Concerns Growing Over Medicinal Plant Kratom

A green leafy plant is being hailed by some as a cure for chronic pain, depression and anxiety. It has reportedly helped some people reduce the amount of opioids they are taking or kick an opioid addiction. Others use it for a feeling of euphoria. While this might sound like a description of marijuana, it also characterizes kratom, a plant that grows naturally in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. In the U.S., kratom is sold as an herbal supplement. It’s available in most states, although it is illegal in some areas. Kratom is often brewed as a tea or taken as an extra...