What is kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree in the coffee family, native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain dozens of alkaloids, the two most significant being mitragynine (MIT) and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). People have chewed the leaves for centuries in Thailand and Malaysia for energy and pain relief.
Strains and vein colors
Red, green, and white vein refer to the color of the leaf vein at harvest. Red strains are generally more sedating, white strains more stimulating, and green strains land somewhere in the middle. That said, the differences between strains are often overstated by vendors. Drying and processing methods matter as much or more than the vein color. Names like "Maeng Da" and "Bali" are mostly marketing. The actual effects depend more on the alkaloid profile of a specific batch than its label.
Effects by dose
At low doses (1-3 grams), plain leaf kratom tends to be stimulating: increased energy, alertness, sociability. At moderate doses (3-5 grams), effects shift toward pain relief and mild sedation. At higher doses (5+ grams), sedation and analgesia become more pronounced, along with nausea risk. These ranges are approximate and vary by individual tolerance, body weight, and product potency.
Dependence potential
Regular use of plain leaf kratom can lead to physical dependence. This is not controversial. It's a predictable consequence of regular mu-opioid receptor activation. Withdrawal symptoms typically include irritability, muscle aches, insomnia, runny nose, and anxiety. They're generally milder than traditional opioid withdrawal but still uncomfortable. The risk increases with dose and frequency. See the Tolerance & Tapering guide for managing this.
What the research says
Peer-reviewed research on kratom is growing but still limited. Some studies suggest potential for pain management and opioid withdrawal support. Others highlight risks of dependence and adverse effects at high doses. The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use. The key takeaway: kratom is pharmacologically active, not "just an herb." Treat it with the same respect you would any substance that affects your brain chemistry.