Kratom: The Controversial Herbal Supplement Gaining Popularity in the U.S.

Kratom, an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia, is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. for its purported pain-relief and mood-enhancing properties. Advocates hail it as a natural alternative to opioids, claiming it can help manage chronic pain and even aid in overcoming addiction. However, its growing use has sparked debate among health experts and regulators.

While kratom is legal in most states, the FDA has not approved it for medical use, citing concerns over potential risks such as dependency and adverse side effects. Critics argue that more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Despite the controversy, kratom’s appeal continues to rise, with many users sharing positive experiences online. For more details on this emerging trend, visit the original article on MSN Health.