A Comprehensive Review on Therapeutic Potential of Mitragyna speciosa (Kratom) in Age-related Disorders

Global life expectancy has increased from 51 to 73 years over the last 60 years, demonstrating a longer lifespan for individuals worldwide. Although this has raised concerns about a rise in age-related disorders, current evidence suggests that mortality from these conditions has declined between 1990 and 2017, demonstrating that older people are generally healthier than ever. On the other hand, chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Type 2 diabetes, Osteoarthritis, and Cardiovascular disease are still affecting millions, imposing a substantial burden on healthcare systems and caregivers. Current treatments are limited by side effects, regimen complexity, and modest effectiveness. Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), a plant native to Southeast Asia, has been used in traditional medicine for many years. Rural communities have used its leaves either by chewing them or brewing them as tea for pain relief, blood glucose regulation, and overall health. Its primary active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, exert their pharmacological effects by interacting with opioid receptors, offering analgesic and mood-enhancing properties. Recent studies suggest that Kratom may exhibit neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting its therapeutic potential in age-related disorders. Despite its pharmacological properties, understanding of Kratom’s efficacy and safety is limited. Current evidence is primarily based on preclinical studies with limited clinical data; the long-term safety profile has not yet been established, especially regarding herb-drug interactions in older adults who usually take multiple medications. This review aims to explore the therapeutic potential of Kratom in supporting healthy ageing and managing age-related disorders. By examining both traditional uses and contemporary scientific evidence, this review provides a balanced view of its benefits and risks while identifying critical gaps to ensure its safe and effective use in elderly populations.