Understanding the Alkaloid Profile in Kratom

Kratom is a unique and popular plant due to its diverse range of qualities. Unlike Arabica coffee, which has a consistent flavor and quality, Kratom’s varieties, vein colors, and even batches of the same strain and region can differ significantly. Mitragyna Speciosa exhibits significant variances in varieties or strains, vein colors, and even batches of the same variety and geographic area. In this article, we will explore and understand the alkaloid profile of Kratom and see which factors influence its alkaloid concentration.

Alkaloids: What Exactly Are They?

The term “alkaloids” was first coined by German scientist Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Großmann in 1819, but it wasn’t until the 1880s that the term gained popularity among scientists. Alkaloids are naturally occurring organic compounds that contain nitrogen and are often employed by plants as a natural defense mechanism against predators. When taken by animals or humans, alkaloids have a variety of effects, which is why they are commonly found in many products. Kratom’s beneficial properties are largely due to its alkaloid content, which includes well-known alkaloids such as nicotine, ephedrine, morphine, and strychnine. Although alkaloids are widely utilized, the science behind their effects is still not fully understood.

Kratom Alkaloids

Kratom alkaloids are organic molecules that occur naturally in the leaves of the Kratom plant. There are currently 54 known alkaloids in Kratom, which is a high quantity compared to other alkaloid-producing plants. The most abundant and active alkaloid in Kratom is mitragynine, which can make up to 2% of the dry leaf weight. While other alkaloids are present in trace amounts, they are not as potent as mitragynine. Another potent alkaloid is 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is a variation of mitragynine, but found in much lower concentrations in Kratom leaves.
Research on the science behind these alkaloids is still in its initial stages. The many alkaloids contained in Kratom and their modes of action are discussed further below.

Mitragynine
It is a common ingredient in Mitragyna Speciosa and is believed to have therapeutic properties, mainly for managing soreness. It is an indole-based compound containing hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon atoms that can vary in concentration between different Kratom strains. Southeast Asians have preferred Kratom for its holistic and recreational benefits for a long time, and it is now gaining popularity in the Western world. Mitragynine is present in other Mitragyna species, but in varying amounts.

7-hydroxymitragynine
7-hydroxymitragynine is a Kratom alkaloid and is considered the second-most important component after mitragynine. It has a similar structure to mitragynine and binds to the same receptors in the brain. As Kratom matures, mitragynine converts to 7-hydroxymitragynine through oxidation, making it more prominent in red vein Kratom. Although it only represents a small portion of Kratom’s alkaloid content, 7-OH reportedly has comforting and calming properties.

Factors that Influence the Alkaloid Content

There are many factors that influence the overall alkaloid profile and content of Kratom.

• Time of Harvest. Early harvest may result in a higher alkaloid content and increased potency.
• Soil Composition. The soil in which the Kratom plant grows has a significant impact on its alkaloid content and effects.
• Nitrogen levels in the soil can increase alkaloid synthesis in the plant. 
• The presence of beneficial bacteria can also influence the growth and yields of the plant.
• High salt content in the soil can result in more potent alkaloids, but it may also reduce alkaloid quantities.
• Growing Conditions. Other environmental elements also play a crucial role in shaping the alkaloid content of the Kratom plants.
• Moisture and temperature are important environmental factors that affect the alkaloid content of Kratom.
• Kratom trees grow naturally in humid areas, and the specific amount of moisture the plant needs is crucial.
• The temperature of the environment can affect the alkaloid content, but the exact effects are strain-specific.
• Higher temperatures and increased levels of carbon dioxide in the air have been linked to increased alkaloid production in plants and trees.
• Sunlight. Sunlight exposure also affects alkaloid synthesis, but the relationship between the compound and sun rays is not fully understood.

To Wrap Up

At Krave Botanicals, we strongly believe in the potential benefits of Kratom and its high alkaloid content for consumers. We aim to provide the purest and safest Kratom products and maintain close relationships with our cultivators and Kratom experts to ensure a potent and authentic product is delivered directly to customers. Hurry up, check out our Krave Kratom samples to get started, and enjoy free shipping on all orders across the country.