Kratom contains over 40 identified alkaloids. This beginner’s guide covers the most important ones — what they are, what they do, and why they matter.
Mitragynine (MIT)
The most abundant alkaloid in raw leaf. About 1–2% of dry weight in mature leaves.
7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)
A downstream oxidation product of MIT. Present only in trace amounts in raw leaf but much more pharmacologically active.
Speciogynine
A smooth-muscle relaxant alkaloid present in smaller amounts.
Paynantheine
Another minor alkaloid that contributes to the plant’s overall profile.
Speciociliatine
A trace alkaloid similar in structure to MIT.
Why does this matter?
Pure 7-OH extracts deliver one specific alkaloid at a high dose. Whole-plant or 7-OH + MIT products deliver a broader alkaloid profile. Both formats have their place — read more.