a natural medicine for chronic pain, diarrhea, and opium withdrawal. However, kratom has grown in popularity recently due to its marketed plant-based supplement.

Why is Kratom Bad for Your Liver?

Kratom extracts can produce psychotropic and opiate-like effects, leading to abuse. According to a 2019 report by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, kratom has the potential to be abused, and healthcare practitioners should be aware of this. Kratom-induced liver toxicity is one of the many possible effects users may experience if they abuse this product.

What Does the Research Say About Kratom?

Several studies have highlighted the adverse effects and toxicity of kratom, including liver damage and fatal overdoses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that kratom has increased in popularity recently as a recreational drug since it can produce some opioid-like effects, and it also has the potential for dependence and abuse.

Symptoms of Liver Damage from Kratom

The most common symptoms of liver damage associated with the use of kratom are dark urine, pale stool color, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Jaundice, a condition in which skin and eyes appear yellowish, is also very common in those suffering from liver damage.

Possible Complications from Using Kratom

Acute liver failure, severe bacterial or fungal infections, bleeding, and increased pressure in the brain are all serious complications of acute liver failure requiring urgent medical care. If your liver is damaged severely enough, then a liver transplant may be the only option for recovery.

Can Kratom Be Used Safely?

While kratom is a traditional medicine, emerging evidence suggests avoiding this product is best. Kratom’s potential for addiction and developing dependence on the substance has led to it being banned in both Malaysia and Thailand. If you are tempted to use kratom as an analgesic or for recreational purposes, it is highly recommended that you first speak to your doctor.

How Can You Improve Liver Health?

To keep your liver healthy, ensure you are drinking appropriate amounts of water and eating a healthy diet rich in plant foods. Good plants to eat for liver health include asparagus, celery, chestnuts, kiwi fruit, mango, papaya, and spring bamboo shoots.

Can Liver Damage from Kratom Be Reversed?

Mild to moderate liver toxicity or injury caused by medications or supplements can sometimes be treated by certain medications that act as an antidote, reversing the effect of this substance and reducing the signs of liver failure. In severe cases of acute liver failure and when the damage can’t be reversed, the only treatment option is a liver transplant.

The Lowdown

Kratom is not a safe substance and can cause liver damage and other serious complications. Using kratom is not recommended for any reason. Speak to a doctor before using any new substance for medical or recreational purposes.