Kratom is a medicinal plant native to Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. It’s primarily used to boost energy and alleviate pain, but there are many other applications of this tropical Asian herb.
Here’s everything you need to know about kratom and its legality in the state of West Virginia.
Is Kratom Legal In West Virginia?
Kratom is legal in West Virginia.
In March 2023, West Virginia became the eighth state to regulate kratom. SB 220 (The Industrial Hemp Development Act), which went into effect in June 2023, put restrictions on the sale of kratom and cannabinoids like delta 8.
The new law requires that kratom manufacturers and retailers have a permit, prohibits sales to anyone under 21, establishes an 11% sales tax, and has specifications for packaging and labels.
In 2018, Bill 2526 attempted to add mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (kratom’s two main alkaloids) to the Schedule I Controlled Substances list, but the bill failed.
Where to Buy Kratom In West Virginia
Getting kratom in West Virginia is easy: you can get it both in physical stores and online.
However, online is better for several reasons.
First, online sellers offer a vast catalog of kratom varieties. This is important as each strain tackles different issues, as we’ll show you later.
Another great advantage is that online sellers are usually the manufacturers and guarantee a better quality product at a more affordable price, with fewer intermediaries.
They also tend to test and certify the quality of their products, something that physical vendors don’t usually do. Opt for vendors with proven track records like Kona Kratom, Star Kratom, and VIP Kratom if you want to play it safe.
If you decide to buy in physical stores, here are the most recommended stores in West Virginia:
- Smoke Zone Smoke Shop (Morgantown)
- Mr. Smoke (Cross Lanes)
- Smoker Friendly (Charleston)
- Vape and Cigar Shop (Martinsburg)
- Charlies Too (Charles Town)
- Puff Super Value (Ridgeley)
- Twisted Glass Smoke Shop (Parkersburg)
How to Buy the Right Kratom
Understanding the differences between kratom strains is essential, as they produce different effects that can address various problems.
For easy classification, they usually fall into one of the following categories: white, green, and red. However, you’ll also see gold and yellow strains.
White vein kratom has a high content of 7-hydroxymitragynine (an alkaloid that interacts with serotonergic receptors). This alkaloid makes the effects of this strain stimulating and uplifting.
Red vein kratom possesses a major alkaloid, mitragynine, a potent analgesic similar to various opiates. This type of kratom is helpful to those people who suffer from chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia.
Finally, green vein kratom balances the two previously mentioned categories — neither alkaloid stands out. Green strains are considered the best all-arounders when it comes to kratom. They’re the “Jack of all trades” of the kratom world.
Benefits of Kratom
Now that you have a glimpse into what kratom can do and what strain you might need, here’s what people tend to use it for.
1. Kratom for Pain
If you suffer from pain, even chronic, kratom is a great analgesic, specifically red strains, due to their high 7-hydroxymitragynine content. This alkaloid interacts with the same receptors as other opioids like morphine.
Beware that red strains are also sedative and can cause lethargy in higher doses.
2. Kratom for Insomnia
Insomnia is a problem that many people suffer from nowadays. Unfortunately, most treatments available are effective but carry a lot of side effects and dependence potential.
Red vein kratom is a natural sedative and a more forgiving alternative that many users use at night with few side effects.
3. Kratom for Anxiety & Depression
Kratom helps anxiety and depression but does not heal them; it’s only a tool to complement appropriate treatment.
If you’re suffering from anxiety, red kratom will be best. On the other hand, for depression, we recommend you try a more stimulating white strain.
4. Kratom for Energy & Focus
White vein kratom is the best choice for raising energy and improving concentration due to the interaction of its primary alkaloid with serotonin receptors.
Remember that white strains are more stimulating at lower doses, so stay in the 1-3g range if you’re using kratom for nootropic effects.
5. Kratom for Opiate Addiction
Kratom can significantly help those who need to combat opiate withdrawal symptoms. Red strains are the best choice for this, as their active alkaloids produce similar effects to opioids.
In addition, these strains help address other ailments, such as anxiety, chronic pain, and more.
Is Kratom Safe?
Yes, kratom is safe. However, this only applies if you buy lab-tested products.
These tests are the only way to verify that your kratom is not contaminated or spoiled — a crucial factor to consider before making a purchase.
Therefore, the kratom must go through laboratory tests; better yet, the company tests its products and is certified by the AKA (American Kratom Association).
Pure kratom is safe to consume, but if you misuse it, you might suffer side effects. That said, the adverse effects of kratom are less than those of several OTC and most prescription drugs.
Side Effects of Kratom
Wrong use of the herb can bring you side effects such as:
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- Constipation
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Nausea
Fortunately, it’s elementary to use this herb correctly. Below, we will discuss the two factors that determine responsible consumption.
Remember that it’s not safe to take kratom while pregnant or with alcohol.
Kratom Dosage
You can consume kratom as a powder, capsules, tinctures, or extracts.
The most common method is to use raw powder. You can simply measure out the dose and mix it with some warm water.
Kratom doses are classified as follows:
- Low dose (1 – 3 g) — best dose for energizing benefits
- Medium dose (3 – 5 g) — best dose for focus & concentration
- High dose (5 – 8 g) — best dose for pain and anxiety
Intake frequency is also very personal; it depends on your tolerance and what you’re using this plant for.
Depending on your purpose, you may need to take kratom more or less often. This is fine if you only take it when you need to.
What’s the Future of Kratom In West Virginia?
During the last decade, authorities everywhere have repeatedly tried to take kratom off the map. Fortunately, this did not happen in West Virginia, and the state only regulated it.
Buying online will always be the best and simplest way to buy kratom, and places like Kona Kratom, Star Kratom, and VIP Kratom are at the top of the list. If you want to buy it locally, at least now you know the retailer has to meet certain criteria, though this doesn’t guarantee the potency or freshness.
