The Fight for Botanicals

The Jones County Board of Supervisors recently discussed the regulation of kratom, a controversial herbal product derived from Southeast Asia, during their March 4 meeting. While no official decision was made, the board acknowledged growing concerns over kratom’s potential health risks and its availability in local stores.

Kratom, often marketed as a natural remedy for pain and opioid withdrawal, has sparked debate nationwide due to its stimulant- and opioid-like effects. Critics argue it is addictive and dangerous, while supporters claim it can be a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions.

The board is considering options, including restrictions or an outright ban, but emphasized the need for further research and public input before proceeding. This discussion reflects broader legislative efforts across Mississippi to regulate kratom use and sales.

For more details, visit WDAM.

A recent FDA-led pilot study evaluating kratom’s safety revealed the botanical was “well tolerated” in single doses up to 12 grams under clinical conditions. The trial, involving 40 healthy participants with no substance abuse history, tested escalating doses of encapsulated kratom leaf powder. While higher doses (8–12 grams) caused transient nausea—attributed to the bulk of ingesting up to 24 capsules—researchers observed no severe adverse effects beyond minor pupil dilation.

Christopher McCurdy, a University of Florida medicinal chemist and study co-author, noted the findings open doors for further research into kratom’s therapeutic potential, particularly for pain management and opioid withdrawal. The study used rigorously tested kratom from Super Speciosa, a supplier advocating for industry regulation and standardized manufacturing practices.

FDA emphasized the need for additional studies to assess risks linked to commercial kratom products, including extracts with concentrated alkaloids. Advocates hope the results prompt balanced oversight rather than outright bans. For full details, read the original SupplySide SJ report.

The Fourth International Kratom Symposium, held February 4-7 at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy’s Orlando campus, brought together nearly 100 researchers, regulators, and industry leaders from around the world. This invitation-only event highlighted the latest advancements in kratom research and explored strategies for responsible regulation of the Southeast Asian plant known for its potential therapeutic benefits.

Keynote speaker Dr. Jack Henningfield of Johns Hopkins University praised the remarkable growth in kratom-related research, noting a surge in publications from 22 in 2015 to over 140 in 2024. The symposium featured over 40 presentations on topics such as clinical studies, quality standards, and regulatory frameworks.

UF’s leadership in kratom research was emphasized by Dr. Oliver Grundmann, who highlighted the university’s role in advancing global collaboration. For more details on this event, visit UF College of Pharmacy.

Elk Grove Village trustees have voted to prohibit the sale of kratom, a substance commonly found in smoke and vape shops, marking the latest step in the village’s efforts to regulate controversial products. The ban, which takes effect on Friday, February 21, follows a similar restriction on low-dose THC products enacted earlier in 2023.

Kratom, derived from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree, occupies a legal gray area. While the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has labeled it a “Drug and Chemical of Concern,” it is not currently regulated under the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA notes that kratom can produce stimulant effects at low doses and sedative effects at higher doses, with risks of addiction and psychosis in some cases.

Mayor Craig Johnson acknowledged kratom’s growing controversy and noted that many municipalities nationwide have already banned it. For more details, visit the full report at Journal & Topics.

Mississippi’s House Drug Policy Committee is making strides toward regulating kratom, an herbal supplement with both advocates and critics. Committee Chair Stacey Wilkes (R) introduced House Bill 1121 to classify kratom as a Schedule III substance, aiming to balance public safety with informed decision-making. The bill seeks to address concerns about kratom’s addictive potential while ensuring lawmakers are educated on its effects.

During a recent hearing, state health leaders highlighted kratom’s ability to bind to opioid receptors, providing pain relief but also raising risks of dependency. Advocates, however, emphasize its role in harm reduction and as a natural alternative for managing chronic pain.

The legislation has passed the Drug Policy Committee and awaits further review. By fostering informed dialogue, Mississippi is taking proactive steps to regulate kratom responsibly. For more details, visit the full article on the Magnolia Tribune here.

A proposed ordinance to ban the sale of kratom, Delta-8 THC, and other synthetic drugs in Batavia, Illinois, faced strong opposition from residents and business owners during a City Council meeting on January 28. The ordinance, introduced by Police Chief Eric Blowers, cited public health risks associated with these substances, including hallucinations, seizures, and even fatalities. Blowers also referenced a 2021 fatal traffic accident involving a driver who tested positive for kratom.

Despite these concerns, local merchants argued the ban was overly broad. Cheryl Cryer, owner of Urban Apothecary, defended her store’s CBD products, presenting over 100 letters from customers opposing the measure. Distributor Brent King likened whole-leaf kratom to poppy seeds—safe in natural form but dangerous when synthesized.

After nearly an hour of public comments, the council unanimously tabled the ordinance, citing enforcement challenges. For more details, visit Shaw Local.

Dare County Commissioner Ervin Bateman is leading efforts to ban kratom and similar substances across North Carolina. Bateman, a recovering alcoholic with 34 years of sobriety, argues that these unregulated products are being used as substitutes for harder drugs, particularly among young people and those in recovery.

Kratom, an herbal substance with opioid-like effects, is at the center of this controversy. While the National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that serious side effects are rare, Bateman believes its availability poses a threat to those seeking complete sobriety.

The county plans to draft a standalone resolution for the state legislature, hoping for better success than a previous attempt that was bundled with marijuana legislation. Despite some residents questioning the priority of this issue, Bateman remains committed to proactive measures in addiction recovery.

The Lowell Board of Health has taken a decisive step by unanimously voting to ban the sale and distribution of kratom within city limits. This action, effective immediately, targets a Southeast Asian herb that has gained popularity for its purported pain relief and mood-enhancing properties. The decision comes after months of deliberation and public input, with health officials citing concerns over kratom’s addictive potential and possible health risks. As reported by The Lowell Sun, proponents of kratom argue for its benefits in managing chronic pain and opioid withdrawal, while opponents, including the FDA, warn of its potential dangers. This ban aligns Lowell with other Massachusetts communities that have restricted kratom, reflecting a growing trend of local regulation in the absence of federal oversight.

The Union Parish Police Jury has taken a decisive step against kratom, a controversial herbal substance, by unanimously voting to ban its sale and distribution within the parish. This decision, made on December 4, 2024, comes amid growing concerns about the potential health risks associated with kratom use.

Kratom, derived from a Southeast Asian tree, has been marketed as a natural pain reliever and mood enhancer. However, its safety and legality have been subjects of debate across the United States. The ban in Union Parish reflects similar actions taken by other jurisdictions worried about kratom’s addictive properties and possible adverse effects.

Local officials hope this measure will protect residents from what they perceive as a dangerous substance. The impact of this ban on local businesses and kratom users remains to be seen.

The University of Florida has taken a groundbreaking step in pharmacist education by introducing a course on kratom, a plant-based substance gaining popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits. This initiative, applauded by the Global Kratom Coalition, aims to equip pharmacists with crucial knowledge about kratom’s properties, uses, and potential risks.

The course, developed by leading kratom researchers, covers various aspects including the plant’s chemistry, pharmacology, and legal status. It addresses the growing consumer interest in kratom and the need for healthcare professionals to provide accurate information.

This educational effort comes at a time when kratom use is increasing, despite ongoing debates about its safety and efficacy. By offering evidence-based education, the University of Florida is positioning itself at the forefront of preparing future pharmacists to handle questions and concerns about this controversial substance.