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Kratom Science
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Research, Safety,
Data & Facts
Welcome to the Global Kratom Coalition’s Science Hub.
Foundational Principles
Expert Scientific Consensus
KCAC Science
Safety & Risk Analysis
Pharmacology & Chemistry
Addiction & Dependence
Clinical & Observational
Public Health Context
GKC Research Reports
Education & Experts
Foundational Principles
The most important scientific and legal principle is that not all “kratom” products are the same. Traditional leaf kratom has a history of use that qualifies it as an Old Dietary Ingredient (ODI). Concentrated extracts are New Dietary Ingredients (NDIs) requiring separate FDA notification. Products with isolated/synthetic alkaloids like 7-OH are unapproved new drugs that cannot be legally sold as dietary supplements. This framework is essential for regulation.
Key Resources:
Not All Kratom Is Equal
Whole Leaf Kratom
- American use since 1970’s.
- Natural mix of alkaloids.
- Served powders and teas.
Contains 10-20mg Mitragynine Per Gram
Kratom Extract
- Commercially available since 2013.
- Far higher concentrations of alkaloids.
- Drinks, capsules, concentrated powders, sublingual strips & more.
Is 5-10x More Powerful Than Leaf Kratom
The Drug ‘7’ (7-OH)
- Very recent. Commercially available since 2023.
- Synthetic alkaloids rife with chemical byproducts.
- Pressed tablets, candies, gummies & more.
Expert Scientific Consensus
The GKC’s positions are aligned with the consensus of leading kratom scientists from respected institutions like the University of Florida and Johns Hopkins University. These experts have published formal statements clarifying that synthetic derivatives should not be considered kratom, providing a scientific framework for regulation, and recommending standards for product safety, labeling, and alkaloid content to protect public health.
Key Resources:
The KCAC Positions
The Kratom Consumer Advisory Council an independent council of consumers, scientists, and experts chaired by an internationally respected clinical pharmacologist, provides crucial guidance on complex issues. The council publishes formal position statements on critical topics such as product labeling, the status of 7-OH products, use in vulnerable populations, and product registration. These evidence-based positions help shape responsible industry practices and GKC policy initiatives.
Key Resources:
Science of Safety
& Risk Analysis
A data-driven analysis shows that traditional leaf kratom’s safety profile is manageable and compares favorably to other common substances. This is reinforced by its inclusion in the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA)
Botanical Safety Handbook, which provides a professional, scientific safety framework for its use. Understanding this data, along with potential medication interactions, is key to replacing fear with facts and promoting responsible use.
Key Resources:
Addiction
& Dependence Profile
While any psychoactive substance can be habit-forming, the scientific data shows leaf kratom has a lower abuse potential than many other substances. For users who develop a Substance Use Disorder (SUD), the severity is most often mild , and the symptoms are skewed toward physical dependence rather than dangerous or socially detrimental behaviors.
Key Resources:
Formal Clinical
& Observational Research
Our positions are informed by formal scientific research and large-scale data collection. This includes a landmark study commissioned by the FDA which found traditional leaf kratom to be highly tolerable in humans, with no serious adverse events reported. Furthermore, national surveys provide invaluable insight into who uses kratom and why, helping to replace speculation with facts about the 24 million Americans who consume kratom.
Key Resources:
- FDA Study on Kratom Dosing and Safety
- 2024 National Consumer Survey
- Louisiana Poll On Leaf Kratom Regulation
The Fourth Wave
Effective policy requires understanding leaf kratom’s place in the broader public health landscape. Banning a natural botanical with a long history of use while dangerous synthetics—sometimes called “Gas Station Heroin”—proliferate in an unregulated market is a counterproductive public health strategy. This section provides context on how sensible regulation can prevent a potential fourth wave of the opioid epidemic driven by these unapproved drugs.
Key Resources:
GKC Research
The GKC is committed to funding new research to answer critical questions and ensure market integrity. This includes commissioning advanced analytical studies to protect consumers from dangerous and mislabeled products. For example, our research was the first to identify specific synthetic chemical contaminants and byproducts in 7-OH products, providing definitive proof they are not natural kratom.
Key Resources:
Education & Expert Resources
Empowering every audience with clear, scientific knowledge is central to our mission. Our work is guided by a network of respected “Science All-Star” affiliates from leading institutions. In partnership with these experts, we develop accredited educational materials for healthcare professionals and accessible, data-driven resources for consumers, ensuring everyone has the facts about leaf kratom.
Key Resources:
- Meet Our Science All-Stars
- Leaf Kratom Consumer Education by University of Florida
- UCONN’s Pharmaceutical CE Course on Kratom
- Kratom College
Kratom Safety & Science: What You Need to Know
Kratom’s effects depend on preparation and dosage—while traditional use is generally safe, concentrated extracts may pose risks.
Key Considerations:
- Kratom is not inherently dangerous. Risk factors depend on dosage, product formulation, and individual health conditions—just like coffee, alcohol, or over-the-counter medications.
- Public health strategies should focus on regulation, not fear-based prohibition.
- Prohibition often leads to unregulated, contaminated products—the very thing bans claim to prevent.
Science is catching up with tradition. Get the facts before forming an opinion.
Need Kratom Research?
Submit Your Request
As part of our commitment to advancing the world’s knowledge of leaf kratom, we provide access to extensive scientific research. If you are a researcher, journalist, or policymaker, please use this form to request specific data on safety, pharmacology, or consumer usage patterns, and our team will promptly provide relevant, evidence-based materials.
Are You a Science Professional?
Join the GKC Team
Why It Matters
Let’s move science forward—together!
Your input helps bridge the gap between science and public understanding. Whether you need answers or want to contribute expertise, GKC is here to facilitate meaningful kratom research.
Your Comprehensive Resource Library
Navigate effortlessly between General, Scientific, Legal and Regulatory and Product Safety resources— with just a single click. Join the fight against misinformation by sharing fascinating facts you discover. Simply hit ‘Download’ to receive the knowledge and invite others to explore our rich repository of information!
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2024 Kratom Consumer Survey
This survey review offers key insights into the kratom user base, revealing who they are, why they use kratom, and their perspectives on its health effects. -
The Evolution of Kratom: A Historical Timeline
An infographic tracing kratom’s journey from its traditional origins in Southeast Asia to its current complex legal and political landscape in the United States. -
Not All Kratom Is Equal
An infographic of clear visual guide comparing the potency, history, alkaloid sources, and common product forms of leaf kratom, kratom extract, and synthetic 7. -
The Differences Between Kratom Products
A detailed diagram visual comparison of leaf kratom, extracts, and synthetic “kratom,” highlighting distinctions in their market entry, alkaloid profiles, and appropriate regulatory approaches. -
Kratom Safety, Taxonomy, and Regulation
Provides a general overview of kratom, addressing common confusion between product types and outlining the GKC’s goals for a safe and regulated marketplace.
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2024 FDA Study: Kratom Dosing & Safety Results
A summary of an FDA-commissioned study that found controlled servings of dried leaf kratom were generally well-tolerated and resulted in no serious adverse events. -
FDA Pilot Study: Updates on Kratom Alkaloid Research
A presentation from the FDA detailing updates on its pilot dose-finding study of kratom alkaloids, including study design, preliminary observations, and next steps. -
Scientists’ Statement on 7-OH and MGPI Products
A statement from leading scientists clarifying that products with high amounts of 7-OH and MGPI are synthetic and do not constitute natural kratom. -
Scientific Statement on Kratom Products
An overview by scientists covering the history of kratom use, its current regulatory status, and the scientific understanding of its effects in the United States. -
Comprehensive Report on Substance Use Disorders
A detailed analysis comparing the prevalence, severity, and symptoms of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) associated with kratom, caffeine, alcohol, opioids, and other substances. -
The Science of Leaf Kratom: Psychoactive Effects
This document reviews scientific evidence on leaf kratom’s effects, refuting claims about cognitive impairment and abuse potential while clarifying its atypical opioid profile. -
2024 FDA Pilot Study on Kratom Dose Response
Details of the FDA’s pilot study evaluating the effects, safety, and pharmacokinetics of orally administered botanical kratom in non-dependent, recreational polydrug users. - Show more
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Congressional Letter to the FDA on Kratom
A letter from members of Congress to the FDA expressing concerns about mislabeled kratom products and requesting information on consumer protection measures. -
GKC Letter to FDA on Public Safety Guidance
A letter from the Global Kratom Coalition to the FDA, expressing a desire to collaborate on public safety guidance for kratom products and regulatory approaches. -
Louisiana Voter Poll on Kratom Regulation
This poll assesses public opinion in Louisiana regarding kratom’s legality and regulation, including support for banning synthetic drugs while keeping leaf kratom accessible. -
List of Banned Zip Codes: USA
A data file listing zip codes across the country where the sale, possession, or distribution of kratom is currently illegal. -
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KCAC Position: Registration of Kratom Products
This statement advocates for a public registry of kratom vendors and products to ensure transparency, accountability, and a safer market for consumers. -
GKC Statement on Synthetic 7-OH Products
The GKC clarifies its opposition to synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) products, arguing they are not kratom and should be regulated as new drugs, not supplements. -
KCAC Position: Status and Legality of 7-OH Products
This KCAC statement discusses the legal and regulatory status of 7-OH products, arguing they are not “kratom” and require a distinct regulatory approach. - Show more
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The Severity and Prevalence of Addictive Substances
This infographic visually compares Substance Use Disorder (SUD) severity and prevalence across various substances, including kratom, heroin, alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine. -
Comparative Safety Analysis of Kratom
This document provides a comparative risk analysis of kratom versus other legal and illicit substances, using data from the FDA and poison control centers. -
Contaminants in 7-Hydroxy Mitragynine Products Report
A detailed report identifying synthetic alkaloid contaminants found in 7-Hydroxymitragynine products and discussing the serious implications for regulatory oversight and consumer safety. -
Botanical Safety Handbook: Kratom Entry
An entry for Mitragyna speciosa from the American Herbal Products Association’s handbook, providing safety classifications, contraindications, and potential drug interactions for kratom leaf. -
Debunking Myths About “7”: The Facts
A fact sheet refuting misleading claims about “7” (a synthetic substance), arguing that it is not natural kratom, is not safe, and is deceptively marketed. -
In-Depth: Debunking Myths About “7”
A more detailed version of the fact sheet refuting claims about “7,” providing comprehensive evidence that it is a dangerous, unapproved, and illegal synthetic drug. -
KCAC Position: Proper Labeling of Kratom
This statement advocates for the importance of clear, comprehensive labeling on kratom products to ensure consumer safety and outlines essential information that should be included. -
KCAC Position: Kratom Use in Children
This statement outlines concerns about kratom use by minors, highlighting potential adverse events and the issue of products being marketed in ways that appeal to children. -
UCONN Continuing Education: Kratom Course for Pharmacists
An educational program from the UCONN School of Pharmacy designed to inform pharmacists about natural kratom, its effects, and key points for patient education. -
The Fourth Wave of the Opioid Epidemic
This presentation warns of a potential “fourth wave” of the opioid crisis driven by dangerous and addictive synthetic opioid stimulators, arguing they must be banned. -
Fact Check: “Synthetic 7” and the Opioid Crisis
This KCAC statement fact-checks and refutes misleading claims that the sale of “synthetic 7” products has reduced opioid-related deaths, citing a lack of evidence. -
GKC Perfect Label – Kratom Product Label Guidelines
This document from the Global Kratom Coalition provides comprehensive guidelines for labeling kratom products to ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance. - Show more
Dr. Erin Berthold
