What Is Kratom? Origins, Forms and Legal Status

What Is Kratom?

So, what is kratom? Kratom is the leaf of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, a member of the coffee family. It is native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, in countries such as Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. People there have chewed the fresh leaves or brewed them as tea for generations.

The main alkaloid in the leaf is called mitragynine. Researchers are still studying kratom, and the FDA has not approved it for any use. It can be habit-forming, so it should always be used responsibly.

Is Kratom Legal?

Natural kratom leaf is not a federally controlled substance in the U.S. However, several states and cities ban or restrict it, and the rules change often. Before ordering, check the current status where you live in our 2026 state-by-state kratom legal guide. Kratom Herbs only sells to adults 21 and over.

What Forms Does Kratom Come In?

• Powder: finely milled dried leaf. See our kratom powder.
• Capsules: powder pre-filled into size 00 veggie capsules. See our kratom capsules.
• Crushed leaf: coarsely crushed leaf for brewing tea, such as Green Bali crushed leaf.
• Extracts and tinctures: concentrated products for experienced adults. See our liquid kratom.
• Gummies: chewables made with kratom extract. See our kratom gummies.

What Are Kratom Strains?

Kratom strains are usually named for two things: the color of the leaf vein and the region where the tree grows. Red, green and white vein leaves are harvested at different stages of maturity. Names like Bali, Borneo, Malay and Thai point to the growing region. Maeng Da refers to selectively grown kratom from carefully chosen trees.

Trainwreck is a blend of several strains from different regions. You can compare them all in our guide to kratom strains or on our kratom strain chart.

Does Kratom Show Up on a Drug Test?

Kratom generally does not show up on standard employment drug tests. Those panels typically screen for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines and benzodiazepines. However, specialized tests can be ordered to detect kratom alkaloids such as mitragynine.

• Standard tests: most routine urine, saliva and hair tests do not look for kratom.
• Specialized testing: clinical or court-ordered tests can be set up to detect it.
• How long: kratom alkaloids can remain detectable for several days, depending on the person and how often kratom is used.

How to Choose Your First Kratom Product

If you are new, start with a regular leaf powder or capsule rather than an extract. Follow the serving information on the product label, try one product at a time, and take regular breaks. Do not combine kratom with alcohol, medications or other substances.

For more first-timer tips, read our kratom for beginners guide. Every batch we sell is tested for salmonella, bacteria, heavy metals and alkaloid content.

For independent background on kratom and current research, see the NIH overview of kratom.

Kratom is not approved by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. It can be habit-forming. Talk to your doctor before using kratom, especially if you take any medication. For adults 21 and over. Please check your local laws before ordering.