Kratom, a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, is often a point of contention. While many people use this plant for wellness, some government agencies view it as a risky alternative to traditional medicine. Over the past decade, kratom’s popularity has increased at such a rapid rate that scientific research and regulatory measures have struggled to keep up. This has led to misinformation about kratom.
For people with limited access to healthcare and mental healthcare services, natural remedies and botanicals like kratom are an appealing and affordable option. Herbal supplements like kratom and CBD are the preferred method of treatment for many individuals, yet governments across the globe have issued laws restricting the use of these natural supplements. Some have outright banned them.
To clear up misconceptions about kratom and protect consumers, there needs to be more scientific research as well as legal safeguards. So what does the future hold for kratom legislation? This blog will provide an overview of the current state of kratom legislation, offering insights on the ongoing legal debate, and predicting how trends in the kratom industry could affect its future.
Existing Kratom Laws
Kratom legislation can be a confusing and overwhelming subject, especially in the United States. Laws about kratom vary between federal, state, and even city governments. If you’re curious where and what exactly is legal in your area, we at Mitra Bros recommend checking the local laws and regulations regarding kratom possession and sales.
Federal Legislation
Is kratom legal in the United States? Currently, there is no federal statute regulating the sale or consumption of kratom. Kratom’s legality is up to individual states to determine.
Kratom legislation in the U.S. is determined by both the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), through the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). The former regulates drugs and other substances which pose a risk for abuse and dependence, while the latter regulates drugs and dietary supplements.
The FDA has not approved kratom or its main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, for any dietary or health related uses. This means that although kratom can be sold in the U.S. in states where it is not banned, it cannot be marketed as a dietary supplement or food additive.
In 2016, the DEA attempted to label mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (the active ingredients in kratom) as a Schedule I drug under the CSA. This would have placed kratom in the same category as illicit drugs like heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. When a drug is designated under Schedule I, it means it has no accepted medical use and may have a high potential for abuse.
Thankfully, the 2016 initiative failed because of opposition from kratom advocacy groups, as well as members of Congress working on their behalf. This pro-kratom coalition cited a lack of evidence and a need for further research on the pharmacological effects of kratom. Ultimately, the DEA reversed their decision.
However, although kratom is not scheduled under the CSA, it is currently designated as a “Drug and Chemical of Concern.”
State Legislation
Kratom law across the states is far from unified. Regulations are frequently changing based on new scientific evidence. Currently, kratom is banned in six states: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
Many states have introduced Kratom Consumer Protection Act bills that would better regulate the production of kratom. If passed, these bills will lead to more product testing, age restrictions, product and vendor registration, and labeling requirements.
If you’re curious about the legal status of kratom in your area, the American Kratom Association maintains an updated map detailing the latest kratom legislation state by state. Other states operate within a “wild west” landscape with few regulations, leaving kratom consumers vulnerable to adulterated, low-quality, and potentially dangerous products. That’s why a Federal Kratom Consumer Protection Act is needed.
Global Legislation
While kratom is essentially legal in the United States, there are many countries which have banned kratom outright. Others have designated it as a controlled substance.
Like the U.S. federal government’s stance on kratom, the European Union lets individual countries decide whether to allow the sale and consumption of kratom. Many European countries have banned kratom or placed it on a list of controlled substances. Even in kratom’s native Southeast Asia, many countries have made kratom consumption illegal, despite allowing their raw kratom products to be exported to other countries.
If you’re concerned about using kratom while traveling outside of the United States, be sure to check the specific local laws in the region you’ll be visiting.
Predictions for the Future of Kratom Legislation
The future of kratom legislation remains unknown. However, based on past legislation and advocacy efforts, many kratom enthusiasts are predicting the following:
More Scientific Research and Data Collection
The FDA, along with other government agencies and drug companies, are actively supporting research on safety issues and therapeutic uses of kratom. With more research and data, scientists will have a better understanding of kratom’s effects and possible dangers, which could influence legislation depending on their findings.
Kratom Consumer Protection Act
The KCPA, which has already found success in many states, could become a federal law. This would provide consistency and better regulate the production of kratom across the country. This bill would likely prevent many of the dangers associated with lower quality kratom. It would put stricter controls on kratom manufacturers and vendors, which will help protect consumers.
Kratom Advocacy and Shifting Public Opinion
Kratom advocates have already made great strides when it comes to shifting the public opinion of kratom, as evidenced by the reversal of the DEA’s decision to designate kratom as a Schedule I drug. Additional advocacy efforts could influence public opinion, presenting kratom as a beneficial health supplement with pain relieving and mood enhancing possibilities.
Possibilities within the Healthcare System
Depending on research outcomes, kratom has the potential for use as a treatment for a number of health issues. If its safety and efficacy can be verified, kratom could one day be prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional and paid for by health insurance.
The Mitra Bros Promise
Here at Mitra Bros, we take pride in our craft and in adhering to all state and federal regulatory measures. We provide only the highest quality kratom. All our products are backed by the American Kratom Association’s Good Manufacturing Practices, third-party lab testing, and even a money back guarantee.
We are dedicated to improving your health and well-being with our kratom products. Shop now and experience the Mitra Bros difference for yourself.
