In Southeast Asia, the leaves of the kratom tree, a member of the coffee family, have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for pain relief, energy enhancement, and mood elevation.
As kratom gains popularity in the United States, it has become a focal point of ongoing debates and regulatory discussions. Advocates claim that kratom can assist with various conditions, including anxiety and opioid withdrawal, yet scientific research to back these claims remains limited. US regulators continue to caution about the potential health risks associated with kratom.
The demand for kratom and kratom-infused products has skyrocketed, leading to the emergence of a $1 billion industry across the nation, with products available in convenience stores, smoke shops, and other outlets.
Understanding Kratom
Typically, kratom leaves are dried and ground into a powder, resembling the traditional use by Thai and Malaysian agricultural workers. In the US, kratom is consumed in various forms: capsules, teas, gummies, and shots.
At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, while higher doses can have sedative effects with addictive properties reminiscent of opioids, according to health authorities.
The two primary compounds in kratom, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, provide its stimulating and pain-relieving effects, with users feeling the impact within minutes and lasting several hours.
The Risks of Kratom
Current research is insufficient to fully assess kratom’s safety. While consuming unprocessed kratom leaves is rarely linked to serious adverse effects, concentrated forms may carry heightened risks.
Experts caution against overconsumption of kratom products, especially high-concentration beverages, which can lead to dangerous or toxic reactions.
Warnings from health authorities have surfaced regarding specific kratom products, highlighting potential side effects such as heightened aggression and anxiety, alongside severe outcomes including instances of death.
Legal and Regulatory Landscape
In 2016, the DEA sought to classify kratom as a controlled substance, akin to heroin, but faced opposition from advocacy groups. Despite this, kratom is still viewed as a “drug of concern.”
The legal status of kratom varies by state, with six states imposing outright bans due to health and safety concerns. Meanwhile, several states have adopted versions of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, intended to legalize kratom while ensuring quality and safety standards.
Even in states where kratom is legal, local regulations and age restrictions may apply. For instance, while kratom is permitted in California, its sale is prohibited in San Diego.
FDA’s Stance on Kratom
The FDA continues to scrutinize kratom’s safety, advising consumers against using it for medicinal purposes until comprehensive evaluations are completed. Over the years, the FDA has issued warnings and seized products from manufacturers due to reported adverse events.
Kratom has not received FDA approval for any medical applications and cannot be marketed as a dietary supplement or food additive. The agency is actively conducting studies on kratom and exploring funding opportunities to assess its abuse potential.
While initial findings regarding kratom’s powdered form show minimal complications, further research is necessary. The FDA has planned additional studies but has also faced challenges in fully exploring the health implications of kratom, including its popular forms like drinks and concentrates.
