GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Michigan lawmakers are taking a closer look at kratom — a plant-based supplement that’s gaining popularity for energy and pain relief.
Health experts warn not every product labeled kratom is natural, some contain a powerful synthetic opioid that’s putting lives as risk.
"Not all Kratom is equal. And in fact, not all products that call themselves kratom are actually kratom,” said expert Matthew Lowe from Global Kratom Coalition.
Kratom is a natural botanical that comes from a tree found in Southeast Asia. Many Americans use it as a natural pick-me-up or to manage pain.
However, a new bill in Lansing aims to separate natural kratom from dangerous synthetic knockoffs in Michigan.
“You've had bad actors that have come into the space who weren't from the natural kra