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@hafizfaisal0351683358923 · 08 May 2023

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Kratom and Alcoholism: Can It Be Used as a Complementary Treatment?

Alcoholism is a severe problem affecting millions of people worldwide. While there are various treatment options available, many individuals seek complementary or alternative treatment methods to supplement traditional approaches. Kratom, an herbal supplement originating from Southeast Asia, has gained attention as a potential complementary treatment option for alcoholism. In this article, we will explore the use of Kratom in treating alcoholism.

What is Kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. The leaves of the Kratom tree contain compounds called alkaloids, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which have both stimulant and opioid-like effects when consumed.

Kratom leaves have been traditionally used in Southeast Asian cultures for their stimulant and analgesic properties, as well as for treating various medical conditions such as diarrhea, cough, and pain. Kratom has also gained popularity in the Western world in recent years as an alternative medicine for chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.

Kratom can be consumed in various forms, including as dried or fresh leaves, powder, capsules, or extracts. However, it is important to note that Kratom is not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and its use can pose risks of adverse effects, addiction, and even death, particularly when taken in large doses or combined with other substances.

Alcoholism

Alcoholism, sometimes referred to as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic, potentially fatal condition marked by compulsive and uncontrollable alcohol consumption despite its harmful effects. Even when drinking negatively affects their relationships, their performance at work or school, or their health and safety, alcoholics may continue to consume alcohol.

Alcohol use disorder is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a pattern of alcohol use that causes considerable distress or impairment and is exhibited by at least two of the symptoms listed below over a year:

Drinking alcohol for longer than anticipated or in excess
Difficulty in cutting down or controlling alcohol use
using alcohol frequently or dealing with its effects
Craving or a strong desire to drink
Consuming alcohol despite the negative effects
giving up significant social, professional, or recreational pursuits as a result of drinking
Drinking despite knowing that it causes physical or psychological problems
Tolerance, or the need to drink more to achieve the same effect
signs of withdrawal when cutting back on or stopping alcohol consumption

Alcoholism can have detrimental effects, such as liver disease, heart issues, brain impairment, and a higher chance of accidents and injuries. Alcoholism treatment may include therapy, medication, and support groups, and it can be tailored to each patient's requirements and the severity of their sickness.

Kratom and Alcoholism


Kratom has a significant potential for addiction and can be dangerous for those who suffer from alcohol use disorders, even though some people use it as an alcohol substitute (AUD).

Studies indicate that Kratom may have the potential to be utilized as a harm-reduction method for alcohol dependence, accounting for some users that it helps to minimize alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It's important to remember that there is a potential for addiction and other side effects when using this plant and that there isn't much scientific evidence to support Kratom's suitability and efficiency in the treatment of AUD.

Also, those who take Kratom and have AUD may be more susceptible to harmful interactions between the two drugs. Both alcohol and kratom have sedative effects and can depress the central nervous system, which, in excessive amounts or when mixed with other drugs, can result in respiratory depression, coma, or death.

As a result, those who have AUD must get professional assistance for their illness and refrain from using Kratom or other drugs as a kind of self-medication without a doctor's supervision. For those battling with alcoholism, a healthcare expert can offer personalized treatment alternatives and assistance.

Research Studies

There isn't much scientific research (AUD) that has examined Kratom's potential as a treatment for alcoholism. Kratom, however, may have the potential to be used as a harm-reduction strategy for alcoholism, according to some early research. Here are a few illustrations:

A study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 2010 found that a Kratom extract reduced alcohol consumption in rats that were trained to drink alcohol voluntarily. The researchers concluded that Kratom may have the potential as a treatment for alcohol dependence in humans.

Another study revealed that Kratom molecules had promise as drugs to treat alcohol and opioid addiction, which was reported in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry in 2016. The compounds in kratom have the potential to block the brain receptors that lead to drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms, claims the study.

The American Kratom Association surveyed 2,798 Kratom users in 2019 to learn more about their experiences. According to the findings, 52% of those surveyed used Kratom to reduce or stop consuming alcohol. Additionally, 95% of the individuals said that using Kratom had helped them cut back on or stop drinking alcohol.

To determine the safety and effectiveness of Kratom for treating AUD, more study is necessary, as these studies had limitations. Additionally, it's critical for those with AUD to get professional assistance rather than relying entirely on Kratom or other complementary therapies without a doctor's supervision.

Kratom and Addiction

Other addictions, such as opioid addiction, may also be treated with kratom, according to some research. Some specialists believe that kratom's ability to stimulate the opioid receptors in the brain may help reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. To determine the safety and potency of Kratom for the treatment of addiction, more research is necessary.

Conclusion

Finally, Kratom may be another therapeutic option for people who are trying to overcome alcoholism. Even though there hasn't been much research on Kratom's effectiveness in treating alcoholism, some studies have found that it may assist lessen withdrawal symptoms and alcohol cravings. Kratom can have hazards and adverse effects, including addiction, liver damage, and seizures, thus it is important to use it responsibly. People should speak with their doctor before using Kratom and use the suggested amounts.