Natural Kratom vs Synthetic 7-OH: A Guide for Consumers

If you’re a kratom user, you may have seen news about synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, products appearing in the market. Many consumers are unsure what the difference is between natural kratom leaves and these newer products. Understanding this distinction is important for safety and informed purchasing.

At Bulk Kratom Depot, we want to clarify the difference and explain how to ensure you are getting 100% natural kratom.

What Is 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)?

7-hydroxymitragynine, often abbreviated as 7-OH, is a naturally occurring compound found in kratom leaves. In the natural leaf, it is present in very small amounts and works in combination with other naturally occurring compounds.

For centuries, kratom leaves have been used in their natural form in Southeast Asia. The traditional leaf contains a full spectrum of compounds, which together create the unique effects associated with kratom.

How 7-OH Can Form Naturally in the Body

In addition to being present in trace amounts within the kratom leaf itself, some sources note that a small portion of certain kratom alkaloids may be converted by the body into 7-hydroxymitragynine during normal metabolic processes, primarily through liver enzymes.

This conversion occurs internally and differs from products that introduce isolated or artificially concentrated 7-OH directly. In naturally occurring kratom use, this process happens in very small amounts and as part of the body’s normal handling of plant compounds, rather than through external formulation or enhancement.

Rise of Synthetic or Concentrated 7-OH Products

Recently, some products on the market have contained synthetic or highly concentrated 7-OH, created in a laboratory setting. These are not natural kratom and often come in forms like gummies, shots, or powders claiming enhanced potency.

These products are different from the traditional leaf and have drawn attention from regulatory bodies because they are artificially concentrated rather than naturally occurring.

Why the Distinction Matters

For consumers, the key takeaway is that natural kratom and synthetic 7-OH products are not the same:

Natural Kratom

Crushed or powdered leaf with a balanced combination of naturally occurring compounds. Safe and legal in most states.

Synthetic 7-OH Products

Lab-created or highly concentrated single compounds that are not part of the traditional leaf.

Understanding this helps you make safe and informed choices when purchasing kratom.

How to Be a Responsible Kratom Consumer

To ensure you are buying high-quality, safe kratom, follow these tips:

Buy From Reputable Vendors

Choose suppliers who are transparent about sourcing and provide information on testing. For example, explore our full kratom strain collection.

Check for Lab Testing

Reliable vendors test their products through third-party labs to verify purity and authenticity.

Avoid Products With Health Claims

Kratom is not approved by the FDA for any medical use. Be cautious of products claiming to treat, prevent, or cure any conditions.

Stick to Traditional Kratom Leaf

Products claiming extreme potency may contain synthetic compounds. Natural kratom offers a balanced profile of compounds.

Our Commitment to Quality

At Bulk Kratom Depot, all our products are 100% natural kratom, sourced from trusted farmers and lab-tested for safety and purity. We do not sell synthetic or artificially concentrated products.

We are committed to transparency, quality, and helping consumers make safe choices.