A quiet threat is growing in Philadelphia. It’s sold in bright packages and marketed as a harmless herbal pick-me-up. Behind its “natural” image lies a drug that can be just as dangerous as opioids. Kratom is a plant-based substance that has been making its way into smoke shops, wellness stores, and even convenience counters across Philadelphia. Marketed as a “natural” energy booster or pain reliever, kratom acts on the brain’s opioid receptors, meaning it can be addictive and dangerous despite its legal status. Lately, kratom has captured headlines, including extensive coverage in The Philadelphia Inquirer, CBS News, 6ABC News, and Philly Voice, as local health experts and families grapple with the dangers of this herbal supplement. The Pennsylvania Department of [...]