7-Hydroxymitragynine—History, Effects & Safety Tips!

October 9, 2024 | Elyxr's Blog

When it comes to 7-Hydroxymitragynine, you need to know what you’re getting into. 7-Hydroxymitragynine is not your average supplement. It offers strong effects that can help with pain relief & mood enhancement, but it also comes with risks. Because of its potency, it’s important to use 7-OH carefully and wisely.

In this blog, we’ll explain the powerful compound, its history, how 7-OH works, and how to find safe, high-quality 7-OH products. We’ll also cover tips on choosing trusted vendors, verifying lab tests, and using 7-OH responsibly. Whether you’re new to 7-OH or just looking for better ways to use it, this guide will help you make informed choices.

What is 7-Hydroxymitragynine? Its History!

7-Hydroxymitragynine, often abbreviated as 7-OH or 7-HMG, is a chemical compound (terpenoid indole alkaloid) found in the plant—Mitragyna Speciosa, which is more commonly known as Kratom. What exactly is Kratom? It is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, and people have used its leaves for centuries as a traditional medicine for their stimulant and sedative effects. Essentially, 7-OH is like a cousin of mitragynine—meaning it is derived from mitragynine (a primary active compound in kratom leaves). Kratom research studies suggest that 7-OH is more potent than both mitragynine and even traditional opioids like morphine. 

People have used it primarily for its stimulant effects (to increase energy) and as a natural pain reliever. Scientific interest in Kratom began in the 20th century when researchers started to investigate the plant’s chemical components to understand how it works.

7-OH was first isolated and identified by Japanese researchers in 1994. Isolation in this context means that scientists were able to separate 7-OH from other compounds in the high-potency kratom plant to study it individually. Some scientists believe that these compounds could serve as alternatives to traditional opioids, offering pain relief with fewer side effects or a lower risk of addiction.

How Does 7-OH Work? How is it Formed in the Body? 

7-OH works by interacting with the opioid receptors found in the brain. These are the same receptors in the brain and body that drugs like morphine and oxycodone target to provide pain relief. 

  • It partially activates these receptors, which can provide pain relief.
  • It blocks other substances from activating these receptors.
  • This combination of effects is why 7-OH is considered a mixed opioid receptor agonist/antagonist.

As mentioned above, 7-OH is extremely potent as an analgesic (painkiller)—it is estimated to be several times stronger than morphine when compared on a weight-for-weight basis. This means that a small amount of 7-OH can provide much more pain relief than the same amount of morphine.

Unlike traditional opioids, 7-OH does not activate the β-arrestin pathway. This pathway is usually responsible for many of the common side effects of opioids, like respiratory depression (slowed breathing), constipation, and sedation. Because 7-OH avoids this pathway, it is thought to have fewer side effects than typical opioids.

Even though 7-OH is naturally found in kratom leaves, it is present in such small amounts that when you consume kratom, the amount of 7-OH you directly ingest is very low. However, once kratom is in the body, the liver can convert mitragynine into 7-OH through a process called hepatic metabolism. This means that most of the 7-OH in the body comes from this conversion process in the liver, not directly from the kratom leaves.

In the liver, 7-OH can convert back to mitragynine, which shows the dynamic nature of these compounds in the body. When 7-OH is present in the digestive system, it can partially degrade in the stomach and intestinal fluids but does not entirely break down. Additionally, in the blood, 7-OH can transform into another potent opioid, mitragynine pseudoindoxyl. This compound is even more powerful and exists in various forms within biological systems.

Health Benefits of 7-Hydroxymitragynine

7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) delivers unique benefits that make it appealing for managing pain or improving well-being. These advantages are why it’s becoming a popular choice among individuals looking for effective natural remedies.

  • 7-OH is well-known for its strong pain-relieving (analgesic) properties.
  • It helps manage chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other pain disorders.
  • 7-OH can have calming effects on the body and mind—reducing symptoms of anxiety and stress. 
  • It promotes relaxation and alleviates anxiety symptoms.
  • At lower doses, 7-OH may produce euphoria (a sense of happiness and well-being). This can improve mood and may be helpful for people with mood disorders or those looking for a temporary mood boost.
  • Some use 7-OH as a substitute for traditional opioids to help manage withdrawal symptoms. 
  • Some preliminary research suggests that 7-OH might help reduce inflammation.
  • It also helps improve overall health in conditions such as certain autoimmune diseases.

Mitragynine vs. 7-Hydroxymitragynine

Let’s break down the differences between Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), the two main Kratom’s active compounds found in Kratom leaves, to understand their properties, effects, and potential risks.

Mitragynine 7-Hydroxymitragynine 
Chemical Structure Most abundant alkaloid in kratom (about 60%) Minor alkaloid in kratom (less than 2%)
Potency Less potent than 7-OH 10 to 30 times more potent than morphine as an analgesic.
Pharmacology Interacts with multiple types of receptors beyond just the opioid receptors. 7-OH has a more focused action on opioid receptors, particularly the mu-opioid receptors.
Effects Broader range of effects: 

  • Pain relief
  • Stimulation 
  • Mood enhancement 
  • Mild euphoria.

Stimulating at lower doses, sedative at higher doses

Strong opioid-like effects: 

  • Profound pain relief
  • Sedation
  • Euphoria

More likely to cause sedation and stronger euphoria, especially at higher doses.

Risks Lower risk of dependence compared to 7-OH Higher risk of addiction and dependence
Side Effects Common side effects include nausea, constipation, dry mouth, and dizziness. Side effects can be more severe and include respiratory depression at high doses, a significant risk factor in opioid overdose.

How to Find High-Quality 7-OH Products?

Finding high-quality 7-OH products can be challenging, especially with so many options on the market. Not all products are created equal, with safety and effectiveness. There are several Kratom consumer tips you can follow to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product, including;

  • Select vendors with a good reputation and positive customer reviews.
  • Ensure the vendor provides detailed product information, including lab test results.
  • Confirm an independent lab has tested the product for potency, alkaloid content, and contaminants.
  • Look for Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to verify product safety.
  • Be wary of vendors making exaggerated claims about benefits or downplaying risks.
  • Look for dealers who follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure quality and safety.
  • Ensure kratom is sourced from reputable regions (like Southeast Asia) and ethical suppliers.
  • Read reviews and testimonials for insights into product quality and vendor reliability.
  • Begin with a small purchase to test the product before committing to a more significant amount.
  • Check if 7-OH is legal in your area to avoid legal issues.
  • Choose products with pure formulations, free of unnecessary additives or fillers.

Safety Guidelines—How to Use it Responsibly?

When using 7-OH, it’s important to prioritize safety and responsible use. As a potent kratom alkaloid, 7-OH offers benefits, but it also comes with potential risks if not used carefully. Understanding Kratom safety guidelines on how to use it responsibly can help you avoid side effects, dependence, or other health issues.

  • Begin with the minimum effective 7-hydroxymitragynine dosage to know your body’s response.
  • Gradually increase only if necessary to avoid adverse effects.
  • Avoid daily usage to reduce the risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.
  • Take off days to prevent tolerance buildup.
  • Be aware that tolerance can develop over time, requiring higher doses for the same effect.
  • If tolerance increases, reduce usage or take breaks to reset.
  • Do not mix 7-OH with other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines) to avoid dangerous interactions.
  • Consult a healthcare provider if you are on other medications.
  • Drink lots of water & eat regular meals to prevent dehydration and nausea.
  • Ensure 7-OH is legal in your area, as regulations vary.
  • Recognize common side effects and discontinue use if severe side effects occur.
  • Seek medical attention for severe symptoms like respiratory depression.
  • Use 7-OH in a safe, comfortable setting and avoid activities such as driving.

Speak to a doctor before using 7-OH if you have health concerns or take other meds. Practice a safe use of 7-Hydroxymitragynine.

Where to Shop 7-Hydroxymitragynine Products From?

Is buying Kratom online for you a huge deal?

If you want to purchase 7-Hydroxymitragynine responsibly, choosing items from reputable sources that prioritize quality and safety is essential. At Elyxr, we offer 7-OH products from best Kratom extracts to tablets that meet rigorous standards, with all batches undergoing third-party lab testing to ensure purity and potency. By shopping with Elyxr, you can trust that you are getting high-quality and lab-tested Kratom products backed by transparency and a commitment to your safety. 

Visit our store to find the right 7-OH product for your needs and shop with confidence!