FolkKB

Mitragyna speciosa

Mitragyna speciosa

Mitragyna speciosa, commonly known as kratom, originates from traditional medicine practices in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. It is traditionally used to alleviate anxiety and manage pain, among other conditions, reflecting its cultural significance in these regions. Scientific evidence suggests that kratom exhibits both opioid-dependent analgesic effects and opioid-independent behavioral effects, though the research is limited and requires further standardization due to variability in product composition and potency. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been widely documented; however, more comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential and risks.

At a glance
Traditionally for
anxiety
Traditions
traditional
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • Kratom showed both opioid-dependent analgesic effects and opioid-independent behavioral effects in planarian worms. D PMID
  • The study highlights the need for standardized research on Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) to evaluate its potential therapeutic applications, acknowledging variability in product composition and potency. D PMID
  • Buprenorphine initiation for problematic 7-OH use was feasible, well-tolerated, and associated with symptom improvement in most cases. D PMID
  • The study reviews variations in mitragynine content in Mitragyna speciosa leaves across Southeast Asia due to geographical and environmental factors. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Mitragyna speciosa?

Mitragyna speciosa (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Mitragyna speciosa traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Mitragyna speciosa for: anxiety. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Mitragyna speciosa?

Mitragyna speciosa appears in these traditions in our sources: traditional.

What does the scientific evidence say about Mitragyna speciosa?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Mitragyna speciosa; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Kratom showed both opioid-dependent analgesic effects and opioid-independent behavioral effects in planarian worms.

How strong is the evidence for Mitragyna speciosa?

The strongest finding for Mitragyna speciosa carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Mitragyna speciosa safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Mitragyna speciosa in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Mitragyna speciosa interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Mitragyna speciosa in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Mitragyna speciosa?

Mitragyna speciosa is also known as: Кратом.

Is Mitragyna speciosa a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Variations of Mitragynine Content in Kratom Leaves From Southeast Asia: An Updated Review. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Buprenorphine for the Management of 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) Use: A Retrospective Case Series. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Advancing Kratom Science and Regulation: A Comparative Framework With Cannabis. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 More than an opioid: dissociable analgesic and behavioral effects of kratom in planarians. literature abstract metadata
  5. T3 Mitragyna speciosa CC BY-SA 4.0