​Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea, belonging to the coffee family (Rubiaceae). For centuries, traditional Southeast Asian cultures have used its leaves as an herbal remedy to address a wide range of physical and emotional ailments. The leaves contain over 40 alkaloids, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which interact with opioid, serotonin, and dopamine receptors in the brain, producing dose-dependent effects. Low doses (1–5 grams) provide energy and focus, while higher doses (5–15 grams) promote pain relief and relaxation. Kratom is commonly consumed as a crushed powder, capsules, extracts, or brewed into tea, making it a versatile botanical supplement embraced globally for its wellness potential.

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Historically, Southeast Asian communities chewed fresh kratom leaves or brewed them into tea to boost stamina, soothe pain, and foster social connections. Modern users often crush dried leaves into a fine powder for ingestion, with anecdotal reports from around the world highlighting its efficacy in managing chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal symptoms.