Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a medicinal plant found in Southeast Asia.
It’s unregulated in most of the United States, meaning anyone can legally buy it, consume it and sell it — that is, with the exception of Wisconsin.
This article discusses these legal issues with kratom in the badger state.
Is Kratom Legal in Wisconsin?
No. Kratom is illegal in the state of Wisconsin.
In April 2014, Wisconsin Senate Bill 325 passed, banning the two main alkaloids in kratom — mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine — making kratom a Schedule I drug.
Where to Buy Kratom in Wisconsin
While you won’t be able to buy kratom legally if you live in Wisconsin, let’s cover the general principles to follow when shopping for this herb elsewhere in the United States.
Buying Kratom Online
The federal government doesn’t exercise quality control over products circulating the market. This exposes users to poor quality and potentially dangerous kratom.
Online shopping is not a solution, but it’s a precautionary measure. Online vendors are easier to research and often provide certification that local stores don’t have.
Plus, buying kratom online has other benefits. The price, selection, and quality are unbeatable, along with maximum discretion and ease.
However, don’t forget that kratom is not regulated, and anyone can set up an online store.
If you’re looking for a recommendation, we’ve found Kona Kratom is the best bang for the buck, Star Kratom has the fastest shipping, and VIP Kratom has the best premium kratom selection on the market.
VIP Kratom
Buying Kratom In-Store
If you live in a legal state, a Google search for “kratom near me” gets you several results from stores that sell it.
However, there’s a lot of risks when shopping for kratom at local headshops or retail vendors.
In-store vendors don’t usually specialize in kratom. This is important because there’s a lot of nuances involved with sourcing high-grade kratom. It’s critical that every sample is thoroughly tested and sourced from high-quality growers to avoid issues with contamination or ineffective kratom leaf.
Unfortunately, many local vendors don’t give kratom the attention it needs.
Also see: Kratom Laws in Milwaukee & Madison.
What To Look For When Buying Kratom
Whether you buy online or locally, there are certain things you need to look for. It’s hard to find a trustworthy vendor, but look for the following before buying:
AKA Certification
The American Kratom Association (AKA) is a non-profit organization founded in 2014 to support kratom users.
The AKA certifies kratom vendors that meet its strict qualifications. Third-party labs conduct annual audits, and the company loses certification if its products fail to meet AKA standards.
As a user, you should always choose AKA-certified vendors.
Company Reputation
Before purchasing kratom from any online vendor, you should perform a thorough Google search. Look for reviews on any vendor you’re considering.
You can make this task easier by using our vendor reviews page, where you’ll find detailed reports about various kratom vendors.
Strain Selection
Always make sure you’re buying from a vendor that has a vast selection. The strain of kratom you use essentially determines the effects it has.
There are many kratom strains; the color of the leaf vein determines the strain. There are three groups—white, red, and green vein kratom.
Red vein kratom strains are the most soothing ones, producing relaxing and anxiolytic effects due to the high content of 7-hydroxymitragynine, a mu-opioid agonist alkaloid.
White vein kratom is the most stimulating option. These strains produce nootropic effects due to their high level of mitragynine, an alkaloid that interacts with opioid and serotonergic receptors.
Finally, green vein kratom is in the middle of the previous two. These strains produce the most balanced effects. You’ll want to read the descriptions of green kratom products carefully, as different strains of green kratom can cause sedation or stimulation.
What are People Using Kratom for?
Users consume kratom for various purposes; however, this section will tell you the most common uses of kratom and which strain to use for each.
Energy & Focus
If you lack energy or want to increase your ability to concentrate, white vein kratom can help. These strains are a perfect choice if you need to boost energy, focus, and concentration.
You’ll get gentle and clear mental stimulation, making any task you have to perform more effortless.
These nootropic effects are most noticeable at low doses, while higher amounts of white vein kratom can cause anxiety if you’re prone to it.
Anxiety & Depression
Many people use kratom for anxiety and depression, but it only helps if you accompany it with appropriate treatment and professional follow-up.
Kratom is an aid, not a cure.
Red vein kratom is best for treating anxiety. It’ll give you the calming effects you need without exposing you to the risks of drugs like benzodiazepines.
Opioid Withdrawal
Opiates are devastating drugs. Their greatest danger lies in their high potential for addiction and the horrible withdrawal symptoms that accompany it.
Kratom helps ease opiate withdrawal symptoms. Red vein kratom in high doses emulates the effects of opioids but without the devastating side effects. Its alkaloids interact with opioid receptors and give similar analgesic and euphoriant effects.
Because of this, people viewed kratom as if it were just another opiate. However, kratom doesn’t come close to opioids in danger, addiction potential, or side effects.
Pain Relief
Pain is a sign that something is wrong. From a minor stomach cramp to a headache that won’t let up, pain means different things of varying severity.
That’s why it’s essential to find out the cause before treating pain with kratom or any other pain reliever.
Many people turn to kratom when they’re dealing with severe or chronic pain. Red strains are potent analgesics without the danger of addiction.
Is Kratom Safe?
Kratom is safe if consumed responsibly and purchased from a safe source. If you use the smallest dose necessary as infrequently as possible, you most likely won’t have any problems.
Conversely, if you consume kratom in large amounts and too often, you may suffer from some adverse effects.
Side Effects of Kratom
Some side effects may arise when using kratom. Most of the time, these are due to excessive dosage. However, they can also occur the first few times you take kratom as your body gets used to it.
Some of the most common side effects of kratom are:
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Lethargy
- Constipation
- Low blood pressure
Avoid using kratom during pregnancy or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
What’s The Future of Kratom in Wisconsin?
So far, no law has attempted to lift the ban imposed in 2014.
Hopefully, this will change soon, and Wisconsin will follow the trends of most states, which lean towards legalization.
For those located outside of Wisconsin, remember to use certified vendors like Kona Kratom, VIP Kratom, and Star Kratom.