A growing number of people are turning to kratom, a tropical tree from Southeast Asia, to self-manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, drawn by reports of boosted mood, energy, and pain relief. The plant’s main alkaloid, mitragynine, binds to opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to opioids without being classified as one. Users and some observational studies suggest possible antidepressant and anti-anxiety benefits, as well as relief for conditions like pain, opioid withdrawal, and PTSD.
Yet regulators remain unconvinced. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says kratom is not approved or legally marketed as a drug, dietary supplement, or food additive, citing risks such as liver toxicity, dependence, and, in rare cases, death when combined with other substances. Contamination with heavy metals and bacteria has also been documented. Experts stress that anyone considering kratom should proceed cautiously, consult a clinician, and review the full Healthline explainer.
