“Kratom Explained: The Herbal Product Banned in Six States”
In a world increasingly focused on health fads and trends, alongside a waning interest in once-popular substances, it’s easy to get swept up in the latest alternatives and supplements. One such substance, kratom, has been making waves recently, found in convenience stores, bars, and even new beverages. But while kratom may be new to some, state officials and federal regulators are already well aware of its implications.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is an herbal substance derived from tropical trees native to Southeast Asia. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), it can produce effects similar to both opioids and stimulants. The two primary chemical compounds in kratom, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are of particular interest due to their effects on the body.
Kratom is available in capsule or powder form, often mixed into foods and drinks. For example, one company has developed a “euphoric seltzer” featuring kratom, while another offers various products claiming to enhance mood, focus, and energy. However, it’s important to note that there are no FDA-approved uses for kratom or its derivatives.
Is Kratom Safe?
The FDA has issued warnings regarding kratom use, citing potential serious adverse effects, including liver toxicity, seizures, and the risk of substance use disorder (SUD). Prolonged exposure to kratom during pregnancy may lead to withdrawal symptoms in newborns, such as irritability and muscle stiffness. Additionally, kratom products have been linked to fatalities.
Recent, yet unverified, FDA research suggests that kratom leaves might be safe, even at high doses, when taken in capsule form. However, this study did not assess the safety of beverages or concentrates, which may have higher kratom concentrations.
One company selling a kratom-infused seltzer warns that its product can be habit-forming, likening it to cannabis, alcohol, and caffeine. They stress the importance of responsible use, advising consumers to sip slowly, stay hydrated, and consult a healthcare professional if on prescription medications.
Is Kratom Legal?
Despite concerns from health authorities, kratom is not classified as a controlled substance in the U.S. A pair of bills introduced in Congress last fall aimed to protect access to kratom by limiting federal regulation, but these bills have remained stalled in committee.
Nonetheless, several states have banned the active alkaloids in kratom—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—such as Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Tennessee has regulations on kratom sales but bans synthetic alkaloids.
According to a congressional report from November 2023, at least 16 states have implemented various regulations concerning kratom sales, which may include age restrictions, labeling requirements, and testing standards. These states include Arizona, Florida, Illinois, and Texas, among others.
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