Florida lawmakers look to regulate Kratom
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Florida lawmakers are looking to regulate a popular herbal supplement. It’s called Kratom and it’s used by some to treat pain and even help opiate users kick their addictions. Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, The main active ingredients in kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are found in the plant's leaves. These compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing a range of effects including pain relief, pleasure, and increased energy. Kratom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, but its safety and effectiveness have been the subject of much debate. Some people use kratom to self-treat opioid addiction or to manage chronic pain. However, there is limited scientific research on the potential risks and benefits of using kratom, and it has not been approved for medical use by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but its users testify it has its benefits. ( Related: Kratom State Legality Ma