Kratom
The leaves of the kratom tree (Mitragyna speciosa) have been used for centuries in Southeast Asia as a traditional remedy for treating various ailments, such as pain relief or increasing overall performance. Preparations made from the plant have also been available in European countries and the USA for some time. They are mostly sold online, partly on websites that also advertise food supplements.
Following an initial review of the scientific data, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfRshort forGerman Federal Institute for Risk Assessment) notes that kratom consumption can have adverse health effects. Case reports describe neurological effects such as dizziness, seizures, drowsiness, confusion or hallucinations, cardiovascular effects such as palpitations or tachycardia, respiratory disorders and liver and kidney damage. In addition, several deaths related to the use of kratom preparations have already been reported internationally, including one case in Germany.
There is currently insufficient data available for a comprehensive risk assessment.
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