7-OH Explained: What is 7-OH
The Truth Behind One of Kratom’s Most Talked-About Compounds
If you've been exploring the world of kratom, you've likely come across the term 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). It’s one of the most popular terms in the kratom world right now (also it is an alkaloid naturally found in kratom) and also one of the most misunderstood. Kratom is a tree native to SE Asia and it naturally contains over 40 alkaloids, of which 7-OH is one. The other very commonly known is Mitragynine.
What is 7-OH? How does it work?
Is 7-OH really as scary and dangerous as some headlines would have you believe?
Let’s separate the science from the sensationalism.
What Is 7-OH?
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the kratom plant (Mitragyna speciosa). Interestingly, it's not present in large amounts in the raw leaf (or in its natural, unadulterated form) usually less than 0.01%. However, the body can convert another compound found in kratom, mitragynine, into 7-OH during digestion.
For you "sciencey" folks, 7-OH is considered a metabolite of mitragynine.
How Does 7-OH Work?
Both mitragynine and 7-OH interact with the mu-opioid receptors in the brain the same receptors targeted by traditional opioids. But here's the key: the way these compounds interact is significantly different.
7-OH is believed to contribute to the analgesic (pain-relieving) effects of kratom. However, it does NOT seem to produce the same dangerous respiratory depression associated with classical opioids when taken in NATURAL (unadulterated) kratom form.
Kratom’s alkaloids (40+) including 7-OH are what's called partial agonists. This means they stimulate opioid receptors but don't fully bind and activate them, leading to a ceiling effect. That ceiling reduces the risk of overdose, unlike what we see with full agonists like morphine, fentanyl, and Vicodin. In other words, consuming large doses of kratom will not make you more euphoric or "high", rather you will just become very "full" (think too much pasta) and probably nauseous.
Science Over Sensationalism: Truth vs. Fiction
Some common misconceptions:
Fiction: “7-OH is a synthetic opioid hidden in kratom.”
Truth: 7-OH is naturally occurring in the kratom leaf. ETHA Natural Botanicals does not add synthetic 7-OH or manipulate the alkaloid profile of our products. Our botanicals are lab-tested, sustainably sourced, and 100% plant-based.
Fiction: “Any kratom product with 7-OH is inherently dangerous.”
Truth: The trace amount of 7-OH naturally formed during metabolism is part of how kratom provides relief. Context matters isolated 7-OH in high doses is not the same as naturally occurring levels in full-spectrum kratom. Responsible use is key.
Fiction: “7-OH is what makes kratom addictive.”
Truth: Kratom’s potential for dependency is complex and not solely tied to 7-OH. Like coffee (same plant family as kratom), overuse can lead to habit formation. But responsible, informed use of whole-leaf kratom minimizes risk.
ETHA’s Commitment to Transparency
At ETHA, we believe science should lead research and conversation, not fear. We meticulously test every batch for alkaloid content and contaminants, and we publish realistic facts and resources, like lab results and ingredients to keep our community well-informed.
Does ETHA sell 7-OH?
At ETHA, we believe in keeping kratom the way nature designed it, a full-spectrum botanical with no fillers, binders, or synthetic alterations. Every ETHA product is lab tested to ensure you’re getting safe, pure, and naturally balanced kratom with little potential for abuse when used responsibly. 7-OH is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the kratom plant. It is not present in large amounts in the raw leaf or in its natural, unadulterated form, usually less than 0.01%. However, the body can convert another compound found in kratom, mitragynine, into 7-OH during digestion. This slow conversion in the body paired with the presence of other kratom alkaloids means a much different experience versus consumption of synthetically enhanced 7OH products. As such, ETHA products do contain very small, trace amounts of the naturally occurring 7-OH alkaloid. ETHA does NOT offer any products where the 7-OH alkaloid has been enhanced, elevated, and/or chemically altered. All our ETHA products are natural kratom, no synthetically enhanced 7OH!
ETHA Alternatives to 7-OH Enhanced Products:
Instead of chasing chemically altered highs, you can enjoy safer, natural kratom in a variety of convenient, effective forms:
1. ETHA Super Mints & Extract Mints – Refreshing, portable, and discreet, these deliver all the benefits of natural kratom without any synthetic boosting. All-natural energy and mood boost without the dangerous side effects when used responsibly.
So Do ETHA Mints Contain Any 7-OH?
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the kratom plant Mitragyna speciosa. In the raw leaf or in its natural, unadulterated form you will find this alkaloid present in very small amounts, usually less than 0.01%. However, the body can convert another compound found in kratom, mitragynine, into 7-OH during digestion. ETHA does NOT add synthetic 7-OH or manipulate the alkaloid profile of our 7th Hour Super Mints or ANY other ETHA products. Our botanicals are lab-tested, ethically sourced, and 100% plant-based. Our 7th Hour Super Mints are your ALL-Natural alternative to the synthetic 7-OH enhanced products. Each 500mg mint contains 115mg of Mitragynine, which naturally converts in the body to 7-Hydroxymitragynine (18-23mg). All natural and no synthetic processes. Extended-Release benefits and sustained kratom alkaloid experience. A pure, all-natural experience of ultra-pure kratom extract, 115mg mitragynine. No synthetically enhanced 7OH!
2. Original Whole-Leaf Tablets – Our flagship product is
made from 100% premium kratom leaf and pressed into easy to take and easy to carry tablets. No binders, no fillers, just pure, highest quality kratom.
Kratom isn’t sorcery and 7-OH isn’t the devil. It’s one of many natural alkaloids working in unison in kratom to support overall well-being when used wisely, and from a reputable source (like ETHA).
Closing Thought:
Understanding kratom means understanding its chemistry but you don’t need a scientist. ETHA's R&D team does all the hard, meticulous work for you. You just need honest, accurate information. That’s why ETHA is here for you.
What to do if you want to STOP using 7-OH enhance products?
When you are trying to break any habit or “addiction” moderation and responsible behavior are the key. Do not drastically alter your behavior and routine because you may be in for a rough couple of days or weeks. Start slowly tapering down your current 7-OH use and make sure you have a good support network of friends and family to help you along. Slowly introduce yourself to ETHA Super Mints while you continue to lower your 7-OH usage. Thereafter, begin to lower the super Mints usage and add in traditional ETHA Mints. Finally, add in whole leaf tablets (MaengDa and Sunrise are great options) as you limit your Mints usage to maybe a few per week. Ultimately, you want to move to whole leaf kratom tablets or powders as your go-to while the Mints (and Super Mints) are there when you’re having a particularly tough day. From there, you can decide to stop your kratom usage altogether or continue to use it responsibly for all the wonderful benefits. Please feel free to reach out to us anytime support@ethanaturals.com if you have any questions, or need any additional information/guidance.
Have any additional questions about kratom alkaloids or how our products are made? Reach out we’re happy to help. CONTACT US
Leave a comment