The Mitragyna genus of plants, including the kratom plant, has a long history of traditional medicinal use in Asia and Africa. These plants contain over 40 different alkaloid compounds, some of which have opioid-like effects. While kratom has been used to treat pain, addiction, and other conditions, it has also gained attention for its potential for abuse and addiction. The article discusses the complex pharmacological effects of Mitragyna plants, which can have both stimulant and sedative properties depending on the dose. It also covers the legal status of kratom, which is regulated differently in various countries. Despite the controversy, the authors suggest that with further research and development, Mitragyna plants could be a promising source of new pharmaceutical products.
Key takeaways:
- Mitragyna plants have a long history of traditional medicinal use in Asia and Africa.
- These plants contain over 40 different alkaloid compounds, some with opioid-like effects.
- Kratom, a Mitragyna species, has been used to treat various conditions but also has potential for abuse and addiction.
- The pharmacological effects of Mitragyna plants are complex, with both stimulant and sedative properties.
- The legal status of kratom varies widely across different countries.
- Despite the controversy, Mitragyna plants may have potential as a source of new pharmaceutical products with further research and development.
For further reading:
Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/12/2/193
Full Citation:
Ahmad, I.; Prabowo, W.C.;Arifuddin, M.; Fadraersada, J.;Indriyanti, N.; Herman,
H.;Purwoko, R.Y.; Nainu, F.;Rahmadi, A.; Paramita, S.; et al.Mitragyna Species as Pharmacological
Agents: From Abuse to Promising Pharmaceutical Products. Life 2022,12, 193. https://doi.org/10.3390/life12020193
