Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a natural herb native to the Asian continent that grows on trees up to 25 meters high.
Nowadays, more and more people are using the herb for medicinal purposes, and its benefits are continually coming to light. Millions of US citizens use it regularly for a variety of reasons.
Below, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty aspects of kratom, including the regulations it faces in Kansas.
Is Kratom Legal In Kansas?
Kansas is one of the many states in the United States where kratom is legal. That said, there is no law regulating its commercialization, so its purity is not entirely guaranteed.
HB 2188 was introduced in February 2023 and is another attempt to regulate kratom in Kansas. This would require retailers to have a license, among other things.
Some other states, cities, and counties in the US have already passed laws regulating kratom, while a handful have gone a step further and declared kratom illegal.
In 2018, Kansas attempted to place kratom as an illegal substance through bill SB 282. However, it died in the Senate due to the lack of evidence.
Thanks to this momentum, kratom users in Kansas promoted KS HB 2056, aiming to regulate kratom in the state in 2021. This bill ultimately failed.
Related: The World Health Organization’s Review of Kratom
Where to Buy Kratom In Kansas
There are two ways to buy kratom. You can get it online or in-store, the first being the most recommended option.
The most reliable online sellers offer certificates of analysis for their kratom products, which is essential for guaranteeing a safe experience.
Other advantages of buying online are:
- Better prices
- Higher quality
- Lack of intermediaries
- More discretion
Finally, online retailers tend to offer a wider variety of kratom strains. This is a significant advantage, as each strain causes different effects — you need to choose the right one to get the effects you’re after.
Related: Top 10 Kratom Vendors
Buying Kratom In-Store
Buying kratom in-store still has its advantages. First, you’re supporting your local economy. Also, you get your product immediately when you go to a physical store.
While shopping online has its benefits, sometimes you need kratom right away. Just be sure to check reviews and be careful.
Here are five places to shop in Kansas:
- Royal Smokes — Kansas City
- The Hub Smoke Shop & Gifts — Kansas City
- KRATOM CITY — Wichita
- Vapor World — Lawrence
- Discount Smokes & Convenience — Topeka
What to Look for When Buying Kratom
Not all kratom is created equal. Every strain is different, and every vendor has different levels of quality and potency.
We recommend always sourcing your kratom from a premium vendor to avoid receiving low-quality or overpriced kratom powder.
Here are three factors to consider while you shop:
AKA-Certification
The American Kratom Association (AKA) is a private non-profit company that offers quality-testing programs to kratom vendors in the USA.
To be certified by the AKA, companies must submit kratom samples to an annual audit by a third-party laboratory. If the results do not meet AKA standards, the vendor loses endorsement.
You can review all AKA-approved kratom suppliers in the country on their website.
If a company is not certified, look for third-party lab testing. Reputable companies will post the results or make them available on request.
Company Reputation
The reputation of a kratom company will speak highly of the quality of its products.
No matter how strong the brand image is or how serious the company appears to be, none of this can override a history full of negative reviews.
A few bad reviews are to be expected, but too many are a red flag. At the same time, all positive reviews can mean the company is paying for them or removing the negative ones.
Strain Selection
Each strain of kratom produces different effects, and this is due to their different concentrations of the main alkaloids. For simplicity, kratom is categorized according to the color of its leaf vein.
There are three kratom vein colors available:
White vein kratom is the most stimulating — a low dose feels like a strong cup of coffee but without nervousness. This is due to its high mitragynine content, an alkaloid that binds to serotonergic receptors.
Red vein kratom is the most relaxing of the three. These strains are rich in 7-hydroxymitragynine, a mu-opioid agonist alkaloid responsible for the calming effects. Thus, this kind of kratom is ideal for reducing stress and is also a potent analgesic.
Green vein kratom is an intermediate between red and white in terms of strength and effects. We recommend its use for beginners because it’s a milder and more forgiving option.
What Are People Using Kratom for?
Kratom has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine in Southeast Asian countries. Nowadays, it is still popular for the following:
Energy & Focus
White vein kratom is the best choice to increase energy and concentration for work or study. However, we recommend replacing it with green strains if you feel excessively stimulated.
The boost in energy and focus is caused by the kratom’s effects on the adrenergic system.
Related: Can Kratom Help ADHD?
Anxiety & Depression
Anxiety and depression are the two most popular psychological disorders in the world. It is estimated that 10% of the world’s population suffers from one or both of these conditions.
The good news is that kratom can help people who are suffering from both of these conditions. Because of its relaxing effects, red vein kratom is a great option to combat anxiety.
On the other hand, white vein kratom is best for helping depression, thanks to the euphoria and energy they provide.
Opioid Withdrawal
Opioid withdrawal syndrome is one of the worst consequences that drugs can bring to a person. Substances such as heroin, morphine, and other opiates can generate these unpleasant episodes after a short time of regular use.
Fortunately, kratom can also help in this case. Red vein kratom is the best choice to relieve opioid withdrawal symptoms.
This is due to its interaction with opioid receptors, which will help relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms by emulating the sedative effects of opiates.
Pain Relief
Kratom is also an excellent natural analgesic. As mentioned above, its mechanism of action is similar to that of opioid medications. Its main alkaloids bind to opioid receptors like many pharma-grade painkillers.
Many people prefer to use kratom over prescription medications since it’s safer and less addictive.
However, you should consult your doctor first and never use kratom or other medications.
Related: Is Kratom An Opioid?
Is Kratom Safe?
Kratom is safe, but only when used responsibly. This means not overdoing it with either the dose or the frequency of use. Kratom can be addictive and interacts with many medications and substances.
To avoid building tolerance and, ultimately, addiction, take a break from kratom a few days every week. Always check with your doctor before using it.
Related: Is Kratom Dangerous?
Side Effects of Kratom
As we said, irresponsible use of kratom will lead to side effects. They are undesirable but not as severe as those of various OTC medications.
Common side effects of kratom include:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Lethargy
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
Under no circumstances is it advisable to use kratom during pregnancy or under the influence of alcohol.
Related: Can Kratom Cause An Overdose?
What’s the Future of Kratom In Kansas?
The future of kratom in Kansas is very bright. Regulation seems to be around the corner, and thousands of kratom users around the state are awaiting the outcomes of the new law.
However, until kratom gets regulated in Kansas, play it safe by choosing VIP Kratom, Star Kratom, and Kona Kratom.
