How Kratom Became Such a Polarizing $1 Billion Industry

In Southeast Asia, locals have for centuries chewed the leaves of the tropical kratom tree — part of the coffee family — as a pain-relieving, energy- and mood-boosting remedy. In the US, as kratom has gained popularity along with its availability in recent years, the botanical substance remains the focus of an ongoing debate and regulatory battle.

While advocates say the plant’s properties can help manage everything from anxiety to opioid withdrawal, there’s limited research to substantiate their claims and US regulators continue to warn of kratom’s potential health risks. Americans are nonetheless buying so much kratom and kratom-based products — whether online or in gas stations, convenience stores, smoke shops and bars — that it’s become a $1 billion industry.