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Kratom for ADHD: Does It Help? 

  • October 07, 2022

Kratom for ADHD: Does It Help? 

Many adult Americans suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, whether they were diagnosed as children or later in life. With kratom gaining momentum as possible help to alleviate some health conditions, some of them are wondering if using kratom for ADHD may be an option. In this article, we examine how may kratom help with ADHD and the best kratom strains for sale that may help with this condition.

What Is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – a.k.a. ADHD – is a complex mental condition yet to be entirely understood. Although it is often diagnosed during childhood, it affects adults as well. Although boys tend to be diagnosed earlier and more frequently, girls can have ADHD too.

Individuals suffering from hyperactivity disorder tend to have more issues focusing on a task or concentrating for long periods of time. This trouble manifests itself through fidgeting, difficulties organizing their time and activities, having problems maintaining a conversation, or even having issues with short-term memory processing in some more extreme cases.

Causes of ADHD

Deficit Hyperactivity

The exact causes of ADHD are still unknown. However, scientists have linked ADD diagnosis to different factors:

  • Genetics: Attention Deficit Disorder tends to run in the family.
  • Environment: Exposure to certain substances, notably lead, seems to play a role in ADD development.
  • Problems during development: Issues manifesting in the central nervous system at critical developmental stages may trigger hyperactivity disorders later.

Regardless of the causes, studies indicate that ADHD leads to decreased dopamine and serotonin levels, which power the brain’s reward system. As a result, dopamine levels, which are crucial to staying focused and motivated on a task, may not get adequately triggered. Therefore, individuals with hyperactivity disorders tend to look for stimulation elsewhere, abandoning the task at hand in the process.

How Common Is ADHD?

ADHD is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders affecting children. According to reports from the CDC, 9.4% of children and 2.5% of adults have ADHD. Boys tend to be diagnosed more frequently than girls since their symptoms manifest themselves in ways that may disturb the classroom (for example, fidgeting or disrupting others), but girls are also affected.

What Are the Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?

ADHD manifests itself differently depending on the individual. Symptoms can be divided into two categories: inattentive ADD and hyperactive compulsive. Patients tend to lean more towards one, but some may present a mix.

Inattentive ADD typically presents the following behaviors:

  • Difficulties focusing and retaining information
  • Does not manage time well
  • Forget daily tasks and chores
  • Move from task to task without finishing any
  • Lose things easily.

Hyperactive, compulsive patients have the following behaviors:

  • Not being able to stay seated and constantly fidgeting;
  • Talks too much without a filter or waiting for a turn;
  • Intruding on others;
  • Acting up (i.e., running, climbing, being loud, etc.).

Does Kratom Help in the Treatment of Hyperactivity Disorder?

Kratom has been gaining popularity among some users as a way to help with some of their mental disorder symptoms, which leads to the question: is kratom good for ADHD?

The answer is yes! Consuming kratom can help with ADHD.

Some kratom users with ADHD report that consuming this herbal complement may relieve some of their symptoms, making their social and personal lives a little easier. Depending on the strain, some users report finding that kratom may help them focus on a task longer or that it may help them calm down and avoid a brain overload.

Some ADHD patients may choose to use kratom as an alternative to side-effect-heavy medications that are frequently prescribed as a treatment for ADD, such as Adderall, Vyvanse, or Ritalin. Although using kratom for ADHD also has side effects, the correct dosage may be safer than prescription medicines according to frequent users.

Studies show that ADHD patients may suffer from an imbalance of GABA, which is a calming neurotransmitter. Kratom may have an action on the opiate receptors, which are contained in the GABA receptors. Kratom may act as an inhibitor and may provide some users with a calming effect.

Potential Effects of Kratom on Dopamine Levels

kratom for adhd

ADHD is linked to low dopamine levels, a crucial neurotransmitter affecting motivation and bodily movements. The lack of dopamine has also been linked to Parkinson’s and schizophrenia. It acts as a “reward pathway” that provides the body with a burst of euphoria when accomplishing certain activities. If your body releases enough dopamine, you are more likely to stay focused on your task. On the other hand, if the body does not release high enough levels of the neurotransmitter, you are more likely to seek different ways to stimulate the reward pathway and abandon the task, which is why ADHD tends to be distracted and fidgety.

One of the ways kratom helps with ADHD is by potentially stabilizing dopamine levels. The alkaloids in kratom may facilitate the release of the neurotransmitter by attaching themselves to the mu receptors. Therefore, some kratom strains for ADHD may help patients find focus and concentration.

Potential Effects of Kratom on Serotonin Levels

Like dopamine, serotonin is an essential neurotransmitter impacting mood and concentration, which has been linked to ADHD symptoms. It also regulates sleep patterns, social behavior, and memory. Some kratom strains good for ADHD may facilitate serotonin absorption and production due to their high levels of alkaloids 7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine. Consuming kratom for ADHD may help some patients take social cues and retain new information.

Kratom and Norepinephrine

Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter and hormone. Many studies have shown that individuals with ADHD may experience low levels of Norepinephrine, which affects their ability to concentrate and may cause mood swings. Using kratom for ADHD may contribute to increasing norepinephrine production and absorption in the body, therefore helping patients to focus and stabilize their emotions.

Is Kratom Safe for Children?

Since kratom is a natural supplement and hyperactivity disorders are common in children, you may be wondering: can kratom help with ADHD in children? However, kratom is not safe for children. The plant is related to coffee, and the use of stimulants is not recommended for young children without discussion with a health professional.

Best Kratom Strains to Improve Focus and Concentration

Best Kratom Strains to Improve Focus and Concentration

Each kratom strain has its own properties according to frequent users: some may stimulate and help improve ADHD symptoms, while others may worsen them. Therefore, when choosing the best kratom for ADHD, it is essential to pick a kratom strain to improve concentration and focus. Here are some of the strains good for ADHD according to long-term users.

White Maeng Da Kratom

White Maeng Da Kratom strain may be one of the most potent white vein strains, which many kratom users appreciate for their reported energy-boosting abilities. According to some consumers, white Maeng Da kratom may improve the serotonin and dopamine levels in the body, alleviating some of the ADHD symptoms like the lack of concentration and inability to focus on a task. Some users also report a euphoric feeling, making it notably indicated as one of the best kratoms for ADHD.

White Thai Kratom

White Thai kratom is another suggestion many kratom users offer when asked: does kratom help with ADHD? White strain kratoms have the reputation of helping improve serotonin and dopamine levels which often run low in patients who have ADHD. White Thai kratom may also offer a potential nootropic effect that may help with mental clarity and better focus. These abilities make it a popular choice for kratom strains for ADHD.

Green Maeng Da Kratom

Although white strains are popular among kratom strains for ADHD, green strains may offer some similar abilities. Green Maeng Da kratom also possesses high nootropic levels, which may make it an excellent option for individuals with ADHD. It has mood-boosting properties thanks to its ability to stimulate dopamine and serotonin production and may help clear your mind. Therefore, it is another great strain to consider if you are curious about trying kratom for ADHD since it provides a great balance of calm and focus.

Green Bali Kratom

Green kratom strains may hit the perfect balance between providing a sense of calm and promoting mental clarity. This equilibrium is often particularly tricky for patients with ADHD to achieve. Green Bali kratom may be used at any time of the day. Like another kratom for ADD and ADHD, it may help make some symptoms, such as the lack of focus and productivity, more manageable. Since its effects are allegedly milder than some white strains, it may prevent users from feeling overwhelmed.

White Malay Kratom

Some kratom users compare White Malay kratom to a “supercharged coffee.” Its strong stimulating abilities may improve patients with ADHD’s ability to focus on a task for several hours and deliver a substantial boost of energy. Therefore, it is particularly indicated if you are looking for one of the best kratoms for ADHD to be taken earlier in the day, including first thing in the morning, since it may provide similar stimulation to caffeine without the associated jittery effect. However, beware that it may be more relaxing when taken in large quantities, so make sure you are taking the proper kratom dosage for ADHD.

White Horn Kratom

best kratom for adhd

Some kratom users with ADHD have reported that consuming white Horn kratom may help them deal with their symptoms a little easier. They find that white Horn kratom may contribute to elevating their focus and mental clarity without impacting their anxiety levels negatively. Besides, like other white strains, white Horn kratom may have mood-boosting properties, making it an excellent choice for patients with depressive tendencies. Therefore, it is another choice if you are looking for a kratom strain to help with ADHD.

Red Sumatra Kratom

Although white and green kratom strains are often recommended by frequent kratom users for kratom and ADHD, thanks to their potentially energizing and stimulating abilities, their effect may be overwhelming for patients who are trying to tune their minds down. Red Sumatra kratom is said to be an excellent choice if you are looking for relief from anxiety while remaining more stimulating than some of its red vein counterparts, making ADHD symptoms more manageable. Many kratom users will recommend it if you are looking for a kratom strain that may help you relax and unwind without feeling sedated.

Appropriate Kratom Dosage for ADHD

Finding the correct kratom dosage for ADHD may be tricky since the possible effects of kratom vary widely depending on how much you consume. Many factors – such as your age, weight, and overall health – may also influence the appropriate amount of kratom for ADHD. Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all dosage.

Experts recommend starting small and sticking to measurable forms of kratom, such as capsules or measuring powder, until you know its possible effects. Here are some guidelines for kratom dosage for ADHD according to frequent users:

  • White kratom: white strains may be more stimulating in small and more relaxing in high dosages. They recommend starting with small 2-4 gram doses if you’re using kratom to potentially improve mental clarity.
  • Green kratom: small doses (2 to 4 grams) to moderate amounts (4 to 7 grams) are reportedly best if you are seeking to possibly increase your productivity since a high dosage may make you sedated.
  • Red kratom: red kratom is reportedly only stimulating in small quantities and has a potentially powerful relaxing effect, so it’s recommended to stick to small 2 to 4 grams doses.

Potential Side Effects of Using Kratom for ADHD

Potential Side Effects of Using Kratom for ADHD

Does kratom help with ADHD? Yes! However, this natural supplement is not something to be taken lightly. When consumed in excessive doses, kratom’s potential opiate-like effects may be addictive, and your body may acquire tolerance. Therefore, it is essential to self-monitor your kratom usage and use it sparingly. Kratom withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Flu-like symptoms (shaking, sweat, etc.)

In more extreme, rare cases, kratom addiction has been linked to seizures, coma, and death.

Other side effects of kratom overconsumption include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Low energy
  • Digestive issues
  • Fogginess

If you notice any of these occurrences, stop using kratom for ADHD immediately and observe if there are any changes in your physical and mental health.

Can You Take Kratom with ADHD Medication?

Many patients with an ADHD or ADD diagnosis regularly take prescription drugs to alleviate some of their symptoms and make their personal and professional lives more manageable. Therefore, if you are considering using kratom for ADD, you are likely wondering if it is safe to combine kratom with commonly prescribed medications, such as Adderall, Vyvanse, or Modafinil.

Unfortunately, using kratom for attention deficit disorders and regular prescriptions is not a good idea. Most common ADHD medications, as well as kratom, contribute to boosting the patient’s dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline levels. Therefore, taking them together increases the risk of adverse side effects along with the risk of developing an addiction.

Is Kratom for ADHD Better than Adderall?

Adderall is one of the most common forms of prescriptions for ADHD. Although it has proven results, it is not without its numerous side effects. Adderall users frequently complain about digestive issues (nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite), insomnia, headaches, as well as mental issues such as increased irritability and anxiety. In addition, Adderall has a high risk of addiction.

Meanwhile, some users have found that using kratom for ADHD may be a natural and prescription-free alternative to managing ADHD symptoms. Kratom’s potential effects are less potent and shorter-lasting than Adderall, but it may help some users deal with focus loss. Not to mention, kratom may also help with anxiety.

Kratom and Adderall Side-by-Side Comparison

Adderall Kratom
Active Ingredients Dextroamphetamine Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, other alkaloids
Availability Prescription-only No restriction
Composition Synthetic Natural
Cost Insurance covered Expensive, no insurance coverage
FDA Approved Yes No
Risk of Addiction High Low to moderate
Side Effects Loss of appetite, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, nausea, insomnia Dizziness, nausea, headaches, low energy

Is Kratom for ADHD Better than Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is another prescription drug commonly used to treat ADHD symptoms. It was developed as an alternative to Adderall to prevent abuse. However, it remains highly addictive and comes with a long list of side effects, including restlessness, dizziness, digestive issues, insomnia, and increased irritability. Although some patients with ADHD have had good results with Vyvanse, others complain about personality changes, including mood swings and angry outbursts.

According to some users, kratom may provide dopamine stimulation and focus improvement, similar to Vyvanse, but with fewer side effects. It may also improve the user’s response to anxiety.

Kratom and Vyvanse Side-by-side Comparison

Vyvanse Kratom
Availability Prescription-only No restriction
Composition Synthetic Natural
FDA Approved Yes No
Cost Covered by some insurances Expensive, no insurance coverage
Active Ingredients D-amphetamine Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, other alkaloids
Side Effects Weight loss, dry mouth, increased irritability, mood swing, and suppressed growth. Dizziness, nausea, headaches, low energy
Risk of Addiction High Low to moderate

Is Kratom for ADHD Better than Modafinil?

Although Modafinil is not considered an ADHD prescription drug, some individuals with ADHD commonly use it to alleviate some of their symptoms. It acts as a noradrenaline stimulator, forcing the brain into a waken state that may improve productivity and focus.

The reported effects of kratom are very similar to the ones of Modafinil, more so than other ADHD prescription drugs such as Adderall or Vyvanse. Therefore, both substances should never be used simultaneously to avoid the increased risk of adverse side effects.

Kratom and Modafinil Side-by-side Comparison

Modafinil Kratom
Availability Prescription-only No restriction
Composition Synthetic Natural
FDA Approved Yes No
Cost Covered by some insurances Expensive, no insurance coverage
Active Ingredients Modafinil Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, other alkaloids
Side Effects Dry mouth, anxiety, insomnia Dizziness, nausea, headaches, low energy
Risk of Addiction Moderate Low to moderate

The Low-Down: Does Kratom Help with ADHD?

ADHD and ADD are complex mental issues that leave patients experiencing a wide range of symptoms. Some consumers have reported that using kratom for ADHD may help improve their ability to focus on a task for more extended periods of time and may also help with anxiety as an alternative to addictive and side-effect-heavy prescription drugs such as Adderall or Vyvanse. The kratom dosage for ADHD is typically on the lower end, and the best kratom strains for ADHD are usually stimulating green and white strains.

However, kratom is not without its own set of side effects. Therefore, children should not consume kratom, and you should always purchase high-quality kratom.

Please note that PaylessKratom.com and all of its subsidiaries, officers, and employees do not make any claims in any shape or form for kratom and all of the claims made within this blog and this site.