The herbal supplement kratom becomes illegal in Louisiana Aug. 1, thanks to Act 41 approved in the last legislative session. Kratom comes from a plant native to Southeast Asia and can cause psychosis at high doses. The bill’s author, Republican West Monroe Senator Jay Morris, said kratom has the addictive qualities of opioids.
“It’s technically not an opioid because of the chemical makeup; however, it attaches to the same receptors that opioids attach to in the brain,” said Morris.
Louisiana is not the only state to ban the substance, but it will be one of the first. Morris did have concerns about its return through states where it is still legal, but starting Friday, kratom can no longer be sold in gas stations and convenience stores.
“It’s as easy as getting a candy bar,” said Morris. “So that reduced accessibility does help.”
Some use kratom to treat pain, anxiety or drug dependence and argue it has beneficial qualities. Morris said potential addiction and devastation outweigh any benefits.
“Opioids are beneficial to people, too,” said Morris. “They are amazing pain relievers, but they are only used, unless somebody’s doing it illegally, with doctor’s orders and under strict regulatory scheme.”
