Derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, kratom has exploded in popularity for its many potential benefits. As use has become more widespread, some people wonder whether it’s beneficial or safe to combine kratom with other herbal supplements. What are the best supplements to take with kratom, and how should you take them?

Let’s explore the potential benefits of combining kratom with other supplements, as well as which specific supplements to consider and which to steer away from when considering such combinations.

Can You Take Kratom with Other Herbal Supplements?

The simple answer to whether or not you can combine natural products made from kratom leaves with other herbal supplements is a definite “yes.”  Finding supplements to take with kratom is a topic of great interest for many people seeking to enhance the effects of supplements or boost their overall wellness. 

However, whether it’s recommended or not largely depends on an individual’s overall health, their goals, and which specific herbs they’re thinking of using. If you are thinking about purchasing supplements to take with kratom, you should consider the following:

  1. Consult Your Healthcare Providers: It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before combining kratom with other supplements. Healthcare professionals can offer personalized advice based on your health history and any current medications.
  1. Research and Understanding: Understanding how kratom and other herbal supplements may interact is essential before adding them to your health and wellness regimen. Not all combinations are well-researched, and some could lead to adverse effects.

Benefits of Combining Kratom with Herbal Supplements

When done correctly and safely, combining kratom with other herbal supplements can offer enhanced or even complementary benefits. Here are some potential benefits:

  • Improved Mood and Emotional Balance: Mixing kratom with herbs known for their calming effects can help enhance kratom’s mood-boosting and anxiety-reducing properties.
  • Increased Energy and Focus: For those looking to boost energy and focus, combining kratom with certain herbs may be used to combat physical fatigue and enhance mental performance.
  • Overall Balanced Effects: Some herbs may help balance the effects of kratom. For instance, blending a stimulating kratom strain with a calming botanical supplement may help avoid overstimulation. This can provide a more balanced experience.

Herbal Supplements to Consider Taking with Kratom

  • Turmeric is well known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties thanks to the compound curcumin. When the mood-boosting effects of kratom are combined with the wellness effects of turmeric, it may naturally increase overall comfort level.
  • Valerian Root is another commonly used herbal supplement, which is known for its sedative effects. Used medicinally since ancient Greco-Roman times, valerian has been used as a home remedy for insomnia, migraines, and cramps. When combined with a grounding strain like red vein kratom, valerian may help to promote better rest. It may also enhance one’s ability to wind down after a long day.
  • St. John’s Wort has been shown to be more effective than placebos as a natural antidepressant for milder forms of depression. Used in conjunction with certain strains of kratom, it may increase various neurotransmitters in the brain and help to improve mood.
  • Ginger is native to Asia and has been used holistically for over 2,000 years. Research has shown that it may be helpful for nausea, gastrointestinal distress, and motion sickness.  There has also been a small amount of research showing that it may be helpful for menstrual cramps as well. Some kratom users, especially new users, may experience mild upset stomach and find that ginger helps alleviate this side effect. As a bonus, ginger tastes delicious and makes a great ingredient to add to kratom tea.
  • Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps the body manage stress. Also known as Indian Winter Cherry and used in Ayurvedic alternative medicine, this herb is taken to increase energy. It also reduces stress and may lower inflammation.  Like the other herbs on our list, comprehensive research on ashwagandha is limited but evolving. However, there are a number of science-backed studies showing that ashwagandha has the potential to lower blood sugar. It may also improve sexual function and fertility, enhance concentration, and support heart health. This adaptogen may boost the effectiveness of kratom on mood and energy levels.

Potential Risk Factors & Side Effects

While there may be benefits, there are also potential problems that may arise from combining kratom with other herbal supplements and botanicals. While more research is needed, anecdotal reports suggest that the following issues may occur:

  • Adverse Interactions: Not all herbs interact well with kratom. Some combinations may lead to adverse effects such as gastrointestinal issues, dizziness, or heightened side effects. For example, combining kratom with other substances that have sedative effects may lead to excessive drowsiness or respiratory issues.

    Furthermore, certain supplements like St. John’s Wort have been proven to interact negatively with medications like antidepressants, birth control, HIV drugs, and blood thinners. As always, speak to your primary healthcare provider about your specific medications about any possible adverse reactions before using kratom or other supplements.
  • Increased Side Effects: Herbs that have similar effects to kratom can amplify its side effects. For instance, combining kratom with other stimulants can increase the risk of side effects like jitteriness. These herbs may also case increased heart rate, or trouble sleeping.
  • Lack of Research: Despite generations of anecdotal evidence, there is limited modern scientific research on many herbal supplements. Research about herbal combinations involving kratom is even more limited. This lack of data means that potential risks might not be fully understood. That’s why it’s essential to approach any such combinations with caution. Always listen to your doctor and pay attention to how your body feels. Discontinue the use of supplements if you experience any issues.

Supplements to Avoid Combining with Kratom

Certain supplements and herbs should be avoided when using kratom due to the risk of negative interactions or amplified side effects:

  • Other Stimulants: Combining doses of kratom with other stimulants like caffeine, ephedra, or even herbs (like certain types of ginseng) may lead to overstimulation. This may cause symptoms like anxiety, increased heart rate, or high blood pressure.
  • Sedative Herbs: Herbs with sedative properties, such as kava, valerian root, and St. John’s Wort, may increase the natural grounding effects of kratom if taken in excess quantities. This combination may be dangerous, potentially leading to excessive drowsiness, depressed respiration, or other potentially serious side effects. Use caution when taking these supplements with kratom, especially if operating any type of machinery or vehicle.
  • Blood Thinners: Herbs that act as blood thinners, like garlic, ginger, or ginkgo biloba, could potentially increase the risk of bleeding. Kratom itself is not a known blood thinner. However, combining it with such herbs may have unpredictable effects on blood clotting.
  • MAO Inhibitors: Herbs that act as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as passionflower or certain types of ginseng, may also interact with kratom. This may lead to severe side effects. Herbs that act in this fashion inhibit the breakdown of certain chemicals in the brain, like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.  MAOIs and kratom both affect neurotransmitter levels in the brain, and combining them may lead to potential imbalances.

The Bottom Line on Kratom and Supplements

Combining kratom with other herbal supplements may offer many potential benefits. However, it also carries a certain amount of risk, such as possible adverse interactions and potential increased side effects. 

Despite their rich history in ancient medicine and home remedies, many of the supplements we’ve just covered have not been researched extensively by modern science. Therefore, it is crucial to approach any such combinations with caution. Make sure to seek advice from a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen.

If you decide to combine kratom with other herbal supplements, start with small doses and monitor your body’s response. Always prioritize your safety and well-being above any potential benefits. Professional guidance from a physician you trust can help you navigate the complexities of herbal supplements.

For the highest quality kratom that’s lab-tested for purity and freshness, the Kratom Store has your back. Shop now for the best kratom to enjoy on its own or with your herbal supplement of choice.