Kratom, a natural supplement sourced from a tree in Southeast Asia, is gaining significant attention in the US for its addictive properties. Many users believe it to be safe but are struggling to quit. Among the states where kratom is banned, Alabama stands out, yet the substance remains a concern.
Angela Edwards, an employee at the Lovelady Centre in Birmingham, has faced addiction, with kratom being her recent choice. She describes her daily intake of kratom as excessive, highlighting its deceptive appeal due to its natural origins. Experts label it as a ‘deceptive drug,’ noting that people are misled to think its plant-based nature makes it safe. Kratom is sometimes marketed as an alternative to alcohol.
Frank Long of the Lovelady Centre explains that kratom produces opioid-like effects, often described as a comforting sensation that allows users to forget their worries. However, it is highly addictive; users quickly develop a tolerance and require larger doses to achieve the same effects. Withdrawal symptoms are reportedly more severe than those experienced during heroin withdrawal. Edwards, who used kratom for over two years, shares her harrowing experience, stating the withdrawal felt torturous.
Statistics reveal that approximately 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used kratom in 2021. In response to growing concerns, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suggested regulating certain kratom derivatives under the Controlled Substances Act. Despite its illegal status in Alabama, manufacturers have created synthetic variants that evade the law by altering the chemical structure.
Edwards has managed to achieve sobriety but emphasizes that recovery is challenging. She advises anyone considering kratom to avoid it entirely, underscoring that the risks outweigh any perceived benefits.