As mitragyna speciosa (Mitragyna speciosa) becomes more popular worldwide, there’s an ongoing conversation about its benefits and potential effects on the brain. Originating in Southeast Asia, mitragyna speciosa has traditionally been used for various wellness purposes, and many individuals today continue to enjoy its effects. But with more people incorporating it into their routines, some wonder if regular, long-term mitragyna speciosa use has any impact on cognitive functions like memory, learning, or attention.

A recent study examined just this question by comparing the cognitive performance of regular mitragyna speciosa users to those who don’t use it. This research involved 70 mitragyna speciosa users and 25 control participants, who were given a series of cognitive tests to evaluate areas such as memory, attention, and motor skills. The results? While the findings did suggest some areas for mitragyna speciosa users to be mindful of, overall, regular mitragyna speciosa use was not linked to widespread cognitive impairment.

Memory and Learning: What the Study Found

One of the study’s notable observations was that people who consumed higher amounts of mitragyna speciosa (more than three glasses of mitragyna speciosa tea daily, containing between 72.5 mg and 74.9 mg of mitragynine) had some difficulty with visual episodic memory. This means that these individuals found it slightly harder to remember new information. However, this effect was selective and didn’t apply to all areas of cognitive function. In fact, when it came to other tasks like general memory, motor skills, and attention, both mitragyna speciosa users and non-users performed similarly.

This selective impact on memory suggests that higher doses of mitragyna speciosa might have an effect on specific types of learning, while lower doses and moderate use don’t seem to show significant cognitive changes.

Other Cognitive Functions: Attention, Motor Skills, and Executive Functioning

Beyond memory and learning, the study looked at other essential cognitive functions, including attention and motor skills. Regular mitragyna speciosa users, including those consuming more than three glasses of brewed mitragyna speciosa tea a day, generally showed no significant differences compared to non-users in these areas. This finding supports the idea that typical or moderate mitragyna speciosa use doesn’t interfere with daily cognitive tasks or basic functioning for most individuals.

Finding the Right Balance

For those interested in enjoying mitragyna speciosa as part of a balanced lifestyle, this study suggests that moderate use does not appear to pose significant cognitive risks. However, for those who consume higher quantities daily, it may be wise to be aware of how it might impact specific cognitive functions over time. As with many botanicals, finding the right balance is key to enjoying the benefits without overdoing it.

Understanding Mitragyna speciosa and Cognitive Health

While this study provides valuable insights, more research is always beneficial for a clearer understanding of long-term mitragyna speciosa use and its effects. This research is a step forward in understanding how mitragyna speciosa interacts with the brain, and it supports the importance of mindful, moderate use.

For those interested in diving deeper into the cognitive effects of mitragyna speciosa, check out the study [here](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02791072.2018.1555345).