What Are Kratom Alkaloids? Breaking Down Mitragynine, 7-OH, and More
May 17, 2025
Kratom’s effects come from a unique blend of naturally occurring compounds called alkaloids. These alkaloids interact with the body in different ways, influencing energy, relaxation, and overall well-being. But not all alkaloids are created equal, and understanding them is key to choosing the right kratom product.
At Lockhold, we believe in full-plant extracts that preserve the natural balance of these alkaloids—without unnecessary manipulation or isolates that can lead to excessive tolerance buildup.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✅ The primary alkaloids in kratom and what they do
✅ Why mitragynine is the most important alkaloid
✅ The controversy surrounding 7-OH and why Lockhold does NOT sell 7-OH isolates
✅ How full-spectrum kratom extracts provide a balanced, effective experience
What Are Alkaloids?
Alkaloids are naturally occurring compounds found in plants, known for their physiological effects on the human body. Caffeine, nicotine, and morphine are all alkaloids—each with different properties.
Kratom contains over 40 alkaloids, but two stand out as the most studied and influential:
✔️ Mitragynine – The primary alkaloid, responsible for kratom’s well-known effects.
✔️ 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) – A minor alkaloid that is much stronger in receptor activity.
💡 The balance of these alkaloids determines kratom’s effects—which is why full-plant extracts matter.
Mitragynine: The Most Important Alkaloid in Kratom
Mitragynine is the dominant alkaloid in kratom, making up 60-70% of its total alkaloid content.
🔬 What mitragynine does:
✅ Binds to receptors in the body that influence energy, focus, and relaxation.
✅ Interacts differently than opioids, working as a partial receptor agonist (meaning it has a limit to its effects).
✅ Early research suggests it has a mild stimulant effect at lower doses and a relaxing effect at higher doses (Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2020).
💡 Why mitragynine is key: Kratom’s natural balance of mitragynine is what makes it effective without leading to excessive tolerance buildup.
7-OH (7-Hydroxymitragynine): Why Lockhold Refuses to Sell It
7-OH is a metabolite of mitragynine, meaning the body converts some mitragynine into 7-OH naturally after consumption. However, some companies have begun isolating and selling 7-OH as a separate extract—which comes with serious concerns.
🚨 Why 7-OH is controversial:
- Found in extremely small amounts in raw kratom leaves (~0.01% or less).
- Early research suggests it binds much more strongly to receptors than mitragynine.
- User reports indicate rapid tolerance buildup, requiring higher and higher doses over time.
💡 Lockhold’s stance: We refuse to sell 7-OH isolates because kratom works best as a full-plant extract. We believe in natural balance, not manipulated extracts that lead to unnecessary tolerance issues.
🚀 If a product is designed to make you take more and more over time, we won’t sell it.
Other Alkaloids in Kratom & Their Effects
Beyond mitragynine and 7-OH, kratom contains dozens of other alkaloids that contribute to its overall effects.
| Alkaloid | Reported Effects |
|---|---|
| Paynantheine | Second most abundant alkaloid, thought to contribute to kratom’s relaxing effects. |
| Speciogynine | May have muscle relaxant properties. |
| Ajmalicine | Associated with blood circulation and anti-stress effects. |
| Isomitraphylline | Found in small amounts, may contribute to immune support. |
💡 Why this matters: Some kratom extracts strip out many of these secondary alkaloids, making the final product less balanced and more one-dimensional.
Why Full-Spectrum Kratom Extracts Matter
When you consume a full-spectrum kratom extract, you’re getting the natural balance of alkaloids, rather than an artificially concentrated formula.
✅ Consistent Effects – A full-plant extract preserves the synergy of kratom’s alkaloids, leading to a more well-rounded experience.
✅ Avoids Tolerance Issues – Isolating single alkaloids (like 7-OH) can lead to faster tolerance buildup. Full-spectrum extracts retain natural ratios, reducing the likelihood of excessive use.
✅ Purity & Potency – Lockhold’s extraction process ensures high-potency, full-spectrum kratom that absorbs faster than powder or capsules.
🚀 This is why Lockhold’s liquid kratom is the best choice for those who want a pure, effective, and balanced experience.
💡 Want to try it? Use promo code DISCOVERLOCK16 for a FREE 16ml sample bottle!
Final Thoughts: Why Alkaloid Balance Matters
🔹 Key Takeaways:
✔️ Mitragynine is the most important alkaloid in kratom, responsible for most of its effects.
✔️ 7-OH is much stronger, but too much of it can lead to tolerance buildup—this is why Lockhold refuses to sell isolated 7-OH.
✔️ Full-spectrum kratom extracts retain the natural balance of alkaloids, leading to a more effective and sustainable experience.
✔️ Lockhold’s liquid kratom preserves the full alkaloid profile for better bioavailability, consistency, and purity.
🚀 Want to experience kratom the right way?
👉 Shop Lockhold Liquid Kratom Here
