A botanical, phytochemical and ethnomedicinal review of the genus Mitragyna korth: Implications for products sold as kratom

摘要: Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance The genus Mitragyna (Rubiacaeae) has been traditionally used in parts of Africa, Asia and Oceania. In recent years, there increased interest species with the introduction products to western markets regulatory uncertainty. Aim study This paper reviewed traditional ethnomedicinal uses leaves for belonging reference botany known chemistry order highlight areas currently being sold as kratom. Materials methods A literature search was conducted using Web Science, Google Scholar, Royal Museum Central Internet Archive, Hathi Trust, Biodiversity Heritage Library engines spring 2015, fall 2016 winter 2017 document bark, leaf root material. Results Leaves M. speciosa (kratom) had most common documented an opium substitute or remedy addiction. Other were reportedly treating pain, however mode preparation often cited topical application. included treatment fever, skin infections, a mild anxiolytic. Conclusions have medicinally various world that is significant evidence use. Modern include formulations application liniments, balms tinctures may provide effective alternatives certain types pains. Future research required establish safety toxicology limits, medicinal parameters potential different physiological responses among varying genetic populations support requirements spp.