Kratom’s Wild Rise and Rising Risks | Albany News

Kratom, the Southeast Asian plant now found in convenience stores, promises a natural high or calm—but with no regulation and unpredictable side effects. Dutchess County just banned synthetic kratom while debating whether to keep natural forms legal, echoing similar bans like Oneida County’s. Users like Michael March say it helps manage chronic pain better than prescriptions, but health officials warn there’s no solid proof of safety or efficacy. Reports of kratom-related incidents jumped from 19 in 2010 to over 1,200 in 2023—sparking alarm. New York is targeting synthetic versions like seven-OH, restricting access for under-21s, and pushing for accurate labeling. Experts urge: if you’re struggling, seek help from professionals—not the gas station. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e0270de40c3ba28c