kratom

American  

[krey-tuhm, krot-uhm] / ˈkreɪ təm, ˈkrɒt əm /

noun

1. a Southeast Asian evergreen tree (Mitragyna speciosa) of the coffee family, whose leaves contain a psychoactive substance.

2. the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, or the psychoactive substance they contain: used in various forms as a mood enhancer, pain reliever, etc., or in higher doses as a sedative with opioid-like effects.

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Etymology

Origin of kratom

First recorded in 1920–25; from Thai krathom

Example Sentences

Despite the state’s actions, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is still considering whether to regulate kratom, or ban it altogether.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 2026

Last year, California was on its way to having statewide regulation for kratom products.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 20, 2025

A California bill that would have imposed regulations on kratom products was quietly shelved Thursday following a clash between advocacy groups focused on the burgeoning industry.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 15, 2024

Under AB 2365, the bill proposed this year by Haney, the state would require kratom products to be registered with the public health department.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2024

Li said the method's accuracy opens the door for a more efficient discovery process and continued research on the kratom tree.

From Science Daily • Oct. 18, 2023