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Revision as of 03:08, 22 June 2005
Kratom is the common name for the Mitragyna speciosa Korth. (Rubiaceae) plant, native to Thailand. It is a popular psychoactive drug in its native region, and is spreading in popularity to other parts of the world. The leaves are chewed, made into a tea, or extracted into water and then evaporated into a resin, with an appearance similar to hashish. Kratom is not often smoked, although this method does provide some effect.
Kratom contains many alkaloids including the mitragynines, allowing it to possess properties of a stimulant and a narcotic simultaneously. In smaller doses the stimulating effect is often felt and is comperable to a low dose of amphetamine, and in higher doses the effect feels very much like opioids. Kratom is a very effective treatment of drug addiction, but likely due to its own addictive properties. Excessive use is not as dangerous as the excessive use of harder, less natural drugs, but has negative effects such as darkened skin, anorexia, and insomnia.
Kratom is highly illegal in Thailand, but still can be bought at markets in more rural towns. It is legal in all other countries besides Myanmar, but is no longer legal to grow or possess in Australia as of January 1st, 2005. Thailand is considering altering its legal status in light of recent discoveries of its medicinal uses in treating drug addiction.