Though Kratom has been widely used in south Asia and Indochina for centuries, Kratom is a relatively new drug in Western countries where it is being promoted as a pain killer, medicine for treating diarrhea and as a recreational drug. Kratom is the local name for the Mitragyna speciosa tree, an evergreen tree from the coffee family, and the drug is extracted from the leaves of the tree. At present Kratom is available in different forms, leaves, extract and capsules depending on the requirement of the user. Since Kratom was available in western countries only in 2012, there is relatively less regulation of Kratom compared to other recreational drugs and it is not illegal to get Kratom leaves from Indo China.
Usually the effects of Kratom are visible to users quickly after it is ingested and the effects will last for five to seven hours. It is being extensively promoted in the United States as a safe, legal, and undetectable drug which can be used for those addicted to more dangerous drugs like cocaine, heroin, though there are some side effects of using kratom regularly. In south asian countries , there are many medicinal plants which are growing , which locals use for treating their medical problems.
In most parts of the world, marijuana is considered to be an illegal drug, however in California, it has been legalized, and there are many who are using it as a pain killer, growing the plants at home. It is particular popular with elderly women who experience great pain, and it can help them reduce the medical bills. Kratom is another plant whose leaves are said to be a very effective pain killer, and till date, it remains legal.