Is Kratom Legal in Ohio? Your Guide to Understanding State Laws

Visitors and residents of the Buckeye State have had their fair share of challenges when it comes to the hotly debated topic of kratom. Fortunately, the answer to “Is kratom legal in Ohio?” is a resounding yes. Kratom products in Ohio are legal for sale and possession. Just a few years ago, the great kratom debate was a big deal in the state. Here’s how it went and just what kratom enthusiasts need to know.

The Legal History of Kratom in Ohio

Ohio has been a battleground state when it comes to the legalities revolving around Mitragyna speciosa, the scientific name for the kratom tree. In 2016, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) attempted to list kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance, hence labeling kratom illegal across the country since it would fall under the Federal Controlled Substance Act. However, due to strong opposition from the public and advocates like the American Kratom Association, the DEA scraped the plan.

In 2019, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy attempted to ban the sale of kratom by having it classified as a Schedule I substance, lumping it into the same category as dangerous street drugs. Once again, the American Kratom Association came to the rescue, but the bill did not pass due to their heroic efforts.

In 2022, Ohio House Bill 236 was introduced. This would require that the Ohio Department of Agriculture monitor and also regulate how kratom is monitored. Highlights of House Bill 236 include:

• Development of procedures used to monitor the testing of kratom products
• A protocol for carrying out yearly inspections of license holders involved in kratom processing
• Developing procedures regarding record-keeping and yearly reporting for license holders engaged in kratom processing
• Guidelines for the labeling of kratom items, encompassing precise instructions for their safe and efficient usage, along with suggested serving portions

While this was good news for those who want to keep kratom legal in Ohio along with ensuring that it’s unadulterated. The bill passed the Ohio House vote but has been pending with the Senate Health Committee. The fate of House Bill 236 is still unknown.

Kratom’s Legal Status from State to State

The Top Five Selling Kratom Products in Ohio

Golden Monk carries a wide selection of kratom products, and everyone has their favorites. Depending on your tastes and preferences, we have what you’re looking for. The fine folks of Ohio also have their favorites. Here’s a look at the top five selling Kratom Products in Ohio.

Green Hulu Kapuas Kratom Powder

This popular green vein variety, Green Hulu Kapuas Kratom Powder originates from the province of West Kalimantan in Indonesia. Like all Golden Monk products, it’s a high-quality kratom powder that’s been lab-tested to ensure you’re getting the best of the best. Known for its balanced alkaloid percentages and difficulty to cultivate.

Kratom Gummies

For those who don’t have the time or don’t want to measure and mix kratom powder, Kratom Gummies are the way to go. Each yummy gummy contains 10mg of premium kratom extract and is carefully packed in a GMP-compliant facility. Perfect for those who haven’t yet developed a taste for kratom powders’ unique bitter flavor, these gummies are delicious.

Kratom Capsules

Also a good choice for enthusiasts who aren’t fond of kratom’s bitterness or for those who are on the go with little time for measuring and mixing, Golden Monk’s Kratom Capsules are for you. Each capsule contains 500mg of premium kratom powder. They’re available in all of our popular strains and can be purchased in 250, 500, or 1000 capsule pouches.

Red Bentuagie Kratom Powder

Golden Monk’s Red Bentuagie Kratom Powder is a bit different from other strains. What sets this red vein strain of kratom apart from the others is its long fermentation time. Sometimes referred to as “chocolate kratom,” it’s not due it its aroma or flavor, but has to do with it’s rich dark brown appear.

White Vein Bali Kratom Powder

Despite its name, White Vein Bali Kratom Powder originates from the island of Borneo. Its unique aromatics and flavor set this strain apart from the others. Most kratom powders are known for their distinctive earthy bitterness, but White Vein Bali Kratom is extra bitter. This added flavor boost is believed to be due to the strain harvested from young leaves.

Kratom FAQ

Is Kratom Legal in My State?

The world of kratom legislation continues to evolve. Despite being legal in most of the country, that could change. Fortunately, kratom advocates like the American Kratom Society are proactive in the fight to keep this plant legal. Currently, kratom has been banned in six states:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Indiana
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Wisconsin

Does Kratom Have Any Unwanted Effects?

Using appropriate amounts of kratom generally doesn’t result in any unwanted effects. Golden Monk recommends starting with smaller amounts to gauge your response. For those who do experience an unwanted effect, it’s recommended to lower the amount taken or try a different strain that’s more well-tolerated. Kratom can stay in the body for up to two days, so if you’re having an issue, abstain for a few days.

How Is Kratom Made?

Kratom comes from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree that’s native to Southeast Asia. Once harvested, the leaves are either sundried or dried indoors to remove moisture. Once properly dried, the leaves are ground into a fine powder. The last step of the process is packaging.

Citations:

• Cinosi, Eduardo, et al. “Following the Roots of Kratom.” NIH.gov. 10 November 2015
• Hanapi, Nur Aziah et al. “Kratom Alkaloids: Interactions With Enzymes, Receptors, and Cellular Barriers.” NIH.gov. 17 Nov 2021
• Ohio House of Representatives. “House Bill 236 – 134th General Assembly.” Ohiohouse.gov. 2024
• Rep. Fraizer, et al. “House Bill 236.” Ohio Legislative Service Commision. 25 March 2021
• Seattle Met. “How Long Does Kratom Last In Your Body?” SeattleMet.com. 22 Nov. 2023
• Staff writer. “Kratom State Legality and Legislation.” The American Kratom Association. Accessed June 2023
• Striley, Catherine W. et al. “Health Effects Associated With Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and Polysubstance Use: A Narrative Review.” NIH.gov. 20 May 2022
• United States Drug Enforcement Administration. “DEA Announces Intent To Schedule Kratom.” DEA.gov. 30 August 2016