Kratom and COVID-19: Evidence, Claims & Safety

RESEARCH & SAFETY · ADULTS 21+

Kratom is not a COVID-19 treatment

Do not rely on kratom to prevent, treat or cure COVID-19, shorten an infection or strengthen immunity against it. Our products are not intended for these purposes. A personal story, laboratory observation or social-media post is not evidence of clinical effectiveness.

What would a health claim need?

Evidence that a compound affects a laboratory system does not establish a benefit in people. Product composition, exposure and clinical outcomes would need appropriate evaluation. Kratom has not been shown safe and effective for a medical use, and the FDA has not approved it as a treatment.

Accurate information matters more than speculation

The original 2020 article discouraged COVID-related kratom claims. That remains the central point. Speculation about regulatory motives and anecdotes about immunity should not replace evidence. We distinguish research findings, uncertainty and our own product information.

In May 2020, FDA issued a warning letter concerning kratom products marketed for COVID-19. The letter documents regulatory action concerning disease claims; it is not evidence that kratom treats infection. Read the original FDA letter.

If you are ill, seek appropriate care

If you may have COVID-19 and are at higher risk of severe illness, contact a healthcare professional promptly, even for mild symptoms. Treatment decisions can be time-sensitive. Do not delay care or substitute a botanical product for prescribed treatment. Tell your clinician about kratom and other products you use.

CDC: current COVID-19 treatment information

Important kratom safety information

For adults 21+ only. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not combine with alcohol, opioids, sedatives or other drugs. Discuss medications and medical conditions with a healthcare professional. Do not drive or operate machinery after use. Keep away from children.

Regular use can lead to dependence and withdrawal. Adverse effects and serious events have been reported in people using kratom. Other substances and incomplete information can complicate interpretation, but do not establish that kratom is risk-free. Stop use and seek medical advice for an adverse reaction or difficulty reducing use. A seizure, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness requires emergency help. Kratom is not an FDA-approved treatment; our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Research and questions

Research companion: methods and limitations · Kratom evidence and safety · Product questions

Safety source: NIH NCCIH kratom information.

Reviewed October 3, 2026. This educational article replaces outdated pandemic-era instructions and does not provide individual medical advice.