does kratom make you shake

Does Kratom Make You Shake? Causes, Strains, and Solutions

With the emergence of the use of Kratom, reports of uncommon side effects have also emerged, including the case of having kratom shakes. Does Kratom make you shake? Have you ever taken kratom only to experience the trembling, the jitters, or the shakes, or even an overall quivering of the muscular system? 

Wonder no more, this is an all-inclusive guide to understanding why and what can be done about it. We will also discuss other similar issues such as skin rash caused by kratom, kratom as a diuretic, and whether there is any influence kratom has on mental health.

Does Kratom Make You Shake?

Yes, kratom may cause shaking in some of its users. Another common side effect is tremors or jitters / a feeling referred to as the kratom wobbles, which occur especially when taken in large doses or using some strains. 

Although shaking is not characteristic of all persons, the others usually report a physical imbalance, trembling in the arms, or inability to maintain focus in the eyes.

What Are Kratom Shakes or Wobbles?

These are so-called kratom wobbles, a separate group of symptoms characterized by physical trembling, blurry or otherwise weak vision, and some indications of feeling dizzy or unstable. 

One group of people experiences tremors in the entire body, but other individuals just experience a slight tremor in their hands or legs. Jitters are not the only result of Kratom effects, even more so—it is the indication that your body responds to the active compounds in the kratom strongly, especially when the dose is too large or one uses the kratom under specific circumstances.

Why Does Kratom Cause Shaking?

The Science Behind Kratom Shakes

The main alkaloids of kratom, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, act on the opioids of the brain, although they also act on adrenergic, serotonin, and dopamine receptors. 

Such sophisticated pharmacology has the potential to overwork some of the neural tracts, including those that deal with balance and motor control. When these systems are overactivated, tremors, muscle twitches, and the proverbial wobbles will result.

Key Causes of Kratom Shakes:

  • High Dosage: Doses above 6–8 grams significantly increase the risk of wobbles and shaking.
  • Potent Strains: Some strains, particularly white and green veins, are more stimulating and likely to cause jitteriness.
  • Taking on an Empty Stomach: Rapid absorption can intensify side effects.
  • Dehydration: Kratom acts as a mild diuretic, and dehydration can worsen tremors.
  • Mixing with Other Stimulants: Combining kratom with caffeine or other stimulants amplifies the risk.
  • Individual Sensitivity: Genetics, metabolism, and tolerance all play a role.

Kratom Strains and Shaking: Are Some Worse Than Others?

Strain Differences

  • White Vein Kratom: Known for its energizing effects, white vein strains are more likely to cause jitters or shakes, especially at higher doses.
  • Green Vein Kratom: Offers a balance of energy and relaxation, but can still cause wobbles in sensitive individuals or at high doses.
  • Red Vein Kratom: Typically more sedating and less likely to cause shaking, but excessive doses can still lead to tremors or muscle twitches.

Potency and Alkaloid Content

More stimulating strains are those with a high level of mitragynine. The shakes can be avoided by switching to a milder strain or reducing the dose in some users.

Kratom Shakes vs. Other Side Effects

Kratom shakes are often accompanied by other side effects, especially when doses are too high or the user is sensitive:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Sweating
  • Blurred vision
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Confusion or agitation
  • Muscle twitching or cramps

These symptoms are your body’s way of signaling that you’ve likely taken too much kratom or that your system is overstimulated.

Is Kratom a Diuretic?

Yes, kratom is a mild diuretic, like caffeine, tea. It implies that it has the capability of fostering the frequency of urination and preventing dehydration when you do not have sufficient fluids to consume. 

In its turn, the sensation of shakiness, muscle cramps, and headaches, in turn, can be aggravated by dehydration.

Tips to Prevent Dehydration:

  • Consume one complete glass of water with each dose of kratom.
  • Make sure you keep hydrating yourself during the day, especially when you have been active or live in a hot climate.
  • See electrolyte-rich food or drinks in case you have too much thirst, dry mouth, or muscle cramps.

Kratom Skin Rash: An Uncommon but Possible Reaction

While not directly related to shaking, some users report skin rashes, itching, or allergic reactions after taking kratom. This can result from:

  • Allergic reaction to the plant or contaminants
  • Contamination of kratom products with nickel or heavy metals because of their unregulated
  • Personal tolerance to alkaloids

The symptoms can be dry areas, red bumps, itching, and in extreme cases even blistering. In case you develop a rash, stop usage and talk with a medical professional.

Kratom Effects on Mental Health

Kratom’s impact on mental health is complex. While many use it for mood enhancement, anxiety relief, or to manage depression, high doses or regular use can have the opposite effect:

  • Anxiety or agitation: Overstimulation of the nervous system can cause anxiety, restlessness, or panic attacks in sensitive individuals.
  • Confusion or disorientation: High doses may impair cognitive function, leading to confusion or even hallucinations in rare cases.
  • Dependence and withdrawal: Long-term, heavy use can cause dependence, and withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, irritability, and muscle tremors (shakes).

What to Do If Kratom Makes You Shake

1. Lower Your Dose

The kratom shakes or wobbles are related in most instances. Take as little as possible to control your problem. Frequently, it is less than 5 grams per dose.

2. Switch Strains

In case you are taking one that is stimulating (white or green), take a milder red vein or a mixture with reduced mitragynine concentration.

3. Eat Before Dosing

When the user takes kratom on an empty stomach, the absorption goes up, and the effect gets serious. Eat something light before you take the dose.

4. Stay Hydrated

Take lots of water before, during, and after using kratom to counter the diuretic effects of kratom and prevent getting tremors and cramps.

5. Avoid Mixing with Stimulants

Avoid caffeine, energy, or stimulants when taking kratom, as this increases jitters and tremors.

6. Space Out Doses

Do not make repeated overdoses. Give your body time to digest one serving.

7. Listen to Your Body

It should be discontinued, and medical advice taken should spill over in the form of shakes. Refractory or violent tremors might be a sign of a more serious reaction or health problem.

How to Prevent Kratom Shakes: Practical Tips

  • Start low and go slow: Begin with a small dose and increase only if needed.
  • Rotate strains: Avoid building tolerance or overstimulation by switching between different types of kratom.
  • Monitor your hydration and nutrition: Dehydration and low blood sugar can worsen side effects.
  • Choose reputable sources: Poor-quality kratom may contain contaminants that increase the risk of rashes, allergies, or other adverse effects.

When to Seek Medical Help

When the shaking is severe or continues, when there is muscle cramping, confusion, rash, or any other alarming symptom, consult a doctor. 

In extreme cases, when taken by people with health disorders or combined with other medications, kratom may cause more significant responses.

Final Thoughts

You can shake when using kratom, particularly when you overdose, consume a stimulating strain, or when you are dehydrated. The kratom wobbles are uncomfortable, but do not appear (to most people) dangerous, and most users can prevent or manage them by consuming less kratom, by drinking more water, and by trying a different strain. 

Do not take longer or more seriously than you think wise. If you continue to have symptoms or your symptoms become severe–such as a skin rash or mental changes–quit taking them and see your healthcare provider. 

Just like any supplement, it is the right use and self-knowledge that can help it bring the greatest benefits with the least amount of risks.

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