Local vape shop boosting business with controversial supplement Kratom

A local vape shop is advertising Kratom in a big way, despite warnings from the FDA.

There’s a big sign advertising the herbal supplement outside Lizard Juice on Phillips Highway.

Lizard Juice Manager Philip Pattishall says his shop sells Kratom because it treats opioid dependence, enhances mood, and relieves pain.

Many people swear by Kratom for these reasons.

In November, Action News Jax reported on a local nursing student who used Kratom for her own pain management.

RELATED: FDA issues warning about kratom; Jacksonville area woman says she uses it to manage pain

“We’re here to save lives and help people better their lives,” said Pattishall.

Kratom is illegal in parts of the United States, but is legal in most of Florida, including Duval County.

However, the FDA has called it dangerous, saying it can be addictive and even life-threatening.

 MORE: Miracle plant or threat? Kratom users say it helps addiction, pain

Doctors also worry that Kratom products are loosely regulated.

“I do worry about it, but it’s mostly just big lobbyists trying to have their pull,” said Pattishall.

Cox Media Group