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Kratom is a plant that comes from the Mitragyna speciosa, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. The leaves of the kratom tree contain compounds that can have psychoactive effects
Kratom leaves contain many chemical compounds (known as bioactive alkaloids) that influence the body. The most well studied kratom-related compounds are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7 OH). Mitragynine is found in kratom leaves and breaks down in the body when digested.
Anthropologists report that kratom has been used in Southeast Asia for hundreds of years as a multi-purpose remedy in traditional medicine, to increase alertness and energy while working and during social gatherings. People who use kratom report both stimulant-like effects and effects that are similar sedatives.
Kava is indigenous to the South Pacific, specifically to islands like Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and Hawaii. The plant grows in tropical climates and thrives in the fertile volcanic soil of these regions. The root is the part of the plant that's harvested, dried, and then ground into a powder or made into a liquid extract.
In traditional use, kava is prepared by chewing, mashing, or grinding the root, and then mixing it with water to create a beverage. It’s often consumed in social and ceremonial contexts, where people drink it together to foster relaxation, conversation, and a sense of community.
Kava's effects are largely due to its kavalactones, which are the active compounds found in the plant’s root. These compounds have a range of effects on the brain and body, with the most notable being anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), muscle-relaxing, and mood-boosting properties.
Kava has a calming effect on the central nervous system (CNS). It interacts with the GABA receptors in the brain to produce a sense of relaxation. This makes it an effective tool for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation without the sedative effects of alcohol or stronger pharmaceutical medications.
Kava can promote feelings of euphoria and well-being, especially in social settings. Some people have claimed to use it to help alleviate stress or mild depression. While it’s not considered a traditional antidepressant, its calming and mood-lifting properties make it useful for short-term relief of low mood or nervousness. Kava can also promote muscle relaxation and reduce tension. It’s sometimes used by people who suffer from stress-related muscle tightness, as it helps to loosen up the body and mind.
For readers interested in learning more about the science behind kratom, Johns Hopkins Medicine conducted one of the most comprehensive user studies to date.
The 2020 survey, led by researchers in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, gathered responses from more than 2,700 kratom users worldwide. Participants reported positive outcomes related to mood balance, recovery, and overall well-being, with a relatively low potential for harm or dependence when used responsibly.
This research highlights the growing scientific interest in kratom’s natural properties and supports continued study into its potential role in modern wellness.
Read the full article on the Johns Hopkins Medicine Newsroom: Natural Herb Kratom May Have Therapeutic Effects and Relatively Low Potential for Abuse or Harm