Over the past few years, a substance known as Kratom has grown in popularity as a legal “opioid-like” substance. Kratom is commonly sold at gas stations, and is marketed to consumers as an all-natural herb that can help with issues such as pain, anxiety, or improving energy. However, this substance has been widely questioned by lawmakers who feel that Kratom is a potentially dangerous substance that should be banned.
As of March 2026, it is now illegal to sell Kratom in Nassau County, on Long Island, New York. Victory Recovery Partners has three outpatient addiction-recovery centers in Nassau County, in addition to a methadone center. With the sale of Kratom being banned in Nassau, we are hopeful that this will have a positive impact on the patients we serve.
If you are unfamiliar with Kratom, you may be wondering, what is this substance that has caused bipartisan support for its removal from store shelves? Kratom is actually a tropical tree commonly found in Southeast Asia. The products that consumers use are derived from the leaves of the tree and can be found throughout much of the US both online and in retail stores. In fact, according to the FDA, millions of Americans have been using the drug since 2021.
Further, the FDA has specifically stated that Kratom can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. Liver toxicity, seizures, and substance use disorders can develop from consistent use. To clarify, the FDA explains that there are no FDA-approved Kratom products or over-the-counter drugs available in the US. According to Dr. Deena Adimoolam, Kratom “works on our opioid receptors, so it may be actually working the same way that opioids would work with your pain medication.” This is important, as many patients with substance use disorders involve cases of opioid addictions.
It is crucial that our patients and community members fully understand the risks associated with Kratom use. While Kratom is often marketed as a natural remedy, its unpredictable effects and lack of regulation make it a potentially hazardous substance. In Nassau County, where the sale of Kratom is now prohibited, ongoing research and monitoring are necessary to evaluate whether similar bans should be considered elsewhere in the United States.
Recent studies and reports have highlighted the dangers of Kratom, including its potential for addiction, adverse physical reactions, and negative interactions with other substances or medications. The legal status of Kratom continues to evolve, with lawmakers and health professionals closely examining its impact on public health.
What we must remember is that legality does not equate to safety. Many substances that are legally available can still pose significant health risks, especially for individuals with a history of addiction or mental health challenges. We encourage everyone to stay informed, seek guidance from healthcare professionals, and approach any new substance with caution.Victory Recovery Partners, a leading network of addiction and recovery centers on Long Island, New York, remains dedicated to supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders—including those struggling with Kratom and other emerging substances. Our outpatient facilities in Nassau County and beyond offer comprehensive treatment options tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
We provide a full continuum of care under one roof, including behavioral health services, medication-assisted treatment, psychiatric support, and wellness programs. Our integrated approach ensures that every patient receives personalized attention and evidence-based treatment strategies. At Victory Recovery Partners, our motto of “No One Left Behind” is at the core of everything we do.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, we are here to help. Please visit our website to learn more about our programs, connect with our team, or schedule a confidential consultation. Together, we can work toward lasting recovery and a healthier future.