WASHINGTON – An outbreak of 28 Salmonella Infections in 20 States has been linked to Kratom products.
Native to Malaysia, the leaves of the Kratom Plant are known for their Opiate-like effects.
The leaves are traditionally crushed and made into tea but is also chewed, smoked or ingested in capsules.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a statement Tuesday no deaths have been reported and 11 people have been hospitalized.
The CDC said Kratom should not be consumed in any form because the source of Salmonella contamination has not been identified.
Just this month, the FDA said there is no evidence to indicate that Kratom is safe or effective for any medical use.
Some scientists have challenged the FDA’s description of Kratom as too broad. All agree that more research is needed.
