Kratom, derived from the leaves of the tropical evergreen tree Mitragyna speciosa, has been traditionally used in Southeast Asia for its stimulating and pain-relieving properties. The effects of this plant-based substance are complex, leading to its use for energy and to manage discomfort. As Kratom has gained popularity, many users have reported various physical effects, including changes to the body’s temperature regulation system. This has made the question of whether Kratom causes excessive sweating a common concern.
Kratom Use and Hyperhidrosis
Excessive sweating, clinically known as hyperhidrosis, is a recognized acute physical side effect of Kratom use. Users often report feeling flushed, which can transition into mild dampness or more severe drenching episodes. This effect is typically reported alongside the use of moderate to high doses. Hyperhidrosis can be uncomfortable and is a common reason users adjust their consumption habits.
Feeling overheated or having hot flashes is linked to the body’s attempt to manage an internal thermal shift. This phenomenon is similar to the effects produced by other psychoactive compounds that influence the central nervous system. Users may find their clothing or bedding damp, even in a cool environment, confirming a direct physiological influence rather than a reaction to external temperature.
The Physiological Basis for Thermoregulation Changes
The mechanism behind Kratom’s effect on body temperature is rooted in the action of its primary active compounds: the alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids interact with the body’s opioid receptors, primarily the mu-opioid receptors, which regulate bodily functions like temperature and pain relief. At higher concentrations, Kratom appears to cause a dysregulation of the central mechanisms responsible for maintaining a stable core body temperature (thermoregulation).
When the body’s internal thermostat is disrupted, it may signal an inappropriate rise in temperature, triggering a cooling response. This response involves vasodilation, where blood vessels near the skin surface widen to increase circulation and release heat. Simultaneously, sweat glands activate, releasing moisture onto the skin to facilitate cooling through evaporation. Furthermore, Kratom’s initial stimulant effects, particularly at lower doses, can activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased metabolic activity and heart rate, which generates more internal heat the body must dissipate.
Related Acute Physical Symptoms
Beyond excessive sweating, Kratom use can be accompanied by several other acute physical manifestations, often related to sympathetic nervous system stimulation or dehydration. Nausea is a frequently reported symptom, ranging up to episodes of vomiting, especially when the substance is consumed on an empty stomach or in large amounts. Muscle tremors or jitters are also common, reflecting the substance’s stimulating properties.
Users may also experience dry mouth (xerostomia), a side effect exacerbated by fluid loss from sweating. The combination of sweating and dry mouth can rapidly lead to dehydration if fluid intake is not actively maintained. Another documented effect is a rapid heart rate (tachycardia), a direct consequence of the stimulant-like actions on the cardiovascular system.
Dosage and Symptom Mitigation
The severity of physical side effects, including hyperhidrosis, is strongly linked to the amount of Kratom consumed. Higher doses significantly increase the likelihood and intensity of adverse symptoms. Pronounced side effects are commonly reported when the ingested dose exceeds approximately eight grams of the raw plant material.
To mitigate symptoms like sweating, the most direct action is to reduce the dosage, allowing the body’s thermoregulatory system to function normally. Staying well-hydrated is also a practical strategy to replace lost fluids and to counteract dry mouth. Users can manage their physical environment by ensuring they are in a cool, well-ventilated space, which aids the body’s natural cooling mechanisms.