Starting Friday, it's temporarily illegal to sell or possess some synthetic kratom products in New Jersey under a new change to federal law.
Last month, the federal government temporarily designated some kratom products commonly sold in gas stations as Schedule I drugs, which is the same designation as LSD and heroin.
Kratom is an herb that, in high doses, can act like an opioid.
Products containing kratom have grown in popularity, but state and federal health officials warn they have a high potential for addiction.
Kratom is not approved for medical use in the United States, and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport says it's not subject to quality control standards regarding contaminants or concentration.
The temporary ban will remain in effect until at least August 2028.
(photo credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
