Does Kratom Interact With LSD?
Although kratom and LSD do not interact directly, they can hinder each other’s metabolism, so mixing them isn’t a good idea. What’s more, research on the pharmacokinetics of LSD in humans is limited, so it is difficult to determine its exact interaction with kratom.
However, the few available studies indicate that several cytochrome P450 isoforms — such as CYP2D6, CYP1A2, and CYP2C9 —are responsible for the metabolism of LSD [1].
Similarly, mitragynine — the main component of kratom — is also processed through CYP2D6 [2].
When two drugs that require the same enzymes for their metabolism are taken together, they compete for such adherence to the enzymes. This phenomenon is known as metabolic competition.
Metabolic competition —also called metabolic inhibition —is dangerous, as a toxic accumulation can occur, which can lead to side effects or overdose.
Therefore, we recommend that you don’t use kratom on the same day as LSD, as both substances can last for several days in your system. In addition, always consult with a professional before mixing them.
Kratom & Psychedelics’ Interactions
LSD is a psychedelic drug, and as such, it produces hallucinogenic effects. Like many other psychedelics, it can channel intense spiritual experiences, therefore also considered an entheogen.
Entheogens are hallucinogenic substances that can change our perspective, way of thinking, and even state of mind without producing a loss of consciousness.
Other psychedelics that kratom will interact with include:
- Ayahuasca
- Amantia muscaria
- Cannabis
- Kava
- Peyote
- Psilocybin
- Salvia divinorum
Is It Safe to Take Kratom With LSD?
No. As mentioned above, kratom and LSD are metabolic competitors, so their simultaneous use can lead to toxic accumulation over time. It’s best to consult with your doctor before taking any of these compounds —especially if you plan to mix them.
Moreover, kratom tends to potentiate any substance; this combination can result in an overdose or increased risk of side effects.
What Is LSD?
Lysergic acid diethylamide, better known as LSD, is a synthetic psychedelic discovered in 1938 by the Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann.
In low doses, LSD can produce mild changes in perception, mood, and thought. On the other hand, high doses can lead to powerful visual and auditory hallucinations — such as synesthesia — increased anxiety and paranoia, and an altered sense of time and self.
LSD is highly illegal virtually everywhere and can be found in tablets, white powder, or as a clear, colorless liquid. Interestingly, it is considered non-addictive with a low potential for abuse, though frequent use rapidly builds tolerance.
Although this substance is well-known for being used mostly recreationally, it has a history of being used in therapy to treat anxiety, depression, and addiction.
Moreover, there is a resurgence of interest in research on LSD and other psychedelics for their therapeutic potential in psychiatry.
LSD Details & Specifications
| Drug Name | Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) |
| Classification | Psychedelic/Entheogen |
| CYP Metabolism | CYP2D6, CYP1A2, and CYP2C9 |
| Interaction With Kratom | Metabolic Competitor |
| Risk of Interaction | Low |
What Is LSD Used For?
Contrary to what most people believe, LSD isn’t only useful for recreational purposes. Although medicinal research on this psychedelic is still very recent, some studies claim it can treat various mental disorders.
Anxiety
A 2014 Swiss study shows LSD can significantly reduce anxiety levels [3]. A whopping 78% of the people who participated in this research experienced a remarkable reduction in anxiety levels that lasted up to 12 months.
Cluster Headaches & Migraines
Research shows both LSD and other psychedelics are helpful as a treatment for cluster headaches and migraines. A 2006 research reports that approximately 80% of patients that took LSD significantly reduced both the frequency and severity of their headaches [4].
Addiction
Research on addiction management with LSD is the most time-consuming, having been explored since the 1960s. Various studies on this psychedelic demonstrate it to be effective in treating addictions, especially alcoholism.
A 2012 study reported a considerable reduction in alcohol cravings in patients treated with LSD for six months [5].
What’s the Dose of LSD?
Although the ideal dose of LSD depends on several factors, such as weight and tolerance, the usual dose is around 80 micrograms (mcg).
On the streets, paper squares of LSD can contain from 20 to 100 mcg of the substance. Still, since LSD is an illegal drug, it’s tough to know the exact amount in each square.
Generic Name Versions
- Acid
- Dots
- Lucy
- Microdots
- Tabs
- Trips
What Are the Side Effects of LSD?
Although LSD is a relatively safe substance, its abuse or misuse can lead to unpleasant ailments, similar to many other psychedelics. The side effects of this substance can be physical and psychological.
Psychological side effects of LSD:
- A sensation of fear or phobia
- Dissociation
- Hallucinations
- Panic and anxiety
- Paranoia
- Synesthesia
Physical side effects of LSD:
- Dehydration
- High blood pressure
- Increased body temperature
- Rapid heart rate
- Sweating
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is a plant of Southeast Asian origin and a member of the Rubiaceae family of plants — the same family as coffee. It has been used for centuries as traditional medicine by native workers to stave off exhaustion and deal with pain.
Kratom is becoming increasingly popular worldwide due to its impressive medicinal benefits, which help treat multiple disorders and afflictions.
What’s Kratom Used For?
Kratom is used by millions worldwide for both recreational and medicinal purposes. You can achieve stimulating and sedating effects depending on the strain and dosage.
These are the main kratom uses:
What’s the Dose of Kratom?
The ideal kratom dosage depends on several factors, such as your weight, the strain you’ll take, and what you intend to achieve with the herb. Still, we can give you some general parameters.
These are the typical doses for each use:
- Up to 5 grams for pain relief
- 2 to 6 grams for energy and focus
- 5 to 15 grams to deal with opiate withdrawal symptoms
- 5 to 12 grams for anxiety and depression
If you are a beginner, we suggest starting with the lowest possible dose and gradually increasing it as you see fit to avoid unpleasant side effects. Remember that the time kratom’s effects take to set in significantly varies depending on your stomach’s contents.
Also see: How Much Kratom is Too Much?
What Are the Side Effects of Kratom?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and several other entities, kratom is not dangerous when taken responsibly. However, if you take too much or use poor-quality products, you will likely suffer some side effects.
These are the most common side effects of kratom:
- Allergic reactions
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Heart palpitations
- Liver damage (with long-term use)
- Nausea and vomiting
In addition to these discomforts, kratom can also produce dependence if you don’t adequately space out your doses.
What Are the Different Types of Kratom?
There are several types of kratom, and each has slightly different effects. Knowing them will help you find the most suitable strain for you.
White Vein Kratom
White vein kratom is ideal for fatigue as it carries powerful stimulating properties. Most white-veined kratom users are students or workers that need an energy boost during the day. Some strains can also help calm anxiety and pain in high doses.
These are some of the most popular white-veined strains:
- White Borneo: This is one of the best strains to increase energy and mood.
- White Bali: Besides enhancing your perspective, this strain will help you relieve muscle aches and deal with anxiety.
- White Indo: Although this strain stands out mainly for its potent stimulant effects, it will sedate you in high doses.
Red Vein Kratom
Unlike the white-veined varieties, red vein kratom is mainly sedative, so it’s excellent if you’re looking to improve the quality of your sleep or deal with pain. We recommend you take it at night to avoid falling asleep during the day.
These are some of the most popular red-veined strains:
- Red Borneo: This is one of the best strains for treating pain and anxiety.
- Red Horn: Although this strain primarily excels for its potent analgesic effects, it can also promote energy at low doses.
- Red Dragon: This strain is similar to Red Borneo in that it is excellent for treating chronic pain and anxiety. However, it is much harder to find—and more expensive.
Green Vein Kratom
Green vein kratom can be a sedative and stimulant, depending on your chosen dosage and strain. Its effects are milder than the other strains, making it ideal for beginners.
These are some of the most popular green-veined strains:
- Green Bali: This strain stands out mainly for its powerful energizing and analgesic effects, and it will help you relieve pain during the day.
- Green Indo: It is a mild strain that promotes excellent energizing effects and will elevate your mood.
- Green Maeng Da: This is one of the best strains to increase your mood and decrease anxiety.
Yellow Vein Kratom
Yellow-veined kratom combines the dried leaves of red and white varieties, so you can also get both stimulant and sedative effects.
These are some of the most popular yellow-veined strains:
- Yellow Bali: This strain covers the full spectrum of kratom’s effects in a mild and bearable way.
- Yellow Borneo: This mild strain produces an impressive balance of stimulation and sedation.
- Yellow Sumatra: This potent sedative strain will help calm anxiety and muscle aches.
Key Takeaways: Is It Safe to Mix Kratom & LSD?
No, mixing these two is not a good idea. LSD and kratom are metabolic competitors, so combining them can lead to unpleasant side effects over time and is not recommended. Therefore, if you are thinking of ingesting both, we recommend you consult your doctor beforehand.
Still, it is unlikely that you will suffer severe consequences from taking any of these separately, as LSD and kratom are relatively safe substances when taken responsibly.
- Vizeli, P., Straumann, I., Holze, F. et al. Genetic influence of CYP2D6 on pharmacokinetics and acute subjective effects of LSD in a pooled analysis. Sci Rep 11, 10851 (2021).
- Kamble, S. H., Sharma, A., King, T. I., León, F., McCurdy, C. R., & Avery, B. A. (2019). Metabolite profiling and identification of enzymes responsible for the metabolism of mitragynine, the major alkaloid of Mitragyna speciosa (kratom). Xenobiotica; the fate of foreign compounds in biological systems, 49(11), 1279–1288.
- Gasser, P., Kirchner, K., & Passie, T. (2015). LSD-assisted psychotherapy for anxiety associated with a life-threatening disease: A qualitative study of acute and sustained subjective effects. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 29(1), 57–68.
- Sewell, R. A., Halpern, J. H., & Pope, H. G., Jr. (2006). Response of cluster headache to psilocybin and LSD. Neurology, 66(12), 1920–1922.
- Krebs, T. S., & Johansen, P.-Ø. (2012). Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for alcoholism: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 26(7), 994–1002.
