What is kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree in the coffee family. It’s native to Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, and other South Asian countries. The leaves, or extracts from the leaves, have been used as a stimulant and a sedative. It’s also been reported for treating chronic pain, digestive ailments, and as an aid for withdrawal from opium dependence.
However, there have not been enough clinical trials to help understand the health effects of kratom. It also hasn’t been approved for medical use. Read on to learn about what is known about kratom.