What Is Kratom? Uses, Side Effects And More

Kratom is an opioid-like herbal substance with serious side effects and a high risk for addiction. Kratom is often used by individuals to self-treat concerns, such as anxiety or opioid addiction, but health experts and officials strongly advise against using the drug.

Learn more below about kratom, what it is, how it affects the body and safer alternatives to consider.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom (kray-tum), or Mitragyna speciosa, is a plant native to Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea and can be consumed to induce various mental and physical effects, such as sedation or dizziness. The plant has a thin stem and broad leaves with a pointed tip. Kratom can be consumed as crushed leaves (eaten or smoked), tea, capsules or powder.

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