The Louisiana Senate has passed Senate Bill 154, which would criminalize the possession and distribution of kratom, a natural herbal supplement derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia. Kratom is widely used across the U.S. for self-managing pain, anxiety, depression, and even opioid withdrawal, with 1.7 million Americans reporting use in 2021, according to the FDA.
Supporters of kratom highlight its potential as a natural alternative for those seeking relief from chronic pain or support in overcoming addiction, emphasizing the need for regulation rather than prohibition. The bill, which passed the Senate 26-11, now moves to the House for further debate. If enacted, violators could face steep fines and prison time. The ongoing discussion reflects growing interest in both consumer safety and the therapeutic promise of kratom. Read more at MSN.
