A growing number of US states are moving to outlaw kratom, a plant-derived substance described by some as 'gas-station heroin', amidst mounting concerns over its addictive nature and potential to exacerbate the opioid crisis. The push for bans comes as usage of kratom, which can produce opioid-like effects, has surged over the past decade, leading to a significant increase in related hospitalisations.
Maizie Hepner, a 24-year-old from Dubuque, Iowa, shared her experience of becoming reliant on kratom after initially consuming it in 'herbal tea mocktails' at a non-alcoholic bar. Despite being assured it was not addictive, Hepner found herself experiencing withdrawal symptoms like sweating and irritability when not using the substance. Her experience mirrors a growing sentiment among some users, with a Reddit group dedicated to quitting kratom now boasting over 40,000 subscribers.
Data from a University of Virginia study indicates a stark rise in kratom-linked hospitalisations, from 43 in 2015 to 538 in 2025. This surge is partly attributed to the emergence of synthetic versions, such as 7-OH. Dr Andrew Kolodny, director of the Opioid Policy Research Collaborative at Brandeis University, warned that the easy availability of an opioid-like substance in convenience stores could worsen the existing opioid crisis.
To date, at least eight states – Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Indiana, Louisiana, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin – have implemented full bans on kratom. Other states are currently debating similar legislative action, with some considering regulations that would only prohibit synthetic forms or restrict sales to individuals over 21. For example, Idaho lawmakers considered a ban after the state Office of Drug Policy reported kratom as a contributing factor in 47 deaths between 2021 and 2023, although other opioids were also present in toxicology reports.
Despite opposition from some users and the kratom industry, who argue that only synthetic versions are dangerous, local officials are taking action. In Idaho Falls, the largest city in Bonneville county, a ban on kratom sales is set to take effect from 1st July, following a coroner's report linking four local deaths to acute toxicity from mitragynine, kratom's primary active compound. John Radford, a local city council member, highlighted that individuals trying to quit other drugs often found kratom even harder to stop using.
While the focus is primarily on the US, the increasing scrutiny of kratom highlights a broader global conversation about the regulation of psychoactive plant-derived substances and their potential health impacts. The debate between proponents who claim it aids in substance abuse cessation and those who warn of its addictive properties continues to evolve.