Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa)

Is It Safe To Smoke Kratom With Weed

May 17, 2021 By John Reed Leave a Comment

People worldwide have developed a keen fascination for traditional healing to promote holistic wellbeing. With it, there’s a growth in the alternative cures present to promote wellness and health benefits.

Among the countless herbs individuals use in traditional techniques, marijuana and kratom are the most well-known ones. While these plants have been around for ages, many individuals currently buy them from Just Cannabis.

Perhaps you’d like to smoke kratom with weed and are wondering if it’s safe. Maybe you’re hearing about the plants for the first time. Wherever you may be, the post below has all the answers you seek. Read on for more!

About Kratom

Kratom is a herb with origins in the Southeast Asian continent. It’s also called Mitragyna speciosa. The natives used it for its countless medicinal properties, and it now goes into the creation of many natural drugs.

The term ‘kratom’ refers to both the preparation that manufacturers make from its leaves and the tree.

You can get a variety of kratom strains, but there are three main variants:

Green kratom variant– it’s relatively similar to the white strain, but it’s milder. Its varieties include the Pontianak Green Horn and Malaysian Green.
White kratom variant– contains mitragynine, which gives it energy-boosting characteristics that might give you a mood boost. It’s available in different types like White Vein Indo, White Thai Kratom, and White Sumatra Kratom.
Red kratom variant– it’s arguably the most popular strain due to its calming characteristic. Some of its varieties are Pontianak Red Horn, Red Thai, and Red Sumatra.

About Weed

Also known as marijuana and cannabis, weed is a herb that people use for recreational or medicinal purposes.

For a long time, people in the Asian subcontinent have been using the plant. However, it’s now available in almost any country around the world.

It has many chemical compounds, scientifically known as cannabinoids, that decide the effect that cannabis will have on you. The most common of these cannabinoids are:

CBD, or cannabidiol, which doesn’t contain psychoactive properties, i.e., won’t get you high.
THC, or delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol which is the main psychoactive cannabinoid in the marijuana plant.

What are Some of the Benefits of Kratom and Weed?

Marijuana and kratom have a unique set of effects that impact the frame. Many people are mixing these two plants to strengthen their effect.

If you’re planning to use both, here are some of the benefits you stand to enjoy:

1. You may get relief from pain

Kratom links to the mu-opioid receptors in your cerebrum, which can assist in pain relief. Cannabinoids in the weed can mingle with the endocannabinoid structure in your anatomy.

By communicating with the receptors, the cannabinoids can change how you react to external stimuli or feel.

2. They may help you fight opiate withdrawal manifestations

Kratom simplifies the opioid-quitting process by helping alleviate the withdrawal indicators.

Cannabis can also help with mood swings, anxiety, or discomfort that come after quitting opiates.

3. They may soothe you

Marijuana is popular for its relaxing property on the user’s mind and body. Using kratom can have the same effect since it has a higher dose of sedative characteristics.

4. They can enhance mental health

Smoking weed can calm your nerves, thus clearing the anxiety symptoms. Cannabidiol, which is an anti-anxiety agent, can be massively beneficial.

Kratom, which is an antidepressant agent, can also ensure that you remain in a good mood.

5. They can boost your energy level

Kratom’s alkaloids mingle with the cerebral structure to stimulate you and provide an adrenaline rush.

Cannabis contains cannabidiol, which is also a wake-inducing agent. It can stimulate your mind to make you feel energized and focused. It also boosts productivity.

6. They may reduce inflammation

Both kratom and weed have anti-inflammatory properties. As per research, almost half of the cannabinoids from the Cannabis sativa extract lowers swellings in consumers.

7. They may enhance your sleep

Alkaloids in kratom connect to particular receptors in the frame and offer a feeling of calm. The THC and other cannabinoids in the Cannabis plant bind with the endocannabinoid system’s receptors, thus helping you sleep better.

Is it Okay to Smoke Marijuana with Kratom?

Yes. The only point to note is both herbs are extremely potent, so you have to get the proportions right.

Once you smoke the two together at the regulated amounts, you’ll not only sample the benefits above in all their glory, but you’ll have a good time as you do it too.

Should You Smoke Both Herbs at Once?

Most users prefer smoking their kratom first and waiting for an hour or more before they smoke weed. While it may sound extreme, consumers prefer only a little cannabis.

Some say it only takes a few tokes, and you’ll attain the satisfaction that you desire.

Others want the full, exciting feeling and smoke kratom with weed. Though it’s effective, please start with small amounts if you’re a beginner at it. You can increase intake when your body gets accustomed to the plants.

Conclusion

You can smoke weed and kratom together. Both plants are slightly similar, and as single units, they have an impressive amount of positive influence on your body.

However, as a pair, they achieve a more robust power level. If you haven’t started smoking them together yet, don’t wait anymore.

Try out what every kratom and cannabis enthusiast is talking about today and experience the magic yourself!

Is Kratom Opioid Withdrawal Solution

April 30, 2021 By John Reed Leave a Comment

Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the coffee family and is native to Southeast Asia. The tree grows indigenously in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Papua New Guinea, and Myanmar.

In countries where kratom grows indigenously, extracts from the plant have been used for thousands of years to treat several medical conditions, including pain and fatigue. The herb is noted for its stimulant-like effects, similar to those of coffee. When consumed, kratom extracts can stimulate your body and mind, giving you the energy you require to go about your regular tasks.

Kratom is also famous for its opioid properties. The herb interacts with the brain in a near-similar manner to many opioid drugs. But unlike conventional opioids, kratom presents fewer and milder side effects.

Kratom’s opioid-like effects are the reason medical researchers now recommend the herb for opioid withdrawal. But is kratom an effective solution for opioid withdrawal?

Read on and find out.

What Is Opioid Withdrawal?

Over the past few years, experts have continually suggested green hulu kratom as an effective remedy for opioid withdrawal. But just what is opioid withdrawal, and what are its tell-tale signs?

Opioids are a class of drugs usually prescribed for pain treatment. These drugs fall into two distinct groups, namely opiates and synthetic opioids.

Opiates are opioids derived from the opium poppy. Examples include opium, heroin, morphine, and codeine. On the other hand, synthetic opioids refer to opioid drugs developed in the laboratory, such as methadone, hydrocodone, and oxycodone. Regardless of their origin, opioid drugs deliver the same effects.

Common prescription opioids include morphine, oxycontin (oxycodone), dilaudid (hydromorphone), vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen), and morphine.

While opioids are somewhat effective in relieving pain, these drugs are also infamous for causing addiction and dependency. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that between 26.4 and 36 million people abuse opioids worldwide.

Now, opioid withdrawal refers to a range of physical, mental, and emotional symptoms that you may experience when you stop or decrease your regular opioid intake. Opioid withdrawal symptoms are common among heavy users.

Some of the early symptoms of opioid withdrawal include;

Muscle aches
Anxiety, which usually manifests as restlessness
Mood swings
Insomnia
Lacrimation or runny eyes
Runny nose
Excessive sweating
Excessive yawning

In severe cases, victims may experience the following symptoms;

Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Abdominal cramping
Goosebumps on the skin
Elevated heartbeat
High blood pressure
Dilated pupils
Seizures

Kratom to the Rescue

Kratom is promoted as an effective replacement for conventional opioid medications. The herb is also recommended for treating opioid withdrawal symptoms.

For starters, it’s important to point out that kratom is a partial opioid agonist. In other words, the herb binds partially to opioid receptors in the brain. That’s in contrast to conventional opioid drugs, which are considered full opioid agonists (bind entirely to opioid receptors).

The fact that conventional opioid drugs bind fully to opioid receptors explains why these drugs have higher risks of addiction and dependency. Fortunately, replacing them with kratom ensures that you enjoy the same pain-relieving benefits while exposing yourself to minimal risks of addiction and dependency.

But that’s not all.

Kratom can also resolve many of the problematic side effects associated with opioid withdrawal, including abdominal pain and muscle aches. The active ingredients in kratom, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, treat pain by binding to opioid receptors in the brain.

Kratom can also relieve anxiety and elevate your mood. When consumed, the herb induces mild euphoria. The process stimulates the secretion of feel-good hormones like serotonin and endorphins, allowing you to feel happier and rejuvenated.

Insomnia is another common opioid withdrawal symptom that kratom might resolve. Kratom is stimulating at low doses and sedating at high doses. Therefore, high kratom doses might help to shorten your sleep onset time.

Are these claims science-backed?

Numerous animal studies have shown that kratom might, indeed, be effective in resolving various opioid withdrawal symptoms.

In this study, researchers administered morphine on rats, with doses ranging from 10 to 50 mg/kg twice a day over six days. The treatment process was discontinued on the 7^th day to induce morphine abstinence to trigger withdrawal symptoms.

After 24 hours, researchers measured the intensity of the withdrawal symptoms over 28 days. All rats that developed withdrawal symptoms following morphine-induced abstinence received a drug replacement treatment using kratom, buprenorphine, or methadone.

After evaluating the rats’ withdrawal score, it was established that rats that received doses of kratom demonstrated better morphine withdrawal symptoms compared to those that received buprenorphine or methadone. Researchers concluded that kratom might be an effective opioid withdrawal treatment.

Various other studies have corroborated the above findings. For instance, this experiment showed that mitragynine binds to mu- and kappa-opioid receptors in the brain in a manner that reduces the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Kratom is, unquestionably, a potential solution for opioid withdrawal. The herb can resolve many of the bothersome side effects of opioid withdrawal, including pain, anxiety, insomnia, and bad mood. Another thing to love about kratom is that it is a partial opioid agonist, which implies that it binds partially to opioid receptors. That makes it a possible replacement for conventional opioid drugs. However, it’s worth noting that kratom remains illegal in numerous countries around the world. Therefore, it’s essential to check your local kratom laws before using kratom-based products for opioid withdrawal (or for any other purpose).

6 Tips To Consider Before Buying Kratom Products In 2021

April 30, 2021 By John Reed Leave a Comment

When deciding to buy a product online, you must understand getting the best quality first. With so many people selling similar products online, it can be challenging to ascertain which products are safe for use. However, if you follow specific preventive measures, it is possible to avoid making significant mistakes that may cost your health or lead to cash loss. The good news is that there is always the one you can take to ensure that they are on the safe side. Have few tips that can guide your decision as this is very useful.

1. Understand the Dos and Don’t of Kratom

Note that there are various strains of Kratom, each with its side effects and recommended dosage. This means that before rushing to buy the white sumatra kratom in an online store, you need to know what to do and what not to do with it. Kratom is very potent, and any abuse can have serious consequences. Instead of wasting away because you missed something that would have been beneficial, make sure to research and know which strain you need.

At the same, talk to the seller and inquire if they know the differences in the strains. You must purchase from someone who can advise you on usage and probably dosage. It is one thing to buy a good product, and another to use it properly. Any seller of health alternatives must be aware of what they are selling to advise customers who may be clueless. In case you suspect that the vendor you are engaging is not aware of the products, then it is best to move on to the next seller. It is a basic standard to know what you are offering your customers.

2. Focus on The Perfect Strain

Once you understand the dos and don’t of the strain, your next move should ensure that you adhere to the perfect strain you need. Kratom comes in different strains, all of which differ in potency. They are also recommended for other uses and conditions. It is your responsibility to research in detail and add on what the seller may advise. This way, you will choose a strain that works for you and is not likely addictive.

Note that this sector remains unregulated; hence any user that intends to try it out should do due diligence to protect themselves from any adverse effects that may result from abusing Kratom. Every good thing, after all, has a downside to it. The secret is to use all products in moderation.

3. Scout for the Right Vendor/ Seller

Not everyone sells Kratom, which means that you should not be fooled. Some people have been in the business for a while because they are known for their genuine, un-adulterated Kratom. This is what you need since any mixing can trigger bad reactions. You should partner with legit sellers only. You can check reviews and testimonials.

It would be ideal if you also found a vendor that specializes in the Kratom strain you need. It is better if they are from the region where that type of Kratom strain is sourced from. More importantly, do not ignore constant cries on their website since this is the first red flag you will need to gauge their credibility.

4. Check the Refund Policy

Once you locate a vendor that you trust and feel can be a reliable supplier, check if they have a refund policy to protect you from risks. Kratom is not necessarily cheap. Unfortunately, there may be no guarantees when using it. In case it fails to deliver the results it promises because it is not a perfect fit for you, you need to be sure that there is a way you can return it.

What’s more, even without using the products, purchasing a product online comes with negative surprises at times. You need to be sure that you can always send back the package in case you are dissatisfied. One such way to know a genuine supplier is that they accommodate refunds because they are confident about their product’s quality, and one mistake cannot cause them to go under.

5. Focus on Product Quality

Unfortunately, it is not always easy to verify this aspect since Kratom is unregulated. However, seasoned online buyers have established unique ways to help you determine any product’s quality online. Fort of all, you may want to look at the price. If it is too cheap, consider something else. Consider the packaging, labeling, and lab testing as the bare minimum.

All these aspects play a significant role in ensuring that you are playing safely. One more thing, stay away from Kratom products that do not have nutritional labels. Unless you are buying it from the farm where you have seen it grown and dried, take all the precautionary measures.

6. Never Ignore Customer Reviews

Even after all the checks are done, you need to read reviews and keenly listen to previous user experiences. If there seems to be an enormous outcry from different quarters, stay away from such vendors. The chances are that they have compromised products that could harm you more than help you.

Final Thoughts

Kratom can be remarkable when used correctly. Make sure you get it right from the purchase process, especially if you are doing it online. Sometimes we have to do due diligence ourselves.

Kratom Vs CBD: What Works Best for you?

January 4, 2021 By John Reed Leave a Comment

Kratom vs. CBD

Kratom and CBD are two natural remedies trending as a safer alternative for the treatment of numerous different ailments and medical conditions. This article will take a closer look at the two to find out which may be the best herbal substitute.

Similarly, both substances are reported to manage an extensive list of symptoms ranging from chronic pain and insomnia, lowering high blood pressure and maintaining healthy glucose levels, to managing the withdrawals of alcohol and opiates. Although both are highly sought-after alternatives for the treatment of some similar ailments, they differ quite drastically in their molecular compounds. These specific compounds are what give each plant its unique healing properties, which in turn can be a safer choice over pharmaceuticals.

What is Kratom?

Kratom is scientifically known as mitragyna speciosa, which is a deciduous tree native to the tropical landscapes of Southeastern Asia. Kratom is also referred to as biak-biak, ketum, or Maeng Da in different locations depending upon the methods used for harvesting and the extracts and preparations derived from it. The tree itself is a close relative to the Rubiaceae family of evergreens, which is akin to the coffee family. The abundant leaves from this tree contain specific alkaloids and other molecular compounds which are harvested in countries such as Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Thailand for numerous infirmities.

The native peoples of these areas have been using kratom for decades for the relief of chronic pain, to boost energy, relieve anxiety and stress, as well as for sleep aides. In larger quantities, it can be used as a mild sedative to promote healthy sleep. The trees produce an abundance of alkaloid rich leaves which are harvested and chewed or brewed into a kratom tea. The leaves are also ground into a fine powder and can be encapsulated for easier digestion.

What is Kratom Used For?

In the sweltering tropical farmlands of Southeast Asia, the natives have been reported to chew the leaves to produce energy for working long, grueling days in the fields. Reports have indicated that the peoples of the area have ingested kratom leaves for the slight stimulant effect to enhance energy and stamina and to alleviate pain. Other reports show that kratom has been used for relieving the debilitating effects from the withdrawals of opiates and alcohol.

In Western Culture, kratom has become a staple for many individuals who are unable to relieve their symptoms with traditional medications. Reports indicate the majority of kratom users are middle-aged, have at least middle income, possess some type of private health insurance, and have indicated they have completed some college history. Although the FDA has yet to release any statement on whether the FDA will ever truly recognize kratom as a useful resource for holistic health, for now it is still legal in most states in the US and in the UK.

How Does Kratom Work?

The alkaloid rich leaves of the kratom tree are classified as either red, white, or green depending upon the location of harvest and have varying levels of alkaloids. The chief active compounds of mitragyna speciosa are indole alkaloids, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which act as partial agonists on opioid receptors. Typically, kratom products contain approximately 2% mitragynine and either zero or between 0.01% and 0.02% 7-hydroxymitragynine, respectively. Among other mitragyna

indole alkaloids, mitragynine presents with a unique mechanism of action and has a pharmacology distinct from most classical opioids, such as morphine, heroin, or even fentanyl.

Binding to the μ-opioid receptor causes recruitment and activation of the G-protein-coupled signaling cascade but does not lead to recruitment of β-arrestin 2, which has been attributed to a multitude of the undesired effects of opioid receptor activation, including constipation, respiratory depression, and dependence. To read more about Kratom effects click here.

Is Kratom Legal?

Under the current Poison Act of 1952, kratom is banned in Malaysia but remains in use due to the wealth of native, free-growing trees located throughout the region. In 2018, Thailand lifted its ban on the possession and use of kratom as a natural home remedy. Vietnam still has kratom listed as banned in the region.

In Western culture, the rise of kratom sales has led to the inquiry as to the safety and efficacy of kratom use by governing officials. Because the Food and Drug Administration in the United States has not classified kratom as a recognized supplement, the legality rests upon the individual state and should be investigated thoroughly before purchase. For an updated list on the legal status of Kratom in the United States on a state by state, be sure to check out our [updated] Kratom Legal page.

The FDA has, in turn, designated mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine as opioids and recommended the placement of these compounds into the Controlled Substances Act Schedule I by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Before purchasing Kratom bo find out which states A number of states have classified Kratom

Side Effects and Risks of Kratom Consumption

From July 2016 through December 2019 there were a total of 91 deaths attributed to kratom overdose in the United States, according to a recent report released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of the 91 total deaths known to the agency, only 7 cases were declared as accidental overdoses caused by kratom alone. The remaining cases could not be confirmed because the deceased also showed trace amounts of other substances and kratom could not be ruled out as the attributing factor of death. Calls to the Poison Control Centers also showed an increase in calls relating to kratom consumption 50-fold from 13 in 2011 to 682 in 2017.

Side effects vary from individual to individual because the alkaloids within the herb act differently based upon the unique chemical make-up. For this reason, beginners to kratom should seek out information on side effects and risks prior to consumption and should start with smaller doses until they are sure how it will affect them. Known side effects vary as well in doses. Some known side effects of kratom use include euphoria, increased energy and excitability, sweating, nausea and vomiting, nervousness, constipation, confusion, increased heart rate and irritability.

What is CBD?

CBD, scientifically known as cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found within the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike its closest relative delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, CBD does not possess the chemicals that make you feel high or disoriented. The plant Cannabis sativa has two primary species, hemp and marijuana. Both species of plants contain CBD, but there is a much higher percentage found in hemp, which also has very low (less than 0.3%) levels of THC compared to marijuana.

What is CBD Used For?

CBD is harvested from the sativa plant and used to make edibles, tinctures and creams, but many people prefer to smoke the flower or vape the oil in a pen. CBD is commonly used for relaxation and for reducing anxiety. CBD is also used to treat epilepsy and seizure disorders, chronic pain, muscle disorders known as dystonia, Parkinson’s Disease, and Crohn’s Disease. Elixinol is a medication containing CBD which is designed specifically to treat the symptoms of epilepsy and seizure disorders.

How Does CBD Work?

Although it is still unclear exactly how the chemicals in CBD work on the brain, research shows it prevents the breakdown of chemicals in the brain that affect mood, pain, and anxiety. By reducing these chemicals in the brain, the blood levels are increased, which reduces the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Although CBD has a small amount of binding affinity for either of the two cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), cannabidiol modulates several non-cannabinoid receptors and ion channels. CBD also acts through various receptor-independent pathways by delaying the “reuptake” of endogenous neurotransmitters (such as anandamide and adenosine) and by enhancing or inhibiting the binding action of certain G-protein coupled receptors.

Is CBD Legal?

The United States is increasingly legalizing the recreational and medicinal use of marijuana, but the legality varies from state to state. Legislature surrounding hemp products is in a constant state of unrest and is constantly being changed. As of now, eleven states have legalized the sale and use of both medical and recreational marijuana for adults over 21, and over half the states have some sort of medical marijuana program. Some states, however, still retain prosecution for some forms of hemp and cannabis products.

As of 2018, CBD was legalized nationwide at the federal level by passing the 2018 Farm Bill, but that differs dramatically at the state level. Specific legislation regarding marijuana, hemp, and cannabis vary from state to state so be sure to research your local area prior to purchasing CBD from a retailer.

Side Effects and Risks of CBD Consumption

CBD is often regarded as a much safer option than its cousin THC, as CBD has fewer side effects. The compound THC found within the marijuana plant is known to produce feelings of disorientation and creates the feeling of being high. CBD, on the other hand, has a greater affinity to the CB2 receptor, which interacts differently with the nervous system without eliciting any of the uncomfortable psychoactive results. Because of this reason, the advantages of using CBD are numerous.

There are numerous studies which demonstrate the outcomes of cannabidiol as a modality for various conditions, but many of these studies conclude that this cannabinoid is safe and virtually free of side effects. The most common side effects reported are dry mouth, drowsiness, lightheadedness, low blood pressure, tremors in high doses, and inhibition of hepatic drug metabolism. CBD is also reported to counteract the effects of THC if consumed simultaneously with a THC product.

How Does Kratom Compare Next to CBD?

Although both herbal remedies possess traits which are ideal for replacing pharmaceutical therapies, they vary enough to make an impact on knowing which to use for what ailment. Kratom’s chemical composition is ideal for boosting energy and reducing pain and inflammation, whereas CBD is more commonly used for the treatment of anxiety and for relaxation. In other words, kratom is more of an “upper” and CBD is more of a “downer.” Depending upon method of consumption, onset of kratom can be anywhere from ten minutes to one hour. CBD, however, has an immediate onset after smoking, and anywhere from fifteen minutes to an hour after ingestion orally.

Head-to-head, both compounds are ideal for treating pain and for reducing stress and anxiety. Be sure to research the legality in your state before making any decision on which to purchase.

How Does Kratom Compare Next to Marijuana?

Kratom leaves contain at least 43 compounds, including the key indole alkaloids mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, raubasine and mitraphylline. These alkaloids produce kratom’s health benefits, such as analgesia, anxiety relief, stimulation and sedation. Like marijuana, kratom can produce a multitude of effects at varying dosages. Kratom’s alkaloid profile possesses a vast array of healing properties with some acting as muscle relaxants and others serving as stimulants. Of the 43 + compounds in kratom leaves, some are anti-inflammatory while others are antimalarial and/or antitussive.

Marijuana, a.k.a. cannabis, is classified as a psychoactive substance due to the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. THC is a crystalline compound which induces euphoria upon consumption, either by smoking the flower or ingesting it in edibles or tinctures. The effects of both are largely dependent upon quantity of intake, but both are generally considered to be viable options for managing pain, reducing anxiety and improving overall mood.

Rush Amendment: Winning the War on Kratom

January 19, 2018 By John Reed Leave a Comment

The Dr. Benjamin Rush Amendment

On August 31, 2017 the Drug Enforcement Agency unleashed a senseless war on mitragyna speciosa, citing it as being dangerous and having no medicinal benefit. The Dr. Benjamin Rush Amendment could be a powerful tool for ensuring this never happens. The Rush Amendment promises each of us, as citizens, the freedom to not only treat ourselves holistically, but also the ability to choose better and more affordable health care. Even if you do not support kratom, this amendment stands to benefit every American when it comes to medicine and health care.

The History

Mitragyna speciosa is a tropical evergreen tree native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia. It is part of the rubiaceae family; which is a family of flowering tropical plants, trees and shrubs. Coffee is produced from this rubiaceae species of plants. For countless decades the leaves have been harvested for holistic health treatment and as a natural form of energy by the natives. The locals have used it the same way most Americans consume coffee or caffeine drinks, and have thus learned to implement what is found abundantly in their surroundings, just as nature intended for it to happen. In the past few years the number of Americans adding mitragyna speciosa, also known as kratom, into their home arsenal for its many pain relieving, anxiolytic and healing properties has greatly increased. This undoubtedly has spawned concern amongst those in charge.

The Problem

Kratom, mitragyna speciosa, has numerous health benefits and countless people have opted for a more holistic approach over the current pharmaceutical monopoly. The issue; however, is that the DEA and FDA have banned together to wage an unnecessary war upon kratom and its advocates, claiming for safety and health purposes that it should be banned. Advocates unknowingly have a weapon at their fingertips, one that could end this war. It is named the Dr. Benjamin Rush Amendment, named after the well-respected doctor and writer who penned it.1 This amendment states that Americans have the right to treat themselves with natural herbs and any/all other means necessary without any involvement from the government, as long as it does no harm to others. This is the key to ending this outrage. If this amendment was enacted in each state, the fact is, advocates could rest easy knowing they have some control over their lives after all and the war would end.

The Solution

“The Constitution of this Republic should make special provision for medical freedom. To restrict the art of healing to one class will constitute the Bastille of medical science. All such laws are un-American and despotic…Unless we put medical freedom into the Constitution, the time will come when medicine will organize into an undercover dictatorship to restrict the art of healing to one class of Men and deny equal privileges to others; the Constitution of the Republic should make a Special privilege for medical freedoms as well as religious freedom.”2 “The People and any lawful inhabitant, resident, or sojourner of the state of (Your state) shall have freedom of choice and practice of any health or medical care modalities as they deem in their own personal best interest and judgment.”2

A strong message delivered by Dr. Benjamin Rush, a well-respected physician and medical professor and creator of the Rush Amendment. Dr. Rush also acted as an early surgeon general to all Continental armies. As a signer of the Declaration of Independence, Rush represented the State of Pennsylvania and authored several important books, often scripting them from the floor of Congress.3 Dr. Rush was a revolutionary and a patriot. He had a true vision of freedom. He knew that if the ability to treat one’s self holistically was hindered, then the health of the nation would fail. Unfortunately, that is where advocates of kratom are finding themselves today, up against the wall with little assistance from the government that was sworn to protect them. A few key points to the amendment:

Freedom of choice in health care/medical practice
Restatement of the 10^th amendment
It is about our natural rights as a citizen
Freedom to treat illnesses by any means, as long as it hurts no one
Freedom for physicians to treat patients holistically and naturally
The ability to procure medications without a prescription from a physician
Freedom from government mandates
Improved health care affordability

Get Involved

Americans are now plagued with expensive, cut-rate health care. The kicker is we are railroaded into purchasing this and are unable to do much about it until now. As a citizen, it is our right and patriotic duty to reach out by phone, email, or even a hand-written letter to your state Congressman asking for them to support and enact the Rush Amendment in your state. These plants offer health benefits unlike what man has created in laboratories, and unless each of us act that is threatened.

To help get the Rush Amendment passed, it is imperative that we each contact our state representatives for Congress. To make things easier I have included the names, addresses, and phone numbers for each state representative according to their respective district. Call or write them and ask for them to push the Rush Amendment through. It just might make the difference needed.

If you are unable to change the world, then begin by changing the world around you!!

United States House of Representatives

Washington, DC 20515

(202) 224-3121

Alabama

1^st District Bradley Byrne (202) 225-4931

2^nd District Martha Roby (202) 225-2901

3^rd District Mike Rogers (202) 225-3261

4^th District Robert Aderholdt (202) 225-4876

5^th District Mo Brooks (202) 225-4801

6^th District Gary Palmer (202) 225-4921

7^th District Terri A. Sewell (202) 225- 2665

Alaska

At Large Don Young (202) 225-5765

Arizona

1^st Tom O’Halleran (202) 225-3361

2^nd Martha McSally (202) 225-2542

3^rd Raul Grijalva (202) 225-2435

4^th Paul A. Gosar (202) 225-2315

5^th Andy Biggs (202) 225-2635

6^th David Schweikert (202) 225-2190

7^th Ruben Gallego (202) 225-4065

8^th Trent Franks (Vacant) (202) 225-4576

9^th Krysten Sinema (202) 225-9888

Arkansas

1^st Rick Crawford (202) 225-4076

2^nd French Hill (202) 225-2506

3^rd Steve Womack (202) 225-4301

4^th Bruce Westerman (202) 225-3772

California

1^st Doug LaMalfa (202) 225-3076

2^nd Jared Huffman (202) 225-5161

3^rd John Garamendi (202) 225-1880

4^th Tom McClintock (202) 225-2511

5^th Mike Thompson (202) 225-3311

6^th Doris O. Matsui (202) 225-7163

7^th Ami Bera (202) 225-5716

8^th Paul Cook (202) 225-5861

9^th Jerry McNerney (202) 225-1947

10^th Jeff Denham (202) 225-4540

11^th Mark DeSaulnier (202) 225-2095

12^th Nancy Pelosi (202) 225-4965

13^th Barbara Lee (202) 225-2661

14^th Jackie Speier (202) 225-3531

15thEric Swalwell (202) 225- 5065

16^th Jim Costa (202)225-3341

17^th Ro Khanna (202) 225-2631

18^th Anna G. Eshoo (202) 225-8104

19^th Zoe Lofgren (202) 225-3072

20^th Jimmy Panetta (202) 225-2861

21^st David Valadao (202) 225-4695

22^nd Devin Nunes (202) 225-2523

23^rd Kevin McCarthy (202) 225-2915

24^th Salud Carbajal (202) 225- 3601

25^th Steve Knight (202) 225-1956

26^th Julia Brownley (202) 225-5811

27^th Judy Chu (202) 225-5464

28^th Adam Schiff (202) 225-4176

29^th Tony Cardenas (202) 225-6131

30^th Brad Sherman (202) 225-5911

31^st Pete Aguilar (202) 225-3201

32^nd Grace Napolitano (202) 225-5256

33^rd Ted Lieu (202) 225-3976

34^th Jimmy Gomez 9202) 225-6235

35^th Norma Torres (202) 225-6161

36^th Raul Ruiz (202) 225-5330

37^th Karen Bass (202) 225-7084

38^th Linda Sanchez (202) 225-6676

39^th Ed Royce (202) 225-4111

40^th Lucille Roybal-Allard (202) 225-1776

41^st Mark Takano (202) 225-2305

42^nd Ken Calvert (202) 225-1986

43^rd Maxine Winters (202) 225-2201

44^th Nanette Barragan (202) 225-8220

45^th Mimi Walters (202) 225-5611

46^th Luis J. Correa (202) 225-2965

47^th Alan Lowenthal (202) 225-7924

48^th Dana Rohrabacher (202) 225-2415

49^th Darrell Issa (202) 225-3906

50^th Duncan D. Hunter (202) 225-5672

51^st Juan Vargas (202) 225- 8045

52^nd Scott Peters (202) 225-0508

53^rd Susan Davis (202) 225-2040

Colorado

1^st Diana DeGette (202) 225-4431

2^nd Jared Polis (202) 225-4761

3^rd Scott Tipton (202) 225-4761

4^th Ken Buck (202) 225- 4676

5^th Doug Lamborn (202) 225-4422

6^th Mike Coffman (202) 225- 7882

7^th Ed Perlmutter (202) 225-2645

Connecticut

1^st John B. Larson (202) 225-2265

2^nd Joe Courtney (202) 225-2076

3^rd Rosa DeLauro (202) 225- 3661

4^th Jim Himes (202) 225-5541

5^th Elizabeth Esty (202) 225- 4476

Delaware

At Large Lisa Blunt-Rochester (202) 225-4165

District of Columbia

Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (202) 225-8050

Florida

1^st Matt Gaetz (202) 225-4136

2^nd Neal Dunn (202) 225-5235

3^rd Ted Yoho (202) 225- 5744

4^th John Rutherford (202) 225-2501

5^th Al Lawson (202) 225- 0123

6^th Ron DeSantis (202) 225-2706

7^thStephanie Murphey (202) 225-4035

8^th Bill Posey (202) 225- 3671

9^th Darren Soto (202) 225-9889

10^th Val Demings (202) 225-2176

11^th Daniel Webster (202) 225-1002

12^th Gus M. Bilirakis (202) 225-5755

13^th Charlie Crist (202) 225-5961

14^th Kathy Castor (202) 225-3376

15^th Dennis Ross (202) 225- 1252

16^th Vern Buchanan (202) 225-5015

17^th Tom Rooney (202) 225-5792

18^th Brian Mast (202) 225-3026

19^th Francis Rooney (202) 225-2536

20^th Alcee L. Hastings (202) 225-1313

21^st Lois Frankel (202) 225-9890

22^nd Ted Deutch (202) 225-3001

23^rd Debbie Wasserman Schultz (202) 225-7931

24^th Frederica Wilson (202) 225-4506

25^th Mario Diaz- Balart (202) 225-4211

26^th Carlos Curbelo (202) 225-2778

27^th Ilbeana Ros-Lehtinen (202) 225-3931

Georgia

1^st Buddy Carter (202) 225-5831

2^nd Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (202) 225-3631

3^rd A. Drew Ferguson (202) 225-5901

4^th Henry C. “Hank” Jr. Johnson (202) 225-1605

5^th John Lewis (202) 225-3801

6^th Karen C. Handel (202) 225-4501

7^th Robert Woodall (202) 225-4272

8^th Austin Scott (2)2) 225-6531

9^th Goug Collins (202) 225-9893

10^th Jody Hice (202) 225-4101

11^th Barry Loudermilk (202) 225-2931

12^th Allen Rick (202) 225-2823

13^th David Scott (202) 225-2939

14^th Tom Graves (202) 225-5211

Guam

Delegate Madeleine Bordallo (202) 225-1188

Hawaii

1^st Colleen Hanabusa (202) 225-2726

2^nd Tulsi Gabbard (202) 225-4906

Idaho

1^st Raul R. Labrador (202) 225-6611

2^nd Mike Simpsom (202) 225-5531

Illinois

1^st Bobby Rush (202) 225-4372

2^nd Robin Kelly (202) 225-0773

3^rd Daniel Lipinkski (202) 225-5701

4^th Luis Gutierrez (202) 225-8203

5^th Mike Quigley (202)225-4061

6^th Peter Roskam (202) 225-4561

7^th Danny K. Davis (202) 225-5006

8^th Raja Krishnamoorthi (202) 225-3711

9^th Jan Schakowsky (202) 225-2111

10^th Bradley Schneider (202) 225-4835

11^th Bill Foster (202) 225-3515

12^th Mike Bost (202) 225-5661

13^th Rodney Davis (202) 225-2371

14^th Randy Hultgren (202) 225-2976

15^th John Shimkus (202) 225-5271

16^th Adam Kinzinger (202) 225-3635

17^th Cherri Bustos (202) 225-5905

18^th Darin LaHood (202) 225-6201

Indiana

1^st Peter Visclosky (202) 225-2461

2^nd Jackie Walorski (202) 225-3915

3^rd Jim Banks (202) 225-4436

4^th Todd Rockita (202) 225-5037

5^th Susan W. Brooks (202) 225-2276

6^th Luke Messer (202) 225-3021

7^th Andre Carson (202) 225-4011

8^th Larry Bucshon (202) 225-4636

9^th Trey Hollingsworth (202) 225-5315

Iowa

1^st Rod Blum (202) 225-2911

2^nd David Loebsack (202) 225-6576

3^rd David Young (202) 225-5476

4^th Steve King (202) 225-4426

Kansas

1^st Roger Marshall (202) 225-2715

2^nd Lynn Jenkins (202) 225-6601

3^rd Kevin Yoder (202) 225-2865

4^th Ron Estes (202) 225-6216

Kentucky

1^st James Comer (202) 225-3115

2^nd S. Brett Guthrie (202) 225-3501

3^rd John A. Yarmuth (202) 225-5401

4^th Thomas Massie (202) 225-3465

5^th Harold Rogers (202) 225-4601

6^th Andy Barr (202) 225-4706

Louisiana

1^st Steve Scalise (202) 225-3015

2^nd Cedric Richmond (202) 225-6636

3^rd Clay Higgins (202) 225-2031

4^th Mike Johnson (202) 225-2777

5^th Ralph Abraham (202) 225-8490

6^th Garrett graves (2020 225-3901

Maine

1^st Chellie Pingree (202) 225-6116

2^nd Bruce Poliquin (202) 225-6306

Maryland

1^st Andy Harris (202) 225-5311

2^nd C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (202) 225-3061

3^rd John P. Sarbanes (202) 225-4016

4^th Anthony Brown (202) 225-8699

5^th Steny H. Hoyer (202) 225-4131

6^th John Delaney (202) 225-2721`

7^th Elijah Cummings (202) 225-4741

8^th Jamie Raskin (202) 225-5341

Massachusetts

1^st Richard E. Neal (202) 225-5601

2^nd James McGovern (202) 225-6101

3^rd Niki Tsongas (202) 225-3411

4^th Jospeh P. Kennedy III (2020 225-5931

5^th Katherine Clark (202) 225-2836

6^th Seth Moulton (202) 225-8020

7^th Michael E. Capuano (2020 225-5111

8^th Stephen P. Lynch (202) 225-8273

9^th William Keating (202) 225-3111

Michigan

1^st Jack Bergman (202) 225-4735

2^nd Bill Huizenga (202) 225-4401

3^rd Justin Amash (202) 225-3831

4^th John Moolenaar (202) 225-3561

5^th Daniel Kildee (202) 225-3611

6^th Fred Upton (202) 225-3761

7^th Tim Walberg (202) 225-6276

8^th Mike Bishop (2020 225-4872

9^th Sander Levin (202) 225-4961

10^th Paul Mitchell (202) 225-2106

11^th Dave Trott (202) 225-8171

12^th Debbie Dingell (202) 225-4071

13^th John Conyers (202) 225-5126

14^th Brenda Lawrence (202) 225-5802

Minnesota

1^st Timothy J. Walz (202) 225-2472

2^nd Jason Lewis (202) 225-2271

3^rd Erik Paulsen (202) 225-2871

4^th Betty McCollum (2020 225-6631

5^th Keith Ellison (202) 225-4755

6^th Tom Emmer (202) 225-2331

7^th Collin C. Peterson (202) 225-2165

8^th Rick Nolan (202) 225-6211

Mississippi

1^st Trent Kelly (202) 225-4306

2^nd Bennie G. Thompson (202) 225-5876

3^RD Gregg Harper (202) 225-5031

4^th Steven Palazzo (202) 225-5772

Missouri

1^st William “Lacy” Clay Jr. (202) 225-2406

2^nd Ann Wagner (202) 225-1621

3^rd Blaine Luetkemeyer (202) 225-2956

4^th Vicky Hartzler (202) 225-2876

5^th Emanuel Cleaver (202) 225-4535

6^th Sam Graves (202) 225-7041

7^th Billy Long (202) 225-6536

8^th Jason Smith (202) 225-4404

Montana

At Large Greg Gianforte (202) 225-3211

Nebraska

1^st Jeff Fortenberry (202) 225-4806

2^nd Don Bacon (202) 225-4155

3^rd Adrian Smith (202) 225-6435

Nevada

1^st Dina Titus (202) 225-5965

2^nd Mark Amodel (202) 225-6155

3^rd Jacky Rosy (202) 225-3252

4^th Ruben J. Kihuen (202) 225-9894

New Hampshire

1^st Carol Shea-Porter (202) 225-5456

2^nd Ann Kuster (202) 225-5206

New Jersey

1^st Donald Nacrosee (202) 225-6501

2^nd Frank LoBiondo (202) 225-6572

3^rd Tom MacArthur (202) 225-4765

4^th Chris Smith (202-225-3765

5^th Josh Gottheimer (202) 225-4465

6^th Frank Pallone Jr. (202) 225-4671

7^th Leonard Lance (202) 225-5361

8^th Albio Sires (202) 225-7919

9^th Bill Pascrell Jr. (202) 225-5751

10^th Donald Payne Jr. (2020 225-3436

11^th Rodney Frelinghuysen (202) 225-5034

12^th Bonnie Watson Coleman (202) 225-5801

New Mexico

1^st Michelle Lujan Grisham (202) 225-6316

2^nd Steve Pearce (202) 225-2365

3^rd Ben R. Lujan (202) 225-6190

New York

1^st Lee Zeldin (202) 225-3826

2^nd Pete King (202) 225-7896

3^rd Thomas Suozzi (202) 225-3335

4^th Kathleen Rice (202) 225-5516

5^th Gregory W. Meeks (202) 225-3461

6^th Grace Meng (202) 225-2601

7^th Nydia M. Velazquez (202) 225-2361

8^th Hakeem Jeffries (202) 225-5936

9^th Yvette D. Clark (202) 225-6231

10^th Jarrod Nadler (202) 225-5635

11^th Daniel Donovan (202) 225-3371

12^th Carolyn Maloney (202) 225-7944

13^th Adriano Espaillat (202) 225-4365

14^th Joseph Crowley (202) 225-3965

15^th Jose E. Serrano (202) 225-4361

16^th Eliot Engel (202) 225-2464

17^th Nita Lowey (202) 225-6506

18^th Sean Patrick Maloney (202) 225-5441

19^th John Faso (202) 225-5614

20^th Paul D. Tonko (202) 225-5076

21^st Elise Stefanik (202) 225-4611

22^nd Claudia Tenney (202) 225-3665

23^rd Tom Reed (202) 225-3161

24^th John Katko (202) 225-3701

25^th Louise Slaughter (202) 225-3615

26^th Brian Higgins (202) 225-3306

27^th Chris Collins (202) 225-5265

North Carolina

1^st G.K. Butterfield (202) 225-3101

2^nd George Holding (202) 225-3032

3^rd Walter B. Jones (202) 225-3415

4^th David Price (202) 225-1784

5^th Virginia Foxx (202) 225-2071

6^th Mark Walker (202) 225-3065

7^th David Rouzer (202) 225-2731

8^th Richard Hudson (202) 225-3715

9^th Robert Pittenger (202) 225-1976

10^th Patrick T. McHenry (202) 225-2576

11^th Mark Meadows (202) 225-6401

12^th Alma Adams (202) 225-1510

13^th Ted Budd (202) 225-4531

North Dakota

At Large Kevin Cramer (202) 225-2611

Northern Mariana Islands

Delegate Gregorio Sablan (202) 225-2646

Ohio

1^st Steve Chabot (202) 225-2216

2^nd Brad Wenstrup (202) 225-3164

3^rd Joyce Beatty (202) 225-4324

4^th Jim Jordan (202) 225-2676

5^th Robert E. Latta (202) 225-6405

6^th Bill Johnson (202) 225-5705

7^th Bob Gibbs (202) 225-6265

8^th Warren Davidson (202) 225-6205

9^th Marcy Kaptur (202) 225-4146

10^th Michael Turner (202) 225-6465

11^th Marcia L. Fudge (202) 225-7032

12^th Pat Tiberi (202) 225-5355

13^th Tim Ryan (202) 225-5261

14^th David Joyce (202) 225-5731

15^th Steve Stivers (202) 225-2015

16^th Jim Renacci (202) 225-3876

Oklahoma

1^st Jim Bridenstine (202) 225-2211

2^nd Markwayne Mullin (202) 225-2701

3^rd Frank Lucas (202) 225-5565

4^th Tom Cole (202) 225-6165

5^th Steve Russell (202) 225-2132

Oregon

1^st Suzanne Bonamici (202) 225-0855

2^nd Greg Walden (202) 225-6730

3^rd Earl Blumenauer (202) 225-4811

4^TH Peter DiFazio (202) 225-6416

5^th Kurt Schrader (202) 225-5711

Pennsylvania

1^st Robert Brady (202) 225-4731

2^nd Dwight Evans (202) 225-4001

3^rd Mike Kelly (202) 225-5406

4^th Scott Perry (202) 225-5836

5^th Glenn W. Thompson (202) 225-5121

6^th Ryan Costello (202) 225-4315

7^th Pat Meehan (202) 225-2011

8^th Brian Fitzpatrick (202) 225-4276

9^th Bill Shuster (202) 225-2431

10^th Tom Mariano (2020 225-3731

11^th Lou Barletta (202) 225-6511

12^th Keith Rothfus (202) 225-2065

13^th Brendan Boyle (202) 225-6111

14^th Mike Doyle (202) 225-2135

15^th Charles W. Dent (202) 225-6411

16^th Lloyd Smucker (202) 225-2411

17^th Matthew Cartwright (202) 225-5546

18^th Tim Murphy (Vacancy) (202) 225-2301

Puerto Rico

Resident Commissioner Jenniffer Gonzales-Colo`n (202) 225-2615

Rhode Island

1^st David Cicilline (202) 225-4911

2^nd Jim Langevin (202) 225-2735

South Carolina

1^st Mark Sanford (202) 225-3176

2^nd Joe Wilson (202) 225-2452

3^rd Jeff Duncan (202) 225-5301

4^th Trey Gowdy (202) 225-6030

5^th Ralph Norman (202) 225-5501

6^th James E. Clyburn (202) 225-3315

7^th Tom Rice (202) 225-9895

South Dakota

At Large Kristi Noem (202) 225-2801

Tennessee

1^st Phil Roe (202) 225-6356

2^nd John J. Duncan Jr. (202) 225-5435

3^rd Chuck Fleischmann (202) 225-3271

4^th Scott DesJarlais (202) 225-6831

5^th Jim Cooper (202) 225-4311

6^th Diane Black (202) 225-4231

7^th Marsha Blackburn (202) 225-2811

8^th David Kustoff (202) 225-4714

9^th Steve Cohen (202) 225-3265

Texas

1^st Louie Gohmert (202) 225-3035

2^nd Ted Poe (202) 225-6565

3^rd Sam Johnson (202) 225-4201

4^th John Ratcliffe (202) 225-6673

5^th Jeb Hensarling (202) 225-3484

6^th Joe Barton (202) 225-2002

7^th John Culbertson (202) 225-2571

8^th Kevin Brady (202) 225-4901

9^th Al Green (202) 225-7508

10^th Michael T. McCaul (202) 225-2401

11^th K. Michael Conaway (202) 225-3605

12^th Kay Granger (202) 225-5071

13^th Mac Thornberry (202) 225-3706

14^th Randy Weber (202) 225-2831

15^th Vincente Gonzales (202) 225-2531

16^th Beto O’Rourke (202) 225-4831

17^th Bill Flores (202) 225-6105

18^th Sheila Jackson lee (202) 225-3816

19^th Jodey Arrington (202) 225-4005

20^th Joaquin Castro (202) 225-3236

21^st Lamar Smith (202) 225-4236

22^nd Pete Olson (202) 225-5951

23^rd Will Hurd (202) 225-4511

24^th Kenny Merchant (202) 225-6605

25^th Roger Williams (202) 225-9896

26^th Michael Burgess (202) 225-7772

27^th Blake Farenthold (202) 225-7742

28^th Henry Cuellar (202) 225-1640

29^th Gene Green (202) 225-1688

30^th Eddie Bernice Johnson (202) 225-8885

31^st John Carter (202) 225-3864

32^nd Pete sessions (202) 225-2231

33^rd Marc Veasey (202) 225-9897

34^th Filemon Vela (202) 225-9901

35^th Lloyd Doggert (202) 225-4865

36^th Brian Babin (202) 225-1555

Utah

1^st Rob Bishop (202) 225-0453

2^nd Chris Stewart (202) 225-9730

3^rd John R. Curtis (202) 225-7751

4^th Mia Love (202) 225-3011

Vermont

At Large Peter Welch (202) 225-4115

Virgin Islands

Delegate Stacey Plaskett (202) 225-1790

Virginia

1^st Robert J. Wittman (202) 225-4261

2^nd Scott Taylor (202) 225-4215

3^rd Robert C. Scott (202) 225-8351

4^th A. Donald McEachin (202) 225-6365

5^th Thomas Garrett (202) 225-4711

6^th Bob Goodlatte (202) 225-5431

7^th Dave Brat (202) 225-2815

8^th Don Beyer (202) 225-4376

9^th Morgan Griffith (202) 225-3861

10^th Barbara Comstock (202) 225-5136

11^th Gerald “Gerry” E. Connolly (202) 225-1492

Washington

1^st Suzan DelBene (202) 225-6311

2^nd Rick Larsen (202) 225-2605

3^rd Jamie Herrera Beutler (202) 225-3536

4^th Dan Newhouse (202) 225-5816

5^th Cathy McMorris Rodgers (202) 225-2006

6^th Derek Kilmer (202) 225-5916

7^th Pramila Jayapal (202) 225-3106

8^th David G. Reichert (202) 225-7761

9^th Adam Smith (202) 225-8901

10^th Denny Heck (202) 225-9740

West Virginia

1^st David McKinley (202) 225-4172

2^nd Alex Mooney (202) 225-2711

3^rd Evan Jenkins (202) 225-3452

Wisconsin

1^st Paul D. Ryan (202) 225-3031

2^nd Mark Pocan (202) 225-2906

3^rd Ron Kind (202) 225-5506

4^TH Gewn Moore (202) 225-4572

5^th F. James Sensenbrenner (202) 225-5101

6^th Glenn Grothman (202) 225-2476

7^th Sean P. Duffy (202) 225-3365

8^th Mike Gallagher (202) 225-5665

Wyoming

At Large Liz Cheney (202) 225-2311

Disclaimer: None of the individual contributors, system operators, developers, or anyone else connected to this article can take any responsibility for the results or consequences of any attempt to use or adopt any of the information presented in this article.

References:

Halpenny, G., 2017, “Mitragyna speciosa: Balancing Potential Medical Benefits and Abuse,” ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters, 8(9), pp. 897-899

“Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine Into Schedule I”, Federal Register, Vol. 81 No. 169, August 31, 2016, https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2016-08-31/pdf/2016-20803.pdf

https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2016-20803.pdf

http://www.rush2013.com/

http://www.ushistory.org/declaration/signers/rush.html

https://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/tenth_amendment

https://www.house.gov/representatives

Keywords: Dr. Benjamin Rush Amendment

Tags: Rush Amendment, Dr. Benjamin Rush Amendment, medical freedom, mitragyna speciosa, kratom, DEA, FDA, 10^th amendment, congress, house of representatives, holistic medicine, Rush

Mitragyna Speciosa: Taking the American Counterculture by Storm

August 15, 2017 By John Reed 1 Comment

Mitragyna Speciosa, A.K.A. Kratom, has almost become a staple in the American counterculture. Walk into any head shop, smoke shop, or locally owned convenience store and you are sure to find hidden behind the counter at least the Maeng Da strain, if you are lucky there will be a couple of others to choose from. Kratom was not widely known until the Food and Drug Administration decided to place kratom on the radar back in October 2016. The DEA blindsided consumers in August with a sudden announcement that it would make two compounds in kratom – mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine – Schedule I substances, effectively banning the plant with as little as 30 days’ notice. By doing so, the FDA only hindered their hopes of banning the beneficial herb due to an overwhelming outcry by the kratom community. 1

Never before has the FDA seen a public campaign of this nature. “Based on the response we’ve gotten over the last month or so, we believe it’s the prudent and reasonable action to take,” DEA spokesman Russ Baer says. “We want to make sure this is a transparent process. We want to have an open dialog with the public.”2 During the public comment period, well over 2,000 kratom advocates, who were greatly opposed to the ban called the FDA to share their concerns and personal success stories in hopes of overturning their decision to ban the supplement. “That was eye-opening for me personally,” DEA spokesperson Melvin Patterson said to the Washington Post. “I want the kratom community to know that the DEA does hear them. Our goal is to make sure this is available to all of them.”3 Another spokesman for the FDA, Russ Baer, went on to say “They have claimed individually that kratom has given them medical value,” Baer says, “that it has medical utility ranging from migraine headaches to chronic pain, to Crohn’s disease, to anxiety, depression, opioid withdrawal – these are all conditions that medicines usually try to alleviate.”2 Even the President took notice when upset advocates flooded the White House with petitions urging Donald Trump to second guess the FDA’s hasty actions.4 Lawmakers throughout the United States also began signing legislature in hopes of gaining both public popularity and also voicing their opinions as kratom advocates, and users as well.

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Since the initial threat of a ban, Kratom sales have boosted throughout America both online and in the storefront. In August, when the threat of a ban loomed heavily on the kratom community, online stores experienced an overnight boom in sales leaving most vendors out of stock until things smoothed over. Many advocates, out of fear of losing access to the herb, began seeking sources outside the United States. Vendors in Indonesia began flooding Facebook groups in attempts to gain access to the Kratom community. Many offer the best strains, kilograms for under $70, and guaranteed shipment through customs. Canadian farms also became another source for many Kratom connoisseurs to purchase through. This left many buyers in outrage as their product was confiscated in route by customs, or they sent money via PayPal only to never hear from the seller again and be out large sums of money.

When researching Kratom use, or rise thereof, in the United States, I found little information on the exact number of users. In fact, since studies in general have rarely been conducted a search through Google only turned up minimal information. One thread on Reddit had this to say on use of kratom in America today, Reason I ask is that over the last couple of weeks I’ve seen a variety of numbers from articles/posts stating hundreds to thousands. It’s hard to get a grasp on the size of the potential constituency unless we have an idea. From the DEA’s own intent letter, they mention 55,000kg being encountered by Law Enforcement in two years (2014-2016), or close to 12 million doses (their estimation). That number of just the encountered amount really seems high for hundreds or thousands of people. Makes me wonder if the Kratom community is much bigger than we even know.

I think it’s a point worth investigating. If anyone has any ideas, I’d love to hear them. This question could be helped by any vendors that have a raw count too. This information might be useful to the AKA.”5

Regardless of the number of users, it is safe to say that Mitragyna Speciosa has taken American counterculture by storm! Whether it is used to wean off narcotics, or to eliminate pain in chronic pain patients, or one of the other many beneficial reasons to take kratom, the fact cannot be denied that Americans love their kratom! And by the looks of it, it is luckily not leaving the scene anytime soon.

The Legal Status of Kratom

July 14, 2017 By John Reed Leave a Comment

Kratom is an amazing nootropic that has been used the world over by countless people to treat pain, feel better and relieve anxiety. This plant-based product has been used by millions of individuals worldwide and is a fixture among traditional cultures in South East Asia. It is considered safe when used as directed and is seen as a useful tool in treating opiate withdrawal. Several countries have places restrictions on kratom use while others have outright outlawed it. It all started in Thailand where the government placed a ban on kratom use in the 1920s after they realized that the cheap price of kratom, a plant that grows in abundance and could sometimes be found for free, was cutting in on the government’s opium trade.

From 196 countries in the world, just 4 countries have made this plant completely illegal for human consumption under any circumstances. Only few countries have not banned it completely, but still have strict regulations on human consumption, and in most of the countries is legal available for human consumption, because of its importance.

United States: In United States, kratom is not banned. It is legal and allowed for human consumption but only in the states of Wisconsin, Vermont, Indiana and Tennessee have laws which forbid the use of kratom. You do not need a prescription to purchase it and it is not currently regulated by the FDA. Kratom has improved the quality of life for countless individuals living within the borders of these four states, and because of ignorant and uniformed state leadership, these American Citizens will no longer be able to legally benefit from this all-natural tree leaf. There are some states considered to be hotspots at least in terms of keeping this trade safe. Again, you should be proactive and ready to investigate or research of its current legal status before purchasing it from any sources. Some of these states, where kratom is watched include Vermont, Arizona, Iowa, Hawaii, and Louisiana.

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.United Kingdom: At the moment, kratom is completely legal for purchase and use within the country. You can purchase Kratom in the UK without a prescription and it is not currently scheduled or restricted. Throughout the region, which include England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales — any user can purchase the herb over the internet, but this herb tend to be a lot more expensive than North American based retailers.

Canada: Kratom is completely legal in Canada and its expected to become the next big hub of Kratom use. With the statistics of Kratom showing optimistic figures, this herbal medicine is all set to become a global movement. Because this country has a progressive mentality regarding traditional medicine and healthcare and due to this fact it’s hardly surprising the herb is legal and safe to ingest.

Australia: Kratom is currently illegal in Australia at this time and is listed as a schedule 9 drug, because they believed it had the potential for abuse, despite the fact that the Committee recognized that no cases of Mitragynine abuse had occurred in Australia. Because this legal status is unreasonable and unjustified, followers of natural remedies have lost all hope.

Austria: Kratom is legal for consuming and purchasing in Austria.

Belgium: Kratom is not a controlled plant in Belgium and all of the alkaloids present in it remains unscheduled. It is categorized as completely legal drug and hence is available easily at the local vendors

Brazil: Kratom use is legal in Brazil where the leaves of the plant as well as Kratom extracts are sold by local vendors. Trade and consumption has no legal obligations here.

Denmark: Although the purchase and sale of kratom was legal until 2009, currently it is considered as a controlled substance in the country and is therefore a substance with a few restrictions on its use.

Finland: Kratom in not entirely banned, the country requires you to possess a valid prescription in order to be able to buy or import the drug for consumption. The herb is classified as a medicinal substance and its importation is prohibited by section 19 count 1 of the Medicines Act. Importing the plant to Finland is illegal, your shipment will be confiscated at the border.

Germany: Due to the fact that laws have recently changed, this country’s stand on this herb is a little vague. In the past, people could import and export the kratom with no legal repercussions. In these days, the plant is listed as an unlicensed drug due to the Section 73 of Medicines Act. The act says that entering the country with the drug on you, can get you problems at the border security check. The law also outlines potential penalties including fines and jail time for Germans who unlawfully order it online.

Greece: Kratom use is permitted in Greece. It is feely available to use without any prescription. Neither Kratom as plant or Mitragynine appear to be listed in Greece’s controlled substances law.

Hungary: While Mitragyna Speciosa leaves are illegal to human consumption, kratom leaves and extracts can be purchased at headshops sold as incense.

Indonesia: This country is a leading producer and exporter of Mitragyna products. It is legal to grow and sell in this country, and illegal to export it, but Indonesian strains continue to be sold and enjoyed around the world. It is reported that Indonesia has banned kratom for export, but we believe that it is not illegal inside Indonesia. In 2013, one visitor reports that a vendor in Indonesia shipped them kratom into the US without any problem.

Ireland: According to previous Irish Statute Law or in the Misuse of Drugs Act you could buy Kratom locally in Ireland. However, recently, the government has declared this herb as an illegal substance and its use an offence with a penalty of fine or punishment. It is a controlled substance under the Misuse Of Drugs act since 2011.

Italy: There are not sufficient proof supporting the current legal status of kratom in the country. Despite that, some if the Italian users claim that the herb is completely legal in their country and has no legal issues associated with its consumption. But, it will be best to consult an official for legit legal status of this substance.

Malaysia: If you want to sell kratom in Malaysia, it’s necessary to get a license issued by the government for the same. If you don’t posses this license, it is illegal to either plant, grow, sell or perhaps consume this herb for any purpose..

Myanmar: In Myanmar or Burma, is completely forbidden to sell or consume kratom.

Netherlands: Kratom is legal in the Netherlands, actually this country is a leading supplier of kratom and its supplements in the entire Europe. In the country it can be purchased from smartshops as well as from online Dutch vendors.

New Zealand: According to New Zealand new law if you want to consume kratom you will need prescription. According to the Medicines Amendment Regulations Act of 2009, Mitragyna Speciosa leaves and its products are categorized under Schedule 1 as a prescription drug. Thisact regulate that is illegal to buy or sell kratom in this country, unless you have this valid medical prescription.Who is found to be growing, selling or consuming this drug without a prescription is breaking the law and is accused of breaking the law and this actc results with a punishment.

Romania: Romania banned kratom (including Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine) on February the 10th, 2010. So obviously, it is prohibited to sell, buy, grow or even consume this drug anywhere in the country, otherwise, this act will be punished.

Russia: There are rules in this country that are not clearly understoond and hence this is a controversial topic. Some sources say that it is still legal while others cite a change in the law some time in 2011. Therefore if you want to consume kratom in Russia the best thing you can do is to consult a government official about its current legal status before consuming the drug in this country.

Sweden: In this moment, Mitragyna Speciosa leaves are illegal to use in Sweden and it is not listed on any drug schedules. However, there are indications that this law may change in the future.

South Korea: According to some reports, South Korea is another country that has outlawed Kratom use. It is heavily regulated with severe criminal penalties imposed against people who attempt importing this plant.

Thailand: Kratom tree is originated from Thailand, and was used by the ancestors of this country in many ways. Actually Mitragyna Speciosa leaves are commonly prepared as a tea and consumed as a drink similar to coffee. However, it is shocking that the country has still categorized it as a level 5 Narcotic, making it illegal to buy or sell this herb. It is interesting to know that the “Thai Kratom” product available online actually comes from Indonesia or other nearby countries.

Illegal:

These are the countries that prohibited kratom use:

Australia
Malaysia
Myanmar
Thailand

Strict Guidelines:

In these countries kratom is categorized as a Schedule 1 drug and has powerful regulations.

Denmark
Finland
Germany
New Zealand
Romania

References:

-http://speciosa.org/

-http://kratomlegend.com/

-http://www.mitragyna.com/legality/