While a lot of press goes to kratom’s more prominent alkaloids like mitragynine or 7-hydroxymitragynine, the lesser known mitraphylline is also an important player in the structure of this herbal medicinal. This active alkaloid is non-narcotic, yet acts on the body’s opiate receptors in ways which we do not yet fully understand. As we continue to build a more complex portrait of the structure of kratom leaves and all of the amazing benefits its alkaloids provide, we open the door to newer and even more powerful applications of the popular remedy. Once again, the natural world provides exciting solutions to every problem that humanity faces. Let’s explore what we know about mitraphylline extract and other powerful kratom alkaloids.
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Mitragyna Speciosa Alkaloids
Kratom gets its healing, therapeutic power from natural basic compounds which form inside of its leaves, known as alkaloids. These simple structures are present in many, but not all plants, and are influenced by factors like the genetics of the species, the climate, and soil in which the plants grow. When these alkaloids enter the human bloodstream, they bond with our cells to send new messages to the brain and nervous system. These signals in turn create mental and physical effects we can feel. Alkaloids have always been widely used in medicine traditionally, as well as in modern labs.
The main alkaloids we see in the leaves of the Mitragyna Speciosa tree, also known as kratom, are mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, speciogynine, and paynantheine. As mitragynine appears in the greatest concentrations, there has been much speculation as to its role in the plant. While less research and press has been devoted to the 40 other alkaloids present in kratom, recent research indicates that it is the harmonic synergy of the full spectrum extract of all of these substances, not just one, which gives the plant its medicinal power.
Mitraphylline is one of the group of alkaloids that can always be found in the potent leaves. This alkaloid is also found in the popular herbal remedy called Cat’s Claw. It’s interesting to note that Cat’s Claw is often proscribed for pain relief, arthritis relief, digestive disorders, and fatigue, many of the conditions that people use kratom for.
Health Benefits Of Mitraphylline
Each one of kratom’s alkaloids has its own health benefits, in addition to its contribution to the overall effects of the remedy. In the case of mitraphylline, scientists have noted that it may have anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effects.
Other prominent, lesser known alkaloids can have similarly powerful and important effects. Ajmalicine is thought to increase oxygen to the brain. Speciophylline is another medicinal compound being investigated for anti-cancer effects. Ajmalicine lowers blood pressure, and epicatechin is a powerful antioxidant. These are just a few of the potent compounds found in every single leaf.
How Harvesting Can Increase Alkaloids In Kratom
To get the most alkaloids out of the kratom leaf, various harvesting methods have been devised. The most prevalent is called “Premium” harvesting, which separates leaf matter from stems, which are thought to have a lower alkaloid content. The resulting powders, also called “Premium,” are especially potent. As larger kratom leaves with bigger surface area are thought to host more alkaloids, some farmers will not include small leaves in kratom preparations. These large leaf batches are known commercially as “Super.”
Mitraphylline In Full Spectrum Extracts
Another process for boosting alkaloid levels, extraction, reduces great quantities of kratom leaves down to their essence – a dense, highly concentrated resin or powder, loaded with potent compounds. As only some of kratom’s alkaloids are soluble in alcohol, it’s important to use extraction methods which are able to separate out all alkaloids, even the ones that are water soluble. These comprehensive extracts are known as “full spectrum,” because they possess the full range of alkaloid power, and offer maximum synergistic benefits as such.
Scientists are still not exactly sure how Mitraphylline plays its role alongside all of the other alkaloids. However, as new comprehensive studies of the herbal medicinal start to pour in, our understanding of how to put these basic natural compounds to good use grows. In our own way, every kratom enthusiast worldwide is contributing to this ever-expanding bank of knowledge.
