To be sure, not many people know the truth as its origins are shrouded in myth and mystery. But with the bits and pieces that have been researched and discerned, we’ve been able to put together the story of this wondrous leaf.
Mitragyna speciosa, better known as Kratom, is a naturally growing leaf found along the riverbanks and in the lush green jungles of Southeast Asia. It was discovered by the Western world only recently but has been growing and thriving in the tropical region of Southeast Asia for millennia.
Enjoyed by the natives of countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia for as long as they can remember, this special leaf is a distant relative of the coffee plant. It grows in tropical evergreens and can be cultivated in farms or in the wild.
The natives of Southeast Asia are not entirely sure of its origins but have all sorts of mythical tales shrouded in the mists of the distant past. For millennia Kratom was used for all kinds of reasons, from a relaxation method, to a social consumptive, to a reliever, to a source of focus and enlightenment.
Nowadays, with a virtual explosion in popularity, Kratom has become one of the most lucrative exports of the region. Replacing other traditionally important exports, Kratom has become a boon for Southeast Asians as more and more people are trying to get into this fast-growing industry.
It’s a win-win situation as the same business opportunity for Southeast Asians, provides a new world of benefit to Westerners who never heard of the magic of Kratom and are discovering this wonderful leaf for the first time.
Whether a Kratom consumer is in New York, California, Texas or Florida, whether they are enjoying a red, white, green strain or a gold blend, they can for a little while experience the timeless magic of what was a little known Southeast Asian secret until very recently.