By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
State leaders and medical professionals are sounding the alarm as they raise renewed concerns about the presence and use of kratom in Alabama, warning that the banned substance is reappearing in products sold to consumers despite longstanding restrictions.
According to state officials, kratom, an herb that has been illegal in Alabama since 2016, is being detected in certain over-the-counter products that may not clearly list it as an ingredient. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said recent independent lab testing revealed that some items marketed for relaxation or pain relief actually contain the substance, prompting enforcement action across the state.
Marshall’s office has begun issuing cease-and-desist letters to businesses suspected of selling these products, signaling a renewed crackdown. He warned that the substance can have harmful effects and noted that its accessibility in retail settings may lead consumers to underestimate the risks.
Medical professionals echo those concerns, emphasizing that “natural” or herbal labeling does not guarantee safety. Health experts caution that kratom can cause serious side effects, including potential liver damage, sometimes within a short period of use.
Kratom is derived from a plant native to Southeast Asia and has been used in various forms, including powders, capsules, and liquids. While some individuals have used it in attempts to manage pain or withdrawal symptoms, officials say its effects can mimic opioids, raising concerns about dependency and misuse.
Authorities also point to the role kratom has played in past substance abuse trends. Marshall said the drug previously gained popularity among individuals seeking alternatives to opioids such as heroin or fentanyl, contributing to the state’s decision to classify it as a controlled substance.
Law enforcement and healthcare providers are urging residents to remain cautious and to stop using any products suspected of containing kratom. Consumers are encouraged to report questionable items to local health departments or the attorney general’s office as officials work to remove the products from store shelves.
The products that are being sold at convenience stores are often marketed as an herbal remedy for pain, anxiety, and insomnia. If you have been taking such a product and feel the need to take more and more, you may be taking kratom.
As enforcement efforts increase, officials say public awareness will be key in preventing further health risks associated with the substance’s reemergence in Alabama markets. As the authorities work to remove the items from shelves, people who have become dependent upon them will be at risk for serious health events, including opioid-like withdrawal. Individuals who have been consuming these products will quickly need medical assistance to overcome their dependency.
For those struggling with substance use disorder, help is available. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers a free, confidential National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), providing treatment referrals and information 24/7. Residents can also seek assistance through the Alabama Department of Mental Health, which connects individuals and families to local treatment programs, counseling services, and recovery resources. Officials encourage anyone in need to reach out, emphasizing that recovery support is accessible and confidential.
