Evidence supporting the use of: Kratom
For the health condition: Worry
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, where its leaves have been used traditionally in folk medicine. In countries like Thailand and Malaysia, kratom has been used by local populations for its stimulant effects at low doses and sedative or calming effects at higher doses. Historically, kratom has been employed to manage symptoms of "worry"—which can be broadly interpreted as anxiety, stress, or nervousness—among laborers and in social contexts. The calming effects are attributed to its primary alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid receptors in the brain and may influence mood.
However, while there is robust traditional use, scientific evidence supporting kratom’s efficacy or safety for treating anxiety or "worry" in humans is limited and of low quality. A few animal studies suggest anxiolytic-like effects, but human data are largely anecdotal or consist of survey studies. No randomized controlled trials have established its safety or efficacy for anxiety disorders. Moreover, concerns have been raised about dependence, withdrawal, and adverse effects. Therefore, the use of kratom for worry is primarily traditional, with only a modest and not well-defined evidence base supporting its use.
Other ingredients used for Worry
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
waterhyssop
benegut perilla (proprietary)
damiana
fennel
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
guayusa
kudzu
l-theanine
l-tyrosine
lavender
lion's mane
magnesium
motherwort
ophiopogon root
polygala root
relora® (proprietary)
vitamin B6
zinc
cardamom
1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
Albizia
Buddha's Hand
bacoside
Poppy
Other health conditions supported by Kratom
Abdominal PainAddictions (drugs)
Addictions (general remedies for)
Alcoholism
Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Backache
Depression
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Fatigue
Inflammation
Insomnia
Mental Illness
Mood Swings
Nervous Exhaustion
Nervousness
Pain (general remedies for)
Stress
Worry