New Jersey is one step closer to banning an herbal product from Asia known as Kratom.

A New Jersey legislative committee approved CJ's Law, which would make it illegal to sell or possess the substance, known as Kratom.

C.J. Holowach, of Monmouth County, died after taking Kratom last year. The medical examiner listed Kratom as the primary cause of death, but noted it was used in conjunction with other prescription medications, including Ritalin.

MORE: What you need to know about the use of herbal product kratom

His mother says C.J. turned to Kratom for pain relief because he was a recovering addict and thought it would be safer than an opioid.

The American Kratom Association insists Kratom can be used safely for everything from pain relief to boosting energy, and it contends the product should be regulated but not banned.