In New York, kratom, a herbal substance praised for its pain and anxiety relief capabilities, currently lacks regulation, posing risks due to potential contamination. With an estimated 1.7 million American users, concerns around kratom’s safety have prompted state legislators to consider a bill advocating for stringent testing for contaminants. Tracey Hudson, a kratom seller in Schenectady, emphasizes the necessity of regulation to enhance consumer trust and ensure product purity.
Kratom, derived from a Southeast Asian tree, has historically been used as alternative medicine but faces scrutiny in the U.S. for its unregulated status. The proposed bill, backed by Assemblywoman Donna A. Lupardo, aims to protect consumers by mandating kratom product testing, inspired by local healthcare professionals’ concerns over contaminated supplies.
Despite federal warnings about potential health risks, including liver disease and addiction, users like Bud Smith advocate for kratom’s life-changing benefits in managing anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. The push for regulation, seen as a consumer protection measure, could make New York one of the states leading in kratom safety, aligning with the positive outcomes seen in regions with regulated kratom markets.
Read the full article on Times Union for more insights into the ongoing debate and legislative efforts surrounding kratom in New York.