Kratom is a tropical tree (Mitragyna speciosa) native to Southeast Asia, whose leaves contain psychoactive compounds called mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine

. The leaves are consumed in various forms such as crushed, brewed as tea, smoked, or taken in capsules

. Kratom produces stimulant effects at low doses, including increased alertness, physical energy, and talkativeness, while at higher doses it has sedative effects

. It is used both recreationally and by some people to self-treat pain, opioid withdrawal symptoms, anxiety, and depression, although it is not approved by the FDA for any medical use

. The use of kratom can lead to psychological and physiological dependence, and its consumption has been associated with adverse effects such as nausea, itching, sweating, dry mouth, constipation, increased urination, tachycardia, drowsiness, loss of appetite, anorexia, weight loss, insomnia, hepatotoxicity, seizures, hallucinations, and psychotic symptoms including delusions and confusion

. Kratom is legal in many U.S. states but is banned or regulated in some. The FDA has warned against its use due to safety concerns, lack of regulation, risk of contamination, and potential for addiction

. Its popularity in the U.S. has increased in recent years, partly due to the opioid epidemic, with rising reports of kratom-related poisonings and deaths, often involving other substances

. In summary, kratom is a natural herbal product with stimulant and sedative properties, used both recreationally and for self-medication, but it carries significant health risks and legal complexities