Is Kratom Addictive?

Kratom has become notably popular as a natural substance for a variety of things such as pain, anxiety, and energy. Kratom is grown in Southeast Asia from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree and is recognized for psychoactive properties. Because it’s legal and made from a plant, there’s confusion that kratom is safe. In fact, it’s highly addictive with “sticking power” that rivals opioids.

While Kratom has been legal in most states for over a decade, it has recently gotten propped up in digital advertising as regulators have yielded to allow ecommerce sales. However, the advertising is highly misleading with claims of “Oxycontin” type pain relief without being addictive. Purdue Pharma made same claim decades ago about their powerful opioid and we know how that turned out.

Understanding Kratom

Kratom originates in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. The Southeast Asia plant has been used to control pain, boost energy, and improve concentration. The plant leaves are ground into powder capsules or the whole leaves are brewed as hot tea or cold refreshing drink. It’s taste is bitter but typically is blended with fruit flavors for a tropical elixir. According to the DEA, Kratom’s stimulant effects (in low doses) and sedative effects (in high doses), can lead to psychotic symptoms, and psychological and physiological dependence.” It’s most popular with young adults and widely distributed through Kava bars and vape shops here in Florida. It has become a social alternative to alcohol bars for Gen Z and Millennials alike!