Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It reflects Kove Labs’ interpretation of publicly available research and is not a substitute for medical advice. We do not claim ownership of the study referenced nor assert its findings as definitive. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for individual guidance.
From the Kove Labs Science Team
We're pharmacists and scientists working to make kratom safer through clear, evidence-based education. This article is our interpretation of a recent study — translated into plain language, with context and care. We don’t claim the findings as our own, but we believe every kratom user deserves to understand the data behind what they take.

Narrative Review: Unraveling the Toxicology of Kratom

Published in Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024

Study Summary

This 2024 narrative review systematically examines over 100 published studies on kratom’s toxicological profile. It explores potential organ-specific risks, interactions with other substances, and differences between kratom leaf use and adulterated extracts. The authors emphasize the need for rigorous clinical research and clear regulatory oversight.

Key Insights

  • Most severe toxicity cases involve kratom extracts or products adulterated with other substances.
  • Risks include hepatotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, and potential for drug–drug interactions — often in high doses or with polydrug use.
  • Pure, traditional kratom leaf use is rarely associated with serious adverse effects in isolation.
  • Lack of standardization in kratom product composition contributes to inconsistent safety outcomes.

Our Take

This review provides a sober, balanced overview of kratom’s toxicological concerns. It reinforces the importance of quality control, third-party testing, and accurate labeling — all pillars of the Kove Labs standard. While kratom leaf appears far safer than synthetic or concentrated extracts, consumers must still use it cautiously and under evidence-based guidance.

Scoring Snapshot

Study Type:
Narrative Review
Study Count:
100+ references
Strength of Evidence:
Moderate
Risk of Bias:
Varies (by source)

Why It Matters

This review highlights the danger of unregulated, non-lab-tested kratom products — and the importance of companies like Kove Labs raising the bar for safety and transparency.
Medically Reviewed by J. Lott, PharmD, MPP
Dr. Lott is a pharmacist and public policy expert working at the intersection of harm reduction and clinical research. Read full bio →

Want to explore more research? Browse all kratom studies we’ve reviewed →

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