NSTDA Characterization and Testing Center (NCTC) announced new testing services for kratom after the successful launch of Cannabis Analytical Testing Laboratory last year. The new services will enable the community enterprises to ensure the quality and safety of their products before processing or supplying them to clients.
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tree native to Southeast Asia. The plant has been used in herbal medicine. As kratom was removed from Thailand's narcotics list last year, its production and herbal products made from kratom have been soaring.
Dr. Natthaphon Wuttiphan, NCTC Director explained that NCTC’s kratom testing services cover tests for both potency and safety. For potency, the center offers tests for mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-HMG) – key natural products present in kratom, as well as terpene profiling. For safety, tests for heavy metals, pesticides, residual solvents, mycotoxins and microorganism are available.
Last year, NCTC set up Cannabis Analytical Testing Laboratory providing integrated services for cannabis, including potency test (amount of cannabinoid present in products), terpene profiling and safety tests (heavy metals, pesticides, residual solvents, mycotoxins and microorganism). The laboratory is internationally accredited by ISO/IEC17025.
Quality and safety tests are essential to growers of herbal plants and herbal industry. They facilitate the trading, provide a basis for price determination, and ensure the quality, purity and safety of products.