Kava and Kratom Are Being Offered at Bars: Here’s What They Are

Over the last decade, the number of bars selling something called “kava” has grown. However, the non-alcoholic drink is propped up by another substance on the menu: kratom.

While kava and kratom are both plant-based drinks sold in similar places, the two substances are actually unrelated. Kratom (pronounced cray-tum) carries far greater risk for addiction.

What is kratom?

Kratom is a drink extracted from a plant native to Southeast Asia. In low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, and it is known to be an energy booster, mood enhancer and pain reliever. In higher doses, kratom can have ...