Kratom
What is Kratom?
The substance commonly known as kratom is an extract from the Mitragyna speciosa plant of Southeast Asia. It can be consumed orally as a powder (sometimes in pill form), in a tea, or by chewing the plant leaves.
Though popular among some in the psychedelic community, kratom is regarded as more of an opioid and stimulant than a psychedelic.
Its effects appear to vary considerably by user, usage, and dosage, with some experiencing positive effects like sociability, sedation, and pain relief, and others experiencing negative effects including nausea, constipation, and other unpleasant sensations.
Is Kratom Legal in Canada?
Kratom is legal for personal use and possession, but sale, distribution, and other activities involving the substance are illegal under Canadian federal law.
Kratom is not criminally prohibited in Canada. It has, however, been identified by Health Canada as an “unauthorized health product”. Unapproved sale for human or animal consumption is prohibited under the Food and Drugs Act.
Medical or Therapeutic Use?
There appears to be relatively scarce reliable medical data on the potential benefits of kratom, though studies based on self-reporting suggest it may be helpful for use in treating pain, opioid addiction withdrawal, and depression.
Kratom is, however, widely regarded as toxic if used improperly, with some authorities even viewing its potential benefits outweighed by its potential for causing harm.