Kratom

This book is the first serious publication on this psychoactive plant, which has been used as medicine in Southeast Asia for thousands of years, can be helpful in opioid addiction, and remains legal in German-speaking countries. The kratom tree, botanically known as Mitragyna speciosa, whose leaves contain psychoactive compounds, is found in Southeast Asia and has a long history as a narcotic and entheogen. Its pharmacological effects can be described as classically paradoxical, as kratom can lead to either sedative or stimulating effects depending on the dose, set, and setting. It includes a detailed cultural history of kratom use, safer-use guidelines, information on various Mitragyna species and relatives, trip reports, and literature references.