Overview: Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Consumption of its leaves produces both stimulant effects (in low doses) and sedative effects (in high doses), and can lead to psychotic symptoms and psychological addiction. The psychoactive ingredient is found in the leaves from kratom tree. These leaves are subsequently crushed and then smoked, brewed with tea, or placed into gel capsules. Also known as thang, kakuam, thom, ketum, and biak, kratom is more commonly abused in the Asia Pacific region than the United States.

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Street Names: Thang, Kakuam, Thom, Ketum, Biak 

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How is it Abused? Mostly abused by oral ingestion in a pill form, kratom may also be dissolved and ingested as a tea or the kratom leave may be chewed.

 

What are the Effects? Ketamine comes in a clear liquid and a white or off-white powder, Powdered ketamine (100 milligrams to 200 milligrams) typically is packaged in small glass vials, small plastic bags, and capsules as well as paper, glassine, or aluminum foil folds.

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What Does it do to Your Body? Kratom’s effects on the body include nausea, itching, sweating, dry mouth,constipation, increased urination, and loss of appetite. Long-term users of kratom have experienced anorexia, weight loss, insomnia, dry mouth, frequent urination, and constipation.

 

What is its Legal Status? Kratom is not controlled under the Federal Controlled Substances Act; however, there may be some State regulations or prohibitions against the possession and use of kratom. There is no legitimate medical use for kratom in the United States. In addition, DEA has listed kratom as a Drug and Chemical of Concern.

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*Above information and image below courtesy of the Drug Enforcement Administration (www.dea.gov)