# Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/kratom **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-19 **Evidence Score:** 4 / 10 **Category:** Southeast Asian **Also Known As:** Mitragyna speciosa, Biak-biak, Ketum, Kakuam, Thom, Ithang, Krathom ## Overview Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) contains mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine alkaloids that act as partial mu-opioid receptor agonists. These compounds produce analgesic and stimulant effects depending on dosage and strain composition. ## Health Benefits • Pain management potential based on mu-opioid receptor partial agonism (preclinical evidence only) • Energy enhancement as documented in traditional Southeast Asian use (traditional evidence) • Opioid withdrawal symptom management (traditional use, no clinical trials) • Anti-fatigue effects reported in ethnomedicine practices (traditional evidence only) • Anti-diarrheal properties in folk medicine applications (traditional use, lacking clinical validation) ## Mechanism of Action Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine function as partial agonists at mu-opioid receptors while also interacting with adrenergic and serotonergic pathways. At lower doses, adrenergic stimulation predominates, producing stimulant effects, while higher doses favor opioid receptor activation for analgesic effects. The alkaloids also modulate [dopamine](/ingredients/condition/mood) and GABA [neurotransmitter](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) systems. ## Clinical Summary Clinical evidence for kratom remains extremely limited with no large-scale randomized controlled trials published. Small observational studies and case reports suggest potential for pain management and opioid withdrawal symptom relief, but sample sizes are typically under 50 participants. Most evidence comes from traditional use documentation and preclinical animal studies rather than human clinical trials. Current research focuses primarily on safety profiles and abuse potential rather than therapeutic efficacy. ## Nutritional Profile {"macronutrients": {"protein": "1-2% by weight", "fiber": "2-3% by weight"}, "micronutrients": {"calcium": "80-100 mg per 100g", "magnesium": "40-60 mg per 100g", "potassium": "30-50 mg per 100g"}, "bioactive_compounds": {"mitragynine": "up to 66% of total alkaloid content", "7-hydroxymitragynine": "up to 2% of total alkaloid content", "speciogynine": "up to 6% of total alkaloid content", "paynantheine": "up to 8% of total alkaloid content"}, "bioavailability_notes": "Bioactive alkaloids like mitragynine have variable bioavailability due to factors like individual [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and preparation method. Traditional preparation methods may affect nutrient and compound absorption."} ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges exist for kratom in any form, as human clinical trials are absent. Alkaloid content varies significantly by strain and source (mitragynine ranges from 12-66% of total alkaloids). Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Common side effects include nausea, constipation, dry mouth, and potential for dependence with regular use. Kratom may interact dangerously with CNS depressants, increasing respiratory depression risk, and can potentiate effects of other opioids. The FDA has issued warnings about contaminated products and potential liver toxicity with chronic use. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety data is insufficient, with case reports of neonatal withdrawal syndrome. ## Scientific Research The research dossier reveals no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses have been conducted on kratom. All current evidence is limited to preclinical studies and traditional use reports, with sources explicitly noting insufficient evidence for clinical use in humans. ## Historical & Cultural Context In Southeast Asian traditional medicine systems of Thailand and Malaysia, kratom leaves have been chewed or brewed as tea for centuries to boost energy, relieve pain, and manage various conditions. Documented use dates back nearly 100 years in studies, though traditional practice is considerably older. ## Synergistic Combinations Valerian root, Kava, Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Turmeric ## Known Interactions | Substance | Severity | Summary | URL | |---|---|---|---| | 110 | CONTRAINDICATED | 🔴 STOP — Contraindicated. Do not take Kratom with Hydrocodone. This combination can cause serious harm or death. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/110 | | 111 | CONTRAINDICATED | 🔴 STOP — Contraindicated. Do not take Kratom with Oxycodone. This combination can cause serious harm or death. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/111 | | 112 | CONTRAINDICATED | 🔴 STOP — Contraindicated. Do not take Kratom with Tramadol. This combination can cause serious harm or death. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/112 | | Sertraline | MAJOR | 🔴 CAUTION — Major interaction between Kratom and Sertraline. Avoid unless under direct medical supervision. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/sertraline | | Escitalopram | MAJOR | 🔴 CAUTION — Major interaction between Kratom and Escitalopram. Avoid unless under direct medical supervision. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/escitalopram | | 71 | MAJOR | 🔴 CAUTION — Major interaction between Kratom and Alprazolam. Avoid unless under direct medical supervision. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/71 | | 72 | MAJOR | 🔴 CAUTION — Major interaction between Kratom and Lorazepam. Avoid unless under direct medical supervision. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/72 | | 74 | MAJOR | 🔴 CAUTION — Major interaction between Kratom and Diazepam. Avoid unless under direct medical supervision. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/74 | | Omega-3 Fish Oil | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Omega-3 Fish Oil can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/omega-3-fish-oil | | Melatonin | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Melatonin can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/melatonin | | Collagen | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Collagen can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/collagen | | Probiotics | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Probiotics can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/probiotics | | CoQ10 | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and CoQ10 can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/coq10 | | Quercetin | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Quercetin can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/quercetin | | Kava | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Kava can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/kava | | Magnesium | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Magnesium can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/magnesium | | Zinc | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Zinc can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/zinc | | Iron | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Iron can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/iron | | Selenium | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Selenium can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/selenium | | Calcium | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Kratom and Calcium can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/calcium | ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the typical kratom dosage for pain relief Traditional pain management doses range from 2-8 grams of dried leaf powder, with red strains typically preferred. Higher doses above 5 grams increase opioid-like effects but also elevate side effect and dependence risks. ### How long do kratom effects last Kratom effects typically last 2-5 hours depending on dose and individual metabolism. Peak effects occur 1-2 hours after ingestion, with mitragynine having a half-life of approximately 3-9 hours. ### Can kratom cause withdrawal symptoms Yes, regular kratom use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms including muscle aches, irritability, and mood changes. Withdrawal severity correlates with usage frequency and duration, typically lasting 3-7 days. ### What's the difference between kratom strains Kratom strains differ in alkaloid profiles: red strains contain higher 7-hydroxymitragynine for sedation, white strains favor mitragynine for stimulation, and green strains provide balanced effects. Geographic origin and processing methods also influence potency. ### Is kratom legal in the United States Kratom legality varies by state, with six states plus Washington D.C. having complete bans as of 2024. The DEA has considered federal scheduling but currently kratom remains federally unscheduled, though the FDA prohibits marketing for therapeutic uses. ### Does kratom interact with opioid medications or other common drugs? Kratom acts as a partial mu-opioid receptor agonist and may pose interaction risks when combined with opioid medications, potentially increasing side effects or overdose risk. It may also interact with medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including certain antidepressants and blood pressure medications. Consult a healthcare provider before using kratom if you take prescription medications, as individual interactions vary based on dose and personal factors. ### Is kratom safe during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for children? Kratom is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data and the potential for alkaloids to cross placental or breast milk barriers. There is no established safe use of kratom in children, and pediatric use is not supported by clinical evidence. Pregnant, nursing, and pediatric populations should avoid kratom and consult healthcare providers for safe alternatives. ### What does scientific research actually show about kratom's effectiveness? Most evidence for kratom's pain-relieving and energy effects comes from traditional use in Southeast Asia and anecdotal reports rather than rigorous clinical trials in humans. Preclinical studies suggest kratom alkaloids interact with opioid receptors, but high-quality randomized controlled trials are lacking, limiting definitive conclusions about safety and efficacy. The scientific evidence base remains limited, and healthcare providers generally recommend caution until more robust clinical research is published. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*