Mitragyna

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Mitragyna is a genus of trees in the Rubiaceae family. The genus is named after the Dutch colonial botanist Pieter Korthals. The leaves of the Mitragyna species are used for medicinal purposes and are a major part of traditional medicine in its native regions.

Species[edit | edit source]

There are several species of Mitragyna, including:

  • Mitragyna speciosa: Also known as Kratom, this species is native to Southeast Asia and is used in traditional medicine for its opioid and stimulant-like effects.
  • Mitragyna parvifolia: Commonly known as the Indian kratom, this species is native to India and is used in Ayurvedic medicine.
  • Mitragyna rotundifolia: This species is native to Africa and is used in traditional African medicine.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The leaves of Mitragyna species are often used in traditional medicine. The leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, for example, are chewed to relieve pain, increase appetite, and treat diarrhea. The leaves can also be brewed into a tea or crushed and smoked.

Legal status[edit | edit source]

The legal status of Mitragyna varies by country and state. In some places, it is considered a controlled substance and is illegal to possess or distribute. In other places, it is legal and can be purchased over the counter.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Mitragyna Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD