The potential dangers of Kratom, a legal substance sold in many Mississippi convenience stores, were recently highlighted after toxicology tests from a January fatal crash indicated that the driver in the crash was under the influence of a significant quantity of Mitragynine, the primary alkaloid found in Kratom.

The driver in the crash died at the scene at Barnett Bend Circle and Old Fannin Road in Rankin County. The crash occurred shortly after 7:30 a.m. on January 19.

A toxicological analysis of blood samples taken from the driver showed that, at the time of the fatal crash, the driver was under the influence of a significant quantity of Mitragynine, the primary alkaloid found in Kratom.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, Kratom is a tropical tree (Mitragyna speciosa) that is native to Southeast Asia. Products prepared from kratom leaves are available in the U.S. through sales on the Internet and at brick-and-mortar stores. Kratom is often used to self-treat conditions such as pain, coughing, diarrhea, anxiety and depression, opioid use disorder, and opioid withdrawal.

An estimated 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used kratom in 2021, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

In response to recent developments, the Rankin County Board of Supervisors has enacted legislation prohibiting the use, purchase, possession, distribution, sale, or offering for sale of synthetic cocaine, other synthetic products, or Kratom within the county.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of Kratom products or its derivatives being sold in stores within Rankin County to the Sheriff’s Department at 601-825-1480.