Kratom (Mitragyna Speciosa) has grown in popularity among young people over the years due to its potent sedative effect, which some refer to as a “high”.
Although it is legal in the majority of American states, excessive use can result in a variety of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and respiratory discomfort.
Many people mix it with alcohol to get the combined effect of both of their favourite substances. However, when combined, this can be a health disaster waiting to happen.
In this article, we will dive deeply into the effects of Kratom and alcohol when combined, what most people use it for, and whether it is even worth it. Scroll down to learn more.
Common Reasons People Mix Kratom and Alcohol
Mixing both Kratom and alcohol of course has a set of effects that most people enjoy, and that’s why it’s getting more common with each passing day.
Enhancing Euphoria
Both alcohol and Kratom are commonly known for their euphoric effect. The combination of both these substances increases the dopamine level in the brain which can make users extremely happy and relaxed.
Relieving Discomfort
Kratom at a higher dose, and alcohol in general leads to a sedating effect that allows a profound sensation of calmness and relief in discomfort. Most individuals seeking ways to decrease their chronic discomfort usually mix both of them together for instant relief.
Experimentation
Most of the time, curiosity wins out. Individuals who want to experience the high of both substances together and see how it feels may experiment with mixing kratom and alcohol.
Social Situations
Combining the calming effects of alcohol with the stimulating effects of kratom can help reduce inhibitions and social shyness. This is great for all of your awkward social situations.
The Role of Kratom in Managing Alcoholism
The Chemistry Behind it
Kratom is also used to manage alcoholism by activating the brain’s reward pathways, similar to how alcohol does. This satisfies the brain’s craving for a reward and potentially reduces one’s desire for alcohol.
It mostly works due to the alkaloids present in the Kratom that interact with the brain receptors and potentially reduce alcohol cravings by providing a similar sensation of euphoria and well-being.
Using Kratom to Deal with a Hangover
Kratom has also been explored to not only deal with late-night hangovers but also manage it. Few people also use Kratom as an alternative to alcohol to get the same effect but safer.
While there’s not much evidence about whether Kratom can cure hangovers, most users have reported that a lower dose of around 2-6 grams hits the right spot for them and cures hangovers within a few hours.
In contrast, others who have reported side effects like nausea and headaches have usually opted for a higher dose.
Can Kratom Offer a Lifeline During Alcohol Withdrawal?
Kratom is also used to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms related to alcohol dependence such as irritability and muscle aches. By easing these symptoms, Kratom can make the process of quitting alcohol more manageable.
Dangers of Using Kratom and Alcohol Together
Kratom and alcohol are both stimulants and have an opioid-like effect on your brain chemistry. Using both individually in regulated does not have a major risk, but using them together can lead to high adverse effects and the list goes long.
Gastrointestinal Distress
When mixed together, both alcohol and Kratom can cause a vast range of gastrointestinal conditions including nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and dehydration.
Mental Health Issues
Prolong uses of both these substances together can make it difficult to perform your daily activities, by causing dizziness, confusion, mental disorientation, tremors, hallucinations, seizures, and irritation.
Cognitive Impairment
Long-term use can result in significant cognitive impairments, including memory loss, reduced attention span, and difficulties in decision-making and problem-solving. The combined sedative effects can also impair an individual’s motor skills and judgment which may lead to accidental injuries.
Addiction
Regular use of Kratom with alcohol may cause physiological dependence on both substances, especially if taken with a high dose of alcohol. It also increases the risk of alcohol addiction and causes severe physical withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it.
Using Alcohol and Kratom on the Same Day
If you are impressed by the positive effects of using alcohol and Kratom together, but still don’t want to risk its potential side effects, there are a few safety tips that you can consider.
Do not Mix
Space out the consumption of both alcohol and Kratom as much as possible, and try your best not to consume them together in one sitting. This can help reduce the intensity of their combined effects.
Use High-Quality Kratom
It is best to get your Kratom from a reliable source to ensure that it is pure and at least third-party lab tested so you don’t increase the risk of unnecessary side effects of contaminated quality Kratom.
Start with Low Doses
Start with using the lowest dose possible and see how your body reacts to it. It is ideal to not mix them together in your first few tries to reduce the risk of severe side effects.
Stay Hydrated
As both alcohol and Kraton cause dehydration, drink plenty of water or any nonalcoholic beverages to keep yourself hydrated and alleviate a few of the potential adverse effects.
Take Away
Mixing Kratom and alcohol can offer some appealing effects like enhanced euphoria and discomfort relief, but it comes with significant risks such as gastrointestinal distress, mental health issues, cognitive impairment, and addiction.
If you choose to use both substances on the same day, it’s crucial to space out their consumption, use high-quality Kratom, start with low doses, and stay hydrated.
Ultimately, the dangers often outweigh the benefits, so proceed with caution and consider the potential health impacts carefully.