Mitragyna Speciosa

Description

Mitragyna Speciosa, commonly known as Kratom, is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the coffee family and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its pain-relieving and mood-enhancing properties. Kratom leaves contain more than 40 compounds, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with the brain’s receptors to produce effects similar to opioids.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Mitragyna Speciosa can grow up to 80 feet tall in the wild, but usually reaches a height of 20-30 feet when cultivated. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and can grow up to 8 inches long and 5 inches wide. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters, but the tree rarely blooms when cultivated. The trunk is straight and can grow up to 3 feet in diameter, with a smooth grey bark. The roots are shallow and do not require much space to grow.

Care Guide

Mitragyna Speciosa is a tropical plant and requires warm and humid conditions to thrive. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Use well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Mitragyna Speciosa prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
• Hardiness Zones: Mitragyna Speciosa can only be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-12. In colder climates, it can be grown as a houseplant.

Common Pests & Diseases

Mitragyna Speciosa is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can be affected by the following:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a pesticide or insecticidal soap to control them.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
• Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent it.

Habitat

Mitragyna Speciosa is native to Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. It grows in humid and tropical environments, usually near rivers and streams. It can also be found in forests and on hillsides.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Kratom legal in the United States?

A: Kratom is legal in most states, but is banned in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.

Q: What are the effects of Kratom?

A: Kratom can produce effects such as pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation if taken in large doses.

Q: Is Kratom addictive?

A: Kratom can be addictive if taken regularly in large doses. Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.

Q: Can Kratom be used for medical purposes?

A: Kratom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its pain-relieving and mood-enhancing properties. However, more research is needed to determine its safety and efficacy as a medical treatment.

Related Plants

• Mitragyna hirsuta
• Mitragyna javanica
• Mitragyna parvifolia
• Mitragyna speciosa var. speciosa

References

• “Mitragyna speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 11, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286932&isprofile=0&basic=mitragyna%20speciosa.
• “Kratom.” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Accessed October 11, 2021. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/kratom.
• “Kratom.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Accessed October 11, 2021. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-and-kratom.