# What is kratom, the ‘gas station heroin’ alarming US officials?

https://mins.news/en/item/75134

- BBC News, 2026-09-25 20:06 UTC
- Health
- Original: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjn5ddzekwnro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

> Kratom, an herb with opioid-like effects, has become increasingly popular in the US and is sold in concentrated pills, powders and liquids at places including petrol stations and vape shops. Packaged kratom was found during an investigation into the deaths of two University of Mississippi students, although it was not blamed for their deaths. Experts warn that unregulated products can pose risks including addiction, withdrawal and fatal breathing or cardiovascular problems.

## Related coverage

- [Deaths of University of Mississippi students spotlight kratom](https://mins.news/en/item/72884) — The Associated Press, 2026-09-24
- [Grave warnings issued over kratom after student deaths](https://mins.news/en/video/71769) — Fox News, 2026-09-24
- [Packaged kratom found where two Ole Miss students were found dead](https://mins.news/en/item/69664) — NBC News, 2026-09-22