Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, known for its stimulant and pain-relieving effects. Its active compounds, especially 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), interact with opioid receptors in the brain. Although 7-OH is only present in small amounts, it’s considered the most potent alkaloid in kratom and plays a major role in its effects. As interest in kratom grows, 7-OH has become a focus of research into its potential benefits and risks.