Welcome to our educational resource about kratom. Here you'll find information about the plant's origins, traditional use, forms, alkaloids, current research, potential risks, and responsible-use considerations. Our goal is to provide straightforward information so adults can make informed decisions about kratom.
IMPORTANT KRATOM INFORMATION: Kratom can cause side effects and repeated use may lead to tolerance, physical dependence, or substance use disorder in some people. Kratom may also interact with medications, supplements, alcohol, or other substances. Talk with a qualified healthcare professional if you have questions about whether kratom is appropriate for you, particularly if you take medications or have an underlying health condition.
What is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, including areas of Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Its leaves have a long history of traditional use in the region. Traditionally, fresh leaves have been chewed or prepared as beverages.
Kratom contains numerous naturally occurring compounds called alkaloids. Mitragynine is generally the most abundant alkaloid in kratom leaf, while 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) occurs naturally in much smaller amounts (less than 250 ppm). Researchers continue to study kratom, its alkaloids, their pharmacology, patterns of use, and potential risks.
Botanical Kratom and Concentrated 7-OH
It is important to distinguish traditional botanical kratom from products containing synthesized or elevated concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). Naturally occurring 7-OH is present in botanical kratom in relatively small amounts, while some commercial products contain substantially elevated concentrations or synthesized forms of 7-OH.
In July 2026, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) filed its intent to temporarily place 7-OH above a specified threshold and three related substances — mitragynine pseudoindoxyl, MGM-15, and MGM-16 — into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA specifically stated that this temporary scheduling action does not apply to botanical kratom products containing naturally occurring 7-OH below the specified threshold.
The DEA's action focuses on synthesized products and products containing elevated concentrations of 7-OH. This distinction is important when discussing traditional botanical kratom and newer concentrated 7-OH products.
Kratom Research & Regulation
Scientific and regulatory discussions surrounding kratom continue to evolve. Researchers are studying kratom's naturally occurring alkaloids, patterns of use, pharmacology, potential risks, and other characteristics.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved kratom or its alkaloids as drugs for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. The FDA also maintains that kratom is not lawfully marketed as a dietary supplement or conventional food ingredient under federal law. Consumers should be aware that federal, state, and local laws and regulations concerning kratom can change.
KRATOM PRODUCTS & RESPONSIBLE USE
Laughing Lion Herbs has worked with kratom since 2015. Product quality and testing are central to our approach. Our kratom products are tested according to our quality-control program, including testing applicable to product identity, microbiological contaminants, and heavy metals.
Kratom products are available in several forms, including traditional leaf powder and capsules, as well as extracts with differing concentrations. Because products can vary substantially in composition and concentration, consumers should carefully review product labels and understand what they are purchasing.
Kratom is not risk-free. Reported adverse effects can include nausea, dizziness, constipation, and other effects, and repeated use can result in tolerance or dependence in some individuals. Combining kratom with medications, alcohol, or other substances may create additional risks. Consumers should consult a qualified healthcare professional with questions about their individual circumstances.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Laughing Lion Herbs does not claim that kratom diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents any disease or medical condition.
Looking for Kratom Near Castle Rock, Colorado?
Laughing Lion continues to serve our former Castle Rock customers online and from our Colorado Springs location. View our Castle Rock kratom information and ordering options.