Z. Hassan et al. (2023). Evaluation Of Toxicity Profile Of Kratom (Mitragyna Speciosa Korth) Decoction In Rats.. *Regulatory Toxicology And Pharmacology : RTP*, 105466. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105466.

Title: Exploring the Safety Profile of Kratom Decoction: Insights from a 28-Day Rat Study

Background

Kratom, scientifically referred to as \*\*Mitragyna speciosa\*\*, has garnered attention for its alleged therapeutic properties, including pain relief and potential use as an opioid alternative. However, despite its widespread use, particularly in Southeast Asia where it is often consumed as a decoction, research on its safety and toxicity profile remains limited. A recent study has taken a significant step towards filling this gap by evaluating the effects of kratom decoction on male and female Sprague Dawley rats over a 28-day period. ## Study Overview and Methodology

Methodology Details

In this study, researchers quantified the mitragynine content in kratom decoction, the primary alkaloid responsible for many of its pharmacological effects. They prepared the decoction by boiling matured kratom leaves, resulting in a liquid with a measured mitragynine concentration of 36.68 μg/mL, which is approximately 0.037 mg/mg of the lyophilized powder. The rats were administered varying doses of the decoction (10, 50, and 150 mg/kg) alongside control groups receiving a vehicle. The primary endpoints of the study included assessing mortality, changes in body weight, hematology profiles, and a thorough biochemical and histopathological analysis of vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain.

Key Findings

Remarkably, the study reported no mortality across all treatment groups, indicating a level of safety during the 28-day administration window. Additionally, there were no significant variations in the overall body weight or the hematological profiles of the treated rats when compared to controls—except for an important observation: the platelet count was significantly lowered in the female rats treated at the lowest dose of 10 mg/kg. Though this finding is noteworthy, the counts remained within the normal reference range.

Biochemical Implications

Biochemically, elevated levels of uric acid, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase were identified in both male and female rats across various dosing regimens. These findings suggest potential liver stress or injury, especially considering that AST and ALT are well-known markers of hepatocellular damage. The liver and kidney histopathological examination revealed more concerning evidence of toxicity, specifically noted were mild cytoplasmic vacuolation and degradation of renal tubules , suggesting that while acute mortality was not observed, the possibility of chronic effects or tissue damage cannot be overlooked.

Conclusion

This study adds crucial data points to the conversation around kratom’s safety profile, particularly emphasizing the need for caution due to potential renal and liver toxicity from prolonged use. While the absence of severe observable changes is encouraging, the changes noted in uric acid and liver enzymes highlight a significant area for further research. It's clear that while kratom decoction may afford some therapeutic benefits, its safety for long-term use remains a complex issue.

Overall Significance

This comprehensive evaluation of kratom decoction's safety and toxicity profile marks a significant advancement in understanding this popular herbal remedy. As kratom continues to gain traction within alternative medicine circles, particularly in Western contexts, there is a growing imperative for regulated studies to delineate its safety more effectively. Continued research will be necessary to provide a clearer picture of both its therapeutic efficacy and its associated risks.