Top Mitragyna Speciosa Kratom Alkaloids
For any substance that we purchase, we usually look at the active ingredients present in it. If you don’t do that already, you should start doing it. When buying Kratom, we should read the label of the package correctly. The Kratom package label contains information about the strain of Kratom and the alkaloids present in it. The content of each alkaloid is mentioned in percentage. If it doesn’t include this information, you must contact the seller. In this article, we will guide you about the Top Mitragyna Speciosa alkaloids, their effects, their impact on your health, how they work, and their side effects.
Alkaloids: Definition, usage, and relevance in Organic Medicine
Many beginners might not know what the term alkaloid means, so we will help you understand it. These are biologically active, organic compounds. Their properties are variable due to different structural frameworks. They belong to various groups like purine and pyridine. They are pharmacologically active, and some can even be poisonous. The typical examples of alkaloids that we take in our daily routine are caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. They are present in coffee, cocoa, and tea leaves. They come in the purine alkaloids class.
For centuries people use them as part of folk medicine. The alkaloids are isolated from crude extracts and you can take them for various ailments. Recently, there has been a trend of extracting them by chemical methods. This is the commercial production of alkaloids. The pharmacological properties of the alkaloids are verified. Then through breeding genetics and biotechnology, scientists produce them in bulk. Usually, the content of alkaloids in plants is very low. Through procedures like genetic amplification, one can increase the content of alkaloids.
Scientists show interest in alkaloids because they are significant in organic medicine. Extracting medicinal compounds from nature has been the mainstay of research. Kratom alkaloids are of particular interest to scientists. They have a lot of therapeutic benefits. But, due to financial constraints and lack of support from the FDA, negligible research has been done.
Levels and potential health impacts of Alkaloids in Mitragyna Speciosa
There are many alkaloids in Mitragyna Speciosa. The trade name of Mitragyna Speciosa is Kratom; in some parts of the world, it is also called as Ketum. It consists of active ingredients that are responsible for producing effects. It also includes flavonoids, triterpenoids, polyphenolic compounds, triterpenoid saponins, secoirioids, and monoterpenes.
Thirty-seven alkaloids are unique to M. Speciosa. Those which are present in significant amounts: Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, Speciociliatine, Speciogynine, and Paynantheine. The percentage of alkaloids present in the Kratom depends on the location of origin. For example, the Thai leaves have 66% of alkaloids in the form of Mitragynine. Malaysian origin plants only have 12%.
The pharmacologic action of these alkaloids is dose-dependent. At small doses, it acts as a stimulant. While at moderate doses, the alkaloids act by providing relief from discomfort. At very high doses, one may experience sedation.
The alkaloids in Ketum have a beneficial effect on health. People have been using Kratom plant leaves for years. The uses include management of diarrhea, relief of discomfort, and a euphoriant. The active components Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine are agonists at the mu receptors. Mu receptors are present in the central nervous system. Interaction with these receptors produces potent analgesia. It also produces a sense of well-being, relaxation, and stimulation.
Mitragynine is an antagonist at the serotonergic and noradrenergic receptor systems. This is why it acts as an antinociceptive. The alkaloids suppress the production of prostaglandin E2. E2 produces inflammation.
Understanding the various types of top Mitragyna Speciosa Alkaloids and their effects
Mitragynine
It is an indole alkaloid with the molecular formula of C23H30N2O4. It is the most abundant alkaloids present in Mitragyna Speciosa. It is insoluble in water. It is a selective agonist at the mu receptors in the body. It also has an action on the serotonergic receptors as well as Calcium channels. This interaction with many receptor systems in the body is unique. And, gives it individual pharmacological action. Mitragynine is the most abundant alkaloid present in the Kratom leaves, especially the ones grown in Thailand.
It has antinociceptive action and also acts as a cough suppressant. The metabolism of this compound occurs in the liver by hydrolysis of the side-chain ester and oxidative and reductive transformations.
The actions of Mitragynine include analgesia, antimalarial activity, antidiarrheal action, relaxation, and mood elevation.
7-Hydroxymitragynine
The molecular formula of this compound is C23H30N2O5. It is a lighter compound than Mitragynine and presents in small amounts in the Kratom leaves. It is a potent analgesic substance, and according to a study, it is several times more potent than morphine. It only forms 2% of the total alkaloid content in the Ketum leaf. It also has antitussive and antidiarrheal action like that of Mitragynine. It is usually present in deficient concentrations in most of the Kratom strains. The higher the quantity of this alkaloid in a Mitragyna Speciosa strain, the stronger and more potent it is.
Paynantheine
It is an indole alkaloid. It forms 8-9% of the total alkaloid content present in the Kratom leaf. The main action of this constituent of Mitragyna Speciosa is relaxation. It is the second most abundant alkaloid after Mitragynine.
Speciogynine
It is one of the top alkaloids present in Mitragyna Speciosa. A Kratom leaf has 6.6% to 7% Speciogynine of the total alkaloids. This is the third most abundant alkaloid present in Ketum. It is a smooth muscle relaxant.
Mitraphylline
It is an oxindole alkaloid that acts as an antihypertensive. It has a vasodilator action on the blood vessels and acts as a diuretic. This is why we recommend that you increase your intake of water to compensate for the water losses. It is present in less than 1% quantity in the Kratom leaf. It improves memory and increases attention span. Another alkaloid, Isomitraphylline, also has a similar action.
Speciophylline
It is present in small quantities in the Ketum leaf. It is an indole alkaloid that is known for causing an increase in the blood cells. It is also present in the Chinese Cat’s Claw.
Rhynchophylline
It is a vital alkaloid that acts as an antihypertensive, vasodilator, and Calcium channel blocker. It also has anti0inflammatory action, as well as an antipyretic effect. It helps in eradicating worm infestation. The content of this alkaloid is less than 1% in the Mitragyna Speciosa plant. The alkaloid Isorhynchophylline has a similar action as Rhynchophylline.
Raubasine
It acts as a sedative and as an anticonvulsant. It also helps in producing a calming and relaxing response. It causes the release of serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters that are responsible for mood elevation.
Akuammigine
It has antimalarial activity and resembles Mitragynine. It is an indole alkaloid.
Ciliaphylline
It is a potent analgesic and has antitussive action.
Other active ingredients present in Mitragyna Speciosa include Corynantheidine (rauhimbine), Corynoxeine, Corynoxine A and B, Epicatechin, 9-Hydroxycorynantheidine, Isomitrafoline, Isopteropodine, Isospeciofoline, Mitraciliatine, Mitragynine oxindole B, Mitrafoline, Mitraversine, Speciociliatine, Speciofoline, Stipulatine, Tetrahydroalstonine. These are present in minimal quantities, but they add up to the overall effects of Kratom.
Strains of Mitragyna Speciosa rich in 7-Hydroxy Mitragynine and their application in Kratom world
Maeng Da
It is one of the most potent strains of Kratom. Gold Maeng Da strain, in particular, is very popular amongst the Kratom users. It is said that Maeng Da is rich in 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is why it provides quick and long-lasting analgesia, and the stimulation is immense. You can take Maeng Da in the form of powder or capsules.
Green Malay
It is an energetic strain that is known for enhancing cognitive abilities. The effects of this strain appear even after taking small doses. It has a high content of 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is why it has high potency and efficacy. It uplifts mood and makes one feel happy and relaxed.
Vietnam Kratom
It is a unique Kratom strain. The Vietnamese Ketum is famous throughout the world due to the high content of potent alkaloids. The geographic location of this plant makes it a unique blend. It produces stimulation and boosts energy levels. It has a significant role in providing analgesia.
Red Thai
Red Thai has been a popular strain in most parts of the world, because of the high percentage of Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. This blend of Ketum has high efficacy and provides quick relief from discomfort conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other muscular and joint disorders. It also acts as a euphoriant and has stimulating properties.
Red Indo
It produces intense relaxation and can cause sedation at high doses. It reduces muscle contraction and stiffness, thus relieving the discomfort. It improves sleep and tackles the issue of parasomnia and night terrors. Red Indo is a known calmative thus, it can be taken by those suffering from uneasiness and nervousness,
Which Mitragyna Speciosa Alkaloids must I take?
Always go for those strains of Mitragyna Speciosa that have a high content of the essential alkaloids. Some of the important and top Mitragyna Speciosa alkaloids are mentioned above. We recommend going for those strains that contain a high content of Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Before buying Kratom, read the package and understand the substances present in it. If the percentage of alkaloids is not mentioned in it, please email the vendor.
Any Kratom strain that has up to 2-3% 7-hydroxymitragynine and 20-60% Mitragynine is potent.
How to get concentrated Alkaloids of Kratom?
The concentrated alkaloids of Kratom are present in the Kratom extracts. You can buy commercially available Kratom extracts or make them at home, as Kratom extracts are expensive. The simplest form of Kratom extract is Tea. It involves steeping Ketum in water for a long duration to concentrate the alkaloids. But, this method of extraction doesn’t give you highly concentrated Mitragyna Speciosa alkaloids.
Water-based extraction is another process that produces a more concentrated product. It involves dissolving raw Kratom leaves in ethanol and water with citric acid in it. Leave this mixture for 1-2 weeks in a dark place and then strain it. With some of the water evaporated, you get a thick extract.
Resin Kratom extracts are semi-solid instead of liquid. They are incredibly concentrated in alkaloids. This type of extract is made quicker than the water-based extract and is more potent.
What Kratom alkaloids are dangerous?
Kratom alkaloids are generally not dangerous. The effects produced by the various alkaloids are within the safe zone. They are not harmful. The criteria of a substance being hazardous to depend on the consumer. If you overdose on any potent strains, you might face adverse effects. These potent strains could be extracts, tinctures, or enhanced Kratom.
If you mix your strain of Ketum with other toxic or harmful substances, you might face adverse consequences.
We generally recommend Kratom users to stay hydrated and eat proper meals and sleep for 6-8 hours to avoid any possible side effects of Ketum.
How to take extracts and tinctures?
Extracts, kratom tinctures, kratom enhanced leaves or powder, must be taken with great caution. They contain large amounts of alkaloids and other active ingredients present in Mitragyna Speciosa. Therefore, we suggest that you do not take them regularly. And, even when you take them, please go a small dosage.
Do not take many doses on the same day. Please do not mix extracts and tinctures with any potent substance as it may lead to a drug reaction. Avoid using the same extract or tincture daily, to prevent developing tolerance and dependence.
Takeaway
Mitragyna Speciosa has several top alkaloids that have a beneficial impact on health. But it is sad to see negligible research on these components of the plant. We recommend that you responsibly take the strong strains of Kratom to avoid any potential harmful effects.
It is important that you study the effects of each alkaloid in detail. This will enable you to make an informed decision while buying Kratom. Please always buy a sample of Kratom first. Once you like it, then you can go for purchasing a larger size package.
Do not mix any of your Kratom strains with other substances. If you get any adverse effects, please contact your physician.
FAQs About Kratom Alkaloids
How to find Kratom with authentic alkaloids?
Please always search for Kratom reviews before buying them. You will find sample reviews on Reddit and Kratom blogs. If you feel confused, you can contact the vendor by emailing them or calling customer services. When you visit the website and see the vendor is making too many claims, know that this is not a reliable seller.
Always check lab test reports and the production date of the batch, to ensure it is fresh.
How to brew Kratom tea without damaging the alkaloids?
This can be done quickly if you do not heat the water for too long. Avoid boiling the water containing Kratom powder or leaves for periods longer than 2-3 minutes. Do not add any potent substances in the Tea to avoid changes to the pH of alkaloids.
Where can I buy the Top Mitragyna Speciosa products?
You can buy them from several online stores. You just have to enter your query in the Google Search Bar and access a number of vendors from all over the world. You must ensure that it is legal to possess Kratom in your state/country before purchasing it.
How to avoid building tolerance to Kratom extracts?
Please do not take Kratom extracts daily. Avoid using the same strain of extract regularly. Avoid taking large doses of Ketum extracts. If you feel like you are not getting effects of the Kratom extract anymore, please know that you have become tolerant to the effects of that particular strain. Instead of increasing the dosage, we suggest that you try a different strain of Kratom, possibly not an extract. This strain rotation helps in reducing tolerance and dependence.