When the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) makes a decision to temporarily ban a legal substance, it’s often not much of a surprise. However, the agency’s most recent proposal to ban kratom generated widespread backlash from scientists, kratom manufacturers and users. It was enough to convince the DEA to reconsider its decision and allow kratom to remain available in the United States Mitwellness shop.
Kratom is a tropical tree (Mitragyna speciosa) that grows in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Its leaves contain psychoactive compounds, such as alkaloids, that have energizing and relaxing effects in small doses. People have used kratom for centuries in Southeast Asia. They brewed it in tea or chewed on the leaves. In more recent times, kratom has become popular in the US because of its ability to treat pain and anxiety. In addition, some kratom consumers report it improves their energy level and mood, while others have reported that it helps them quit using opioids.
In the US, kratom is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It’s also not currently a controlled substance. However, some states, counties and cities do have bans in place. As a result, if you are traveling and intend to bring kratom into a new jurisdiction, it’s important to check its laws to avoid any legal complications.
What is kratom?
Kratom is an herbal plant that’s sold in powder form. It’s used to make tea, supplements and other products. In the United States, kratom is sold in health food stores and on websites. It’s marketed for its pain-relieving, stimulating and calming properties. Kratom is also used to treat anxiety and depression, and it’s commonly taken during withdrawal from opioids.
The DEA’s plan to make kratom a Schedule I drug would make it illegal to possess and sell it. The agency’s decision is based on the fact that kratom leaves have chemical properties similar to opioids. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain and produce euphoria, pain relief and feelings of well-being. The chemicals in kratom are absorbed through the oral mucosa and enter the bloodstream within minutes.
Dr. Seitz says that he’s concerned about the potential for kratom to have other psychoactive ingredients in addition to mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitraginie. He believes that more research needs to be done before a decision is made.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a kratom addiction, it’s essential to seek treatment from a qualified medical professional. A doctor can guide you through a safe kratom detox and help you find effective treatment options for underlying issues that led to your addiction. For example, a full kratom addiction treatment program can include behavioral therapy and family counseling to teach you how to manage stressors that trigger drug use in the future. Contact a kratom treatment provider today to get started on the road to recovery. The sooner you start the process, the more quickly you can begin to experience the benefits of a drug-free life.
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