Kratom and Testosterone Levels
Kratom and Testosterone Levels
Abdullah Mamun
Published on July 11, 2022
Updated on May 22, 2025
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TL;DR: This guide explores kratom’s effect on testosterone and whether it can lower testosterone levels. While some users worry about hormonal changes, no scientific evidence confirms kratom significantly reduces testosterone. A 2018 study found no major hormonal disruptions in long-term kratom users. Age, stress, and lifestyle factors likely play a bigger role in testosterone regulation than kratom itself.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or regulatory advice. Kratom is not FDA-approved, and its effects, risks, and legal status may vary by location. Always consult a healthcare professional before using kratom and check local laws to ensure compliance.


There has been ongoing debate about kratom’s effects on testosterone, with some claiming it may lower testosterone levels while others argue it has no significant impact. Since testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle growth, mood, energy, and libido, it’s natural for kratom users to wonder: Does kratom lower testosterone?

This article explores the scientific research, potential hormonal effects, and user experiences to provide a balanced perspective on kratom and testosterone levels.

Key Takeaways

  1. Kratom’s impact on testosterone remains debated, but current research suggests no significant reduction in testosterone levels.
  2. A 2018 study found no hormonal changes in long-term kratom users.
  3. Other factors like age, stress, and diet play a more significant role in testosterone regulation than kratom alone.
  4. Some users mistake fatigue or reduced energy for low testosterone, but these effects may be due to other lifestyle factors.
  5. If you are concerned about testosterone levels, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.

Does Kratom Lower Testosterone?

Some users worry that kratom could affect testosterone production, but currently, there is no conclusive scientific evidence proving that kratom significantly lowers testosterone levels.

While anecdotal reports vary, most research suggests that kratom does not directly impact testosterone production in a way that causes long-term deficiency. Some key considerations include:

  • No major studies confirm kratom reduces testosterone in healthy individuals.
  • Some users experiencing low testosterone symptoms may have other underlying factors, such as diet, stress, lifestyle, or unrelated medical conditions.
  • Kratom interacts with opioid receptors, leading some to speculate that it could contribute to hormonal changes similar to opioid-induced androgen deficiency (OPIAD), but this remains unproven.

If you’re concerned about kratom and testosterone, it may be helpful to monitor your energy levels, mood, and physical health while using kratom and consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

 

What Is Testosterone? Definition

Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testicles (in men) and the ovaries and adrenal glands (in women). It plays a key role in muscle growth, bone density, mood regulation, and sex drive.

In men, testosterone is responsible for male reproductive development, while in women, it exists at lower levels and contributes to hormonal balance and overall health.

Kratom’s Effect on Testosterone: What Does Science Say?

One of the most cited studies on kratom and testosterone was conducted in 2018 by researchers from Universiti Sains Malaysia and the University of Florida. The study analyzed 19 long-term kratom users who consumed kratom products three times per day over two years.

 

Key Findings

✅ No significant changes in testosterone levels were observed.

✅ No evidence suggested that kratom caused hormonal imbalances or disrupted endocrine function.

✅ Both male and female participants showed no impairment in testosterone-related functions.

 

This research suggests that long-term kratom use may not directly lead to testosterone reduction. However, more extensive studies are needed to fully understand kratom’s impact on hormonal health.

Can Kratom Reduce Testosterone Levels?

Although kratom itself has not been scientifically linked to testosterone reduction, some indirect factors could contribute to changes in hormone levels:

  • Frequent, high-dose kratom use may cause fatigue or reduced energy, which could be mistaken for low testosterone symptoms.
  • Chronic stress, diet, and lifestyle habits play a larger role in testosterone regulation than kratom alone.
  • Some kratom users with pre-existing hormonal imbalances might experience changes in how they feel, but these effects could be correlated rather than caused by kratom.

In short, kratom is not proven to lower testosterone, but users with concerns should consider their overall health, diet, and stress levels when assessing testosterone-related symptoms.

Testosterone and Hormonal Balance: What’s Considered Normal?

Testosterone is a key hormone responsible for:

✔ Muscle growth and strength

✔ Bone density and overall energy

✔ Mood regulation and motivation

✔ Sex drive and reproductive health

 

What Are Normal Testosterone Levels?

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, typically after age 30, at a rate of 1% per year. According to Mount Sinai, the standard testosterone range is:

➡️ 300–1,000 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter) for adult males

➡️ 15–70 ng/dL for adult females

If you suspect low testosterone levels, it’s best to consult a doctor for hormone testing rather than assuming kratom is the cause.

 

Did You Know? Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, typically after 30 years old.

Does Kratom Affect Other Hormones?

Currently, there is no strong evidence linking kratom to major hormonal disruptions. Some theories suggest kratom could interact with stress hormones, but no clinical trials confirm significant effects on:

  • Cortisol (stress hormone)
  • Estrogen or progesterone (sex hormones in women)
  • Thyroid function

Since hormones are influenced by multiple factors, including diet, exercise, sleep, and genetics, kratom’s role in hormonal health remains uncertain and requires further research.

Conclusion: Does Kratom Cause Low Testosterone?

At present, scientific research does not support the claim that kratom significantly lowers testosterone levels. A 2018 study found no significant hormonal changes in long-term kratom users, suggesting kratom may not directly affect testosterone production. The studies, however, are limited and inconclusive.

Keep in mind that testosterone levels can be influenced by multiple factors, including age, diet, stress, and overall health. If you experience symptoms of low testosterone, consulting a healthcare professional is the best way to assess hormone levels and explore potential causes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. If you have concerns about hormonal health or testosterone levels, consult a qualified healthcare professional.