Kratom isn’t technically illegal in Israel, but mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are.
As a result, kratom usage might as well be illegal.
These two compounds are controlled substances, and getting caught with either can lead to harsh penalties.
For our purposes, we’re going to continue this article with the assumption that kratom is illegal since it is in all but name.
What Are The Kratom Laws In Israel?
Kratom use is forbidden in Israel because it has mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine in it.
This also makes kratom extracts or any other kratom derivatives illegal within the country. You won’t be able to buy it locally or order it online if you live in Israel.
One thing of note is that kratom laws change very quickly, and some countries have reversed their bans. Check with your local laws to be 100% certain.
Before it became known around the world, kratom was used in Southeast Asia. It grows naturally in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, although the governments of all three places aren’t quite sure what to do with it.
The WHO, Kratom, & Future Legislation
The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a large role in how countries choose to regulate substances. It recently reviewed kratom and decided it is safe and doesn’t need to be controlled. Hopefully, this decision will put many peoples’ minds at rest, and governments will stop trying to ban it.
Why is Kratom Banned in Israel?
Like most other naturally occurring substances, kratom has been banned for one seemingly sane reason: public health.
Interestingly, kratom doesn’t appear to be much of a risk to anyone. As long as you don’t mix it with other substances and use it responsibly, there aren’t usually any harsh side effects.
Sadly, though, some governments believe that kratom is harmful simply because it acts on opioid receptors. Most opioids are highly addictive and are leading the drug addiction epidemic faced all around the world.
While it’s true that kratom interacts with these receptors, that’s not all it has to offer. Kratom is not only not an opioid; it’s actually proven to have less risk of addiction and dependency than conventional painkillers.
Known Side Effects of Kratom
Responsible users don’t usually experience any serious side effects. You might experience some common side effects, but these are not severe, and lower doses help minimize them.
Some of the most common side effects of kratom are:
- Sedation
- Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Long-term abuse could impair liver functions
Long-term use, using high amounts, and not taking occasional breaks can lead to kratom addiction [1]. However, kratom is not as addictive or dangerous as opioids. Rarely will kratom cause an overdose, and the addiction is easier to break.
If you experience side effects, it might help to take a break from kratom. In many cases, side effects come from a specific batch or type of kratom. Try taking a different batch to see if this is true for you.
Kratom Deaths: Can Kratom be Fatal?
If you use it responsibly, there’s very little risk, but there are a few ways it can become dangerous.
Here are a few ways to make sure you use it safely.
- Never mix it with other substances. Kratom interacts with many medications, so always check first. This is especially true for opioids. Most kratom deaths involve opioids and other drugs [2].
- Always take as little as possible, and only use it when necessary. Lower amounts can help you avoid addiction and keep you from building a tolerance.
- Only buy kratom from reputable vendors that have proof of third-party testing.
What is the Correct Dosage for Kratom?
This is highly individualized, and you’ll need to play around with the amounts when you’re first starting. In general, start low (2 g or less), which is especially true if you’re using kratom for energy. Increase it as needed, but remember that you will build a tolerance, so try taking a break every so often.
Here’s how most people break down the dosing:
- Microdose — Under 2 g
- Low-Dose — 2 g to 6 g
- High-Dose — 6 g to 12 g
Check out the in-depth dosing guidelines if you need a more detailed breakdown.
How to Take Kratom
Kratom is available in several formats, allowing you to find the best method for you.
Here are the most common ways people take kratom.
Steer clear of taking kratom with another substance.
Also see: How Long Should I Wait Between Kratom Doses?
Key Takeaway: Is Kratom Legal in Israel?
The conclusion is that, no, kratom isn’t legal in Israel.
Although kratom itself isn’t expressly named in Israel’s drug laws, two of its main components are. Therefore, it isn’t safe to use kratom anywhere in Israel.
In order to try kratom, you’ll need to travel to another country where it’s legal. It’s advised you avoid bringing kratom back with you on your travels. While we haven’t heard of anybody getting in trouble for this, it’s unclear exactly how the Israeli officials will deal with those who break the countries strict kratom laws.
- Galbis-Reig, D. (2016). A case report of kratom addiction and withdrawal. WMJ, 115(1), 49-52.
- 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.
