Louisville, Ky. (WDRB) — Kratom, an herbal supplement sold widely across Kentucky, has largely gone unregulated—until now.
The substance comes in two forms: a natural leaf used for medicinal purposes, and a highly concentrated form that poses serious health risks. Distinguishing between the two can be challenging for consumers.
“Natural Kratom leaf is from Indonesia and has been consumed for centuries for its functional benefits,” said Matthew Lowe, executive director of the Global Kratom Coalition. “It has been in the United States since the early 1970s, brought back after the Vietnam War.”
However, the Kratom causing concern among lawmakers in Kentucky is the concentrated form. According to Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Steven Stack, the chemical compounds in Kratom—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—can be dangerous.
“The one that gets the most attention is 7-hydroxymitragynine," Stack said. "It’s ultra-concentrated, addictive, and can cause withdrawal symptoms, fetal abstinence syndrome, and other serious health issues."
Lowe, who is currently monitoring Kratom use internationally, warns against concentrated pills or extracts.
“We are seeing reports of deaths, addiction, and even children getting access to these products because they’re marketed in a way that appeals to vulnerable populations,” he said. “They are dangerous and can cause respiratory depression. They should not be sold in these forms.”
Kentucky is now working to regulate Kratom more closely. The state has a dedicated team developing rules and enforcement measures, similar to regulations for medical cannabis. Current law prohibits sales to anyone under 21, and concentration limits are being established.
“The natural Kratom community does not want prohibitions because they say natural Kratom is safe,” Stack said. “But as a physician, I cannot give false assurances. We need to draw a clear distinction between the natural plant and concentrated products.”
While authorities target “bad actors” selling concentrated Kratom, access to the natural leaf—used by many for quality-of-life benefits—remains available under new regulations.
Health officials continue to urge caution. Concentrated Kratom products carry serious health risks, and consumers are encouraged to steer clear until the state completes its regulatory framework.
Previous Coverage:
Controversial Kratom derivative raises red flags in Kentucky as federal crackdown looms
Kentucky health officials say kratom products pose risk of serious health risks
What is kratom? And is it safe? DEA wants public input on 'natural substance'
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