A new survey from Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that kratom—a natural herb from Southeast Asia—could provide relief for pain, anxiety, and depression with relatively low potential for harm or addiction.
Researchers surveyed nearly 2,800 U.S. kratom users, most of whom reported using the herbal supplement daily for pain or mood management. Fewer than 3% met the criteria for moderate or severe substance use disorder. The study’s authors emphasize the need for regulation and further scientific research rather than an outright ban, citing significantly fewer kratom-related deaths compared to opioids.
While the findings highlight kratom’s potential therapeutic value, researchers caution consumers to avoid mixing it with other substances and to consult healthcare professionals before use.
