Kratom is a powerful medicinal plant. This herb, native to Southeast Asia, is becoming increasingly popular in the United States, and the market is expanding exponentially.
Along with massive growth comes varying opinions, causing states to choose different paths concerning the plant. Some prohibit it, while others regulate it.
Vermont is one of the few states to take a strict stance on kratom, and it’s currently illegal there. However, a bill was introduced in March 2023 that could change this. S128 would implement regulations regarding kratom, making kratom legal for those over 18.
This article discusses Vermont’s approach to kratom, but we’ll also go into some interesting aspects of, such as its effects, strains, and most popular uses.
Is Kratom Legal In Vermont?
Kratom is illegal in Vermont because its two main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are considered Schedule I drugs.
In March 2023, Bill S 128 (the Kratom Consumer Protection Act) was introduced, read by the state senate, and referred to the Committee on Health and Welfare. If passed, kratom would be legal for people over 18, and there would be regulations regarding how it’s manufactured and sold. We will update this page as things progress.
Some other states have passed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) in an effort to keep the supply safe.
In 2020, Bill H 878 would have legalized certain natural substances commonly used for medicinal, spiritual, religious, or entheogenic purposes — including kratom — but it did not progress past the first reading. Hopefully, the current bill will pass, allowing people in Vermont access to kratom.
Learn more about kratom laws in the United States.
Where to Buy Kratom In Vermont
Kratom is illegal in Vermont, so you can’t acquire it in any legal way.
If you’re not in the Green Mountain State and kratom is legal where you live, you can buy kratom in-store or online.
The first option is inferior, especially in states where kratom is unregulated, and there’s no quality control in place.
Online purchases provide you with several guarantees of quality and safety that in-store vendors simply can’t match.
Buying Kratom Online
When you buy kratom online, you have a wide range of kratom strains to choose from. Different strains have different effects, and if you don’t have a wide selection to choose from, you’re less likely to find the strain you need.
You may have no problem entering a kratom shop. However, some people prefer not to be seen by an acquaintance or co-worker because of the stigma. If you choose a more discreet option, buying online is ideal for you.
Buying online is also cheaper. Even after adding in shipping costs, you’ll still spend less money buying online than in-store. With no middleman or overhead costs, online vendors can keep prices far lower than physical stores can.
The most important reason, however, is certification. Top online vendors like VIP Kratom and Kona Kratom have products tested by third-party labs, so you know what you’re getting.
Buying Kratom In-Store
If you choose to purchase kratom in-store, you’re subjecting yourself to various hazards, which are usually not worth it since there’s a more practical and safer option.
By buying locally, you end up with:
- A lack of certification
- Higher prices
- Less variety
- Inferior quality
The best thing about buying from a local store? You’ll have kratom right away. It makes it tempting to search for “kratom near me” in a legal state, but it’s a better option to look for a trusted online retailer.
By planning, you can save yourself money and hassle. Vendors like Star Kratom have fast delivery, making shipping time a non-issue.
What to Look for When Buying Kratom
If you live in a state that allows kratom, you’ll need to take some precautions to ensure you don’t waste your money on a product that doesn’t work for you or is of poor quality.
This section walks you through three crucial factors to consider when buying kratom.
AKA Certification
The American Kratom Association (AKA) is a privately held non-profit company founded in 2014.
Among other things, the AKA offers a degree of quality control.
To be affiliated with the AKA, vendors submit samples for testing. It must meet strict criteria for the vendor to be certified. Look for the AKA certificate when choosing a vendor — this is a good sign.
Company Reputation
AKA certification is crucial, but it’s a private organization and can’t take care of everything. You must do some research and make sure the vendor is legit.
Customer reviews are a great way to determine if other people are happy with the company and if the product descriptions are accurate.
There are many kratom vendors online, but some retailers give a different product than the one promised or include inaccurate descriptions of the products.
A thorough internet search can help you avoid an unpleasant surprise. You can also find quality companies using our vendor reviews page.
Strain Selection
There are many kratom strains — too many to talk about the benefits and differences of each. There’s a simple way to categorize them, though. Before being processed into powder, leaves have a particular vein color; this is a good indicator of its effects.
Kratom is separated into three distinct categories using this criterion: red vein, white vein, and green vein kratom.
Red vein kratom is the most sedative due to its high 7-hydroxymitragynine content, a mu-opioid agonist responsible for opioid-like effects.
White vein kratom is the most stimulating strain. Variants in this category tend to have high concentrations of mitragynine, another of kratom’s active alkaloids. This alkaloid is an excellent euphoriant and stimulant.
Green vein kratom is the most balanced option. This kind presents the most balanced effects.
Be cautious when selecting a green kratom strain, as the effects can be either sedative or more stimulating. One of these will probably be undesirable depending on your goal, so remember to read through these products’ descriptions carefully.
What Are People Using Kratom for?
From chronic pain to various psychological disorders, kratom has several possible uses. However, here are some of the more common reasons people use kratom and the ideal strain for each:
Energy & Focus
White vein kratom is the best choice for those wanting nootropic effects. This kind increases concentration and focus, especially at low doses, which are usually the most stimulating.
Anxiety & Depression
Anxiety and depression are two psychological conditions affecting nearly 1/5 of the U.S. population.
Those who use kratom to reduce anxiety and help with depression opt for red vein strains to help with anxiety and white vein strains when treating depression.
If you suffer from either of these, be careful about the strain and dose you use. White kratom can increase anxiety; if you suffer from depression, red strains make you more susceptible to lethargy.
Opioid Withdrawal
Opioid withdrawal is an unparalleled nightmare, but, unfortunately, those addicted to these devastating drugs are bound to go through it if they want to stop.
Kratom interacts with opioid receptors in much the same way as opioids, providing similar effects without adverse effects. Therefore, a high dose of kratom, especially red vein, can help minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Related: Is Kratom An Opioid?
Pain Relief
Kratom is an excellent analgesic. Red vein is an incredibly potent pain reliever when used in doses higher than 5g.
However, it’s worth noting that you should find out where it’s coming from before using kratom to eliminate pain. Pain is our body’s alarm when something isn’t working right.
Is Kratom Safe?
Kratom is safer than most drugs you’ll get in a pharmacy. However, if misused, kratom can give you undesirable effects that hinder the therapeutic benefits and make you uncomfortable.
Responsible kratom use is straightforward: consume the smallest amount possible, do it as infrequently as possible, and avoid mixing it with other substances. By following this simple premise, chances are most of your experiences with kratom will be positive.
Related: Why Is Kratom Controversial? Should It Be?
Side Effects of Kratom
As with any substance, you can overdo it with kratom. However, if you consume it responsibly, you’ll most likely not encounter any of kratom’s side effects.
Common side effects are:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Lethargy
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Some of these side effects appear when you’re new to kratom — especially gastrointestinal issues.
Kratom is an herb rich in alkaloids and fiber, and your body has to learn to process it. Too high a dose, and you’ll most likely face side effects.
Keep in mind that it’s unsafe to consume kratom during pregnancy or under the influence of alcohol.
What’s the Future of Kratom In Vermont?
When it comes to kratom, more and more states choose legalization and regulation.
The state of Vermont is currently looking to regulate kratom with the KCPA.
Hopefully, the state will pass this law, but in the meantime, the only option is for you to speak up and demand your rights.
If there comes a time that you can legally buy kratom, remember to choose a reliable vendor like Star Kratom, Kona Kratom, or VIP Kratom.
