Is Kratom Legal?

Is Kratom Legal?

The use of Kratom is very beneficial as it helps with anxiety, pain, energy levels, and mood improvement. The controversy surrounding the legality of kratom, on the other hand, is depressing as millions of people who need it will have restricted access to it. Some countries have classified it as an illegal substance due to the lack of research and studies on it as well as the lack of FDA approval.

However, Kratom has been used for centuries in African and South-East Asian countries. Its popularity in western countries only just grew and some governments have taken a hard stance on its legality due to the unknown components of kratom. In this article, we will discuss the legality of Kratom by country as well as the different reasons for its legal status. Let’s get to that, shall we?

 Legality of Kratom

In the international market, Kratom is a legal drug. However, because it has some opiate-like effects, it is banned in some countries. People believe legal pressures are being put on kratom because of pharmaceutical companies which will lose if Kratom is made legal. Kratom is a natural and inexpensive alternative to expensive anti-depressants and medications, so this belief is not far-fetched. A ban on kratom will result in a restriction on buying, possession, and use. Let's take a look at the legal status of Kratom in the different countries in the world.

Kratom Legality in the USA

The legal status of Kratom is complicated in the US.  Kratom is legal in the US but some states in the US have banned or are planning to ban it. The DEA and FDA have sought to ban Kratom because of its addictive properties but that hasn’t happened yet. Highlighted below are the states in the US where kratom is illegal:

·         Alabama

·         Indiana

·         Arkansas

·         Vermont

·         Jerseyville County, Illinois

·         Union County, Mississippi

·         Wisconsin

·         Rhode Island

·         Columbus City, Mississippi

·         San Diego, California

·         Saratoga County, Florida

In all other areas of the US, there are no restrictions on Kratom – which means you can grow and possess it in any quantity. But there are restrictions on where you can sell it since it is not regulated by the FDA.

Kratom Legality in Canada

The legality of kratom in Canada is similar to that in the US. The Health Canada and Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CIFA) have stated that it is illegal to sell or possess Kratom for ingestion. But, kratom capsules and powders are still sold in Canada. Kratom is legal in other South American countries with the Dominican Republic being a Grey area.

Kratom Legality in Asia

Despite Kratom having its roots in Asia, it is illegal in different countries there. Countries in the Association of Southeast Sian Nations (ASEAN) have banned the use of Kratom for dietary and traditional uses. It is illegal to buy, sell or use Kratom in these countries. Listed below are the ASEAN countries:

·         Cambodia

·         Malaysia

·         Laos

·         Philippines

·         Thailand

·         Vietnam

·         Brunei

·         Myanmar

·         Singapore

·         Indonesia

·         Brunei

In China, the legal nature of Kratom is not clear but in India, Kratom is completely legal. The problem is that there is a lack of original Kratom products.

Kratom Legality in South Africa

South Africa is the only African country with clear legality on Kratom. It is legal in South Africa as it is regarded as an herbal remedy. Even though Kratom wasn’t criminalized, it is unlawful to sell it as a drug.

Kratom Legality in South America

Brazil is the only country in South America that has stated clearly that Kratom is illegal. There is no clear statement on the legality of Kratom leaves in other South American countries.

Other Countries Where Kratom is illegal

·         Ireland

·         Poland

·         Turkey

·         Russia

·         Romania

·         Lithuania

·         Sweden

·         Latvia

·         Italy

·         Germany

·         Australia

To Wrap It Up

 

The legality of Kratom is very complex and complicated. It is, however, essential to remain updated on the legality of this substance to avoid issues.