What is Sakae Naa? Uses, Benefits, & History

What is Sakae Naa: Thailand’s Magical Tree

Known colloquially as Sakae Naa, Combretum quadrangulare is a Southeast-Asian tree that produces leaves with a similar appearance and taste to kratom (Mitragyna speciosa).

This tropical tree grows natively in Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar (Burma) and can be found in wetlands and in jungles along the riverbanks. Legend has it that Combretum quadrangulare may even have magical powers!

Meet the Combretum Family

There are over 370 known plants in the Combretum family, many of which share properties with Sakae Naa and all of which grow in tropical areas across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Many of these herbs, shrubs, and trees are known to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and are also used traditionally as remedies for digestive disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, malaria, and wound care.

A Valued Leaf in Thai Culture

In Thailand, where recreational kratom has officially been banned since 1943, Combretum quadrangulare has provided a welcome kratom alternative that looks and works somewhat similar to Mitragyna speciosa—although its effects are not as strong.

Until now, Sakae Naa has not been widely known outside of Asia and has only started gaining traction recently among those looking for natural stimulants.

What is Sakae Naa Used for Traditionally and in Modern Times?

While Sakae Naa has only started making its way out of Asia in the last few years, Combretum quadrangulare has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a remedy for mild ailments such as sore throats and the common cold.

In Thailand and Myanmar (Burma), users pluck the Sakae Naa leaves directly off the trees and use them while they are still fresh. Similar to kratom, the leaves of the Combretum quadrangulare plant act as a natural stimulant to help laborers endure a long and hard day’s work.

What is Sakae Naa’s Effect on the Body?

Online accounts on Combretum quadrangulare describe the herb as having an incense-like smell and pleasantly stimulating effects that are similar to a caffeine-rush. Users describe Sakae Naa as great for a productive day but warn readers not to use this leaf in the afternoon or evening as it is known to cause insomnia.

What is Sakae Naa Like When Compared to Kratom?

Those who have done much reading about kratom will notice that many of the short and long-term side effects of Combretum quadrangulare are very similar to those of kratom. The principal effects that kratom and Sakae Naa have in common are their energizing and stimulating aromas. Whereas kratom is also used for relaxation, mood enhancement, and relief from physical discomfort, Sakae Naa is mostly limited to its energizing properties. As a consequence, kratom users who enjoy the green and white kratom varieties will probably enjoy Sakae Naa as well.

What is Sakae Naa’s Legal Status?

In contrast to kratom—which is illegal in a number of states and countries—Combretum quadrangulare is largely unregulated and easy to find online. Please note, however, that Sakae Naa has also not been approved by the FDA as a standardized drug or supplement. At Kratora, our pure dried Sakae Naa powder is sold for incense purposes and is not intended for human consumption.

The Science Behind Sakae Naa

Very little research has examined the properties and effects of Combretum quadrangulare. However, one study has found that a MeHO extract from the seeds had a liver-protective effect in mice. This effect was attributed to the flavonoids and triterpenes found in the plant.

Another study showed that Sakae Naa seeds have antibacterial properties and can last for years if stored in a dry, airtight container.

Shop the Best Sakae Naa Online at Kratora

Here at Kratora, in our collection of premium kratom alternatives, we offer top-quality fresh Sakae Naa powder that comes directly from our trusted suppliers in Southeast Asia. Our special powdering technology grinds the leaves to a sugar-like consistency for the smoothest result, and our packaging keeps the powder fresher for longer.

Shop with us today to receive same-day shipping on orders submitted before 3 PM EST Monday through Friday and 1 PM EST on Saturdays (excluding holidays)!

Please note that none of the products sold on our website are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.

Please note that the US FDA has not approved this product to be sold for human consumption, sold for external use only. None of the products sold on our website are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.