People who suffer from opioid and heroin addiction have been using Kratom, a plant found in south-east Asia, to help relieve the withdrawal effects and ween themselves off altogether.
Kratom is an enigma in the world of substance as it has both stimulant and opioid-like effects. The plant at low dosages spikes energy in the individual and at higher dosages, it acts as a stimulant and energizes the user.
The strain of Kratom is also a factor in what effects the user will experience. Red Kratom is said to mimic painkilling effects while white increases energy. The popular one of the group is called “maeng da” which translates to bug or pimp and it is notorious for enhancing alertness and focus.
The FDA argues that Kratom will only expand the opioid epidemic in the United States since people are using the plant for recreational use regardless if they are using the substance for its benefits.
As of right now, the substance is banned in several states:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Indiana
- Tennessee
- Wisconsin
And there are several others that are in debate of whether to ban the plant or not. In the Eastern hemisphere, Kratom is a controlled substance in Thailand and Malaysia.
The DEA’s decision is in limbo and awaiting a drug analysis from the FDA before moving forward. Currently, the DEA is attempting to make it harder for the plant to enter the United States.
Aside from the states mentioned above, Kratom is legal in most states for the individual’s desired use.
