The Growing Debate Over Kratom in New York

Kratom has worked its way into wellness shots, teas, and “focus drinks,” but not everyone is on board with its rise. While some people love its natural benefits and say it helps with pain, others argue that it is too risky to be sitting out on store shelves.

How Many People Use Kratom?

The survey estimated that about 1.7 million Americans used kratom in 2021. Even with that level of use, the DEA still labels kratom as a “drug and chemical of concern.” Although it remains legal in most states and is often sold alongside everyday beverages.

Nearly Half of New Yorkers Want It Banned

A survey of over 3,000 respondents found that 45 percent of New Yorkers want kratom banned completely. Hawaii showed the strongest opposition, while Delaware was the most permissive.

How Should Kratom Be Regulated?

New Yorkers are divided on how kratom should be regulated. Thirty percent believe it should be treated like tobacco, with age limits and warning labels. Over twenty five percent say it should be regulated like alcohol and sold only by licensed sellers. Another forty three percent think kratom should be available by prescription only under medical supervision.

Do People Think Kratom Is Dangerous?

When compared to alcohol or tobacco, fifteen percent of people believe kratom is safer. Almost sixty percent think it carries about the same level of risk, and twenty six percent say it is more dangerous.

Where People First Hear About Kratom

Twenty one percent of respondents said they first heard about kratom from influencers, another twenty one percent learned about it from family or friends. Only seven percent reported learning about it from a doctor or medical source. Thirty five percent of people say they have never heard of kratom at all...including me before now.

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Do Parents Understand Kratom?

When asked whether parents understand what kratom is, only fifteen percent of respondents said they did. Many parents are either unsure or unaware altogether. Because of this, sixty five percent worry kratom could become “the next vaping” for teens.

Would People Choose Kratom Over Medication?

People were asked whether they would choose kratom over a prescribed pain medication if it were cheaper or easier to get, the answers were mixed. Thirty one percent said yes, fifty percent said no, and nineteen percent said the question did not apply to them.