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Mitragyna Hirsuta vs. Mitragyna Speciosa: What’s the Difference?

August 18, 2020 by Speciosa Guide Leave a Comment

As the popularity of kratom grows, there is increasing interest in and awareness of the other plants in the same genus, namely of Mitragyna hirsuta, a close cousin of Mitragyna speciosa. Many sources refer to hirsuta as an alternative to speciosa.

So, how does Mitragyna hirsuta compare vs. Mitragyna speciosa? Should you be on the lookout for a hirsuta vendor?

Let’s compare and find out.

The Mitragyna Genus

Mitragyna speciosa is not the only plant in the family. In addition to kratom, there are six other trees in the Mitragyna genus. They grow across various countries across Southeast Asia, as well as in Africa.

However, they aren’t the same.

Despite some similarities and some alkaloids that the varieties have in common, there are rather stark differences between the different trees in the Mitragyna genus.

This is also true about Mitragyna hirsuta and speciosa. Let’s break it down.

What Is Mitragyna Speciosa?

Mitragyna speciosa is a tall tropical tree from the Coffee plant family and the Mitragyna genus, which grows in Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. Commonly known as kratom, it is used in powder and tea form for a variety of effects, primarily pain relief and relaxation.

Main Alkaloids in Mitragyna Speciosa

The powerful effects of Mitragyna speciosa, aka kratom, are due to its alkaloid. Current research on kratom indicated that the herb contains at least 25 various alkaloids and 40 total beneficial compounds. In addition to alkaloids, kratom also contains polyphenols, flavonoids, and other compounds.

The primary alkaloids in this variety of Mitragyna are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. You can find them in more abundant quantities than any other alkaloids and compounds Mitragynine content in kratom is approximately 60%, whereas 7-mitragynine is just under 2%.

Both alkaloids interact with the opioid receptors in the human brain. They are partial opioid agonists. Therefore, their use results in similar or even more potent pain-relieving effects than opioid medication. However, the alkaloids interact with the brain differently, making kratom about as addictive as coffee and without the dangerous respiratory depression that you can expect from the use of opioids.

Uses and Effects of Mitragyna Speciosa

The effects of Mitragyna speciosa vary depending on the vein and strain as well as dosage. Red vein kratom strains and higher doses result in pain-relieving, relaxing, and sedative effects. White vein kratom strains and low doses yield the opposite effects. They are stimulating and mood-boosting.

Meanwhile, green and yellow strains are rather moderate and offer a balanced mix of effects – mild pain relief and moderate relaxation as well as improved mood and an energy boost.

Most kratom is sold in loose powder form, which is used to brew tea, toss and wash, and mix in with liquids such as juice, smoothies, or yogurt. However, capsules, tinctures, and various skin products such as soap are available too.

What Is Mitragyna Hirsuta?

Another variety of the Mitragyna genus, Mitragyna hirsuta, also referred to as Kra Thum Khok, grows in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. While it is visually highly similar to speciosa, hirsuta is a tree that doesn’t grow as tall as its speciosa cousin.

Main Alkaloids in Mitragyna Hirsuta

As opposed to Mitragyna speciosa, hirsuta does not owe its properties to mitragynine r 7-hydroxymitragynine. Instead, its most abundant alkaloid is mitraphylline. The same alkaloid is present in kratom, though in smaller quantities, as well as in the bark of Cat’s Claw.

A few limited studies on mitraphylline show highly promising anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

Uses and Effects of Mitragyna Hirsuta

Various vendors offer Mitragyna Hirsuta as a kratom alternative, recommending taking it in large doses, usually up to 25g in ta form. Those who have tried it report feeling mild relaxing effects that ease anxiety and provide a slight mood boost, yet in lower intensity as you can expect from Mitragyna speciosa.

Yet, slightly better mood and mild anxiety relief are, in general, the most you can expect from this plant. It does not provide pain relief and does not help with opioid withdrawal due to the lack of alkaloids that Mitragyna speciosa possesses.

Mitragyna Hirsuta vs. Mitragyna Speciosa: The Bottom Line

While Mitragyna hirsuta does have some relaxing and other beneficial effects, those are not equivalent in their extent and intensity as high-quality Mitragyna speciosa.

Moreover, various buyers have pointed out that they suspect that many vendors disguise low-quality kratom as Mitragyna hirsuta, thus making its use as a kratom substitute non-effective. Especially because of the high doses recommended by the vendors.

Precautions

Taking the wrong herb can result in increasing kratom tolerance without knowing it. You may also end up experiencing kratom side effects such as nausea and vomiting.

In addition to that, due to the increase of farmers who have switched to Mitragyna from other crops due to high demand, many lack experience working with any plants of the Mitragyna genus.

As a result, there is an extremely high risk of buying fake or low-quality Mitragyna speciosa and Mitragyna hirsuta. Only third-party independent lab tests are able to determine the true quality and purity of both

So, you should always thoroughly review those on any vendor’s website. If you see any issues with the tests or any information about either one of the herb does not seem genuine or credible, it is best to avoid such vendor, especially if they are not US-based. Otherwise, you risk exposing yourself to products of questionable origin and quality.

As far as the Mitragyna hirsuta vs. Mitragyna speciosa debate is concerned, Mitragyna hirsuta does possess some beneficial relaxing, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, there may be benefits of taking authentic Mitragyna hirsuta. Nonetheless, it is not a substitute for its cousin speciosa.

Regardless of its beneficial uses, one must be extremely cautious when selecting a vendor. This is true for both Mitragyna hirsuta or Mitragyna speciosa. Due to common scams and misinformation in the industry, it is possible that you may buy an inauthentic or low-quality product.

Have you ever tried Mitragyna hirsuta? What was your experience with it like? Would you recommend trying Mitragyna hirsuta vs. Mitragyna speciosa? Why or why not?

Kratom Stories: Kratom Helped Steven Quit Heroin

August 4, 2020 by Speciosa Guide Leave a Comment

Opioid addiction is a growing concern. With nearly 70,000 opioid overdose deaths in 2018, the number keeps speedily growing. Heroin is one of these opioids, and its use and overdose deaths have been on an incline, as well, with nearly 15,000 lives claimed in 2018 alone. The interest in using kratom to quit heroin and other opioids is also on the rise.

What Is Heroin?

Heroin is a highly addictive and illegal opioid drug. It’s produced from morphine, a natural substance that can be found in the seed pod of the opium poppy. Heroin binds to opioid receptors within the brain, resulting in reduced pain and feelings of euphoria.

Heroin use isn’t safe, and it has a wide range of short-term and long-term negative effects.

It is possible to overdose on heroin. Moreover, it causes respiratory depression, which can result in coma, brain damage, or even death.

Sadly, around a million Americans report having used heroin in the past year, and this number and related issues only keep growing.

Heroin Use Disorder

Heroin is a highly addictive substance. It also creates tolerance in those taking in regularly. As a result, it makes it increasingly dangerous for one to use heroin.

Sadly, however, prescription opioids like Vicodin and OxyContin have a striking similarity to heroin. As a result, misuse of these medications or the inability to access them can lead to a person with chronic to starting taking heroin as a means of managing it.

That’s not the only reason for one to start taking heroin. Others use it to manage anxiety or depression, feel better, and more. A significant number also do so merely out of curiosity or due to peer pressure.

Quitting heroin, though, can be extremely hard, which is why many need professional help.

Common Heroin Use Disorder Treatment Methods

The most common means of treatment are behavioral therapy and medication. Usually, a combination of both is used.

Medications that are commonly used to treat and overcome opioid addiction target the same receptors in the brain. Yet, they are deemed safer. Two common medications to treat heroin use disorder are:

Methadone – a slow-acting opioid agonist. It’s an oral medication. Therefore, it reaches the brain slowly, as opposed to heroin. The person experiences a much weaker “high” and less likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, methadone use can also be addictive and lead to overdose. Methadone also has numerous side effects that include drowsiness, constipation, confusion, coma, or death.
Buprenorphine – a partial opioid agonist. This sublingual medication reduces cravings and can also relieve pain. However, it also has negative side effects and potential for abuse and addiction.
Naltrexone– an opioid antagonist. This medication blocks the action of opioids and is neither sedating nor addictive. While it is a safer alternative to the medications above, one needs to comply with their treatment. Otherwise, the drug loses its effectiveness.

The issue with many medications that treat heroin and other opioid use disorder is that they too are opioids or opiates. Due to that, one may jump from one addiction into another.

This is precisely what happened to Steven Koontz, a 56-year old male, who decided to share his kratom story with us.

How Steven Quit Heroin with Kratom

Steven was addicted to heroin for thirty years. For him, it didn’t start as a means of getting pain relief. “I started with smack and fell in love immediately,” he says.

Regardless of the severity of his countless withdrawals, Steven was unable to quit. He tells us: “I have gone through withdrawal more times than I can count and no matter how horrendous the withdrawal, I would go back.”

As a means of getting off of heroin, Steven was prescribed methadone. Yet, it didn’t help as expected. Doctors prescribed additional medication to deal with the side effects of the prescription drug. Steven also spent time in rehabilitation centers and mental hospitals, against his choice.

“I was on methadone for almost five years, and that was harder to kick than heroin. Doctors wanted to put me on anti-depressants and mood stabilizers, but I hated how I felt on those, so I refused meds. I have been committed against my will twice to mental hospitals and in rehab seven or eight times.”

Everything changed for Steven when his youngest son introduced him to kratom.

“I tried it because I was out of ideas,” he admits.

Luckily, it was a good choice for Steven that he is grateful for: “I thank God for taking me down the path….and my baby boy.”

Not only he feels exponentially better now, but his craving for heroin is no longer an issue.

“It was three years ago since I have had dope. The drastic mood changes, days of lying in bed are almost gone. There are days, but they never last. The most amazing thing happened when I started kratom. The craving for heroin is gone. I’m not being over-dramatic. The desire for that high is just not there.”

Studies on Kratom and Its Effectiveness in Treating Opioid Addiction

While many take kratom to quit heroin and other opioids as well as beat alcohol addiction and have shared their positive experiences in surveys such as the John Hopkins study, official studies on the effectiveness of kratom are scarce.

But not for long. NIDA awarded the University of Florida College of Pharmacy two grants worth nearly 7 million USD. The study is led by Christopher McCurdy, a pioneer in kratom studies in the US, and its objective is to study kratom alkaloid and their effectiveness in treating opioid addiction.

Hopefully, this research will shed more light on kratom and result in a more positive reputation of the herb in the media.

Has kratom changed your life, too? Help us spread the word about kratom and its numerous benefits and uses to those who need it most! Share your kratom story here.

Kratom Study: Insights from John Hopkins Kratom Study

July 28, 2020 by Speciosa Guide Leave a Comment

Kratom studies are scarce. As a result, finding reliable and unbiased information on the herb is relatively hard. Many sources refer to kratom as a dangerous drug, and there have even been efforts to ban it on the federal level.

While kratom is legal in most states in the US, many locations are still debating its legality and reviewing options for either banning or regulating it.

Since kratom still remains unregulated in most areas, the risk of it being contaminated or adulterated remains rather hard. This has led to unfortunate instances such as the CDC attributing nearly 100 deaths to kratom, when, in actuality, most cases had other substances present and others had inconclusive results or prior health issues.

Luckily, more studies are being done, which will hopefully shed more light on kratom, its alkaloids, and its effects. One such study was led by John Hopkins University School of Medicine.

But, first off…

What Is Kratom?

Kratom, also named Mitragyna speciosa, is a tree indigenous to the jungles of Southeast Asia. The leaves of this tropical tree are rich in alkaloids and other highly beneficial compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols.

Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are the most abundant of the kratom alkaloids and attribute most of its properties.

Kratom has a variety of effects that depend on the vein type and strain, as well as the dosage that you take. In small doses, kratom has energizing and cognition-enhancing effects. However, in higher doses, it becomes a potent analgesic with sedating and relaxing effects.

Mitragyna speciose alkaloids affect the same regions in the brain as opioids. Therefore, many mistakenly refer to kratom as an opioid. While 7-mitragynine is around 13 times more potent than the pain-relieving drug morphine, kratom 8-Factor analysis has proven that Mitragyna speciosa does not have the same dangerous abusee potential.

The Basics of the John Hopkins Kratom Study

John Hopkins University School of Medicine conducted this study using a survey. It examined the responses of over 2,700 respondents who take kratom. 61% of them were female, and the median age was 40. 84% of all respondents had some form of a college education.

Their purpose was to determine the effectiveness of kratom as well as whether its use has less harm than opioid use.

While the results of this kratom study were purely anecdotal, considering the fact the lack of scientific research on the herb, it is still a highly beneficial scientific insight into Mitragyna speciosa.

The Results of the John Hopkins Kratom Study

The kratom study performed by John Hopkins University found out the following:

91% of respondents found kratom effective for pain relief,
67% of all respondents found the herb to be effective for anxiety,
65% found it effective for depression,
41% of respondents were taking kratom for opioid withdrawal,
87% of those taking kratom for opioid dependence found it effective,
35% of respondents who took kratom for opioid addiction reported being off prescription opioids or heroin for over a year.

In addition to the beneficial effects of Mitragyna speciosa, the study also looked at its side effects. The respondents had to complete a Substance Use Disorder checklist as part of the survey. The results found the following:

Fewer than 3% of all respondents had moderate to severe kratom use disorder,
Fewer than 10% met the criteria for mild kratom use disorder,
5% of respondents experienced kratom withdrawal,
Only 1.9% of responded experienced severe side effects such as irritability, anxiety, insomnia, or depression.
19% experienced mild kratom side effects.

In the meantime, approximately 80% of those taking opioid medication experience at least one side effects. These include dry mouth, constipation, sweating, weight gain, sleep problems, drowsiness, memory issues, appetite loss, sexual dysfunction, nausea, fatigue, dry skin, and dizziness.

Conclusions and Comments from Organizers

Albert Garcia-Romeu, PhD., who instructs psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the John Hopkins University School of Medicine and who lead the team performing this kratom study, commented that the findings of this study do not warrant kratom being categorized as a Schedule I drug. According to him, kratom doesn’t belong in the category.

Moreover, he added that kratom has very low abuse potential and should be explored for medical application as a means of managing pain as well as opioid use disorders.

He also noted that there is a lot of fearmongering due to the opioid-like effects of kratom and the growing concerns and issues caused by the opioid epidemic.

Garcia-Romeu also compared the statistics for opioid deaths and deaths attributed to kratom. He pointed out that in 2017 alone, there were over 47,000 opioid overdose deaths in the united states while, in a relatively similar time period, the CDC attributed nearly 100 deaths to kratom, out of which most had the presence of other substances while others had preexisting health conditions.

Regarding the side effects that kratom use can result in, Garcia-Romeu pointed out that most of that is due to the lack of regulations and standards in the kratom industry. These can result in kratom contamination with dangerous substances or inadequate kratom dosage.

Other Studies on Kratom

In addition to this kratom study, a longer and more thorough study on Mitragyna speciosa is currently in progress at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy. NIDA has granted Christopher McCurdy, the pioneer in kratom studies, and his team nearly $7 million to study the herb.

John Hopkins Kratom Study Takeaways

This kratom study concluded that kratom use is not only significantly less harmful than opioid use but also effective. However, it is crucial to be responsible for kratom and purchase it only from reputable vendors to avoid any contamination. In addition to that, one should be mindful of their kratom dosage and not increase it over time, which can result in tolerance, side effects, and possibly withdrawal.

Are you taking Mitragyna speciosa? Would you agree with the results of this kratom study? How has your experience with the herb been?

Kratom for Cancer Pain Management and More

March 10, 2020 by Speciosa Guide Leave a Comment

Cancer is a disease that affects countless people across the world. Cancer patients frequently suffer from severe chronic pain, and many seek alternative cancer pain management ways.

What Is Cancer?

Cancer is a class of diseases that occurs when cellular changes result in the division and growth of cells that become uncontrollable.

In a healthy body, all cells have a lifespan. Old cells die, giving way to new cells that function much more efficiently. Cancer cells lack this mechanism that tells them to die. Therefore, they keep dividing and do not die. Instead, they accumulate in the body forming tumors and use up the nutrients and oxygen that would otherwise be used by healthy cells.

There are many causes for cancer to develop. These include exposure to radiation as well as chemical and biological carcinogens.

The main risk factors are smoking, heavy consumption of alcohol, excessive body weight, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and more. Cancer is also more common as people age, and those with a family history of cancer may have a higher predisposition to the disease.

There are also many types of cancer. The most common types are lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and skin cancer. Lung, colorectal, stomach, liver, and breast cancer claim the largest number of lives.

Cancer is the second largest cause of death in the US. There are nearly 2 million new cancer patients each year in the country, with over 4 thousand patients being diagnosed each day.

Common Cancer Treatment Methods

There are various cancer treatment methods. They focus on treating cancer to enable a person to live a normal life span. However, sometimes, it’s not possible. In such cases, treatment focuses on shrinking tumors or preventing them from further growing. The most common cancer treatments are:

Surgery
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Stem cell transplant
Hormonal therapy,
And more.

While in some instances, one treatment method is enough, in many cases, more than one treatment method is needed.

Additionally, modern cancer treatment methods face many challenges, such as difficulty isolating cancer cells. Treatments, such as chemotherapy, can also affect healthy cells.

Therefore, cancer treatments come with many side effects. These include:

Anemia,
Gastrointestinal problems,
Hair loss,
Fertility issues,
Memory problems,
Problems concentrating,
Nausea and vomiting,
Sleep problems,
Depression,
Anxiety,
Pain,
And many more.

Cancer pain is widespread among cancer patients. It is due to cell damage, which can be a result of either the progression of cancer and it causing pressure on bones, nerves, and other organs, or cancer treatment. The most common treatment for that is pain medication, such as opioids.

What Is Kratom?

A tropical Southeast Asian tree, kratom has been used for medicinal purposes for generations. Kratom leaves are rich in alkaloids. Two of them, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are responsible for most of the kratom effects.

Can You Use Kratom for Cancer-Related Pain

Kratom has many beneficial properties. Depending on the vein and strain type of kratom, it can soothe severe pain, relieve depression, anxiety, and stress, improve the mood, improve focus and concentration, and much more.

Therefore, kratom can be a beneficial alternative to traditional cancer pain management methods. Moreover, it can alleviate other symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and sleep issues.

Best Strains of Kratom for Cancer Pain Management

1. Red Bali Kratom

Red Bali Kratom is the most popular, widely available, as well as affordable kratom strain. It is also one of the most long-lasting strains.

Red Bali Kratom has potent pain-relieving properties that can soothe cancer pain. It is also very relaxing and produces strong euphoria. Therefore, it can also boost the mood, aid with sleep problems, and relieve anxiety.

2. Red Vein Thai

Due to high 7-hydroxymitragynine content, Red Thai Kratom is another potent pain-relieving strain. It also has sedating properties that can help relieve sleep-related issues.

3. Red Vein Borneo

This red vein kratom strain has strong mood-boosting properties in addition to offering relief for cancer pain management. Therefore, it can also help those experiencing anxiety and depression.

4. Red Vein Maeng Da

Rd vein Maeng Da Kratom is a potent pain-relieving kratom strain that can be effective for chronic pain resulting from conditions like arthritis and cancer. It also has potent sedating properties and can relieve pain at night.

5. Red Horn Kratom

Red Horn Kratom is a rare strain. The leaves of this kratom variety have horns, and kratom farmers believe that they have higher alkaloid content due to them. Keep in mind that many vendors may mix in unhorned leaves with the horned ones to make more sales using the popular name. So, you should only buy Horn Kratom from reputable vendors to avoid overpaying.

6. Red Vein Sumatra

While most red vein kratom strains have sedating effects, Red Sumatra Kratom is energizing. As a result, it can boost the mood and provide additional energy for days when one may not feel as energized.

Precautions When Taking Kratom for Cancer Pain Management

Keep in mind, though, interactions with other medications, such as cancer treatment drugs, may be possible. None are currently known due to limited studies currently available on kratom. Nonetheless, you should consult your doctor before you start taking kratom for cancer pain management.

The immune system of cancer patients is already compromised. Therefore, if you take kratom for cancer pain management, make sure only to purchase it from a reputable and trustworthy vendor.

Kratom is not regulated in the USA by the FDA. So, kratom powder can become contaminated with substances such as salmonella. Without proper testing, this can lead to contaminated kratom reaching cancer patients.

Moreover, some manufacturers or vendors may add other substances to kratom to enhance its effects. These can be potentially dangerous, too.

Because of that, always make sure that you only buy pure kratom from vendors who lab-test kratom and are based in the states that have passed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. If your state has not done it, consider online vendors from US states that have the KCPA in place, for example, the Nevada-based Kraoma.

Are you using kratom for cancer pain management? Which strains do you find the most helpful?

Kratom Legality 2020: Is Kratom Legal in My State?

February 25, 2020 by Speciosa Guide 8 Comments

[Latest update: March 2020]

Kratom legality concerns any buyer, especially when it comes to their specific state. Since no law refers to all of the United States, kratom legality can be a tricky subject.

There are also times when new bans and updates just seem to pop of nowhere, and, sometimes, it can be really hard to find credible and reliable information on whether kratom is legal in a particular state.

Therefore, we’ve done the boring digging for you and compiled a list of all states within the U.S. and listed the most recent kratom legality status along with any relevant source that you may need.

If you are a looking for information on kratom legality elsewhere in the world, we’ve compiled that too in a guide on kratom legality around the world. We’re just that awesome. Just kidding. We genuinely care about the reputation of kratom, the kratom community, making sure that kratom users have access to plenty of accurate information on kratom.

We do our best to update this post as soon as any changes occur. However, we are human just like you and some news updates may slip by us. So, if you notice any inaccuracies, please let us know by leaving a comment below and will make the necessary changes.

Below is a list of all 50 states along with a few details on kratom legality in each of them.

Is Kratom Legal in Alabama?

No, kratom is illegal in Alabama. In 2016, Alabama added mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine to the Schedule I Controlled Substance Act. Both are under synthetic substances which is an inaccurate classification of kratom.

Is Kratom Legal in Alaska?

Yes, kratom is legal in Alaska. People can buy kratom in tobacco shops in the largest towns in Alaska such as Anchorage, Wasilla, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Soldotna. However, because of how vast the state is, for most Alaskans the best option is to buy kratom online.

Is Kratom Legal in Arizona?

Yes, kratom is legal in Arizona. In late April 2019, Arizona passed a bill that aims to regulate it. This bill is called Kratom Consumer Protection Act. Under this bill, kratom is available for people over 18 and needs to carry labels.

Currently, one can buy kratom in Arizona locally as well as online. Some Arizona stores also have vending machines that sell kratom.

Is Kratom Legal in Arkansas?

No, kratom is illegal in Arkansas. Both primary kratom alkaloids are classified as Opioid Derivatives under Schedule I drugs of the Controlled Substance Act.

Is Kratom Legal in California?

Yes, kratom is currently legal in most of California except for the City of San Diego. Keep in mind that kratom is illegal in San Diego City, but not the San Diego County. Therefore, you can legally buy kratom in San Diego County and the rest of the state both locally and online. This, however, may change in the future as San Diengo State is considering banning it, too.

Is Kratom Legal in Colorado?

Yes, kratom is legal in Colorado. In the City of Denver, it is illegal to sell kratom for human consumption. It is still legal to sell and buy kratom in Denver.

However, vendors cannot give any advice on how to use it, and all kratom products need to carry a label that states that it is not for human consumption. There are no problems with it as long as they comply with these regulations. These regulations do not apply to the rest of the state.

In addition to that, in October 2019, Parker Town banned kratom sales.

Is Kratom Legal in Connecticut?

Yes, kratom is legal in Connecticut. You can buy kratom online as well as in numerous local tobacco and vape stores.

Is Kratom Legal in Delaware?

Yes, kratom is legal in Delaware. Up to this point, no intent to criminalize kratom has taken place. So, you can freely buy kratom online or locally.

Is Kratom Legal in Florida?

Yes, kratom is legal in Florida except for Sarasota County. There have been a few intents to ban kratom, but none has succeeded so far. So, it is available for sale online and locally.

Is Kratom Legal in Georgia?

Yes, kratom is legal in Georgia for anyone over the age of 18. There have been past attempts to ban kratom statewide none of which succeeded.

In 2019, however, the Georgia Senate unanimously voted for passing its own version of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. The bill was passed to the governor and approved in April 2019. It prohibits the sales of kratom to minors and requires vendors to label their products clearly stating the ingredients and any disclaimers.

Is Kratom Legal in Hawaii?

Yes, kratom is legal in Hawaii. There has been no intention to ban kratom in the state. So, it’s possible to freely buy kratom in Hawaii.

However, a new bill may classify primary kratom alkaloids as Schedule V substances.

Is Kratom Legal in Idaho?

Yes, kratom is legal in Idaho. While the Idaho Office of Drug Policy issues warning about kratom on their site, no prior attempt to ban kratom in the state has occurred.

Is Kratom Legal in Illinois?

Yes, kratom is legal in Illinois for people over the age of 18 except for the City of Jerseyville, the City of Alton, and the city of Edwardsville. There was a bill that intended to ban kratom statewide, but, fortunately, it died at the beginning of 2019.

In February 2020, two new bills were introduced: one to regulate kratom and another to ban it.

Is Kratom Legal in Indiana?

No, kratom is illegal in Indiana. It is currently a Schedule I drug under the Indiana law. The Indiana kratom ban took place in 2014.

Is Kratom Legal in Iowa?

Yes, kratom is legal in Iowa. There was intent to ban kratom in 2014 and list it as a hallucinogenic Schedule I substance. Fortunately, it did not pass thanks to activism from kratom supporters.

Is Kratom Legal in Kansas?

Yes, kratom is legal in Kansas. In 2018, the Kansas Senate reviewed a bill that aimed to criminalize kratom and make it a Schedule I controlled substance. Due to activism from kratom advocates, the legislators passed the bill outlawing a list of different substances but chose to remove kratom from the bill.

Kansas is currenly reviewing the Kratom Consumer Protectin Act.

Is Kratom Legal in Kentucky?

Yes, kratom is legal in Kentucky. There have been a few attempts to ban kratom. First, there was a bill in 2016 which intended to ban kratom in Kentucky and list it as a synthetic opioid. This bill did not succeed.

However, there as another bill a year later that would have made kratom illegal. Its intent was to create Schedule A. This would have been a new category that would have included any substances that had properties similar to those of already banned substances. The bid did not succeed either.

Is Kratom Legal in Louisiana?

Yes, kratom is legal in Louisiana. However, in May 2019, a bill to ban kratom in Louisiana was introduced. If it passed, kratom users would no longer be able to buy kratom in Louisiana. Yet, in June 2016, the bill passed with changed wording. According to it, the state will criminalize the two primary alkaloids in kratom if the DEA lists kratom as a Schedule I drug.

In 2018, the Louisiana Senate passed a bill that requested the Louisiana Department of Health to study the effects of kratom and whether it should be a control substance. Another bill to study the effects of kratom passed in May 2019.

Is Kratom Legal in Maine?

Yes, kratom is legal in Maine. Yet, in 2017, there was a bill that aimed to classify kratom as a Schedule W drug. Schedule W in Maine is reserved to hallucinogenic drugs such as methamphetamines. The bill passed but kratom was removed from it.

Is Kratom Legal in Maryland?

Yes, kratom is legal in Maryland. However, there is a bill that intends to ban kratom sales for those under 18 and another bill that aims to classify mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine as Schedule I substances.

Is Kratom Legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, kratom is legal in Massachusetts. No legislation to ban or regulate kratom has taken place in Massachusetts.

Is Kratom Legal in Michigan?

Yes, kratom is legal in Michigan. However, on August 20, 2019, a bill with intent to schedule kratom was introduced. If this bill passes, kratom will be a Schedule II substance and only available with a doctor’s prescription.

In 2017, there was intent to place kratom under Schedule V of the Michigan Controlled Substance Act, but the bill died.

Is Kratom Legal in Minnesota?

Yes, kratom is legal in Minnesota. There has not been any legislation to regulate or ban kratom.

Is Kratom Legal in Mississippi?

Yes and no. Kratom is legal in most of Mississippi State; however, certain counties and cities have banned kratom. According to the latest available sources, a total of 30 counties and cities in Northern Mississippi have banned kratom.

Union County, Alcorn County, Lowndes County, Monroe County, Tishomingo County, Itawamba County, Columbus City, Pontotoc, New Albany, Senatobia, and Caledonia are among locations that have banned kratom. Moreover, several other locations in Mississippi are considering banning kratom too.

In February 2020, two bills to ban kratom in Mississippi (this by a democrat representative and this by a republican representative).

More information, as well as a list of cities and counties that have banned kratom in Mississippi, are in this post on kratom legality in Mississippi.

Is Kratom Legal in Missouri?

Yes, kratom is legal in Missouri. Currently, St. Charles country is considering banning it.

Moreover, there are two bills introduced in early 2020. One intends to ban kratom, the other to regulate it.

Is Kratom Legal in Montana?

Yes, kratom is legal in Montana. There has not been any legislation aiming to ban or regulate kratom.

Is Kratom Legal in Nebraska?

Yes, kratom is legal in Nebraska. No legislation to ban kratom or regulate it has taken place in Nebraska.

Is Kratom Legal in Nevada?

Yes, kratom is legal in Nevada and regulated by the KPCA.

Is Kratom Legal in New Hampshire?

Yes, kratom is legal in New Hampshire for those over 18. However, kratom is banned in Franklin City.

There was a bill that aimed to make kratom a controlled substance in the entire state. Though due to activism from kratom supporters, the New Hampshire Senate amended it instead and prohibited the sales of kratom to minors.

A bill introduced in February 2020 intends to ban kratom sales in the state.

Is Kratom Legal in New Jersey?

Yes, kratom is legal in New Jersey. Nonetheless, there has been legislation to ban kratom, but the bill died in committee.

Introduced in January 2020, a new bill may ban kratom in New Jersey.

Is Kratom Legal in New Mexico?

Yes, kratom is legal in New Mexico. There hasn’t been any legislation to ban kratom or make it regulated.

Is Kratom Legal in New York?

Yes, kratom is legal in New York. However, there we two bills in October 2017, and November 2017, that aimed to prohibit kratom sales to minors and another one in January 2017, that aimed to ban kratom statewide. Luckily, all three bills died in committee.

In 2019, a bill to ban kratom sales for those under 18 was introduced, followed by a bill to ban kratom sales to individuals under 21.

Is Kratom Legal in North Carolina?

Yes, kratom is legal in North Carolina for people older than 18. In 2015, a bill to ban kratom was introduced. Yet, due to activity from kratom supporters, it did not succeed.

Is Kratom Legal in North Dakota?

Yes, kratom is legal in North Dakota. There has been no legislation to criminalize kratom. It is legal to buy kratom online and locally.

Is Kratom Legal in Ohio?

Yes, kratom is legal in Ohio. A bill to ban kratom was introduced, but it was delayed. Instead, Ohio authorities are currently reviewing a bill on regulating kratom products.

Is Kratom Legal in Oklahoma?

Yes, kratom is legal in Oklahoma. In 2014, there was intent from the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics to ban kratom. Yet, the authorities amended it due to activism from the kratom community and left kratom out.

Oklahoma authorities are currently reviewing the Oklahoma Kratom Consumer Protection Act.

Is Kratom Legal in Oregon?

Yes, kratom is legal in Oregon. The Oregon Senate reviewed a bill that proposed studying kratom and whether it should be a controlled substance, but the bill failed. Currently, Oregon was considering regulating kratom, yet decided against doing so, at least for now. Thus, kratom remains legal and unregulated.

Is Kratom Legal in Pennsylvania?

Yes, kratom is legal in Pennsylvania. No legislation has taken place, but due to recent deaths that have been attributed to kratom, there are raising concerns about it.

Pennsylvania is currently reviewing a bill that aims to regulate kratom.

Is Kratom Legal in Rhode Island?

No, kratom is illegal in Rhode Island. In 2017 Rhode Island banned kratom; however, a bill proposing Kratom Consumer Protection Act may reverse it.

Is Kratom Legal in South Carolina?

Yes, kratom is legal South Carolina. There has been no legislation to ban or regulate kratom.

Is Kratom Legal in South Dakota?

Yes, kratom is legal in South Dakota. No legislation to ban or regulate kratom in South Dakota has taken place.

Is Kratom Legal in Tennessee?

Yes, kratom in its natural plain leaf form is legal for individuals over 21. There was confusion about the legal status of kratom after synthetic kratom was criminalized in 2014. Therefore, the authorities clarified that kratom in its natural form is legal to buy for anyone over 21 after reviewing a bill that intended to update the controlled substances.

Is Kratom Legal in Texas?

Yes, kratom is legal in Texas. No intent to criminalize or regulate kratom has happened to this date.

Is Kratom Legal in Utah?

Yes, kratom is legal in Utah. In 2019, the Utah Senate passed the Kratom Customer Protection Act which requires kratom to be labeled and legal to purchase for those over the age of 18.

A new bill aims to direct the Board of Pharmacy to study whether the state should ban kratom or not.

Is Kratom Legal in Vermont?

No, kratom is illegal in Vermont. The Vermont Senate scheduled the two primary kratom alkaloids in 2016. However, a new bill may decriminalize kratom.

Is Kratom legal in Virginia?

Yes, kratom is legal in Virginia. To this day, there has been no legislation to criminalize or regulate kratom. It is legal to buy kratom online and locally.

Is Kratom Legal in Washington State?

Yes, kratom is legal in Washington State. There has been no legislation to ban or regulate kratom thus far. Buying kratom is legal online and locally.

Is Kratom Legal in West Virginia?

Yes, kratom is legal in West Virginia. There was a proposal to schedule kratom and other substances. The West Virginia Senate removed kratom from the bill and, eventually, the bill died in committee.

Is Kratom Legal in Wisconsin?

No, kratom is illegal in Wisconsin. In 2014, the Wisconsin Senate decided to criminalize the two primary kratom alkaloids and place them under Schedule I stimulants.

Nonetheless, after a positive hearing with the Wisconsin State Health Committee in late October 2019, the ban may be removed and the state may pass the Kratom Consumer Protection Act.

Is Kratom Legal in Wyoming?

Yes, kratom is legal in Wyoming. There has been no intent to ban or regulate it. So, it’s legal for anyone to buy kratom online or in local stores.

And finally…

Is Kratom Legal in Washington D.C.?

Yes, kratom is legal in Washington D.C. In 2106, the main kratom alkaloids were included in the Washington D.C. controlled substances act. However, 2 years later, in 2018, it was removed from it. Thus, it is possible to buy kratom in Washington D.C.

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