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DEA Drug Fact Sheet: Kratom

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. While it has a long history of use in that region, where it is known by names such as thang, kakuam, thom, ketum, and biak, its abuse in the United States has increased markedly in recent years. What is Kratom? Kratom leaves contain two major psychoactive […]


By Editorial Team | Editor Yamilla Francese
Clinically Reviewed by Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS
Medically Reviewed by Ali Nikbakht, PsyD
Updated on February 26, 2026 — Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Privacy Policy
(844) 597-1011

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. While it has a long history of use in that region, where it is known by names such as thang, kakuam, thom, ketum, and biak, its abuse in the United States has increased markedly in recent years.

What is Kratom?

Kratom leaves contain two major psychoactive ingredients: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. The leaves are typically crushed and then smoked, brewed into tea, or placed into gel capsules.

How is it abused?

Kratom is primarily abused through oral ingestion. Common methods include:

  • Forms: Tablets, capsules, or extracts.
  • Teas: Dried or powdered leaves ingested as a tea.
  • Direct Ingestion: The kratom leaf may be chewed.

Effects of Use

The effects of kratom vary significantly based on the dosage:

DosageReported Effects
Low DoseStimulant effects, including increased alertness, physical energy, and talkativeness.
High DoseSedative effects.

Psychological Impact and Addiction: Kratom consumption can lead to both psychological and physiological dependence. Several cases of psychosis have been reported in addicted individuals, with symptoms including:

  • Hallucinations
  • Delusion
  • Confusion

Impact on the Body

Kratom use can result in a wide range of physical side effects:

  • Immediate physical responses: Nausea, itching, sweating, dry mouth, constipation, increased urination, tachycardia, vomiting, and drowsiness.
  • Long-term or severe effects: Anorexia, weight loss, insomnia, hepatotoxicity (liver damage), seizures, and loss of appetite.

Legal Status

  • Federal Status: Kratom is not controlled under the Controlled Substances Act.
  • DEA Listing: The DEA has listed kratom as a Drug and Chemical of Concern.
  • FDA Status: The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use.
  • State Regulations: There may be specific state regulations or prohibitions against the possession and use of kratom.