Evidence supporting the use of: Kratom
For the health condition: Mood Swings
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 for their stimulant and opioid-like effects. Historically, kratom has been consumed by laborers in countries like Thailand and Malaysia to combat fatigue, improve mood, and increase productivity. Anecdotal and ethnobotanical reports suggest that kratom has been used to manage symptoms related to mood swings, such as irritability or low mood, though these uses are primarily rooted in traditional practices rather than formal medical systems.
Scientific research on kratom’s effects on mood is limited and primarily consists of case reports, surveys, and preclinical studies. Some users report that kratom helps stabilize mood or relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression, which could indirectly relate to mood swings. The primary active alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, act on opioid receptors and may influence mood regulation; however, there are no robust clinical trials validating kratom’s efficacy or safety for mood swings specifically. The available evidence mostly consists of user testimonials and observational studies, which are subject to bias and lack rigorous controls.
In summary, the use of kratom for mood swings is supported mainly by traditional use and anecdotal reports, with limited and low-quality scientific evidence. Caution is warranted due to potential side effects, dependence, and lack of regulatory oversight.
Other ingredients used for Mood Swings
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
beta caryophyllene
bifidobacterium longum
black tea
chaste tree
turmeric
l-theanine
l-tryptophan
l-tyrosine
lactobacillus casei
lactobacillus reuteri
licorice root
lion's mane
lithium orotate
maca
magnesium
matcha
Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
pregnenolone
reishi mushroom
relora® (proprietary)
rhodiola
vitamin B12
vitamin B6
vitamin D
zinc
St. John's Wort
yerba mate
cocoa
Bifidobacteria
bacoside
Chocolate
Devil's Club
Rose
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