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Why regulators want to ban a key ingredient in kratom drugs

Season 2025 Episode 313 | 6m 34s

Southeast Asians have used kratom leaves as a home remedy for centuries. Recently, its popularity in the U.S. has exploded as a way to ease the effects of opioid withdrawal. But kratom is poorly regulated and synthetic versions contain high levels of a powerful compound that officials say should be restricted. Ali Rogin speaks with Tampa Bay Times senior politics reporter Kirby Wilson for more.

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Extras
News Wrap: Federal judge blocks subpoenas in DOJ's Powell probe
More Marines heading to Middle East as U.S. continues relentless strikes on Iran
Michigan synagogue attack highlights rise in antisemitic violence
Israelis near Lebanon border try to maintain normal life despite Hezbollah threat
Pregnant migrant girls held at Texas center criticized for inadequate care
Brooks and Capehart on Trump's mixed signals on the Iran war
Middle East analysts on what the Iran war has accomplished and how it might end
Remembering neon artist and glass-bending master Wil Kirkman
A look at the invisible ethics system for Congress
Lebanese Christian villages caught in Israel-Hezbollah war
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