Kratom
[Kray tom]
What is it?
Kratom is a psychoactive substance that mimics opioid use. Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant found in Southeast Asia. Traditionally, the leaves would be chewed or added to teas by Thai or Malaysian natives to increase energy, stamina, and limit their fatigue. Currently, kratom is ground to a fine green powder or the leaves are chewed or added to teas as an herbal supplement to treat addiction, anxiety, or other health issues. Kratom is not an illegal substance but in the United States is under FDA warning due to the illegally marketed herbal statements.
Today, kratom is easily found on the internet as an extract, gum, or green powder in packets labeled “not for human consumption” to comply with FDA regulations.
What does it look like?
Kratom leaves are usually green or green-brown with an often-glossy film. The leaves resemble a small evergreen leaf. The leaves can also be crushed into a fine green powder to be added to food or drink.
What are some other names for cocaine?
Popular nicknames for kratom include but are not limited to: thang, krypton, kakuam, thom, ketum, biak-biak.
How is it used?
Kratom can be swallowed, smoked, chewed, or brewed as a tea. Sometimes the leaves are crushed into a green powder and sprinkled over food or drink.
What are the effects of the drug?
Long-Term Effects:
- Sedation
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Increased Urination
- Loss of appetite
- Itching
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
An overdose often leads to stroke or heart attack.
What is its federal classification?
Kratom is currently not federally classified but in August of 2012, the DEA published a notice stating it was planning to place kratom is a Schedule I drug. This means that there is no currently accepted medical use, and there is a high potential for abuse.
