Two Additional States Set to Enact Restrictions on Kratom, a Herbal Supplement Linked to Addictive Properties
Why 2 more states will soon – As of this week, two more states are preparing to implement bans on kratom, a natural herbal product that has sparked debate over its potential for dependence. The move comes amid growing concerns about its effects on users, with critics likening it to “gas station heroin” in certain cases. This decision marks the latest development in a nationwide effort to regulate the substance, which has been increasingly associated with both therapeutic benefits and risks.
What is Kratom?
Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, originates from the tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, it has been used for centuries in regions like Thailand and Malaysia to alleviate fatigue, enhance work performance, and serve as a remedy for pain or ailments. In cultural practices, it also plays a role in spiritual rituals and social gatherings. However, its modern popularity in the U.S. has led to its classification as a wellness supplement, with advocates claiming it can help manage mood disorders, improve focus, and even assist in recovery from opioid addiction.
FDA’s Role in Kratom Regulation
Despite its traditional use, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has yet to approve kratom for any medical applications. Nonetheless, it has gained traction as an alternative for pain relief and reducing withdrawal symptoms from opioids. Recent studies have highlighted its interaction with brain receptors, similar to those affected by coffee, chocolate, and physical activity, according to the American Kratom Association (AKA). This biological mechanism is thought to underpin its effects on energy, focus, and mood.
“Kratom addresses the everyday challenges people face, such as stress and physical discomfort,” Mac Haddow, a senior fellow in public policy for the AKA, explained to Nexstar’s WPRI in a prior interview. He emphasized its role as a natural solution for daily struggles, though he acknowledged the need for further research to understand its full impact.
The Controversy Over 7-Hydroxymitragynine
At the heart of the controversy lies a specific compound in kratom: 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). This alkaloid, which is more potent than the natural components of the plant, is classified as an opioid. Synthetic versions of 7-OH have been flagged for their increased risk of addiction and stronger effects compared to kratom itself. The term “gas station heroin” is often used to describe 7-OH, though it is more commonly linked to tianeptine, a synthetic drug found in products sold alongside kratom.
The FDA has taken a cautious stance on 7-OH, with a 2025 report noting its potency is up to 13 times that of morphine, a Schedule II narcotic. The agency recommended classifying certain 7-OH products under the Controlled Substances Act, a step that has intensified scrutiny over kratom’s safety. While natural kratom remains legal in many states, synthetic derivatives have become a primary target for regulation.
State Actions and Legal Implications
Several states have already enacted measures against kratom, citing the risks posed by 7-OH. As of now, Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Vermont, and Wisconsin have implemented full bans. Connecticut and Kansas classified kratom as a Schedule I substance, effectively limiting its availability and impacting 7-OH products. Utah recently finalized its ban, restricting the sale of kratom-related items starting July 1.
Tennessee’s recent kratom ban, dubbed “Matthew Davenport’s Law,” criminalizes possession as a misdemeanor and manufacturing or distribution as a felony. The law was inspired by the tragic death of a 27-year-old man who combined kratom with prescription medication. The state already regulates kratom sales and prohibits synthetic alkaloids, reinforcing its commitment to curbing potential harm.
States with Modified Regulations
Meanwhile, some states have adopted a more nuanced approach. Rhode Island became the first to reverse its kratom ban, passing a new law that allows sales to individuals aged 21 and older through licensed businesses. Applications for licensure opened in early June, signaling a shift toward broader access while maintaining oversight. This change has sparked optimism among kratom users, though the synthetic form remains prohibited.
Other states, including Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, South Dakota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Mississippi, Kentucky, Georgia, South Carolina, Florida, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and New York, have passed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. These laws impose age restrictions, require labeling of ingredients, and warn consumers about its addictive potential. Advocates argue such measures balance accessibility with safety, while critics say they stifle its medicinal use.
Legal Landscape and Ongoing Debates
Despite these restrictions, kratom remains legal in over a dozen states, including Alaska, Hawaii, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, and Maine. Missouri, for instance, launched a statewide investigation into kratom and 7-OH products earlier this year, highlighting the need for further analysis.
Supporters of kratom highlight its natural origins and potential for treating chronic pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal. They argue that the bans disproportionately affect individuals seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Opponents, however, emphasize the risks of addiction, particularly with synthetic variants, and stress the importance of strict controls to prevent misuse.
As more states consider legislation, the debate over kratom’s role in public health continues to evolve. While its benefits are recognized by some, the presence of 7-OH and its potency has fueled calls for regulation. The growing number of reported deaths linked to kratom this year underscores the urgency of the issue, with officials weighing the substance’s potential harms against its therapeutic uses. The outcome of these state actions could shape the future of kratom’s availability and acceptance in the U.S. market.
