Currently, there are no Florida state or federal regulations on the distribution, sales or preparation of kratom products. Many Florida lawmakers would like to change that. The Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act would set a 21 and over age limit for the purchase and consumption of kratom, in addition to banning processors from selling, preparing or distributing certain kratom products—such as those adulterated with other herbal or illegal substances. In addition, the proposal also specifies that packaging would need to include serving sizes and directions for use.

Kratom, an herbal extract that can produce stimulant or sedative effects, comes from a tree in the coffee family commonly found in Southeast Asia and Africa. While traditionally consumed as a tea or by chewing its leaves, these days kratom can be found in powder, pill, extract, tincture and other forms.  

Many people use kratom as a pain reliever, a nervous system tonic, to increase mental focus, or to overcome opioid addictions, due to the way kratom binds to the brain’s opioid receptors. 

While many regular kratom users have beneficial experiences with the substance, side effects can range from mild nausea, sweating and dry mouth, to insomnia, anxiety and hallucinations. According to an article written by Marcus Rojas and published on Health News Florida, “Supporters of the bill argue that kratom has the potential to be addictive, while opponents say it is a healthier alternative to most recreational drugs. With no federal legislation on the substance as more research emerges, states are left to draft their own regulations.” 

Sources: wuwf.org, FLSenate.gov, Health.wusf.usf.edu