Compound Monograph
Mitragynine
Mitragynine is the principal alkaloid of kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), with atypical opioid and stimulant-like activity.
Classification
Mitragynine is an indole alkaloid, part of the alkaloids class. Nitrogen-containing, often bitter and physiologically potent compounds — the group behind many of the strongest plant medicines and poisons.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Mitragynine is a naturally occurring indole alkaloid, found in Kratom. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Mitragynine is the most abundant alkaloid in the leaves of kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), a Southeast Asian tree traditionally used as a stimulant at low doses and a sedative or analgesic at higher doses. It and its more potent metabolite 7-hydroxymitragynine act as partial agonists at the mu-opioid receptor, but through an atypical, biased pharmacology distinct from classical opioids. Interest centres on its potential for pain relief and as an aid in managing opioid withdrawal, though the evidence base is still developing.
Toxicity & Safety
Kratom and mitragynine can produce nausea, sedation, dependence and withdrawal, and adverse events have been reported particularly when combined with other drugs or in adulterated products. The full safety profile remains under study and regulatory status varies widely by jurisdiction.