The Czech Republic is the only post-communist nation to severely reduce drug penalties. Even better, kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) isn’t on their list of psychoactive drugs.
This article contains all you need to know about kratom laws in the Czech Republic and other parts of the world, why some countries have outlawed it, and whether it’s dangerous or not.
Is Kratom Legal in the Czech Republic?
Yes. Kratom is legal in the Czech Republic.
It’s no longer illegal to use drugs, although there are penalties for possessing large amounts and for selling drugs. Its National Strategy to Prevent and Reduce the Harm Associated With Addictive Behavior 2019-2027 states that
“Since 2010, it has not been a criminal offence in the Czech Republic to possess cannabis and cultivate cannabis plants, other plants, and mushrooms containing narcotic and psychotropic substances for personal use in small quantities (it is currently considered an administrative offence).”
Additionally, it can be legally obtained in 17 EU states throughout most of South America, Canada, and much of the United States.
What Countries Have Banned Kratom?
The bad news is that kratom is illegal in 25 EU countries, some parts of the U.S., Australia, Denmark, Poland, Sweden, and others. Laws that govern kratom usage change quickly in some cases, so be sure to double-check with your local area.
Even in Southeast Asia, where kratom comes from, there has been a lot of controversy regarding its legality.
Thailand was the first Southeast Asian country to try to ban kratom. First, in 1943, they banned the planting of kratom trees. Then they banned kratom altogether in 1979. In 2018, Thailand legalized kratom again, allowing its citizens to use this plant that has been a part of their culture for centuries.
Malaysia also tried to ban kratom, but their efforts haven’t done much to stem usage. With kratom trees growing naturally in the wild, it’s simply too easy for interested users to go into the woods and get their own kratom. Be aware that getting caught – especially as a tourist – could lead to legal trouble.
In Indonesia, kratom is no longer legal for residents. This doesn’t stop Indonesia from being the kratom export capital of the world, though. Sadly, the government plans to stop this in 2024 when a full-on ban goes into effect, likely leading to a massive shortage for the rest of us.
The WHO & Kratom
There is hope since the World Health Organization (WHO) recently reviewed the research on kratom and decided that there’s no reason to control it. Since many governments base their laws on the WHO’s recommendations, they might lighten up on kratom legislation.
Can I Buy Kratom in the Czech Republic?
Yes, you can buy kratom in the Czech Republic.
In fact, kratom is available for sale in tons of shops throughout the country. Thanks to the Lisbon Treaty, you can also purchase it from any EU country that doesn’t ban it.
Kratom can be found almost anywhere in the Czech Republic, so don’t turn to illegal sources for it. Not only will it be impossible for you to verify what you’re buying, but it could be contaminated. The risk of quite simply not worth taking.
Why is Kratom Banned in Other Countries?
We don’t know the true reason that kratom has been banned in other countries, but we know that the official reason given is usually about public health.
Kratom is well-tolerated and has few side effects, so this seems like the decisions are based on fear and misinformation.
Hopefully, the tide will turn as more studies verify kratom’s safety. However, once laws are passed, they’re hard to change.
Known Side Effects of Kratom
Kratom is generally safe; responsible users don’t usually experience any serious side effects.
There are minor side effects from kratom, but these don’t last long and happen with larger doses.
Kratom can be addictive, so only use kratom when needed. Be aware of the signs of addiction, and cut back when necessary.
Some of the most common side effects of kratom are:
Kratom Use: A Quick History
Kratom is a recent phenomenon in the Western world, but it’s been a medicinal staple for centuries in Southeast Asia. The United States’ opioid epidemic is one main reason for kratom’s popularity, though its benefits stretch far beyond pain relief.
We know that it has opioid-like properties and is a potent pain-reliever without devastating side effects. Some people even use it to help avoid withdrawal symptoms when they go off an opioid.
Interestingly, the more popular kratom becomes, the more countries rush to ban it. Again, it’s uncertain exactly what the reason for this is, but many countries do have an interest in opioid production.
The more kratom is studied, the more we realize just how medicinal this plant is. Its two main alkaloids — mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine — provide most of its therapeutic properties. So far, we know kratom can help with anxiety and depression, insomnia, energy, concentration and improves your mood.
Kratom Deaths: Can Kratom Be Fatal?
Yes, kratom could be fatal, but it’s exceedingly rare. Most kratom deaths involve other drugs — usually opioids [1]. Even though kratom is addictive, overdose is unlikely.
Because of how kratom is metabolized, it often inhibits other drugs’ metabolization. This can lead to an increased amount of the drug in your system, resulting in severe adverse effects or overdose. Avoid combining kratom with other substances to avoid complications.
Suggest Reading: Exhaustive List of Kratom Drug Interactions
What is the Correct Dosage for Kratom?
Part of using kratom responsibly is in taking the right amount. Too much leads to tolerance buildup, side effects, and addiction.
Of course, it can be tricky trying to figure out the “right” amount — there is no one-size-fits-all to the dosing. A dosing calculator can be your best friend.
Generally, a small dose is 2-5 g; a medium dose is 5-8 g; a large dose is 8-12 g. It’s best not to take more than that. Start with 2 g at first and work your way up.
Remember that the dose affects how you’ll feel — smaller amounts are more energizing, while larger amounts tend to be more relaxing.
How to Take Kratom Safely
As you can see, kratom is safe to use, but there are some unsafe ways to take it.
Kratom is available in a variety of formats. For instance, you can use a kratom tincture, take kratom in a capsule, or brew the powder into a tea. All of these options are safe as long as the kratom comes from a reputable vendor.
If you avoid using it with other drugs, including alcohol and nicotine, and take breaks from it, you shouldn’t have any problems.
Key Takeaway: Is Kratom Legal in the Czech Republic?
Yes, kratom is legal in the Czech Republic.
The Czech Republic is one of 17 EU countries that has not banned kratom. Due to the Lisbon Treaty, you may also purchase it from any online vendors in these countries.
Always use it responsibly if you want to enjoy kratom without encountering a big risk of side effects. Don’t mix it with another substance; never take more than 12 grams at once.
- Henningfield, J. E., Grundmann, O., Babin, J. K., Fant, R. V., Wang, D. W., & Cone, E. J. (2019). Risk of death associated with kratom use compared to opioids. Preventive medicine, 128, 105851.
