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These plants, funghi and insect illustrations
are part of my botanical oracle deck

Mitragyna speciosa | Kratom

Botanical Overview:

  • Family: Rubiaceae (Coffee family)

  • Common Names: Kratom, Biak-Biak, Thom, Ketum, Kakuam

  • Plant Type: Tropical evergreen tree

  • Native Range: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, and Myanmar)

  • Key Identifiers:

    • Large, glossy, oval-shaped leaves with a pointed tip and prominent veins

    • Small, round yellow flowers in spherical clusters

    • Can grow up to 25 meters tall in optimal conditions


Properties:

  • Active Compounds: Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine (primary alkaloids)

  • Pharmacological Actions: Analgesic, stimulant, sedative, and opioid receptor agonist

  • Flavor Profile: Bitter and earthy


Distribution and Habitat:

  • Prefers hot, humid climates and grows in lowland forests

  • Thrives in rich, moist, and well-drained soils near rivers and water sources

  • Native to Southeast Asia, but now cultivated in other tropical regions


Medicinal Uses:

  • Pain Relief: Used for managing chronic pain, particularly musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain

  • Energy and Focus: At low doses, acts as a stimulant, enhancing alertness and reducing fatigue

  • Opioid Withdrawal: Traditionally used to alleviate withdrawal symptoms from opiates

  • Mood Regulation: Helps with mild depression and anxiety by improving mood and reducing stress

  • Traditional Medicine: Used in Southeast Asia as a remedy for diarrhea, fever, and cough


Psychoactive Properties and Effects:

  • Psychoactive Nature:

    • Dose-dependent effects:

      • Low Dose: Stimulant-like effects, such as increased energy, sociability, and alertness

      • Moderate to High Dose: Sedative and analgesic effects, promoting relaxation and euphoria

    • Acts on the opioid receptors in the brain, though it is not a true opioid

    • Can produce mild euphoria and pain relief without the respiratory depression associated with opioids

  • Not Psychedelic: Does not cause hallucinations or altered perception


Magical Correspondences and Uses:

  • Element: Earth

  • Planetary Association: Saturn

  • Magical Uses:

    • Used in rituals for grounding and stability, particularly for emotional strength

    • Incorporated into practices to ease emotional pain or create a sense of balance

    • Symbolizes resilience and recovery, aiding in transitions or overcoming challenges

    • Burned as an offering for strength and perseverance


Folklore and Mythology:

  • Revered in Southeast Asian cultures as a sacred and healing plant, often used by laborers to combat fatigue and increase productivity.

  • Traditional stories mention its use by shamans for connecting with the spirit world and for healing rituals.

  • In some Thai folklore, it is believed that Kratom was a plant of divine origin, gifted for its ability to alleviate suffering.

  • Historically banned in some Southeast Asian countries due to its psychoactive effects and potential for misuse.

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