While currently not restricted under the Controlled Substances Act, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) lists Kratom as one of its newest and most effective botanicals. Kratom (Mitragynine) is currently promoted by its users for its medicinal effects and how it has worked for so many as an alternative, legal, psychoactive ingredient.
The trees can grow up to 30 meters high. It has elliptical leaves that are heart-shaped at the base, pointed at the tips and hairy on the underside nerves. The leaves are about the size of an average man’s palm when fully mature. The tree bears oblong-ovoid (egg-shaped) fruits and yellow flowers.The bitter leaves contain psychoactive opioid compounds and have been consumed for thousands of years in Southeast Asia and more recently in other parts of the world for uplifting moods, boosting energy, mental clarity and pain relief. It is also believed to be an aphrodisiac.