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Military Kratom: Can You Take Kratom in the Military

December 8, 2020 by Speciosa Guide Leave a Comment

Kratom in the military

US military members are well-known for their extraordinary abilities, strength, endurance, and capacity to go through rigorous training and extreme and life-changing experiences. As a result, many veterans suffer from handling pain, PTSD, anxiety, depression, sleep, and other health issues.

Therefore, it’s not uncommon for veterans to take kratom. The herb has many health benefits and can aid veterans in a wide variety of ways.

But what about active-duty members? There are many ways in which they could benefit from the herb. But can you take kratom in the military?

Can You Take Kratom in the Military?

Unfortunately, kratom is illegal to active duty military members in the United States. The Department of Defense (DoD) prohibits a wide range of substances that could negatively impact military readiness and performance and lead to possible disciplinary action.

The DoD based its reasoning for banning kratom in the military on the statements made by the FDA. It explains the reasons for prohibiting the herb as being the lack of evidence of safe use and deadly risks resulting from its use.

The military allows certain legal substances. These include prescription drugs, alcohol, and nicotine, provided that they are taken adequately and properly. However, the list of illegal substances is long. It includes actual drugs such as cocaine, LSD, heroin, and more, as well as other substances like steroids and smart drugs.

Best Kratom Quiz

What Are Smart Drugs?

Smart drugs are a wide range of substances that have nootropic properties and can enhance cognition. This includes mediation. An example of such a smart drug includes Adderall, a common ADHD medication. It’s legal as long as the military member has a valid doctor’s prescription. Otherwise, it is off-limits.

Another class is so-called herbal smart drugs. Examples include cat’s claw, ashwagandha, L-theanine, green tea, piperine, Panax ginseng, and also kratom.

While most of those herbal smart drugs are OK in the military, kratom is an exception. The military prohibits it because, according to its words, it alters mood and function.

What Else Does the Military Forbid?

Kratom in the military isn’t an odd exception. In addition to the herb and substances that are already illegal in the US, the military also forbids the following substances and dietary supplements:

  • Acacia rigidula, also known as blackbrush acacia or chaparro prieto – a dietary supplement that aids weight loss is illegal in the military due to the lack of evidence for safe use,
  • Aconite or wolfsbane – homeopathic medicine that can also be poisonous,
  • Cannabidiol or CBD – used for anxiety, stress, inflammation, and pain relief, illegal due to service policies,
  • Hemp or hemp oil – used for stress and pain relief, illegal due to a DoD policy,
  • Phenibut – a supplement used for anxiety and stress relief, illegal because it’s a synthetic substance that does not meet the standards of a dietary supplement,
  • Salvia – a supplement that produces relaxing effects in small doses and hallucinogenic effects in large doses, also illegal in the military.

Besides these supplements, the military also forbids a long list of synthetic dietary supplements. These include HCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin), HGH (Human growth hormone), IGF (Insulin-like growth factor), and others.

Does the Military Test for Kratom?

Kratom is an illegal substance in the military and on the DoD forbidden substances list. So, active duty military members can be subject to illegal substance screening. Kratom, however, is unlikely to come up in a routine DoD drug test because most standard tests such as SAHMSA-5 do not test for it.

Nonetheless, it’s not a guarantee that you won’t be tested for kratom in the military. Changes are continuously happening.

In 2017, the DoD announced that it will be expanding its testing to detect 26 illegal substances that active-duty members are tested for in military applicants as well, making substance screening more rigorous. The list included drugs such as cocaine and heroin as well as a range of synthetic cannabinoids or spice.

While kratom wasn’t mentioned in the list, certain military members have reported that their divisions have started testing for kratom, as well.

Therefore, it’s best to abstain from taking kratom in the military. Even if your unit does not currently test for kratom, this can change at any time. This can put you at unnecessary risk if you take the herb while on deployment.

Active duty members are subject to drug testing three times a year and this occurs at random. Kratom alkaloids remain in the system and can come up on a urine drug test for up to 7-9 days. With this in mind, you cannot prepare for a kratom drug test.

And even if kratom isn’t among substances a drug test screens for, there have been instances of it resulting in a false positive. This can be an unnecessary and highly damaging risk for active-duty members.

Is Kratom Safe?

The DoD bases its judgment of kratom on statements by the FDA. Thus, it should come as a surprise that the military questions its safety. It mentions the side effects of kratom, including death, and the risk of it being laced with other substances like opioids.

The DoD also claims that kratom is addictive while its 8-Factor Analysis states the opposite, saying that kratom is no more addictive than coffee, a plat from the same plant family as kratom that is legal in the military.

Contrary to the FDA claims, the safety concerns regarding kratom use are exaggerated. Kratom deaths that it cites as proof of its deadly effects are misinformation. None of the “kratom deaths” had conclusive results and other substances with deadly effects were present.

Final Words

While kratom is prohibited to active duty military members, it’s legal in most states when one is out of the military and no longer serving. Kratom has numerous benefits that can help veterans lead better lives.

Regardless of that, it is important to always get high-quality raw kratom products from a trusted vendor.

While most claims by the FDA and DoD are untrue about kratom, one thing however is possible. That’s the fact that kratom can be contaminated or adulterated by other dangerous substances. To avoid that, one should always purchase kratom that has been accurately and properly tested, processed, handled, and labeled, preferably from US states with an active Kratom Consumer Protection Act.

Are you an active-duty military member or a veteran? Have you ever tried kratom? And most importantly, thank you for your service.

Filed Under: Guides

Kratom Alkaloids and Their Effects

November 24, 2020 by Speciosa Guide 4 Comments

Kratom provides diverse effects and benefits which is one of its most astonishing features. This is due to kratom alkaloids, natural chemical compounds present in Mitragyna speciosa leaves.

Users report feeling differently after using different strains and strain varieties. And even different doses of the same strain can have one experience distinct effects. This occurs due to the different alkaloids that are present in the kratom leaves as well as their concentration in each individual strain.

While many kratom lovers know that alkaloids are beneficial and responsible for kratom effects, most don’t know their specifics and they actually work.

Kratom Alkaloids and their Effects

What Are Alkaloids?

Just like any other living organism, plants contain natural chemicals. In plants these plant chemicals also known as phytochemicals.

There are different kinds of phytochemicals such as carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, proteins, flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, and many more. Alkaloids are one of them.

Alkaloids are naturally occurring nitrogen-containing molecules in plants and fungi. Scientists hypothesize that they protect plants from insects and animals. However, it’s not entirely clear what the purpose of alkaloids in plants is.

What we do know is that they have powerful medicinal as well as other properties, even in small quantities. They have unique effects on the human body and provide diverse effects and health benefits.

Alkaloids can treat pain, inflammation, immune disorders, and even more. Nonetheless, some can also be toxic.

Because of this, alkaloids are popular in conventional medicine and other industries. Some of the popular alkaloids the effects of which you may be familiar with are:

  • caffeine – alkaloid with stimulant properties found in coffee and cocoa beans and tea plant leaves,
  • ephedrine – it’s a stimulant used in asthma medication and to prevent blood pressure drop during anesthesia,
  • quinine – alkaloid used in malaria medication,
  • morphine – the primary alkaloid in the opium poppy with strong analgesic properties,
  • nicotine – stimulant alkaloid present in tobacco.

The Main Types of Kratom Alkaloids

It’s believed that kratom’s leaves have at least 25 different alkaloids. Other hypothesize there are at least 40 or even more. But, there have only been limited scientific studies on kratom thus far to confirm the exact number.

While there are many different alkaloids in kratom, two of the most powerful ones are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Both of these alkaloids are different in terms of the benefits that they provide. But, they both are responsible for pain relief as well as opioid withdrawal relieving effects.

The variety and amount of kratom alkaloids both depend on various factors. These can be the type of strain, the maturity of the leaves, where and in what conditions it grows, how it is harvested, and more.

For example, younger kratom leaves have a higher mitragynine concentration and the amount lowers as the leaves mature. The opposite is true about 7-hydroxymitragynine. Young leaves have less 7-hydroxymitragynine and the amount increases as the leaves mature.

So, the younger leaves tend to have pale green veins and stems. As the amount of mitragynine lowers and that of 7-hydroxymitragynine increases, the stems and veins gradually turn green and then red. As a result, all three – red, green, and white vein leaves can be present on the same tree and mature in a similar way to how bell peppers do, turning from green to yellow and then red.

Factors such as the amount of sunlight can also affect the concentration of the alkaloids. For instance, leaves that develop during the rainier and less sunny periods of the year tend to be white or green-veined.

This change in alkaloid concentration does not only affect the appearance of the leaves but also the effects that they produce.

Mitragynine Kratom Alkaloid

Mitragynine and Its Effects

Mitragynine is the most abundant of all alkaloids in the kratom leaves, making up around 60% or more of the total content of kratom alkaloids. It is primarily responsible for the stimulant effects of kratom. That’s why it is found in higher amounts in green-vein and white-vein strains.

Mitragynine’s stimulating effects are much smoother and much more stable than those of other stimulating substances, such as caffeine.

Yet, stimulation is not the only benefit of this alkaloid. It has a variety of different properties.

Mitragynine effects slightly vary from person to person. It mostly depends on their sensitivity towards kratom. Nonetheless, its overall effects are quite consistent. A few of them are:

  • Anti-malarial
  • Anti-tussive (relieving or stopping cough altogether)
  • Anti-diarrheal
  • Stimulation
  • Pain relief

While mitragynine provides pain-relieving properties, they are lower than those of 7-hydroxymitragynine.

Also, its effects can vary according to how large a dose is. Lower dosages generally provide more stimulating effects, while higher dosages result in less stimulating, but rather more pain-relieving and relaxing effects.

Due to its versatile nature, mitragynine still needs to be scientifically studied in more depth to understand the full breadth of its potential.

7-Hydroxymitragynine Kratom Alkaloid

7-Hydroxymitragynine and Its Effects

7-hydroxymitragynine is the fourth most abundant alkaloid in kratom. It is more concentrated in sedating kratom types, such as red-vein strains. It is less versatile in terms of its properties and effects and is present in much lower amounts than mitragynine. However, it is a lot more potent than mitragynine.

In fact, it is the most potent alkaloid found in kratom.

Some experts believe 7-hydroxymitragynine may even be 30 times stronger than mitragynine. Studies have indicated that it is also 13 times stronger than morphine.

The most prominent effects of 7-hydroxymitragynine include:

  • Powerful pain-killing effects
  • Opiate withdrawal relief

Best Kratom Quiz

Other Kratom Alkaloids

As we already know, kratom has a lot more than just these two alkaloids. Though there are numerous alkaloids present in its leaves, some of these need to be studied in more detail to know their full potential

Below, you’ll find a few of the important alkaloids that are inside kratom leaves. Although they appear in kratom in much smaller quantities, they are working together with each other to create the unique effects of kratom.

  • Ajmalicine is a muscle relaxant as well as an anticoagulant (a blood thinner that can prevent blood clots).
  • Ciliaphylline works as a sturdy analgesic.
  • Corynoxeine serves as a calcium channel blocker. It helps to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
  • Corynoxine helps dopamine move throughout the body.
  • Corynantheidine is an antagonist of the opiate receptors. It blocks opioid receptors from responding to opioids and endorphins. That can help with opioid addiction.
  • Epicatechin has numerous functions. It is an anti-leukemic alkaloid. In addition, it also has anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. It also helps to prevent fat cells from clogging the arteries and controls blood sugar levels.
  • Paynantheine is a muscle relaxant.
  • Speciophylline has an anti-leukemic action.
  • Speciogynine gently releases the muscles.
  • Tetrahydroalstonine has an anti-adrenergic (can help with anxiety, heart disease, and high blood pressure) and hypoglycemic activity (can lower blood sugar).

Note that these are only a few of the alkaloids present in the leaves that we know more about.

Even though the effects and benefits of kratom can be life-changing, we may only be scratching the surface when it comes to understanding kratom’s full potential.

More Studies on Kratom Alkaloids

Sadly, scientific research on kratom is still quite limited at this time, preventing us from knowing the full potential of the herb.

Yet, more are being carried out.

The University of Florida College of Pharmacy is where Christopher McCurdy, the pioneer of kratom research works. He was the person to first uncover and perform studies on kratom in the United States.

NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse) has awarded Mr. McCurdy and his team two grants to study kratom, its alkaloids, and their effects. They are worth $6.9 million and give the team seven total years for this research.

The team has already come up with some positive conclusions, suggesting that kratom could treat opioid withdrawal and addiction. While kratom users already verify that from personal experience, having scientific studies back that up could improve the general reputation of kratom and help keep it legal and accessible.

Common Misconceptions about Kratom Alkaloids

Much attention is drawn to the fact that kratom alkaloids hit the same receptors as opioids. That does not mean that the kratom alkaloids themselves are opioids. But rather that they target the same receptors that opioids do.

Opioid use comes with a dangerous side effect of affecting the user’s respiratory system. It slows down the breathing and can result in death, especially if used improperly and irresponsibly.

Kratom does not do that. It causes minimal respiratory depression that doesn’t endanger human life, and Mr. McCurdy’s team’s research has proven that.

As a matter of fact, kratom is actually an opioid antagonist. It can help to minimize opioid withdrawal symptoms as well as overcome opioid addiction.

Chemically, the structure of alkaloids resembles that of psychedelic drugs. However, kratom users do not actually experience psychedelic effects.

Instead, they feel pain relief and euphoria among other effects and benefits. Ones that are already discussed above.

What kratom strains have you used and what effects have you experienced?

Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Filed Under: Guides Tagged With: kratom alkaloids

Kratom Consumer Protection Act: Here’s What You Need to Know

November 17, 2020 by Speciosa Guide 6 Comments

kratom consumer protection act

[Latest update: November 2020]

Spring, 2019, came with a new term in the kratom world. The Kratom Consumer Protection Act. Just a few weeks prior, no one knew about it. Suddenly, about a dozen states were considering it, and it was popping in the news at least every other day.

So, you may be wondering what the Kratom Consumer Protection Act is and what’s the big deal about it.

Therefore, we’ve done some research to answer all of your questions about the Kratom Consumer Protection Act.

What Is Kratom Consumer Protection Act?

The Kratom Consumer Protection Act or KCPA for short is a bill that intends to regulate kratom and ensure safe access to it in individual states.

Developed by representatives of the American Kratom Association (AKA) and the Botanical Education Alliance (BEA), it intends to make kratom use as safe as possible for the consumer and prevent any negative incidents such as contamination or adulteration that could potentially push the authorities to ban kratom in the entire US.

The Kratom Consumer Protection Act covers the production, sales, possession, and labeling requirements of kratom. It also defines an age limit for kratom sales, possession, as well as the use of kratom.

Some of the statements proposed in it are:

  • Production, sales, and distribution of adulterated, contaminated, or otherwise unsafe kratom products cannot be sold.
  • Only individuals over the age of 18 can buy kratom.
  • All kratom products need to be labeled and disclose the content of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
  • Kratom vendors cannot produce, import, or sell any kratom products that have more than 2% of 7-hydroxymitragynine of the total alkaloid content.
  • Vendors must state the contents of any kratom product, the exact alkaloid content, and the origin of the product.
  • Producing, selling, or distributing contaminated, adulterated, or otherwise unsafe kratom or kratom products leads to fines or incarceration.

The AKA presents the Kratom Consumer Protection Act and lobbies it in individual states. It is a guideline to educate the authorities and serve as a guideline to what is important to make kratom safe for the consumers. However, states can modify and amend it.

While it appears that the Kratom Consumer Protection Act came out of the blue and seemingly overnight, it’s not actually the case. The AKA and the BEA were looking for ways to ensure that kratom remains legal yet is also safe to users for a long time.

Best Kratom Quiz

Why Do We Need the Kratom Consumer Protection Act?

In 2016, the DEA announced its intent to ban kratom in the entire country. This received a massive backlash from the kratom community. Kratom users and supporters expressed their strong support for the herb in a variety of ways such as signing petitions, leaving comments, and sending letters to the DEA.

In the meantime, regulating kratom nationwide as a medication or dietary supplement would be much harder, more expensive, or even impossible. To make it a regulated drug with approved medical properties, it would require decades of research and study and millions or possibly billions of dollars.

While the University Of Florida College Of Pharmacy received a $3.5 million grant for 2 years of kratom study and another 5-year grant worth $3.4 million, that alone will most likely not be enough.

In addition to that, if kratom was truly recognized by the FDA, we do not know how that would affect the price of kratom and availability. The UF team studying kratom has already concluded that kratom may be beneficial in overcoming opioid addiction. As a result, it may simply become another expensive drug that the masses cannot afford.

Kratom also does not completely comply with the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 which would be able to recognize kratom as a dietary supplement. While the AKA made a step forward by developing its Good Manufacturing Practices in 2018, the AKA’s meeting request is still being ignored by the FDA.

The Good Manufacturing Practices program or GMP  also has its flaws. It’s completely voluntary, and incompliance with it simply leads to losing the GMP status. Vendors do not actually get punished by fines or otherwise for improper actions.

So, the fact the Kratom Consumer Protection Act is being positively received by many states, is excellent news.

Which States Have Signed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act?

Utah became the first state to regulate kratom. The Utah Senate reviewed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act and passed it on March 26, 2019.

Arizona passed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act a month later, in April 2019. So did Georgia.

Nevada joined the states that regulate kratom a month later.

Kratom Consumer Protection Act KCPA by States November 2020
Latest update: November 2020

Which States Are Currently Reviewing the Kratom Consumer Protection Act?

According to the AKA, in November 2020, about a dozen states are considering the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. Even more are being planned to be targeted.

The states that are currently reviewing or considering the Kratom Consumer Protection Act or their own variation of it are:

  • Rhode Island – kratom is currently illegal in Rhode Island, there is a bill that may reverse the ban
  • Vermont – kratom is currently illegal in Vermont, there is a bill that may reverse the ban
  • Missouri
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Louisiana
  • Ohio
  • New York

Rhode Island where kratom is currently illegal was already considering the KCPA once but the bill died in committee. Hopefully, this attempt succeeds.

Oregon also had a bill on regulating kratom, but they decided not to do it at the time. Maine, New Hampshire, and Kansas also had KCPA bills, but they failed.

What Can Kratom Supporters Do?

While the AKA is doing what it can to ensure that kratom buyers have safe and easy access to the herb, it’s a non-profit organization that is limited by budget. Therefore, it requires support from the kratom community to keep lobbying the Kratom Consumer Protection Act in more states.

If you would like to make sure that kratom remains legal and is regulated in your state, you can do a variety of things.

First of all, you can donate money to the AKA. It can help them lobby it across more states in the US. Here is a relevant link:

  • Donate to the American Kratom Association

Secondly, you can sign any petitions that intend to keep kratom legal. Many petitions are filed via Change.org platform. You can keep an eye on those in your state. You can also join a kratom supporter group, where you can get quick access to any action from other kratom supporters.

Finally, you can make a statement by choosing to buy kratom from a vendor who cares about the future of kratom and keeping it legal. Make sure to thoroughly research whom you choose to buy kratom from.

If you aren’t quite sure whom to buy kratom from, we outline our tips on how you can avoid kratom buying mistakes in our Kratom Buying Guide that you can download from us or free. We’ll send it to you in exchange for your e-mail.

Rest assured that your email address will be safe with us. We’ll only use it to send you updates on new blog posts on kratom, kratom legality news, any important petitions that are active, and any other interesting bits of information that we found online.

[Latest update: November 2020]

What do you think of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act? Have you heard any news about kratom legality in your state? We make sure to include the latest information on it. However, if we have missed anything, feel free to leave a comment below and let us know. 

Filed Under: News Tagged With: kratom ban, kratom consumer protection act, kratom legality United States, kratom news

A Guide to Kratom Legality: Where Is Kratom Legal?

November 13, 2020 by Speciosa Guide 71 Comments

Where is Kratom Legal?

[Latest update: November 2020]

Kratom legality is a question that concerns many. 

Users want kratom to remain legal because it helps them manage pain, stress, and anxiety, boost their mood and gain extra energy. According to testimonials and stories from users, kratom can be used instead of prescription drugs for numerous health conditions. Such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, back pain, depression, and even PTSD.

Federal agencies, on the other hand, want to ban it. They claim that kratom has no medical benefits and poses high health risks.

At the moment, kratom remains legal in certain locations. However, it’s outlawed in others and you can face serious consequences for disregarding that. There are also countries where kratom legality is unclear.

Therefore, knowing if kratom is legal or not in your geographic location is important to know before you purchase it. 

But, before we tackle this, let’s look at…

The History of Kratom Use and Legality

Relatively new to the western world, kratom was a traditional medicine in Southeast Asia for centuries. It was used as a stimulant and pain reliever, as well as for a number of conditions such as digestive disorders, intestinal parasites, and cough.

There were no rules or regulations about kratom. Peasants and workers could freely use it.

In the early 1800s, kratom was discovered by Dutch settlers. They brought kratom to Europe and started investigating it. Yet, it became popular among users only in the early 2000s.

The AKA (American Kratom Association) estimates that there are about 3-5 million kratom users in the United States. And, according to the data from 2016, kratom industry in the US was worth over a billion dollars.

Kratom Legality by Country and Continent

Kratom Legality: US

In late August 2016, the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) announced it’s intent to place kratom and its active components under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. Their reason was kratom’s opioid-like properties and concern about public safety.

While the proposal received major backlash from the public and was withdrawn, the battle for kratom continues.

Kratom Bans in the US States

Currently, kratom is legal in most of America except for the following states:

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Indiana
  • Rhode Island (though Rhode Island may reverse the ban)
  • Vermont (though Vermont may reverse the ban)
  • Wisconsin (though Wisconsin may reverse the ban)

Kratom Bans in the US Cities and Counties

Kratom is also illegal in the following cities and counties:

  • San Diego in California
  • Monument Town in Colorado
  • Parker Town in Colorado
  • Sarasota County in Florida
  • Jerseyville in Illinois
  • Alton in Illinois
  • Edwardsville in Illinois
  • Alcorn County in Mississippi
  • Belmont County City in Mississippi
  • Blue Mountain City in Mississippi
  • Booneville City in Mississippi
  • Bruce City in Mississippi
  • Burnsville City in Mississippi
  • Caledonia City in Mississippi
  • Calhoun City in Mississippi
  • Calhoun County in Mississippi
  • Columbus City in Mississippi
  • Corinth City in Mississippi
  • Derma City in Mississippi
  • Fulton City in Mississippi
  • Guntown City in Mississippi
  • Itawamba County in Mississippi
  • Iuka City in Mississippi
  • Lowndes County in Mississippi
  • Mantachie City in Mississippi
  • Marietta City in Mississippi
  • Monroe County in Mississippi
  • New Albany City in Mississippi
  • Noxubee County in Mississippi
  • Okolona City in Mississippi
  • Oxford City in Mississippi
  • Pontotoc City in Mississippi
  • Prentiss County in Mississippi
  • Ripley City in Mississippi
  • Saltillo City in Mississippi
  • Senatobia City in Mississippi
  • Tippah County in Mississippi
  • Tishomingo City in Mississippi
  • Tishomingo County in Mississippi
  • Union County in Mississippi
  • Vardaman City in Mississippi
  • Franklin City in New Hampshire

In the remaining locations, it is legal to grow, possess, and use kratom. You also do not need a prescription to buy it. 

Regulating Kratom

The FDA does not regulate it at this time. There are no regulations on the federal level that would endure the purity and quality of kratom products. Therefore, kratom cannot be sold or marketed to treat any sort of condition or disease. That means that kratom is legal as long as vendors do not sell it labeled as a dietary supplement.

To counter that and ensure buyer safety, individual states are taking the initiative to regulate sales, manufacturing, and labeling of kratom products using the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. A few states in the US regulate kratom and more consider regulating it.

For more detailed information on kratom legality in each state, view this post on kratom legality in the United States.

Kratom Legality
Latest Update: November 2020

Kratom Legality: Canada

Kratom legality in Canada is a grey area, similarly to how it is in the United States. There is also an ongoing debate about whether the government should implement a kratom ban.

According to CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) and Health Canada, kratom is illegal if one sells or possesses it with an intent to ingest.

Yet, kratom powder and capsules are available for sale in Canada. As long as it’s not meant for ingestion, kratom remains legal.

Kratom Legality: Europe

While the European Union has no borders and has a unified currency, each country has its own legislation.

Thus, kratom legality by country will vary.

As of 2016, it is illegal to import, export, or sell kratom in the United Kingdom. There is a UK based kratom company that claims that kratom is 100% legal in the UK. Nonetheless, the UK Psychoactive Substances Act that came into effect in May 2016, does include in the list of outlawed substances that produce psychoactive effects.

In 2017, Ireland also enlisted kratom as a Schedule I illegal drug.

Kratom also remains a controlled or illegal substance in Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Russia, Sweden, and Turkey.

Since 2016, kratom has been listed among major drugs in Italy. It is illegal to possess, sell, or import it there.

In Denmark and Finland, kratom is a controlled substance, yet one can purchase it with a valid doctor’s prescription.

Germany remains a grey area for kratom users. It is not an illegal substance, but it can only be bought or sold as a herb that isn’t supposed to be ingested. Therefore, vendors sell it as an ethnobotanical sample or sometimes even as paint. 

Hungary has a similar situation. Kratom is illegal for human consumption, yet it’s possible to buy and sell it as a botanical sample for analytic purposes.

In the rest of the European countries, kratom is currently legal.

Kratom Legality: Australia and New Zealand

In 2003, Australia banned kratom as a narcotic substance due to concerns about potential abuse. However, no actual instances of kratom abuse have ever happened there.

Since 2009 kratom and its active ingredients are illegal to grow, buy, or sell in New Zealand without a medical prescription. If you do have one, you can use kratom in New Zealand without problems.

Best Kratom Quiz

Kratom Legality: Asia

Ironically, the very region that kratom is indigenous to, does not allow its free use. At least not everywhere. 

ASEAN

ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, refers to kratom as a drug. No traditional medicines or dietary supplements in these countries can contain kratom or its derivatives. Thus, it is illegal to use, buy, or sell kratom there. Countries that are a part of the ASEAN are:

  • Brunei
  • Cambodia
  • Indonesia
  • Laos
  • Malaysia
  • Myanmar
  • Philippines
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam

Yet, you’ll notice that some of the countries on this list, for example, Indonesia and Malaysia, are where kratom is currently grown and produced.

Despite the blanket regulation, in several of these locations kratom legality remains a grey area. It’s neither legal or illegal, having no rules regulating it within the country. Or, it is illegal and heavily punishable, yet allowed to be grown, harvested, and exported (without using it, of course).

This makes it dangerous to purchase kratom directly from these countries. No laws or regulations means that there is no guarantee that their kratom is safe, lab-tested, and contaminant-free. We highly advise anyone against purchasing directly from Asian countries and instead choose US-based vendors who test kratom in US-based labs to ensure that it is contaminant and adulterant free. Read more here.

If you travel to any of these countries and are unclear about the status of kratom there, it’s best not to put kratom in your luggage. Southeast Asian countries normally have strict drug laws and heavy punishment for breaking them if you get caught.

Thailand

In addition to that, Thailand legalized kratom for medicinal use in December 2018. Nevertheless, it remains not entirely “legal” as Thai police keep repeatedly seizing kratom possession. Moreover, in August 2019, Thai Prime Minister critically referred to kratom starting that it may be legalized if proven useful.

Since then, Thailand has been inching toward legalizing kratom. In summer 2020, the country decided to decriminalise the use of kratom in certain parts of the country, aiming to monitor the effects of legalizing kratom.

Korea, Japan, China, and India

South Korea also prohibits the use of kratom. You risk fines or jail time if you choose to import or export it.

Kratom is illegal in Japan.

Its status is unclear in China and there are no reliable sources to clarify that. However, according to our sources various vendors on TaoBao, the Chinese equivalent of Amazon, were shut down after listing it for sale. Also, considering China’s policy on opioids (which are illegal), we wouldn’t risk using or importing kratom into China.

In India kratom is currently legal, though be careful purchasing it there. There is a tree of the Mitragyna family that grows in India. While it has similar properties they aren’t the same as those of kratom. Indian vendors label it as Indian Kratom which is much cheaper. Yet, users have complained about it not being nearly as effective and causing nausea.

Kratom Legality: South America

The only official reports on kratom legality are available on Brazil where kratom is legal.

Is kratom legal in other locations around South America?

Currently, there is no reliable information available in other South American countries. But, users have reported having no problems traveling into and around South America with kratom.

They do, however, advise against traveling back to the USA from countries such as Colombia. They mention that border officials can mistake kratom for coca leaves and may cause issues.

Traveling with Kratom

If you intend to travel with kratom, be sure you know the latest information on the legislation of kratom in your destination. Is kratom legal there? Then, most likely you will be fine because, in most locations around the world, kratom is currently legal.

Nonetheless, there are countries where you will face a fine or other punishment if you act against the law. If you are an active-duty military member, you cannot take kratom with you either. The US military prohibits kratom. 

Keep in mind that there are locations that are still unfamiliar with kratom. As a result, they may not have any rules or regulations about it at all.

Meanwhile, other countries have kratom legality in the unclear, grey area.

If that is the case and you can’t find a definite answer to whether you can enter the specific country with kratom, it may be safer to leave your kratom at home. Doing so will ensure that you don’t get into any legal problems.

It will also prevent the reputation of kratom from being tarnished even further. Any negative incident anywhere in the world can be used by federal agencies as a reason for the kratom ban.

Do you have any experience with kratom in the countries that we have and haven’t mentioned? Is kratom legal there? Any other comments on kratom legality in different corners of the globe? Feel free to share them with us.

We do our best to ensure that we have the latest and most accurate information on our website. However, we wrote this post in September 2018, and the information included in it may change over time.

[Latest update: November 2020]

If you notice a recent change in legality that we have not included yet, don’t hesitate to contact us and let us know. Or simply leave a comment. We will highly appreciate it. 

Filed Under: News Tagged With: kratom legality, kratom legality asia, kratom legality australia, kratom legality canada, kratom legality europe, kratom legality germany, kratom legality italy, kratom legality new zealand, kratom legality south america, kratom legality thailand, kratom legality turkey, kratom legality uk, traveling with kratom

Beginner’s Guide to Kratom: Basics and Getting Started

November 10, 2020 by Speciosa Guide Leave a Comment

Recently, kratom has been growing popular on internet forums, and also getting attention from the media.

People who use it regularly swear by its medicinal benefits, while the DEA and FDA seem to be on a campaign to ban it.

What is kratom, and why are millions of people choosing it over pharmaceutical drugs? Is this another illicit drug that slipped through the cracks, or is there more than meets the eye?

Kratom leaves

What Is Kratom?

Kratom (aka Mitragyna Speciosa) is a herbal plant with many benefits and is native to the Southeast Asia – mainly Indonesia, Malaysia, Bali, and Thailand.

This tree-like herbal plant has great medicinal usage and has been a part of Eastern Medicine for centuries. The herb is capable of treating a myriad of health problems.

It acts as a natural stimulant and mood enhancer. Kratom has amazing pain-relieving properties as well.

It’s capable of:

  • Eliminating pain
  • Improving sleep quality
  • Enhancing focus and productivity
  • Reducing stress and anxiety
  • Improving mood and well being

Kratom consumers tend to feel motivated.

The herb has deep ties to Thai and Indonesian culture and has been cultivated for thousands of years.

Some people mistake it for a dangerous recreational drug but don’t be fooled. It has a lot more to offer than just a “high.”

Lesser-Known Benefits of Kratom

This herb tends to have mild euphoric effects brought along with a sense of motivation, and the ability to stay calm and composed, even under high-pressure environments.

What’s more, the herb is shown to treat dependence on substances such as opiates, alcohol, medication, etc. It helps wean-off the effects of hardcore drugs as well.

Those suffering from depression, chronic pain, and anxiety have found it to be incredibly helpful in combating symptoms.

Southeast Asia

History of Kratom

Kratom is native to Southeast Asia. There indigenous people have been using it as a source of additional energy and medicinal plant to relieve pain, cough, diarrhea, and more.

Local cultures do not consider kratom a drug. Nonetheless, Thailand, one of the countries kratom is native to, banned it in August 1943.

Despite many anti-kratom claims, it did not occur because it is a dangerous drug. Instead, due to its highly beneficial effects, the herb interfered with opium sales that spiked because of wars. Kratom wasn’t taxed as opium was, and it wasn’t as profitable to the Thai government.

While the east has known the beneficial medicinal herb for centuries, in the west, however, the plant is relatively new.

In the 1830s, Dutch botanist Pieter Willem Korthals served as the official botanist for the Dutch East India Service. During this time, he made multiple discoveries including Mitragyna speciosa. It’s often suggested that Korthals named the plant Mitragyna because the shape of its leaves and flowers resembles that of a bishop’s mitre.

When citing a plant’s botanical name, the name of the botanist who discovered it appears abbreviated in parentheses after the plant’s name. For Korthals, this abbreviation is Korth., a name that may also use to refer to kratom.

In the 1930s, English botanist Isaac Henry Burkill and Malaysian botanist Mohammed Haniff reported the herb as an effective means of reducing harm in opiate users in the 19th century. This appeared in the Cambridge Journal of Asiatic Society.

Types of Kratom

Factors like where it comes from, the color of the veins, etc, form the basis of kratom strain classification.

For instance –

  • Kratom leaves harvested from Thailand usually have more energetic effects
  • Indonesian leaves usually have mild sedative effects
  • Malaysian leaves are popular for their ‘moderate’ qualities
  • The leaves coming from Bali aka Borneo provide a mix of sedative and relaxing effects.

Then there’s the classification based on color namely red-vein, green-vein, and white-vein.

You will mostly find it in powdered form, which tends to have a greenish shade.  You can also find it in capsule form or tea; however, it’s not as common.

Red Vein Kratom

The color of its stem and the veins, as suggested by the name, tends to be red. This is the most popular type of kratom sold today. The total sales of red vein kratom are more than the sales of white and green combined.

Benefits of Red Vein Kratom Leaves

Red vein leaves are recommended for beginners (provided they come from a reliable source).

  • The leaves tend to have a pleasant, relaxing, and calming effect on the mind; elevating a sense of optimism, motivation, and wellness.
  • They act as a natural muscle relaxant
  • Helps with insomnia
  • A natural alternative to pharmaceutical drugs and painkillers
  • Helpful in fighting withdrawal symptoms of opiate drugs

Red vein leaves are further divided into different categories and each type has different properties and effects. The leaves coming from Thailand have mild sedative effects, while others such as Red Sumatra are known to uplift mood.

The intensity and the spectrum of effects also depend on the dosage. When taken in small doses, red vein strains promote tranquility and peace of mind.

White Vein Kratom

White Vein Kratom strains are popular for being a mood enhancer or stimulant. The true effects depend on several factors namely – the quality of the product, the amount taken, the tolerance level of the consumer, etc.

White vein is commonly the most uplifting in nature than all other strain types. A growing number of people are finding it to be a good replacement for caffeine to stay alert, cheerful, and focused.

People who work hard and long hours will find it particularly helpful in improving focus, motivation, and concentration.

Those susceptible to gloominess, depression, and exhaustion also tend to greatly benefit from this type.

Green Vein Kratom

This particular kratom strain type lies between red and white. It comes with mild energy-boosting and mood-enhancing properties, while also being calm.

Reportedly, consuming green vein leaves results in –

  • Enhanced alertness and focus
  • A feeling of being ‘in the flow’

Unlike most analgesics, this one doesn’t cause drowsiness which makes it the ideal type for treating a spectrum of pain and bodily discomforts. The effects of green vein kratom leaves are more subtle in nature when compared to red or white.

Fighting Social Fears

Green Vein Kratom strains are particularly known to fight social fears. The user tends to experience a lowering of inhibitions, and have less regard for people’s opinion and views. They immediately feel more confident, even in social settings. Many people with social anxiety report improvements while taking it.

Some of the known effects of this strain are – a cheerful and friendly disposition, and feeling ‘comfortable in your skin’.

Best Kratom Quiz

Mixing Kratom Strains

Mixing different color strains is a common practice that gives more rounded and sophisticated results.

The properties of green veins tend to curb the overstimulating effects of white veins, and analgesic effects of red strains, etc.

Mixing strains are best suited for experienced users who have tried several different strains, and know the effects of each.

Preparing Kratom Tea

Different Ways to Take Kratom Powder

As mentioned earlier, kratom is not a recreational drug.  You don’t smoke or snort kratom powder; rather you ingest it orally. Take a look at some of the popular ways to take it:

1. Kratom Tea

To make tea, mix some kratom powder in water and let it simmer for thirty minutes. After that, you let the mix sit and then strain the liquid off. Most people report the effects of drinking kratom tea as – “better and more consistent.” This method is more time consuming than others, but it’s one way to go about it. The taste of the tea isn’t bad either, especially if you add honey or stevia. One can drink it both hot and cold, and try different kratom tea recipes to change things up.

2. Toss and Wash

This is the most common way of taking kratom. Toss and Wash is also the simplest way of getting it into your system. Measure the amount you want to take and gently tip it into your mouth. After that, just swill it lightly and wash it down with water. Most people typically go with a spoonful, however, be sure to consult a doctor first if you have a medical condition for which you’re taking it.

3. With Yogurt or Juice

A lot of people recommend adding kratom powder to yogurt. It’s good to go with a flavored yogurt in order to mask the powder’s taste. Most people prefer to gulp it down in one go to avoid enduring the taste which is not particularly good. However, there are some proponents who are big on taking it with yogurt.

Alternatively, you can also mix your favorite powder with a juice of your choice. Orange, grapefruit, and pineapple juice can not only mask the bitter taste but also act as potentiators.

4. Mixed with a Protein Shake or Smoothie

A lot of people claim to get a better effect after mixing kratom powder with milk or protein shake; although there is no scientific evidence to support it.  Sounds tasty though!

If protein shakes aren’t something you normally take, try different smoothies. This approach allows you to mask the take and up your intake of veggies and fruits.

5. In Capsule Form

Taking kratom in pill form is not always recommended. On the plus side, you get to skip the taste of the powder. But, on the flip side, you might need to take several in order to experience the full effect. In some cases, you might not notice any results until you have taken up to 10 pills. It’s best to know your dosage or ‘sweet spot’ before using capsules.

How to Dose on Kratom?

Everyone is different. Different people may find varying levels of satisfaction with different dosages. However, it’s best to start low until you’re able to find that ‘sweet spot, where you get the maximum effects with just the right amount.

Ideally, it’s best to start with a small dose of 2 grams or even less. Wait some time and see if it starts to kick in, then slowly up it a notch.

It’s worth noting that although a small dose may not give you any effect, crossing the ‘tipping point,’ even by one gram, could make you feel ‘heady’ and ‘uncomfortable.’ Therefore, it’s best to start carefully when taking kratom for the first time, with special consideration towards dosage.

The moment nausea kicks-in; it’s a sign that the dose was higher than your body can take. If taken in large amounts of 10 grams or more, you might end-up puking.

Note – The ideal dose may vary depending on the quality of the product. High-quality kratom should begin to kick in with a dosage as low as 2-3 grams.

Important Tips While Taking Kratom

It goes without saying that any herb/plant that supposedly has psychoactive properties should be consumed with care, and with full consideration for possible side-effects caused by accidental overdoses.

The same goes for kratom.

This section covers points that are worth mentioning when taking kratom. Especially if you’re starting out for the very first time, it’s important to keep these in mind –

1. Stay Hydrated 

Like coffee, kratom tends to have diuretic effects on the body. You might feel slightly dehydrated after taking it. Therefore, it’s important to drink plenty of water. If you begin to feel slightly ‘heady’, it’s a sign your body is in need of fluids. Bring water with you while going out and about.

Since kratom powder consists of primarily insoluble fiber, t’s not uncommon to get kratom constipation. Make sure to stay hydrated to avoid that.

2. Take It on an Empty Stomach

You can experiment with taking kratom even when not on an empty stomach, but only when you have found your sweet spot. For beginners, it’s best to start on an empty stomach because when your stomach is full, you need higher amounts to achieve the full effect.

3. Different Strain Types May Need Different Doses

Another point worth noting is that not all strain types have the same spectrum and intensity of effects. You need to establish different ‘sweet spots’ for different strain types. Some strains may affect you more with a small dose, while others need a higher dose. Therefore, it’s always best to start with small amounts.

4. Maintain a Log

You might want to start noting down the details of every dose when starting out. The details can help you keep track of factors like the timing, quality, quantity, strain type consumed, etc. You might want to write down your experience and the effects. Keeping a log helps you refer back to each experience and weigh the differences between them as you build on your doses.

What to Expect from a Typical Dose

Let it be known that different people may have different experiences with kratom. But, most people tend to feel intense warmth starting to build-up on the inside. The tip of your nose, hands, and toes may feel a little warm. Most people experience a lowering of their inhibition and a sudden burst of ‘confidence’ like never experienced before.

But, as mentioned earlier, not all people may have such strong sensations. In some users, the results are quite mild/subtle.

Managing Expectations

While it’s true that the effects of kratom can be life-changing and ‘obvious’, it’s important to be realistic in terms of what to expect. Do not expect drastic improvements in the quality of your life with it. Having too many expectations or unrealistic expectations could actually leave you feeling disappointed afterwards.

 Chemical Structure of Kratom

What Are the Various Effects of Kratom?

Kratom is quite unique because a low/moderate dose will typically be mildly stimulating. But, a high dose will almost always be sedating.

Kratom leaves have active alkaloids that give both sedative and stimulant-like effects. A lot of people equate the effects of kratom with that of opiates. This is because of the presence of its alkaloids.

Although kratom follows a similar action mechanism as an opiate, it is actually as addictive as coffee. As a matter of fact, kratom is best known for overcoming addiction from real opiate drugs.

Effects as a Stimulant

Kratom can provide a boost in energy (sometimes sexual energy) and a sense of heightened alertness. The person may suddenly feel an urge to do things they wouldn’t normally do.

A lot of people may suddenly find the strength to perform tough and monotonous physical jobs with ease. Since kratom has antidepressant properties, it tends to elevate mood.

One may become more friendly, talkative, and sociable. Kratom stimulates the person on a cognitive level rather than a physical level. That’s why the effects are different from that of typical CNS stimulants like amphetamine drugs or caffeine.

Effects as a Sedative-Euphoric-Analgesic

At this level, the person becomes less sensitive to emotional/physical pain and may appear calmer than usual. There’s the induced feeling of general pleasure and a meditative state.

In higher dosages, these sensations may also be accompanied by slight sweating or itching. The pupils become constricted and some people may experience slight nausea. However, nausea subsides with a bit of rest or by simply lying down.

A lot of users may suddenly find themselves having a deeper appreciation for music. The experience is best enjoyed by lying down with your eyes closed in a slightly dark room. A lot of people enter the state of wakeful dreaming where they find a part of their mind entering the ‘dream-like state’ with one foot in the real world.

Can One Use Kratom to Treat Pain?

Yes, kratom is an effective analgesic. As a matter of fact, it’s one of the most helpful analgesics (other than opium). A lot of people use this herb to remedy chronic pains and aches and manage health conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis.

Can Kratom Be Used to Overcome Opiate Addiction?

Among the most popular/traditional uses of kratom is – using it to overcome addiction to opiates. This is a widespread problem not only for people who use opiate drugs illegally, but also for those who have been prescribed opiate pain medication.

Many people are searching for an effective remedy to overcome this addiction. A lot of kratom consumers have found it to be extremely helpful in this context. This herb contains alkaloids that act on the opioid receptors in the brain. Therefore, it can be used as a substitute for opium-based drugs to overcome withdrawals.

Many people who switch to kratom as an opiate substitute found that they were slowly able to reduce the dosage, and eventually end it without going through any of the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

Therefore, it’s safe to say that although kratom carries opiate receptor agonists; its pharmacology is very different from opium-based drugs. It’s different in a way that makes it abundantly useful in overcoming dependence on opium.

Note – although kratom is popular for overcoming this addiction, it’s best to consult a physician first before going on any kind of self-medication.

Is Kratom Legal and Safe?

Kratom is a grey market product in the US, even though millions of people use it safely and responsibly while having little or no negative side effects.

It is not FDA approved, and you often find it labeled “not for human consumption.” Kratom vendors are not legally allowed to state it’s uses and benefits.

All of this causes confusion and leads people to believe it is a dangerous drug or something to avoid altogether.

The reason behind this is the “Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994.”  Under the DSHEA, herbs, and supplements sold in the US before 1994 can be marketed and sold without FDA approval.

Kratom did not make the cut.  There’s currently no evidence that shows it was available in the US before 1994.

So, kratom is in a legal grey area, and it’s hard to get the positive word out.  However, it is legal to purchase in most states as a raw botanical.

As long as you use a reputable source, kratom is completely safe and can help with many different things.

Filed Under: What Is Kratom?

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