Did you know that Thailand is where the majority of Kratom comes from? But you will be shocked to know that the same country has gone through a storied history of banning and unbanning when it came to Kratom.
Also, some of the strains with the word ‘Thai’ in them didn’t originally grow in Thailand. Want to know why? There are so many other interesting facts about Thailand’s Kratom. Let us go through an overview of the history of Thailand Kratom from the beginning to 2025 and kill our curiosities once and for all.
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About Kratom
Mitragyna Speciosa, typically called Kratom, is a tree that grows widely in Southeast Asia. It can be found naturally growing in countries like Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Indonesia, and more. The leaves can be consumed fresh, dried, or processed. Although its benefits are not FDA-approved, people still consider it helpful in catering to some health-related needs.
Kratom Usage Throughout The Ages
Mitragyna Speciosa has a deep-rooted history. In ancient times, herbs were used when there were barely any medicines. The labourers back then used to consume Kratom leaves to seek energy so they could work for long hours. As the world advanced, these leaves were powdered to be consumed, and then capsules came into the market. However, now Kratom is available in diverse strains and forms. It has been found in tinctures, cosmetics, gummies, and more.
Ancient Roots Of Kratom In Thailand
Kratom grew naturally in Thailand and was used in ancient times. It was initially used in the form of dried leaves. Moreover, it could also be consumed by chewing on its leaves. But eventually, in 1943, it was labelled illegal to plant Kratom. The act was known as the Kratom Act 2486. It is said that it was done to curb the increasing use of other substances like opium. In any case, this had an impact on Mitragyna Speciosa’s popularity.
Can Kratom Grow In Thailand?
Yes, it can grow, but even if a strain has the term ‘Thai’ in it, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is cultivated in Thailand. The seeds may have their roots coming somewhere from Thailand, but they may grow outside of Thailand as well. On the flip side, some Kratom plants also grow on the Thai border with other countries having the same climate conditions.
What Are Thai Kratom Types?
Thai Kratom is a strain that is either grown in Thailand or grown outside to mimic the alkaloid profile of Thailand Kratom. These types stand out due to their potency and benefits. Let’s discuss some of the main Thai Kratom types in detail.
Green Thai
As leaves mature, they start with white veins that gradually turn green. When these leaves are plucked, they give forth Green Thai Kratom. It is especially popular among beginners for its balanced effects.
White Thai
It comes from pale leaves that are not yet mature. However, it is usually sold as a blend of White and Green veins.
Red Thai
Red Thai comes from mature leaves with red veins. It is among strains with stronger effects, so it blends well with experienced users.
Yellow Thai
It is a unique strain, also known as Gold Thai Kratom. Its color is due to the unique drying process. This strain offers an array of balanced effects.
The uses and benefits of Kratom strains and products are not FDA-approved. Still, users speak highly of them.
What is Wild Thai Strain?
Well, it is a naturally growing and undomesticated version of Mitragyna Speciosa. It doesn’t undergo selective breeding, so it doesn’t offer the effects regular Kratom does. However, it has a unique alkaloid profile compared to other types of Thai Kratom.
Does Thailand Have Ideal Weather Conditions To Grow Kratom?
Yes, it has the best weather, soil, and other natural factors that promote the cultivation of the best Mitragyna Speciosa. These trees require a good amount of humidity, which is naturally present in Thailand. Moreover, nutrient-rich soil and enough rainfall give forth all the qualities Kratom is known to offer. The years-long experience Thai farmers have with growing Kratom is a cherry on top.
Is Kratom Common In Thailand Now?
Obviously, since it was decriminalized in 2021, it is legal to cultivate, harvest, sell, and use Mitragyna Speciosa. It is especially popular among old people, who prefer natural substances to manage their stamina. It is used in the country as a traditional remedy and a modern wellness product.
Recent Laws About Kratom In Thailand
After 2021, as the authorities legalized Kratom and removed it from the Category V Narcotics, it is now legal to grow, sell and use it. However, as of 2023, Thailand’s MoPH published some announcements regarding the substance. These announcements were made to save people from potential harm. According to it:
- Kratom leaves and Food containing Kratom as an ingredient must not be sold to pregnant and nursing women
- Kratom leaves, and other foods containing Kratom must not be sold to people under the age of 18
- Sellers must inform customers at the time of sale about the prohibition.
Can You Use and Sell Kratom In Thailand?
Yes, you can, provided that you follow MoPH’s guidance. However, sellers are told not to sell it to people under the age of 18 and expecting and breastfeeding women. It must also be noted that selling this herb to people mentioned above is only allowed if it is for educational or medical purposes. Otherwise, anyone caught breaking the law will be heavily fined.
Furthermore, the laws about this substance keep fluctuating, and one must remain updated with the changing rules.
Can you Grow Kratom In Thailand?
Thailand has the best Kratom growth as all its natural environmental conditions are perfect. Be it soil, weather, humidity, or rainfall, everything seems to be tailor-made for Mitragyna Speciosa’s growth. Similarly, now that the ban on its production in the city has been lifted, it has grown in bulk like before. Some farmers have even adopted it as a cash crop.
Conclusion – Thailand Kratom
Finally, having read an overview of the history of Thailand Kratom from the beginning to 2025, you know that Kratom has a long and complex history in the country. Although most of the Kratom people consumed came from Thailand, it faced banning. Now, after the recent act, it is legal to sell and use Kratom, but until Kratom is scientifically labelled safe, the laws may keep changing over time.
Heather lives with her husband and two children in beautiful British Columbia. Her passion has always been to enhance the lives of others by helping them reach their own personal goals and accomplishments. Content management is her specialty, and writing is what she does best. Her love for helping others lead her to the cannabis and kratom scene, where she saw an immense gap between patients and medicine that can help them.
