Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) has become a go-to herb for thousands of wellness enthusiasts seeking relief from common ailments. The herb, which is originally from Southeast Asia, has recently gained traction in the West for its perceived health benefits.
Most people consume kratom for pain relief. Some administer the plant’s extracts to alleviate inflammation, anxiety, sleep deprivation, and fatigue.
However, kratom’s legality is complicated. Whereas the herb is 100% legal in certain countries, it’s highly regulated in others. So, it’s prudent to understand the kratom laws in your jurisdiction before possessing the herb.
This article shall highlight the five legal facts about Mitragyna speciosa in Canada that every prospective kratom trader or user needs to know.
1. Kratom Isn’t Officially Authorised As a Medicinal Drug
Granted, Mitragyna speciosa boasts numerous therapeutic properties. Both anecdotal reports and scientific studies have shown that the herb may treat pain, anxiety, insomnia, and many other common ailments.
For Canadians, it’s also exciting to know that there’s no outright ban on kratom. The herb isn’t currently regulated under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Therefore, it’s legal in all Canadian provinces and territories.
Moreover, there are multiple reputable canada kratom vendors that deal in premium-quality, lab-tested products. Consumers can pick from a variety of strains and formulations too.
However, the Canadian government’s agency that regulates pharmaceutical products in the country – Health Canada – has yet to authorize kratom as a medicinal herb. The implication is that a kratom vendor cannot attribute definitive health claims to their products.
Shun brands whose products bear phrases like “can treat pain” or “will supercharge your sex drive.” “May” and “might” would be more accurate terms.
2. Kratom Isn’t Officially Authorised As a Dietary Supplement
While Health Canada primarily concerns itself with regulating pharmaceutical products in the country, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) focuses on food safety. However, the two agencies’ mandates often overlap.
Like Health Canada, the CFIA hasn’t officially recognized Mitragyna speciosa as safe for consumption. The federal regulator doesn’t authorize kratom as a dietary supplement.
Again, the burden of compliance rests with vendors as opposed to consumers.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency technically prohibits kratom consumables, which are essentially edible goods infused with kratom. The agency can, without prior warning, crack down on stores selling kratom-infused candies, gummies, chocolates, and baked goods.
Traditionally brewed kratom tea, as well as kratom pills and tinctures, may also constitute kratom consumables.
3. There Are Several Legally Approved Kratom Formulations
The CFIA’s restrictions on kratom consumables may dampen the spirits of aspiring kratom vendors in Canada. But it’s relieving to know that there are several alternative kratom formulations that traders can explore. Ideally, those include products not intended for oral administration.
Kratom-enriched topicals are noteworthy examples of kratom preparations that kratom stores can legally sell in Canada.
Topicals are essentially beauty and cosmetic products enriched with therapeutic Southeast Asian herbs. They’re available in multiple options, including ointments, creams, bath bombs, shampoos, etc.
Kratom vendors may also legally stock kratom-containing vape oils. Since vaping is legal and popular in Canada, selling kratom e-juices can turn out to be a lucrative business. That’s especially true if you also stock vaporizers and other similar vape accessories.
Lastly, you could avail of kratom as aromatherapy products or smokable pre-rolls.
4. Restrictions Apply Only To Vendors
One intriguing legal fact about kratom in Canada is that the restrictions on product labeling and the type of approved formulations only apply to kratom vendors.
Consumers are exempt from such regulations.
Therefore, both Health Canada and the CFIA officials will unlikely prefer charges or penalties if you’re found downing an energy drink infused with kratom extracts. The worst the agencies can do is probably inquire where you purchased the product and take it up with the vendor.
Kratom growers are also exempted from any restrictions.
Although Mitragyna speciosa is indigenous to Asia, it’s remarkably adaptable and can flourish in multiple climatic conditions. Farmers only need to mimic their native tropical environment as much as possible.
If Health Canada or the CFIA officials ever inquire about your motive for growing kratom, simply cite medical research or personal consumption.
Finally, it’s worth noting that while the CFIA doesn’t authorize kratom for oral consumption, many stores continue to sell kratom edibles. Vendors have devised genius ways around the restrictions, such as providing kratom edibles as “giveaways.”
5. Stringent Measures on Importation
For kratom importers and exporters, there are more stringent regulations to abide by. These laws aren’t unique to kratom. Rather, they apply to products that could easily be passed as pharmaceutical drugs or dietary supplements.
Since most kratom comes into the country as ground powder or freshly harvested leaves, the herb would technically fall in the Natural Health Products (NHP) category.
NHPs include herbal remedies, vitamins and mineral supplements, homeopathic medicines, traditional medicines, and probiotics.
Commercial NHP importers must obtain a Natural Product Number (NPN). Besides, NPN holders must already have a place of business in Canada.
Consumers can bypass these restrictions by importing small amounts of kratom and declaring their imports accordingly.
Summary
Canada boasts one of the most permissive kratom laws. But if you’re an aspiring kratom vendor, there are several restrictions to bear in mind before setting up a place of business in the country.
Remember that while the government typically focuses its attention on other narcotics, law enforcement officers won’t hesitate to crack down on unscrupulous kratom vendors. So, it pays to ensure strict compliance with the regulations that are laid down.
