Vending machine selling addictive kratom tea raises concern in Thailand

Beverages made from kratom, roselle and chrysanthemum are being offered at 10 baht (40 Singapore cents) a cup from a vending machine in Hat Yai. - PHOTO: THE NATION/ ASIA NEWS NETWORK

BANGKOK: A herbal drink vending machine in Hat Yai in southern Thailand has raised concerns among residents as the machine also offers kratom tea.

According to America’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the tea is made from leaves of the kratom tree – a tropical plant species that is native to South-east Asia – which has psychoactive properties.