Plumeria spp / Frangipani / Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

"Kembang Kamboja" in Indonesia, "Temple Tree" or "Champa" in India, "Kalachuchi" in the Philippines, "Araliya" or "Pansal Mal" in Sri Lanka, "Champa" in Laos, "Lantom" or "Leelaawadee" in Thai, "Cacalloxochitl" in Nahuatl.

Description

Plumeria is a small genus of 7-8 species, which are native to tropical and subtropical Americas and have spread to all tropical areas of the world. Plumeria produces strongly fragrant flowers which are used in some expensive perfumes. The flowers are also important symbols in many cultures. Frangipani is known as the Tree of Life in India as a branch cut from the tree will continue to blossom and will grow into a new tree when placed in the ground. Frangipani was a favourite flower of Lord Krishna.

Scent

Frangipani's rich, heady, exotic scent has a deep expansive quality which encourages a sensual almost provocative response.

Aromatic Properties

Frangipani is particularly valued for its emotionally uplifting properties. It soothes many emotional problems and can help those who working through psychological blockages associated with love and sexual fulfilment. It is thought to restore inner peace and harmony which guides one to honour the sacred in intimacy. Frangipani's nature is to remind us of the beauty of our soul's infinite journey.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with Vetiver, Agarwood, Champaca, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood.

Historical

Frangipani, also known as Plumera, is one of the most delightful members of the Apocynacea or Dogbane family. Its delicate, silken flowers appear in a myriad of variation and its enchanting fragrance can be described as the mother of all perfumes - it is nectar for the Gods. In India, Bali and other tropical countries it is indeed held sacred and present at every ceremony. But most of all it is sacred to Krishna. Frangipani trees are frequently planted in temple grounds, which has earned them the name "Pagoda trees". In India, they are also often planted near graves and revered as a "Tree of Life" that symbolizes the eternal life of the soul. The Maya of Central America also hold this tree sacred. The red and white varieties represent the sun and the moon respectively. Shamans use the flower water of Frangipani as an offering to the Gods. In Mexico, the Nahuatl (Aztec language) name for this plant is "cacalloxochitl" which means "crow flower." It was used for many medicinal purposes such as salves and ointments.
In several Pacific islands, such as Tahiti, Fiji, Hawaii, Tonga and the Cook Islands Plumeria is used for making leis. In modern Polynesian culture, it can be worn by women to indicate their relationship status - over the right ear if seeking a relationship, and over the left if taken.
Frangipani received its name from a perfume invented by the Marquis Frangipani, Marechal des Armees of Louis XIII of France. It was composed of every spice known until Plumeria (Frangipani) was discovered. The scent of Frangipani was the perfect perfume, a million times better than all other scents put together. Henceforth, the perfume was made from Frangipani and the tree was named after the Marquis.

Plant Description

Plumeria is related to the Oleander, Nerium oleander, and both possess poisonous, milky sap, rather similar to that of Euphorbia. Each of the separate species of Plumeria bears differently shaped leaves and their form and growth habits are also distinct. The leaves of P. alba are quite narrow and corrugated, while leaves of P. pudica have an elongated oak shape and glossy, dark green color. P. pudica is one of the everblooming types with non-deciduous, evergreen leaves. Another species that retains leaves and flowers in winter is P. obtusa.
Plumeria flowers are most fragrant at night in order to lure sphinx moths to pollinate them. The flowers have no nectar, and simply dupe their pollinators. The moths inadvertently pollinate them by transferring pollen from flower to flower in their fruitless search for nectar.
Plumeria species are easily propagated by taking a cutting of leafless stem tips in Spring and allowing them to dry at the base before inserting them into soil. They are also propagated via tissue culture both from cuttings of freshly elongated stems and aseptically germinated seed.(1)

References

(1) Plumeria, Wikipedia

Related Products

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Champaca (Michelia champaca)

Plumeria spp / Frangipani / Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

"Kembang Kamboja" in Indonesia, "Temple Tree" or "Champa" in India, "Kalachuchi" in the Philippines, "Araliya" or "Pansal Mal" in Sri Lanka, "Champa" in Laos, "Lantom" or "Leelaawadee" in Thai, "Cacalloxochitl" in Nahuatl.

Description

Plumeria is a small genus of 7-8 species, which are native to tropical and subtropical Americas and have spread to all tropical areas of the world. Plumeria produces strongly fragrant flowers which are used in some expensive perfumes. The flowers are also important symbols in many cultures. Frangipani is known as the Tree of Life in India as a branch cut from the tree will continue to blossom and will grow into a new tree when placed in the ground. Frangipani was a favourite flower of Lord Krishna.

Scent

Frangipani's rich, heady, exotic scent has a deep expansive quality which encourages a sensual almost provocative response.

Aromatic Properties

Frangipani is particularly valued for its emotionally uplifting properties. It soothes many emotional problems and can help those who working through psychological blockages associated with love and sexual fulfilment. It is thought to restore inner peace and harmony which guides one to honour the sacred in intimacy. Frangipani's nature is to remind us of the beauty of our soul's infinite journey.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with Vetiver, Agarwood, Champaca, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood.

Historical

Frangipani, also known as Plumera, is one of the most delightful members of the Apocynacea or Dogbane family. Its delicate, silken flowers appear in a myriad of variation and its enchanting fragrance can be described as the mother of all perfumes - it is nectar for the Gods. In India, Bali and other tropical countries it is indeed held sacred and present at every ceremony. But most of all it is sacred to Krishna. Frangipani trees are frequently planted in temple grounds, which has earned them the name "Pagoda trees". In India, they are also often planted near graves and revered as a "Tree of Life" that symbolizes the eternal life of the soul. The Maya of Central America also hold this tree sacred. The red and white varieties represent the sun and the moon respectively. Shamans use the flower water of Frangipani as an offering to the Gods. In Mexico, the Nahuatl (Aztec language) name for this plant is "cacalloxochitl" which means "crow flower." It was used for many medicinal purposes such as salves and ointments.
In several Pacific islands, such as Tahiti, Fiji, Hawaii, Tonga and the Cook Islands Plumeria is used for making leis. In modern Polynesian culture, it can be worn by women to indicate their relationship status - over the right ear if seeking a relationship, and over the left if taken.
Frangipani received its name from a perfume invented by the Marquis Frangipani, Marechal des Armees of Louis XIII of France. It was composed of every spice known until Plumeria (Frangipani) was discovered. The scent of Frangipani was the perfect perfume, a million times better than all other scents put together. Henceforth, the perfume was made from Frangipani and the tree was named after the Marquis.

Plant Description

Plumeria is related to the Oleander, Nerium oleander, and both possess poisonous, milky sap, rather similar to that of Euphorbia. Each of the separate species of Plumeria bears differently shaped leaves and their form and growth habits are also distinct. The leaves of P. alba are quite narrow and corrugated, while leaves of P. pudica have an elongated oak shape and glossy, dark green color. P. pudica is one of the everblooming types with non-deciduous, evergreen leaves. Another species that retains leaves and flowers in winter is P. obtusa.
Plumeria flowers are most fragrant at night in order to lure sphinx moths to pollinate them. The flowers have no nectar, and simply dupe their pollinators. The moths inadvertently pollinate them by transferring pollen from flower to flower in their fruitless search for nectar.
Plumeria species are easily propagated by taking a cutting of leafless stem tips in Spring and allowing them to dry at the base before inserting them into soil. They are also propagated via tissue culture both from cuttings of freshly elongated stems and aseptically germinated seed.(1)

References

(1) Plumeria, Wikipedia

Related Products

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Champaca (Michelia champaca)

Incense sticks & bamboo holder

Description

Natural Aromatic Incense Sticks from Bali, Indonesia. Wrapped in handmade paper. Includes an incense holder made from Bamboo. 10 sticks per package. Available fragrances: Sandalwood, Jasmine and Lavender.

Incenseholder Coconut wood

Description

Long incense holder to catch the ash of incense sticks. Dimensions: 25 cm long, 4 cm wide. Weight: approx. 110 gr. Made from a solid piece of Coconut wood, produced by hand in Bali, Indonesia..

Jasminum officinale / Jasmine / Oleaceae (Olive family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

True Jasmine, Jessamine (the name is derived from the Persian "Yasmin"), common White Jasmine, Poets Jasmine, Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasminum affine.

Description

The Common White Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a native of Northern India and Persia however in the centre and south of Europe it is thoroughly acclimatized. In Asia, flowers are stringed together to make garlands. The flowers are held sacred to Lord Vishnu and are used as votive offerings in Hindu religious ceremonies.
It is a vigorous sweetly scented, summer flowering climber that produces fragrant white flowers. The flowers are picked soon after opening each morning and used fresh, for oil extraction. A single Jasmine vine can perfume an entire room or garden. The flower oil extracted from the Jasmin is commonly used in high-grade perfumes and cosmetics, such as creams, oils, soaps, and shampoos.

Jasminum officinale / Jasmine / Oleaceae (Olive family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

True Jasmine, Jessamine (the name is derived from the Persian "Yasmin"), common White Jasmine, Poets Jasmine, Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasminum affine.

Description

The Common White Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a native of Northern India and Persia however in the centre and south of Europe it is thoroughly acclimatized. In Asia, flowers are stringed together to make garlands. The flowers are held sacred to Lord Vishnu and are used as votive offerings in Hindu religious ceremonies.
It is a vigorous sweetly scented, summer flowering climber that produces fragrant white flowers. The flowers are picked soon after opening each morning and used fresh, for oil extraction. A single Jasmine vine can perfume an entire room or garden. The flower oil extracted from the Jasmin is commonly used in high-grade perfumes and cosmetics, such as creams, oils, soaps, and shampoos.

Jasminum officinale / Jasmine / Oleaceae (Olive family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

True Jasmine, Jessamine (the name is derived from the Persian "Yasmin"), common White Jasmine, Poets Jasmine, Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasminum affine.

Description

The Common White Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a native of Northern India and Persia however in the centre and south of Europe it is thoroughly acclimatized. In Asia, flowers are stringed together to make garlands. The flowers are held sacred to Lord Vishnu and are used as votive offerings in Hindu religious ceremonies.
It is a vigorous sweetly scented, summer flowering climber that produces fragrant white flowers. The flowers are picked soon after opening each morning and used fresh, for oil extraction. A single Jasmine vine can perfume an entire room or garden. The flower oil extracted from the Jasmin is commonly used in high-grade perfumes and cosmetics, such as creams, oils, soaps, and shampoos.

Jasminum officinale / Jasmine / Oleaceae (Olive family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

True Jasmine, Jessamine (the name is derived from the Persian "Yasmin"), common White Jasmine, Poets Jasmine, Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasminum affine.

Description

The Common White Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a native of Northern India and Persia however in the centre and south of Europe it is thoroughly acclimatized. In Asia, flowers are stringed together to make garlands. The flowers are held sacred to Lord Vishnu and are used as votive offerings in Hindu religious ceremonies.
It is a vigorous sweetly scented, summer flowering climber that produces fragrant white flowers. The flowers are picked soon after opening each morning and used fresh, for oil extraction. A single Jasmine vine can perfume an entire room or garden. The flower oil extracted from the Jasmin is commonly used in high-grade perfumes and cosmetics, such as creams, oils, soaps, and shampoos.

Mitragyna speciosa / Kratom / Rubiaceae (Coffee family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Ithang, Kakuam, Krathom and in southern regions of Thailand, Thom.

Description

Kratom is a tree in the Coffee family that is native to Thailand where it has a long history of use. It was mainly used by workers for its stimulant effects but has also been employed for a variety of other purposes.(1) The genus was first recorded and named by the Dutch Botanist Pieter Willem Korthals who gave it its name because the stamen of the species he first discovered resembled a bishop's miter. Kratom has a rich chemistry and contains more than 25 different alkaloids. Mitragynine, the most abundant one, is structurally related to Yohimbe alkaloids and is more distantly related to tryptamine alkaloids such as psilocybin and Ibogaine. The plant also contains Epicatechin which is a powerful anti-oxidant also found in Cocoa and Green Tea. Botanically Kratom is also related to Cat's Claw. Although Kratom has recently been made illegal in Thailand, Malaysia and several other countries, some people are lobbying their governments to allow medical research into Kratom as a potential prescription substance.

Contents

Mitragynine, Mitraphylline, 7-hydroxymitragynine, 7-acetoxymitragynine, Paynanthine, Speciogynine, Speciofoline, Ajmalicine, Akuammigine, Corynanthedine, Mitraversine, Rhynchophylline, Speciociliatine, Stipulatine, Epicatechin and others. (2)

Historical

Traditional use of Kratom is usually associated with Thailand, although some use in Malaysia has also been reported. Use of Kratom dates far enough back that its beginnings can't be determined. The genus was first recorded and named by the Dutch Botanist Pieter Willem Korthals who gave it its name because the stamen of the species he first discovered resembled a bishop's miter. Traditionally users tend to be peasants, laborers, and farmers who use the plant to overcome the burdens of hard work and as a stimulant to help endure long days. (2) Female users are apparently quite rare possibly due to the association of Kratom with labor, while women tend to have more domestic roles. In some parts of the country, it was said that parents would choose to give their daughters in marriage to men who used Kratom rather than men who used Marihuana, in part due to the idea that Kratom users are hard working, while Marihuana users are lazy. (3)
As well as being used as a stimulant it has also been used for medicinal purposes and as an opium substitute. It is interesting to note that it reportedly causes stimulant effects at low dosages and more narcotic analgesic effects at higher doses. (4)

In 1943, the Thai government passed the Kratom Act 2486 that made the planting of the tree illegal and required existing trees to be cut down. This law has not been very successful, because Kratom is an indigenous species. The Thai government also made Kratom illegal and classed it in the same enforcement group as cocaine and heroin.
More recently, scientists and other specialists in the field have opted Kratom's possible use as an aid in opium withdrawal, inspired by its traditional use, or as an active placebo in research. Pennapa Sapcharoen, director of the National Institute of Thai Traditional Medicine, said krathom could be prescribed to addicts and patients suffering depression, but stressed that further research was needed. (3)

However it was recently discovered that 7-hydroxymitragynine is the most likely candidate as the chief agent of Kratom's effects and since most of the previous research was done with the assumption that Mitragynine was the most active chemical, many of the previous conclusions on Kratom may have to be revised. (2)

Health Warnings

Side effects from long term use include anorexia and weight loss, insomnia, and a darkening of the skin, particularly on the cheeks, giving an appearance similar to a hepatic face. Among addicts, 30% report limited sexual desire and the need to use a combination of Kratom and alcohol to become sexually stimulated. One study found 5 people who had psychotic conditions which may or may not have been revealed by very heavy Kratom use. Addiction seems to be a possibility if high doses are used. Some withdrawal symptoms reported by addicts include hostility, aggression, wet nose, inability to work, flow of tears, muscle and bone aches, and jerky limb movement.

Plant Description

Mitragyna speciosa is an evergreen tree native to Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. It usually grows to a height of around 15 feet though in some cases can reach up to 50 feet depending on species and location. The plant has a branch width of over 15 feet. The leaves are smooth, ovate-acuminate, opposite and dark green in color, and can grow to more than 7 inches long and 4 inches wide. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters. During the dry part of the year leaf is more abundant and there is more new growth during the rainy season. (1)(2)

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Poland
• Australia
• Iceland
• Romania
• South Korea
• Sweden
• Lithuania
• Thailand
• Finland

References

(1) Kratom, Wikipedia
(2) Kratom, Murple.net
(3) Role Seen For Traditional Herbal Stimulant, Ploenpote Atthakor Bangkok Post, 27 November 1999
(4) Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), Microgram Bulletin, Vol XXXIX

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

7-acetoxymitragynine
7-hydroxymitragynine
Epicatechin
Erowid Kratom Vault
Mitragynine
Mitraphylline

Related Products

Sacred Blue Lily of the Nile (Nymphaea caerulea)

Mitragyna speciosa / Kratom / Rubiaceae (Coffee family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Ithang, Kakuam, Krathom and in southern regions of Thailand, Thom.

Description

Kratom is a tree in the Coffee family that is native to Thailand where it has a long history of use. It was mainly used by workers for its stimulant effects but has also been employed for a variety of other purposes.(1) The genus was first recorded and named by the Dutch Botanist Pieter Willem Korthals who gave it its name because the stamen of the species he first discovered resembled a bishop's miter. Kratom has a rich chemistry and contains more than 25 different alkaloids. Mitragynine, the most abundant one, is structurally related to Yohimbe alkaloids and is more distantly related to tryptamine alkaloids such as psilocybin and Ibogaine. The plant also contains Epicatechin which is a powerful anti-oxidant also found in Cocoa and Green Tea. Botanically Kratom is also related to Cat's Claw. Although Kratom has recently been made illegal in Thailand, Malaysia and several other countries, some people are lobbying their governments to allow medical research into Kratom as a potential prescription substance.

Contents

Mitragynine, Mitraphylline, 7-hydroxymitragynine, 7-acetoxymitragynine, Paynanthine, Speciogynine, Speciofoline, Ajmalicine, Akuammigine, Corynanthedine, Mitraversine, Rhynchophylline, Speciociliatine, Stipulatine, Epicatechin and others. (2)

Historical

Traditional use of Kratom is usually associated with Thailand, although some use in Malaysia has also been reported. Use of Kratom dates far enough back that its beginnings can't be determined. The genus was first recorded and named by the Dutch Botanist Pieter Willem Korthals who gave it its name because the stamen of the species he first discovered resembled a bishop's miter. Traditionally users tend to be peasants, laborers, and farmers who use the plant to overcome the burdens of hard work and as a stimulant to help endure long days. (2) Female users are apparently quite rare possibly due to the association of Kratom with labor, while women tend to have more domestic roles. In some parts of the country, it was said that parents would choose to give their daughters in marriage to men who used Kratom rather than men who used Marihuana, in part due to the idea that Kratom users are hard working, while Marihuana users are lazy. (3)
As well as being used as a stimulant it has also been used for medicinal purposes and as an opium substitute. It is interesting to note that it reportedly causes stimulant effects at low dosages and more narcotic analgesic effects at higher doses. (4)

In 1943, the Thai government passed the Kratom Act 2486 that made the planting of the tree illegal and required existing trees to be cut down. This law has not been very successful, because Kratom is an indigenous species. The Thai government also made Kratom illegal and classed it in the same enforcement group as cocaine and heroin.
More recently, scientists and other specialists in the field have opted Kratom's possible use as an aid in opium withdrawal, inspired by its traditional use, or as an active placebo in research. Pennapa Sapcharoen, director of the National Institute of Thai Traditional Medicine, said krathom could be prescribed to addicts and patients suffering depression, but stressed that further research was needed. (3)

However it was recently discovered that 7-hydroxymitragynine is the most likely candidate as the chief agent of Kratom's effects and since most of the previous research was done with the assumption that Mitragynine was the most active chemical, many of the previous conclusions on Kratom may have to be revised. (2)

Health Warnings

Side effects from long term use include anorexia and weight loss, insomnia, and a darkening of the skin, particularly on the cheeks, giving an appearance similar to a hepatic face. Among addicts, 30% report limited sexual desire and the need to use a combination of Kratom and alcohol to become sexually stimulated. One study found 5 people who had psychotic conditions which may or may not have been revealed by very heavy Kratom use. Addiction seems to be a possibility if high doses are used. Some withdrawal symptoms reported by addicts include hostility, aggression, wet nose, inability to work, flow of tears, muscle and bone aches, and jerky limb movement.

Plant Description

Mitragyna speciosa is an evergreen tree native to Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. It usually grows to a height of around 15 feet though in some cases can reach up to 50 feet depending on species and location. The plant has a branch width of over 15 feet. The leaves are smooth, ovate-acuminate, opposite and dark green in color, and can grow to more than 7 inches long and 4 inches wide. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters. During the dry part of the year leaf is more abundant and there is more new growth during the rainy season. (1)(2)

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Poland
• Australia
• Iceland
• Romania
• South Korea
• Sweden
• Lithuania
• Thailand
• Finland

References

(1) Kratom, Wikipedia
(2) Kratom, Murple.net
(3) Role Seen For Traditional Herbal Stimulant, Ploenpote Atthakor Bangkok Post, 27 November 1999
(4) Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), Microgram Bulletin, Vol XXXIX

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

7-acetoxymitragynine
7-hydroxymitragynine
Epicatechin
Erowid Kratom Vault
Mitragynine
Mitraphylline

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Mitragyna speciosa / Kratom / Rubiaceae (Coffee family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Ithang, Kakuam, Krathom and in southern regions of Thailand, Thom.

Description

Kratom is a tree in the Coffee family that is native to Thailand where it has a long history of use. It was mainly used by workers for its stimulant effects but has also been employed for a variety of other purposes.(1) The genus was first recorded and named by the Dutch Botanist Pieter Willem Korthals who gave it its name because the stamen of the species he first discovered resembled a bishop's miter. Kratom has a rich chemistry and contains more than 25 different alkaloids. Mitragynine, the most abundant one, is structurally related to Yohimbe alkaloids and is more distantly related to tryptamine alkaloids such as psilocybin and Ibogaine. The plant also contains Epicatechin which is a powerful anti-oxidant also found in Cocoa and Green Tea. Botanically Kratom is also related to Cat's Claw. Although Kratom has recently been made illegal in Thailand, Malaysia and several other countries, some people are lobbying their governments to allow medical research into Kratom as a potential prescription substance.

Contents

Mitragynine, Mitraphylline, 7-hydroxymitragynine, 7-acetoxymitragynine, Paynanthine, Speciogynine, Speciofoline, Ajmalicine, Akuammigine, Corynanthedine, Mitraversine, Rhynchophylline, Speciociliatine, Stipulatine, Epicatechin and others. (2)

Historical

Traditional use of Kratom is usually associated with Thailand, although some use in Malaysia has also been reported. Use of Kratom dates far enough back that its beginnings can't be determined. The genus was first recorded and named by the Dutch Botanist Pieter Willem Korthals who gave it its name because the stamen of the species he first discovered resembled a bishop's miter. Traditionally users tend to be peasants, laborers, and farmers who use the plant to overcome the burdens of hard work and as a stimulant to help endure long days. (2) Female users are apparently quite rare possibly due to the association of Kratom with labor, while women tend to have more domestic roles. In some parts of the country, it was said that parents would choose to give their daughters in marriage to men who used Kratom rather than men who used Marihuana, in part due to the idea that Kratom users are hard working, while Marihuana users are lazy. (3)
As well as being used as a stimulant it has also been used for medicinal purposes and as an opium substitute. It is interesting to note that it reportedly causes stimulant effects at low dosages and more narcotic analgesic effects at higher doses. (4)

In 1943, the Thai government passed the Kratom Act 2486 that made the planting of the tree illegal and required existing trees to be cut down. This law has not been very successful, because Kratom is an indigenous species. The Thai government also made Kratom illegal and classed it in the same enforcement group as cocaine and heroin.
More recently, scientists and other specialists in the field have opted Kratom's possible use as an aid in opium withdrawal, inspired by its traditional use, or as an active placebo in research. Pennapa Sapcharoen, director of the National Institute of Thai Traditional Medicine, said krathom could be prescribed to addicts and patients suffering depression, but stressed that further research was needed. (3)

However it was recently discovered that 7-hydroxymitragynine is the most likely candidate as the chief agent of Kratom's effects and since most of the previous research was done with the assumption that Mitragynine was the most active chemical, many of the previous conclusions on Kratom may have to be revised. (2)

Health Warnings

Side effects from long term use include anorexia and weight loss, insomnia, and a darkening of the skin, particularly on the cheeks, giving an appearance similar to a hepatic face. Among addicts, 30% report limited sexual desire and the need to use a combination of Kratom and alcohol to become sexually stimulated. One study found 5 people who had psychotic conditions which may or may not have been revealed by very heavy Kratom use. Addiction seems to be a possibility if high doses are used. Some withdrawal symptoms reported by addicts include hostility, aggression, wet nose, inability to work, flow of tears, muscle and bone aches, and jerky limb movement.

Plant Description

Mitragyna speciosa is an evergreen tree native to Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. It usually grows to a height of around 15 feet though in some cases can reach up to 50 feet depending on species and location. The plant has a branch width of over 15 feet. The leaves are smooth, ovate-acuminate, opposite and dark green in color, and can grow to more than 7 inches long and 4 inches wide. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters. During the dry part of the year leaf is more abundant and there is more new growth during the rainy season. (1)(2)

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Poland
• Australia
• Iceland
• Romania
• South Korea
• Sweden
• Lithuania
• Thailand
• Finland

References

(1) Kratom, Wikipedia
(2) Kratom, Murple.net
(3) Role Seen For Traditional Herbal Stimulant, Ploenpote Atthakor Bangkok Post, 27 November 1999
(4) Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), Microgram Bulletin, Vol XXXIX

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

7-acetoxymitragynine
7-hydroxymitragynine
Epicatechin
Erowid Kratom Vault
Mitragynine
Mitraphylline

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