Does Kratom Cause Hair Loss? A Holistic Look at the Risks

Medical Providers:
Dr. Michael Vines, MD
Alex Spritzer, FNP, CARN-AP, PMHNP
Clinical Providers:
Natalie Foster, LPC-S, MS
Last Updated: November 28, 2025

Understanding whether does kratom cause hair loss is a common concern among people using kratom products for pain relief or increased energy. A recent report estimated that around 1.7 million people in the United States used it in 2021, highlighting how widespread kratom mitragyna speciosa has become.

While it is often promoted as a natural herbal supplement, users increasingly talk about unexpected side effects, including changes in hair health. In this article, you’ll learn why some people experience shedding, what contributes to it, and how holistic care at HART Rehab can support healthier recovery.

Our Kratom Addiction Treatment Centers

Rebuild balance with intention. Your next chapter can start now.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom comes from kratom leaves of the mitragyna speciosa tree, a plant native to Southeast Asia that has been used traditionally for pain-relieving purposes. Many people in the United States now use kratom products to manage chronic pain, increase energy, or ease symptoms linked to opioid withdrawal.

Because it interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, it may create effects similar to a mild pain reliever. But unlike approved medical treatments, it remains unregulated, leaving users vulnerable to side effects of kratom that the Food and Drug Administration (also referred to as the drug administration FDA) continues to warn consumers about.

Does Kratom Cause Hair Loss?

Many people ask whether it cause hair issues, and while research is still developing, user reports suggest a possible connection. Some individuals notice shedding after long-term kratom use, especially when taken at higher doses.

Hair changes may happen when kratom affects hormones, stress levels, or overall wellness—factors closely tied to hair health. While not everyone experiences it, frequent use or addictive patterns seem to increase the likelihood of noticeable hair thinning.

A calmer life is within reach. Let HART Rehab guide your path.

Why Does Kratom Cause Hair Loss?

Before looking at each factor, it’s helpful to understand that kratom abuse can influence several internal systems involved in growth, stress, and nutrition. These combined changes may contribute to hair follicles weakening over time.

1. Nutrient Imbalance

Long-term use may reduce appetite, which can lead to missing essential nutrients needed for strong hair follicles. When your body lacks key vitamins and minerals, hair becomes more fragile and more likely to shed.

2. Hormonal Shifts

Because it binds to opioid receptors in the brain, it may subtly influence hormone production. These changes can affect your natural growth cycle and make hair thinning more noticeable.

3. Product Contamination

Some kratom products contain heavy metals or impurities due to a lack of regulation. When the Food and Drug Administration tested samples in the past, contamination concerns were common, and these toxins can negatively affect hair and overall wellness.

4. Stress on the Body

Aaddictive patterns may put physical stress on your system, especially when taken at high doses. This stress can trigger temporary shedding known as telogen effluvium.

5. Sleep Disruptions

Side effects of kratom may include insomnia or restless sleep, which interferes with the body’s repair cycles. Poor sleep weakens hair growth and may contribute to thinning over time.

How to Prevent Kratom Hair Loss?

Before exploring prevention tips, remember that everyone responds differently, and paying attention to your body is essential. These steps are not medical treatment, but they may support overall hair health.

1. Reduce Your Dosage

Cutting back from higher doses can reduce physical stress and stabilize your system. This allows your body—and your hair—to return to a healthier rhythm.

2. Add Supportive Nutrition

Focus on foods rich in protein, zinc, and healthy fats to nourish hair follicles. Balanced nutrition may help counter the appetite loss sometimes linked to abuse.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen shedding and dullness. Drinking enough water supports healthy hair growth and overall wellness.

4. Prioritize Sleep

Quality rest helps your body repair damage and maintain hair strength. Building a steady sleep routine can make a noticeable difference.

5. Consider Holistic Support

Holistic care programs like those at HART Rehab can address emotional stress, nutritional gaps, and substance use disorder patterns. This whole-body approach supports healthier recovery and improved hair health.

Choose healing over exhaustion. We’ll walk beside you every step.

Other Effects of Kratom Aside From Hair Loss

Kratom affects everyone differently, and shedding is just one potential concern. Here are other side effects of kratom users sometimes report.

1. Digestive Issues

Some people experience nausea or constipation, especially during long-term use. These symptoms may worsen at higher doses.

2. Anxiety or Irritability

Kratom can shift mood depending on frequency and amount. Emotional sensitivity is more common among those with addiction patterns.

3. Sleep Disturbances

Difficulty sleeping is frequently mentioned among users. Poor rest increases stress on the body and can worsen existing health concerns.

4. Withdrawal Symptoms

Because it interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, stopping suddenly may be uncomfortable for some people. This may resemble mild opioid addiction withdrawal patterns in people with heavy or frequent use.

5. Increased Heart Rate

Some users notice a faster heartbeat after taking kratom products. This effect may feel more intense when combined with other stimulants.

Let your body and mind reset. Holistic care is ready when you are.

Kratom Addiction Treatment Near Me

If kratom use has become difficult to manage, holistic support can make recovery more comfortable and more sustainable. At HART Rehab, we understand how kratom abuse can affect the mind, body, and overall stability.

Our approach looks beyond symptoms by caring for emotional health, stress, nutrition, and daily balance. Whether you’re dealing with substance use disorder, chronic pain triggers, or unwanted side effects like hair loss, compassionate support is available.

As a holistic treatment center, HART Rehab helps you rebalance your life with guidance that respects your goals and your pace. If you’re ready to feel grounded again, help is closer than you think.

Find clarity beyond kratom use. Your recovery can begin gently today.