The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) is advancing a five-pronged strategy to develop kratom into a globally recognised economic herb, supported by research, innovation and international standards.
The aim is to strengthen the commercial and medicinal potential of the plant, known scientifically as Mitragyna speciosa, said DTAM deputy director-general Tewan Thanirat.
Dr Tewan said kratom has long been part of Thai traditional medicine and local wisdom. Its removal from the narcotics list in 2021 created new opportunities for research, product development and commercial use, while its designation as one of Thailand's "Herbal Champions" in 2023 further accelerated efforts to develop the crop.
The new plan seeks to establish a clear national roadmap, identify research gaps and promote cooperation between government agencies, universities and the private sector to develop products that meet international standards for quality, efficacy and safety.
He said Thailand has produced 331 kratom-related research studies. Most focused on pharmacology and safety, accounting for 32.9% of research, while 31.1% examined basic science and agricultural development. Dr Tewan said Prince of Songkla University has played a leading role in advancing kratom research. Future studies will address key gaps, including product safety standards, long-term health effects among young people and internationally recognised clinical trials, he said.
The strategy is built around five pillars. The first focuses on agriculture and basic sciences, including plant breeding and quality control of raw materials. The second covers pharmacology and safety, with greater emphasis on medicinal properties and clinical testing.
The third pillar promotes product development through advanced technologies. The fourth addresses policy, legal and social issues, seeking to balance economic opportunities with public health protection. The fifth encourages the use of AI and pharmacogenomics to support precision medicine and strengthen international confidence in kratom products.
