Kratom’s rise in popularity is backed by science, particularly its powerful alkaloids—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—which are responsible for the plant’s many health benefits. These active compounds interact with the body’s opioid receptors, much like prescription painkillers, but without the same risk of addiction or severe side effects. Mitragynine, the primary alkaloid, binds to the brain’s delta and mu-opioid receptors, helping to…