The plant Mitragyna speciosa Korth (of the Rubiaceae family), commonly known as kratom, ketum or biak-biak, is widely used in Southeast Asia. Its leaves are traditionally chewed or made into tea, and it is sometimes smoked. At low dose, kratom is thought to have stimulant effects and improve energy levels. At higher doses, it is reported to act as a pain reliever and to induce feelings of euphoria or well-being. The alkaloids in kratom are thought to be responsible for these effects.
The chemical composition of kratom leaves is rich in phytochemicals including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids and saponins. The pharmacological and biological properties of these phytochemicals are well documented in pre-clinical studies. The plant is reported to have antibacterial, antiproliferative and analgesic properties. It also has a complex opioidergic and adrenergic pharmacology [1].
Kratom leaves contain several alkaloids, such as mitragynine, speciociliatine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, paynantheine, and other ketone alkaloids. They are known to interact with the enkephalin, dopamine, and noradrenergic neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord to produce effects such as increased work capacity, alertness, and socialization. In addition, the plant is reported to have anti-nociceptive properties, based on its interaction with the m-opioid receptor in animal studies.
In humans, a small oral dose of kratom produces invigorating effects, which are reported to last one to one and a half hours. These effects are thought to be mediated by the alkaloids mitragynine and speciociliatine, which are also known to stimulate the release of euphoria-inducing neurotransmitters acetylcholine and serotonin in the brain. The plant is also reported to have sedative and opioid-like actions in high dosages.
Extracts of kratom are a popular form of kratom preparations, and they can be ingested in liquid, capsule or powder forms. The concentration of kratom extract can vary significantly between products, and it is important to know what you are getting before purchasing.
Tinctures are the most common form of kratom extract. They are typically sold in bottles with a dropper, which makes it easy to consume just the amount of tincture you need. The tinctures themselves are typically slightly thick, and they retain the taste of the alcohol substrate mixed with kratom’s natural bitter taste. In terms of potency, kratom tinctures tend to be less potent than most kratom extracts.
A kratom extract is a concentrated solution of the kava root that has been dissolved in ethanol or another solvent to increase the concentration of the active ingredients. The extraction process itself varies depending on the type of solvent being used, as each method has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. A kratom extract is usually more potent than a regular tincture, but it is also likely to cost more. This is because of the cost of the extraction process as well as the high concentration of the kratom. Because of this, kratom extracts are best used sparingly and only as directed by a health care provider.