How can you tell if someone is under the influence of kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) has become a phenomenon in recent years. The green powder from Southeast Asia has become part of the lifestyle of many people, but recognizing that someone favors this herb can be tricky. Let’s reveal how to recognize it anyway.

Why is it difficult to recognize?

Before you start looking for specific physical signs, you need to understand one essential thing. Unlike other substances, kratom works like a “chameleon.” Why a chameleon? Its effects differ diametrically depending on which strain and amount the person has chosen.

While coffee always “kicks you into gear” and lemon balm always calms you down, kratom can do both:

• In low amounts or with white/green strains it has a stimulating effect (like a strong energy drink).
• In higher amounts or with red strains it has a relaxing to sedating effect.

You may therefore see a person who is hyperactive one day and completely phlegmatic the next, while it is still the influence of the same plant.

1. Eyes as a detector

Despite its variability, kratom has one relatively consistent physical sign that reliably gives it away, regardless of the strain.

• Constricted pupils (miosis): If you look someone in the eyes and notice that their pupils are unusually small, almost pinpoint (so-called pinhole pupils), even in a room with normal dim lighting, pay attention.

• Gaze: The eyes may appear glossy or slightly “heavy,” but eye contact is usually normal.

2. Two faces of behavior

As mentioned in the section on the chameleon effect, behavior changes depending on the type of kratom. Here are the two most common scenarios you may notice:

Variant A: Hyperactive worker (White/green kratom)

The effects resemble drinking three strong espressos at once, but without nervousness or hand tremors.

• Talkativeness: The person is very communicative, sociable, and has a strong desire to share thoughts.
• Productivity: A sudden urge to work, clean, or study. The person can focus on monotonous tasks for hours without signs of fatigue.
• Good mood: A significant increase in empathy and friendliness.

Variant B: Calm strength (Red kratom)

With relaxing strains, the effect is the opposite.

• Slowing down: The person appears very relaxed, speaks more calmly and slowly.
• Absence of stress: Things that would otherwise irritate them leave them completely unfazed. They appear “above it all.”
• Physical calm: They may tend to move less and simply observe their surroundings.

3. The ever-present green dust

The clearest evidence is not changes in the person, but traces in their surroundings. Kratom powder is very fine, so it tends to dust and cling to everything.

• Green traces: If you find a fine green dust on the kitchen counter, on clothing, on a car seat, or on a keyboard, it is a clear indicator.

• Specific containers: Fans of this herb often carry shakers or plastic bottles with a cloudy green liquid that resembles “mud” or strong matcha tea.

• Smell: Kratom has a very distinctive smell, similar to dried leaves or freshly cut grass.

4. Changes in eating habits

A specific property of kratom is its effect on digestion.

• Reduced appetite: Unlike cannabis, which induces hunger, kratom tends to suppress appetite. A person may forget about lunch because they feel full of energy even without it.

• Increased thirst: The plant mildly dehydrates, so the person may drink significantly more water than usual.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of kratom requires good observational skills. It is revealed by a combination of constricted pupils, green dust on a T-shirt, and a specific mood that oscillates between extreme productivity and deep calm. If you see these signs, you are likely dealing with a fan of Asian botany.

Notice: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. The legal status of kratom varies significantly between countries and regions. The text does not serve as instructions, medical advice, or encouragement to consume or purchase. Neither the author nor the website operator bears responsibility for any misuse of the information provided herein. Always follow the applicable laws and regulations of your country.