Kratom and magnesium is a combination that gets thrown around on places like Subreddits and online forums. The combo is theorized to reduce kratom tolerance and potentiation through binding to certain receptors. While this theory might have some legs to stand on, is it a good idea? In this guide, we’ll unpack everything about the theory of how magnesium could boost the effects of kratom and important things to know before considering this duo.
Potentiation is just a fancy way to say “enhance the effects,” which may mean making the active ingredients stronger, increasing their absorption, or prolonging their presence in the brain or body. One example we could give for this is curcumin, which is often taken as a supplement and is the active ingredient in the spice turmeric. Curcumin, when taken with black pepper extract (active ingredient piperine), is known to influence the bioavailability and make curcumin more effective, increasing the dosage efficacy.
It is important first to understand that the study of kratom and magnesium together is lacking, so all of the “evidence” is based on anecdotal reports and theory. The main theory behind how magnesium may act as a potentiator is by reducing tolerance and the need for higher dosages through activation and antagonism of NMDA receptors in the brain. NMDA receptors are a type of glutamate receptor within the central nervous system that has been suggested to play a role in tolerance increases to certain substances.
Anecdotal reports on places like Reddit have suggested that magnesium taken with kratom allowed them to lower their dosage and/or tolerance to kratom. However, it must be emphasized that these are purely anecdotal and, while based on a potentially plausible theory, should not be considered fact. In fact, it is never a good idea to combine kratom with anything that has not been studied. Also, taking kratom with a potentiator could make it stronger and also lead to increased risks.
Besides the potential for reducing tolerance and potentiating effects, taking magnesium citrate with kratom might decrease constipation, one of kratom’s common side effects. This can be pretty uncomfortable, especially for beginners or those sensitive to constipation. Because magnesium is known to contain laxative properties, it may help relieve and alleviate this often annoying side effect. Magnesium citrate draws water into the intestines, thereby softening stools and making it easier for the body to have a bowel movement.
There are several types of magnesium, some with unique features and pros and cons. We outline the different types in the table below.
| Type of Magnesium | Bioavailability | Benefits | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnesium Glycinate | High | Gentle on the stomach, contains calming effects | Preferred for those who need to avoid gastrointestinal distress from other types |
| Magnesium L-Threonate | High | May cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially enhancing cognitive function. | More expensive and best for those looking for potential cognitive enhancements |
| Magnesium Citrate | Medium to High | Good bioavailability and has a laxative effect | Affordable and widely available form that has high laxative properties |
| Magnesium Oxide | Low | Least bioavailable; high laxative properties | Mainly used for high laxative properties |
The types of magnesium kratom users usually look for are those that exhibit high bioavailability, which include M. L-Threonate and M. Glycinate. Both might potentially help with potentiation and kratom tolerance because your stomach may absorb them better than other less bioavailable forms of magnesium.
M. Glycinate has been suggested to have additional calming effects due to its binding with the amino acid glycine. M. L-Threonate has been suggested to have cognitive benefits. While the potential effects of both these types might not directly act as potentiators, it has been suggested that they might offer some synergy with kratom’s effects.
Combining magnesium and kratom is purely anecdotal and, as stated before, has not been studied and should be avoided until reliable data exists. Anecdotal reports from kratom users generally recommend starting with the lowest possible dose if combining magnesium with kratom allows you to assess how your body responds to its’ possible enhancements of kratom effects.
It has been suggested that magnesium is best taken before the kratom, allowing the supplement to inhibit NMDA receptors in advance of the kratom. Other users suggested taking magnesium and kratom at the same time and reported not experiencing any adverse effects; however, as stated earlier, this should not be considered reliable data.
Like any substance, mixing kratom with anything, including magnesium, should be avoided due to lacking data and study. Moreover, magnesium is known to affect the rate of absorption of certain substances, especially those affected by stomach acid.
Keep in mind that kratom has its own set of risks; these side effects may become more severe when attempting to mix kratom, even with natural supplements. If you do decide to use the combination, consult prior, especially when you have an existing health condition or are taking current medications that could interact with the kratom and magnesium either alone or in combination.
Additionally, if you decide to proceed with the combination after considering all the potential risks and taking necessary precautions, such as discussing them with your physician, it is best to avoid taking them directly together and dose them at different times.
Agmatine Sulfate is another potential supplement that could help potentiate and enhance kratom’s effects, potentially reducing tolerance levels. This compound is believed to antagonize NMDA receptors like magnesium.
It has also been suggested that Agmatine’s ability to influence Nitric Oxide synthesis could be another mechanism of the substance’s theoretical potentiation by increased blood flow to the brain and central nervous system. In terms of popularity and interest as a potential NDMA antagonist for kratom, magnesium leads in popularity slightly, possibly due to its wider availability and cheaper cost in general.
The same guidance with magnesium and kratom applies to agmatine and kratom since neither pair has been studied in combination. Make sure to be aware of the risks of potentiation, including the risks of rare interactions or increasing the side effects of kratom, and always discuss these with your doctor prior to use.
Increasing kratom’s potential effects and decreasing tolerance levels may be theoretical with magnesium because it antagonizes NMDA receptors. It is important to know that this is only a theory based on how NMDA antagonists interact with other substances. The combo has not been studied directly for efficacy or interactions.
Because magnesium and kratom are both known to interact with certain medications, drugs, and substances, it is advised to avoid them until reviewing and discussing these with your doctor.
CONTENT DISCLAIMER: The content on this page is strictly for entertainment purposes only. The content below has not been medically reviewed and is not intended to offer advice for use or intended use. For more information about kratom and its potential dangers, please visit the fda.gov site.
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