The Rise of 7-OHMZ and the Kratom Concentration Craze
For centuries, people in Southeast Asia have turned to kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) for its effects. Traditionally, kratom leaves are chewed or brewed into tea.
But now, “advanced kratom alkaloids” and concentrated products, like 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), are hitting the market. These products, especially 7ohmz, are gaining popularity, but also raising questions about safety and what regulations, if any, should apply.
This article provides an in-depth look at 7-OH products, their potential risks and benefits, and how consumers can make informed decisions. Right now, there isn’t much in the way of regulation, so it’s up to consumers to educate themselves. This situation is similar to the early days of the cannabis industry when Delta-8 products started appearing.
We’ll cover:
- Kratom alkaloids and terminology
- Traditional kratom use vs. new trends
- Manufacturing and extraction processes
- Potency and potential dangers of high-concentration 7-OH products
- How to spot potentially unsafe products
Understanding Kratom Alkaloids and Terminology
If you’re new to kratom, you might be a little confused by some of the terminology. Here’s a quick primer on the key alkaloids and terms you’ll see as you explore the world of kratom.
Key Kratom Alkaloids
Kratom leaves contain a variety of alkaloids, each with its own unique properties. Here are a few of the most important ones:
- Mitragynine (MIT): This is the most abundant alkaloid in kratom, typically making up around 66% of the total alkaloid content.
- 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH): Although found in smaller quantities (around .05% of kratom leaf mass), 7-OH is thought to be significantly more potent than mitragynine. Some estimates suggest it’s ten times stronger than MIT, while others claim it’s more than forty times as potent.
- Other Alkaloids: Kratom contains other alkaloids in trace amounts. The specific profile of these alkaloids can vary depending on the geographic origin of the kratom tree.
Important Terminology
Navigating the kratom market requires understanding a few key terms:
- “Advanced Kratom alkaloids”: This is primarily a marketing term used to describe products with elevated concentrations of specific alkaloids, particularly 7-OH.
- Full-spectrum Kratom: This term refers to products that aim to preserve the complete range of alkaloids naturally present in the kratom plant.
- Alkaloid extracts: These are concentrated forms of kratom alkaloids, produced through various extraction methods.
Traditional Kratom Use vs. Modern Trends
Historically, people who used kratom would chew the fresh leaves or brew them into tea. This method of consumption provides a range of alkaloids, which work together to produce the plant’s effects.
Today, however, the kratom market focuses more on isolated alkaloids. Extracts and isolates deliver a much higher concentration of specific alkaloids, like 7-OH.
This shift from whole-leaf consumption to concentrated products raises some concerns. Researchers haven’t yet studied the long-term effects of high-concentration 7-OH, and there’s reason to think that these products might increase the risk of adverse effects. Without more research, it’s hard to say for sure.
How are kratom extracts made?
Kratom extracts are made by concentrating the alkaloids found in the kratom plant. It’s done through a variety of extraction methods.
Extraction methods
A number of different extraction methods can be used to isolate and concentrate specific compounds from the kratom plant. These processes often involve solvents and filtration techniques.
Extract potency and alkaloid makeup
Kratom extracts are typically much more potent than kratom powder, with an alkaloid content that generally ranges from 5% to 15%. However, the exact alkaloid makeup can vary depending on the specific extraction method used, as well as the source material. This variability in potency and purity raises concerns about users fully understanding what they’re taking and the potential effects.
That’s why it’s important to choose a reputable vendor who is transparent about what their products contain.
The potential dangers of high-concentration 7-OH products
While some people may seek out 7-OH products for their potentially enhanced effects, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved.
Potency and Overconsumption
Because 7-OH is so potent, there’s a real risk of accidentally taking too much. Some sources say that 7-OH is 10 times stronger than MIT, while others claim it’s more than 40 times stronger. That’s a big difference, and it highlights the uncertainty surrounding this compound.
Lack of Research and Regulation
One of the biggest concerns is the lack of solid research on the safety and effectiveness of high-concentration 7-OH. Without this research, it’s hard to know the long-term effects or potential side effects. Adding to the problem is the lack of regulation. There’s currently no standardized way to control the production and sale of these products.
Potential for Synthetic Adulteration
There’s also a concern that some 7-OH products might be adulterated or synthetically enhanced. In other words, they might contain ingredients that aren’t listed on the label, or they might be mixed with synthetic compounds to boost their effects. It’s a scary thought, but it’s a real possibility in an unregulated market.
Receptor Activity
Kratom alkaloids, including 7-OH, interact with various receptors in the body, including the μ-subtype opioid receptor. It’s believed that 7-OH has a higher affinity for this receptor than Mitragynine, which could explain its increased potency. But what exactly does “receptor affinity” mean?
In simple terms, it means that 7-OH binds more strongly to this receptor, which could lead to a stronger effect on the body.
Spotlight on 7OHMZ tablets: A case study
To give you a better idea of what’s out there, let’s take a closer look at one particular 7-OH product: 7OHMZ tablets.
7OHMZ product details
7OHMZ tablets are one example of a popular 7-OH product currently on the market.
Each 7OHMZ tablet contains 14 mg of 7-OH. You may see the substance referred to as 7OH or 7-OH.
Considerations and concerns
It’s important to understand the potency of these products and how they may affect you. Because the FDA doesn’t regulate these products, it’s up to you to do your homework.
Bear in mind that 7-OH products may be harmful if misused. Do your research and proceed with extreme caution.
How to spot potentially unsafe kratom products
The kratom industry is still relatively unregulated, so it’s up to consumers to protect themselves. Here are a few tips:
- Buy from reputable vendors. Find a vendor that the American Kratom Association (AKA) has accredited.
- Read the label. Be wary of products with extremely high levels of 7-OH.
- Contact the company. If you can’t find the information you need on the label, contact the company for more details. Transparency is key.
- Be careful with concentrated products. Even if they come from a reputable source, concentrated 7-OH products are likely to cause side effects.
- Use only 100% natural kratom. Stay away from products containing synthetic additives.
The most important thing is to do your research and be aware of the risks. When in doubt, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
7-OH Kratom: The Delta-8 of the Kratom World?
The 7-OH Kratom trend has a lot in common with the Delta-8 THC trend in the cannabis industry. Both involve isolating a specific compound from a plant and marketing it for its enhanced effects. Both also raise significant questions about potency, safety, and regulation.
Just like with Delta-8, one of the main concerns about 7-OH Kratom is the lack of standardized testing and regulation. Because it’s not regulated, there’s no guarantee that the products on the market contain the amount of 7-OH Kratom that they claim to, and there’s no oversight to ensure they’re free from contaminants.
When Delta-8 first hit the market, cannabis labs began offering it to their customers. Today, the Kratom market is seeing the same thing with the 7-OH compound.
The criticisms leveled against 7-OH Kratom isolations are very similar to the criticisms surrounding Delta-8. People are concerned about the potential health risks associated with using these products, especially given the lack of research and regulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How strong is 7-hydroxymitragynine compared to morphine?
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is thought to be significantly more potent than morphine in animal studies. Some research suggests it could be dozens of times stronger. However, it’s important to note that human studies are limited, and the exact relative potency is still under investigation. Also, the effects can vary depending on individual factors and how it’s administered.
What are the ingredients of kratom?
Kratom’s primary active compounds are alkaloids, most notably mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing stimulant and analgesic effects. The specific alkaloid content can vary depending on the kratom strain and growing conditions.
What does 7-hydroxymitragynine do?
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is an opioid agonist, meaning it binds to opioid receptors in the brain. This interaction produces pain-relieving (analgesic) effects, as well as mood-altering and potentially euphoric effects. Due to its potency, 7-OH is believed to play a significant role in kratom’s overall effects, though research is ongoing to fully understand its mechanisms and potential risks.
Wrapping Up
If you’re considering kratom products, particularly those boasting high concentrations of 7-OH, remember to be a savvy consumer. Read labels carefully, research the vendor, and understand the potential effects before you buy. Use kratom wisely and responsibly.
While some users report positive experiences with 7-OH-enhanced kratom, more research is crucial to fully understand its safety profile and efficacy. We need rigorous scientific studies to determine the optimal dosages, potential risks, and long-term effects associated with high-concentration 7-OH products.
Before trying any kratom product, especially if you are currently taking medications or have pre-existing health conditions, consult with a medical doctor or qualified healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual needs and medical history.
To ensure consumer safety and product quality, greater regulation and standardization are needed across the kratom industry. We need clear labeling requirements, quality control measures, and independent testing to protect consumers from potentially harmful or adulterated products.
Finally, stay informed! Resources like the American Kratom Association (AKA) and organizations like KATS provide valuable information about kratom, its effects, and responsible usage guidelines. Knowledge is power, so empower yourself with the facts before making any decisions about kratom.