The Truth About 7-OH and Why It’s Not the Same as Natural Kratom
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a compound gaining attention in the alternative wellness space — but it’s important for consumers to understand how different it is from traditional kratom leaf.
7-OH is not kratom. It is a downstream metabolite of mitragynine (kratom’s primary alkaloid), but only occurs naturally in extremely small amounts — typically less than 0.01% of kratom leaf material【1】. Some products on the market today contain isolated or concentrated forms of 7-OH, often manufactured via chemical synthesis, and these may present significantly stronger effects and greater risks.
Why Experts Are Raising Concerns
A 2024 statement by five leading kratom researchers — from institutions including Johns Hopkins, Ohio State, and the University of Florida — cautioned that synthetic or isolated 7-OH products may result in mu-opioid receptor binding, toxicity, and possible dependence, particularly with chronic use【2】.
Unlike whole kratom, which contains dozens of alkaloids interacting in complex ways, 7-OH binds narrowly and powerfully to opioid receptors, making it fundamentally different from traditional kratom use【3】.
Dr. Kirsten Smith of Johns Hopkins noted: “From a clinical standpoint, you essentially have to treat them [7-OH products] as an opioid.”【2】
What This Means for Kratom Consumers
Some consumers may unknowingly purchase kratom-like products that contain high concentrations of 7-OH or related compounds (like mitragynine pseudoindoxyl), particularly in vape shops or online marketplaces. These substances are often unlabeled or poorly regulated, and may contribute to confusion — or even lead to negative experiences mistakenly attributed to natural kratom leaf【2】【4】.
Our Approach at Laughing Lion Herbs
At Laughing Lion Herbs, we do not sell or support products containing isolated or synthetic 7-OH. We are committed to:
- Offering only pure, GMP-certified kratom leaf and natural extracts
- Ensuring no added alkaloids or synthetics
- Promoting transparency, testing, and customer education
While we cannot offer medical advice, our team is here to help you make informed choices and understand the differences between natural kratom and other emerging substances in the market.
✅ We believe in kratom the way nature intended — full-spectrum, responsibly used, and free of synthetics.
Have questions? Contact us today and we’ll help you navigate your options based on what’s naturally available and transparently tested.*
? Sources
- Kruegel, A. C., & Grundmann, O. (2018). The medicinal chemistry and neuropharmacology of kratom: A preliminary discussion of a promising medicinal plant and analysis of its potential for abuse. Neuropharmacology, 134, 108–120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.08.026
- Smith, K. E. et al. (2024). Letter to the Editor on 7-Hydroxymitragynine Risks. Addiction Journal. Summary via SupplySide SJ: Read article
- Takayama, H. (2004). Chemistry and pharmacology of analgesic indole alkaloids from the Rubiaceous plant, Mitragyna speciosa. Chemical & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 52(8), 916–928.
- Váradi, A. et al. (2016). Mitragynine/Corynantheidine pseudoindoxyls as opioid analgesics with reduced side effects. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 59(18), 8381–8397.
⚠️ *Disclaimer:
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products sold by Laughing Lion Herbs are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider regarding use of any herbal product or supplement.