This is some real shitty, blatant propaganda. The gas station kratom derivatives are some real shady shit a la the synthetic cannabinoids and 'spice' mixes that used to go around, and the 'bath salts' versions of research chemicals that were unreliable and untested. But the plant itself is virtually harmless compared to every other recreational substance. Especially alcohol. And these 'ties' that this researcher supposedly has to the American Kratom Association, a totally grassroots organization that is struggling to compete against professional lawmakers and lobbyists, is that they paid for his airfare and hotel rooms for certain speaking engagements. Fucking pharma reps are out here buying cars and watches and prostitutes for doctors, but he's not allowed to have his plane ride paid for? Get fucked. This is a totally bullshit article regardless how you personally feel about kratom.