#kratom law

[mezmer]

New Kratom mugs

[glkusa]

Navigating Kratom's Legality in New York: What You Need to Know - Green Leaf Kratom

In 2023, kratom became fully legal in New York State, allowing people over the age of 21 to purchase, possess, and use it. In any case, this legitimacy doesn’t come without controls.

Read More: Kratom Legalization in New York

[lilnasxvevo]

I hope the new age bookstore applies for a license to sell weed because the vibes in there will be absolutely incredible if they do

[boyfriendtodeathconfessional]

sort of in response to the Ren analyzer talking about Lawrence. I'm not going to explain this well, I can't organize my thoughts super well but. Law is someone I've connected to ever since I played his route and over time I realized it's because we share like. beat for beat ways of coping with extreme anxiety and our PDs. I see so much of my BPD and STPD in him with obsessions with things that you explain away but probably started with a spike of euphoria and you got hooked since (plants), to using sedatives to cope with anxiety and to stop feeling your body (I use kratom, he uses opiates), to the constant paranoia and bracing for being betrayed and harmed by people who have never acted odd but you're so confused and so scared and your brain is so sure that everyone hates you and that you're not safe. STPD can also make you only really able to relax and sleep during the day, I constantly have to plan to sleep during the day bc I can't sleep without sleep aid at night and even then I can't sleep well. yea. law feels like a reflection of all my issues and the only difference is I know what's going on with me and I've developed ways of coping and accepting myself. I don't want to die anymore even if I feel empty and sort of like nothing, I don't lash out nearly as much, and I only use sedatives when I know it'll go well and I refuse to build the habit. I still isolate to an extent but I have family and friends who understand my needs and don't make me feel as bad for not really feeling human. it makes me sort of sad that Lawrence never reaches that.

I'm sure the eccentricity and obsession angle could go deeper. extreme fear of doctors means home remedies and constantly researching that. having someone get it, like the river ending, feels amazing with stpd esp when you can actually believe it. being interested in drugs in general and psychedelics. maybe another pw/ stpd can add where I can't but yea

.

[johnnycrass]

other than having adderall on me that i bought from someone who has a prescription, because im supposed to be on this medication but i no longer have insurance and can't afford to pay out of pocket to take this widely available medication that is prescribed to 9 year olds and in such demand theres a national shortage, i follow the stupid fucking law -_- i follow all kinds of dumb ass fucking laws every day i pay my taxes on time in full. remember when i went to pay my bail, so i drove 4 hours before going in to work, and the bondman's office was sharing retail space with a fucking smoke shop where you can buy butane lighters, crack pipes, kratom, monkey dust, and any number of synthetic weed bullshit

but its fine. its a class A misdemeanor

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

Picks and Shovels is a new, standalone technothriller starring Marty Hench, my two-fisted, hard-fighting, tech-scam-busting forensic accountant. You can pre-order it on my latest Kickstarter, which features a brilliant audiobook read by Wil Wheaton.

#15yrsago Zoomable paper London streetmap https://www.thezoomablemap.com/video/

#15yrsago 5 Jokes About The Apparent Eagerness Of Certain Democratic Members Of Congress To Abandon Health Care Reform In Light Of Scott Brown’s Electoral Victory https://www.mnftiu.cc/2010/01/21/5-jokes-about-the-apparent-eagerness-of-certain-democratic-members-of-congress-to-abandon-health-care-reform-in-light-of-scott-browns-electoral-victory/

#10yrsago London cop who repeatedly kicked, beat woman who wouldn’t leave her child’s sickbed cleared https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/jan/22/met-police-warren-luke-cleared-kicking-mother-child-hospital

#10yrsago Consumerist on Information Doesn’t Want to Be Free https://consumerist.com/2015/01/22/4-ways-copyright-law-actually-controls-your-whole-digital-life/

#10yrsago ​Oakland cops’ license cams follow drivers everywhere https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2015/01/what-we-learned-oakland-raw-alpr-data

#10yrsago Radical Brownies: girls of color push social justice, not cookies https://web.archive.org/web/20150122020603/https://fusion.net/story/39637/meet-the-radical-brownies-girl-scouts-for-the-modern-age/

#10yrsago Potemkin rumble: your car’s muscular engine noise is an MP3 https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/americas-best-selling-cars-and-trucks-are-built-on-lies-the-rise-of-fake-engine-noise/2015/01/21/6db09a10-a0ba-11e4-b146-577832eafcb4_story.html

#5yrsago Unauthorized Charcoal: GE fridges won’t dispense ice or water unless your filter authenticates as an official ($55!) component https://memex.craphound.com/2020/01/23/unauthorized-charcoal-ge-fridges-wont-dispense-ice-or-water-unless-your-filter-authenticates-as-an-official-55-component/

#5yrsago German proposal to control links to news stories: headlines, 3s of video, 128 pixel thumbnails https://www.techdirt.com/2020/01/23/germany-wants-to-limit-memes-mashups-derived-press-publishers-material-to-128-by-128-pixels-resolution-three-seconds-length/

#5yrsago A sober look at kratom, a psychoactive plant that has many claimed benefits, and has also inspired a moral panic https://www.wired.com/story/release-the-kratom-inside-drug-culture/

#5yrsago You can read the forensics report that suggests Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud hacked Jeff Bezos’s phone https://www.vice.com/en/article/saudi-arabia-hacked-jeff-bezos-phone-technical-report/

#5yrsago White nationalists planned to murder cops and pro-gun protesters in Virginia https://www.cbsnews.com/news/gun-rally-virginia-documents-allege-base-members-discussed-starting-civil-war-2020-01-21/

#1yrago Dave Maass and Patrick Lay's "Death Strikes: The Emperor of Atlantis" https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/23/peter-kien-viktor-ullmann/#terez

Check out my Kickstarter to pre-order copies of my next novel, Picks and Shovels!

[notanotherdexaccount]

oh um if you're like. ever in the need of a non drug sedative and hops tea doesn't work for you (or you find it too gross). i heard california poppies roots can also have a sedative effect, presumably from brewing or other processing means :D

haven't tried it yet in my never ending pursuit for various euphoric and sedative highs but I would like to :)

disclaimer I'm not encouraging you to. do opiates illegally. if you want a form of legal opiate, look into kratom use laws in your state! kratom has partial binding opiates along with other compounds that can vary between vein :) red veins have the highest in opiates, and can have short term effects of numbing, sleepiness, nd sleepiness! IT IS ADDICTIVE BTW BE CAREFUL IF YOU'RE LOOKING TO AVOID THAT!!

edit: California poppies do not contain opium! nor do they seem to addictive! still practice discretion and caution when using :)

[rajeshpraasd12]

Lit Culture Kratom Extract Shot Butterscotch 15ml

Kratom regulations may differ depending on the state or township. Those interested in purchasing kratom for medical purposes, like reducing pain, should research the laws regarding kratom in their area. This Lit Culture Kratom Extract Shot in Butterscotch is contained in a 15ml bottle and can be purchased at Smokegem Wholesale for customers of legal age in states where kratom is permitted. Don’t miss out on this remarkable product that will stimulate your senses and revitalize your mind and body. Take advantage of our unbeatable deals and expedited shipping to Florida, USA.

SmokeGem Wholesale is a vast online wholesaler of Lit Culture Butterscotch Kratom Extract Shot 15ml with the best prices in the Tampa Bay Florida, United States of America. Order bulk Lit Culture Butterscotch Kratom Extract Shot 15ml from an online wholesale distributor store. If you’re looking for the greatest Lit Culture Butterscotch Kratom Extract Shot 15ml wholesale distributor near me, look no further. If so, you’ve come to the right place since SmokeGem Wholesale offers original quality Lit Culture Butterscotch Kratom Extract Shot 15ml at the unbeaten price.

[kratompoint01]

Opia 7-Hydroxy High Potency 30mg Watermelon Kratom Tablets (4-Count)

Product Overview

Opia 7-Hydroxy High Potency Watermelon Kratom Tablets offer a powerful and convenient way to experience the effects of kratom extract. Each tablet is formulated with 30mg of 7-Hydroxymitragynine, a highly potent alkaloid known for its strong and fast-acting properties. With a refreshing watermelon flavor, these tablets provide a smooth and enjoyable alternative to traditional kratom consumption.

Key Features & Benefits

High-Potency 7-Hydroxymitragynine

Each tablet contains 30mg of highly concentrated 7-Hydroxymitragynine, delivering a strong and effective experience compared to regular kratom products.

Fast-Acting & Long-Lasting Effects

The tablet formulation allows for rapid absorption, providing quick onset and extended duration of benefits.

Refreshing Watermelon Flavor

Unlike traditional kratom powders or capsules, these tablets offer a pleasant watermelon taste, making them easier and more enjoyable to consume.

Pre-Measured & Easy to Use

Each tablet provides a consistent and precise dosage, eliminating the need for measuring or mixing.

Portable & Discreet

With a compact and mess-free design, these tablets are easy to carry and use anywhere, making them ideal for on-the-go convenience.

Potential Effects

Depending on dosage and personal tolerance, users may experience:

Increased Focus & Energy – Lower doses may promote mental clarity and alertness.

Relaxation & Stress Relief – Higher doses may support a calming and soothing experience.

Balanced Mood Enhancement – Many users report a sense of well-being and positivity.

Who Should Use Opia 7-Hydroxy Watermelon Kratom Tablets?

This product is recommended for experienced kratom users looking for a high-potency, flavored, and easy-to-use alternative to traditional kratom.

Disclaimer & Safety Information

Use responsibly, as this product contains a concentrated kratom extract. Start with a low dose to assess tolerance.

Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have medical conditions, are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

Not intended for minors or individuals unfamiliar with kratom extracts.

Follow all local laws and regulations regarding kratom usage.

Store in a cool, dry place and keep out of reach of children and pets.

Opia 7-Hydroxy High Potency Watermelon Kratom Tablets offer maximum strength in a convenient, flavorful format, making them a powerful choice for kratom enthusiasts.

[mezmer]

Fuck every losertard family member + in law who has googled Kratom just to shit talk me and not out of genuine concern. Fuck all of you

[kratomkingshawaiiwaipahu]

The Health Benefits of Kratom You Need to Know About

Ever heard of kratom? This amazing plant has been making waves in the wellness world. People are discovering its potential to support a healthier and happier life. Curious about what all the fuss is about? Let's dive into the health benefits of kratom and why it might be your new best friend.

What Makes Kratom So Special?

Kratom comes from a tropical tree in Southeast Asia. People there have used it for centuries for all sorts of reasons. Think of it as a natural supplement with a long history. Now, it's gaining popularity in places like Hawaii because folks are discovering how it might help with energy, mood, and even discomfort.

How Kratom Works its Magic

Kratom leaves contain special compounds that interact with your body's receptors. These interactions can lead to a variety of effects, depending on the kratom strain and dosage. It's like finding the right key to unlock different benefits within your body.

Potential Health Benefits of Kratom

Okay, so what might kratom do for you? Here are some of the potential health benefits people report:

Energy Boost: Feeling sluggish? Kratom might give you a natural pick-me-up without the jitters or crash of coffee.

Improved Mood: Need a little mood boost? Kratom could help you feel happier and more content.

Reduced Stress: Stressed out? Kratom may help you relax and unwind. Imagine finally letting go of those worries and finding some inner peace.

Pain Relief: Got aches and pains? Kratom might offer some relief, helping you move with more ease and comfort.

Better Focus: Having trouble concentrating? Kratom could help you stay on track and get things done.

Improved Sleep: Tossing and turning all night? Kratom might help you relax and find more restful sleep.

Social Anxiety Relief: Do social situations make you nervous? Some people find that kratom helps them feel more comfortable and confident in social settings.

Finding Your Perfect Kratom Product

Kratom comes in different forms, like powder and capsules. Capsules are super easy to take—just pop a couple and you're good to go. Powder gives you more flexibility with dosing. At Kratom Kings Hawaii, we've got a fantastic selection of kratom products so you can find your perfect match.

Why Choose Us?

Top-Quality Kratom: We source our kratom directly from reputable growers, so you know you're getting the good stuff.

Tons of Choices: We've got all the strains – red, green, white, and even some cool blends.

Super Helpful Team: Our kratom experts can answer all your questions and help you find exactly what you need.

Convenient Location: We're in Waipahu, easy to find!

Awesome Customer Service: We're all about making you feel welcome and happy.

Part of the TCA Vapor Family: You know you can trust us because we're part of a well-known and respected local business.

FAQs about Kratom

FAQ 1:

Q: Is kratom safe?

A: Like with anything, it's important to use kratom responsibly. If you have any health concerns or are taking medications, it's a good idea to chat with your doctor first.

FAQ 2:

Q: How much kratom should I take?

A: That's a great question! It really depends on a bunch of things like the strain and your own body chemistry. It's always best to start with a small dose and see how you feel. Our team at Kratom Kings Hawaii can give you more personalized advice.

FAQ 3:

Q: Can I mix kratom with other stuff?

A: It's generally a good idea to talk to your doctor before mixing kratom with any medications or other substances. Better safe than sorry, right?

FAQ 4:

Q: Where can I buy kratom?

A: You can find kratom at specialty shops like Kratom Kings Hawaii or online from reputable vendors. Make sure to choose a vendor that prioritizes quality and safety.

FAQ 5:

Q: Is kratom legal?

A: Kratom is legal in many places, including Hawaii, but it's always a good idea to check your local laws and regulations.

FAQ 6:

Q: What if kratom doesn't work for me?

A: Everyone reacts differently to kratom. If one strain doesn't work for you, you might try a different one or adjust your dosage. Our team at Kratom Kings Hawaii can help you find the right kratom product for your needs.

Contact Details

Kratom Kings Hawaii - Waipahu

Address: 94-144 Farrington Hwy Suite 112, Waipahu, HI 96797, United States

Phone: +1 (808) 677-5777

We're here to help you on your kratom journey! Come visit us and let's chat about how kratom can enhance your well-being.

[canadakratompowder]

How to Choose a Reliable Kratom Vendor in Canada: A Buyer’s Guide

Kratom, a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, has gained significant popularity in Canada for its potential health benefits, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and increased energy. However, purchasing kratom online requires careful consideration to ensure quality, legality, and safety. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the complexities of buying kratom online in Canada.

1. Source and Quality of Kratom

The first factor to consider is the source of the kratom. Quality kratom is often sourced from reputable farms in Southeast Asia, where the plant is cultivated under ideal conditions. Look for vendors who provide detailed information about their sourcing practices. High-quality kratom should be fresh, free from contaminants, and undergo rigorous quality control processes. Check for lab reports or certificates of analysis that verify the purity and potency of the kratom. Vendors who are transparent about their testing methods and results are more likely to offer high-quality products.

2. Legal Status and Compliance

Kratom's legal status in Canada can be complex and varies by province. It is essential to stay informed about the current regulations and ensure that the kratom vendor complies with local laws. As of now, kratom is not regulated under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, but its sale and use can be subject to specific provincial regulations. Research the legal status in your province and confirm that the online retailer operates within legal boundaries.

3. Vendor Reputation and Reviews

The reputation of the vendor is crucial when purchasing kratom online in Canada. Look for vendors with positive reviews and a solid track record in the kratom community. Customer reviews can provide insights into the vendor's reliability, product quality, and customer service. Websites like Reddit, kratom forums, and independent review platforms can be valuable resources for gathering feedback from other consumers. Be cautious of vendors with numerous negative reviews or those lacking a significant online presence.

4. Product Variety and Information

A reputable kratom vendor should offer a range of kratom strains and provide detailed information about each product. Kratom comes in various strains, each with different effects, such as red, green, and white veins. The vendor should provide descriptions of the effects, potential benefits, and any side effects associated with each strain. Detailed product descriptions help you make an informed choice based on your needs and preferences. Avoid vendors that offer limited information or vague product descriptions.

5. Pricing and Payment Options

While price should not be the sole factor in choosing a kratom vendor, it is essential to ensure that you are getting value for your money. Compare prices from different vendors to get an idea of the average cost of kratom. Be wary of prices that are significantly lower or higher than the market average, as this may indicate issues with product quality or authenticity. Additionally, check the payment options available and ensure that the vendor provides secure and convenient payment methods. Secure payment gateways and clear return policies are indicators of a reputable vendor.

In conclusion, buying kratom online in Canada requires due diligence to ensure you are purchasing a high-quality, legal, and reputable product. By focusing on the source and quality of kratom, legal compliance, vendor reputation, product information, and pricing, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the potential benefits of kratom safely and effectively.

[canadakratomonline]

Buying Kratom Online in Canada: What You Need to Know Before You Purchase

Kratom, derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia, has grown in popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and energy boosting. As its use rises in Canada, many consumers are exploring online options for purchasing this natural supplement. However, buying kratom online requires caution, especially considering the variation in product quality and potential legal issues. Here are some key tips to ensure a safe and successful kratom purchase online in Canada.

1. Understand Canadian Laws Regarding Kratom

Kratom exists in a legal gray area in Canada. While it’s legal to purchase, possess, and use kratom for personal purposes, selling it as a consumable product is not fully regulated by Health Canada. This means kratom can’t be marketed for human consumption, but it can still be sold as a herbal product or for research purposes. It’s essential to ensure that you’re buying from a vendor that operates within these legal parameters to avoid complications with Canadian authorities.

Make sure you stay updated on local laws because regulations regarding kratom may change over time, and it’s essential to ensure you are on the right side of the law when making an online purchase.

2. Choose Reputable Vendors

The quality of kratom can vary dramatically depending on where you buy it. A key step in purchasing kratom online in Canada is selecting a reputable vendor. Look for companies that have a strong online presence, positive customer reviews, and a transparent approach to business.

Reputable vendors often provide third-party lab results that verify the purity and potency of their products. These lab reports are crucial in ensuring that the kratom you’re purchasing is free from contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or synthetic additives. Avoid vendors who make unrealistic health claims, as these are frequently a red flag for lower-quality or misrepresented products.

3. Check for Lab Testing and Certification

As kratom remains unregulated in most markets, verifying the safety and quality of the product is essential. Look for sellers that provide independent third-party lab testing. Reliable vendors will readily share these lab reports, which test for the alkaloid content (to verify the potency of the kratom) and screen for harmful contaminants.

In addition to lab testing, check for industry certifications. While Canada does not have specific regulations for kratom, vendors that follow U.S. standards, such as those certified by the American Kratom Association (AKA), often demonstrate a commitment to higher product quality and safety.

4. Research Different Kratom Strains

Kratom comes in several strains, and each has unique effects. The three primary strains are red, green, and white, differentiated by the color of the veins in the leaves. Red strains are typically used for relaxation and pain relief, green strains balance stimulation and pain relief, and white strains are known for their energizing properties.

Before making a purchase, understand the specific effects of each strain and how they align with your needs. Reputable vendors will usually provide detailed information about each strain they sell, helping you make an informed choice.

5. Compare Prices and Shipping Policies

While kratom prices vary depending on the strain and quality, it’s important to be cautious of unusually low prices, which can indicate poor-quality or adulterated products. Balance affordability with quality by comparing prices across different vendors, ensuring you get good value for your money without compromising on safety or effectiveness.

Additionally, review the vendor's shipping and return policies. Make sure they offer reliable shipping options to Canada and have clear return or refund policies in case there’s an issue with your order. Some vendors even offer free shipping for larger orders or express delivery for an additional fee.

Conclusion

Buying kratom online in Canada can be a convenient and rewarding experience if you take the time to research and make informed decisions. Understanding the legal landscape, choosing reputable vendors, checking for lab testing, researching strains, and comparing prices are all essential steps to ensure you receive high-quality, safe kratom. By following these tips, you can safely enjoy the potential benefits of kratom while avoiding the pitfalls of low-quality or questionable products.

[wfirmatlanta]

Wetherington Law Firm

1800 Peachtree St. NE, Suite 370 Atlanta Georgia 30309 United States 4048884444 outreach@wfirm.com https://wfirm.com/

The Wetherington Law Firm is your dedicated ally in personal injury claims in Atlanta. Our attorneys expertly handle wrongful death cases, car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, along with specialty areas like medical malpractice, slip and falls, defective products, kratom death claims, and much more.

We ensure your rights are fiercely protected. All our cases are on a contingency basis so we do not charge you until we win.

We offer free consultations, and virtual meetings, and will even come to you! Whether facing complex legal challenges or navigating the aftermath of an accident, our firm stands as a pillar of support and expertise. Searching for wrongful death lawyer or personal injury lawyer in Atlanta? Get in touch with us today!

[xtruss]

Photo: Here & Now/Co-Owner Tobly McSmith

The City’s Quiet Crackdown on Kava Bars. The Businesses Selling Kava and Kratom Have Found Themselves in a Legal No-Man’s-Land.

— By Chris Crowley, Senior Writer at Grub Street | CURBED

Tobly McSmith has had his kava bar Here & Now shuttered by Inspectors from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene twice in the year and a half since it first opened on Allen and Bowery. “We’ve been scared of everybody who walks in,” McSmith says. In addition to pour-over Coffee and Espresso and Pots of Tea, McSmith sells Kava and Kratom Teas that his employees brew themselves, both plant-derived substances that his Clientele Consider Natural Options for Anxiety and Pain Relief and The health Agency Deems “Poisonous,” “Injurious to Health,” and “Unsafe.” This difference has led to the Bureaucratic Tug of War plaguing his business — from DOH violations for selling kava to a cease-and-desist letter to closure orders, two hearings, a trial, and a denial of his application to renew his food service establishment permit. He’s not alone — the city’s other kava bar owners are by now very familiar with the bright yellow signage announcing a shutdown: “Closed By the Order of the Commissions of Health and Mental Hygiene.”

The city’s quiet kava crackdown started in November 2022, when the Health Department issued a summons to KavaSutra, a kava bar on First Street. A couple of months later, KavaSutra got hit again at its 10th Street location, when the department “Embargoed” its kava products, according to a lawsuit KavaSutra’s owners later filed against New York City, Mayor Eric Adams, and the Health Department and Its Commissioner Ashwin Vasa. Then last spring, the agency shut down two kava bars in Williamsburg: Ka-Vá Kava Bar (the space is now a cannabis club) and Kava Social, which never reopened publicly but has operated as a private club since. It’s a fairly existential moment in the New York kava and kratom scene, but the saga has gone largely unnoticed by the wider public. This may be because it’s a small-ish market to begin with, a blip compared to the unlicensed cannabis market that has taken over the city’s retail landscape and baffled the city, state, and law enforcement officials tasked with regulating it. The client base for kava and kratom bars also includes a lot of recovering addicts, who are both used to being overlooked and perhaps would prefer to avoid any extra attention. (“I would say a good 60 to 65 of our customers are sober,” McSmith says.)

Craig, one of the regulars I met at Here & Now, said he started taking kava pills in 2010 after returning from Iraq, where he worked as a reporter for human rights organizations. “I was all kinds of messed up. I couldn’t sleep,” he says. He started using kratom early last year, when he walked by a kava bar. “I was like, this is the answer,” he says. Kava bars have since become a central part of his recovery, he says. “A lot of people here have helped me out. Staying on a couch, taking a shower,” he says of Here & Now. “I come here everyday, and I know all of these people.”

Kava, which is derived from the roots of the kava shrub, has for centuries had ceremonial and medicinal uses in the Pacific Islands, and those who use it find it calming and mood-enhancing without the judgment-impairing effects of alcohol. Many kava bars also sell kratom, which is made from the dried leaves of the kratom tree, an evergreen found in Southeast Asia. It’s also sold as a potent extract or pill at stores like Hot Sauce Exotics CBD & Kratom Store in little bottles that fit right alongside 5-Hour Energy drinks and poppers. Depending on the strength of the dose, it can act as a stimulant or a sedative, and it’s marketed here as a treatment for anxiety and addiction. Both are legal in the United States, but Only Kava Has Been Approved by the FDA as a dietary supplement for personal use (the agency says it has “Inadequate Information” on whether kratom poses a risk to consumers).

Together, Kava and Kratom are in a long line of regulatory puzzles the city has tried to solve over the years: CBD, Cannabis, Chefs curing their own charcuterie in-house, bodegas selling synthetic drugs like K2, and Chinatown business owners hanging Roast Duck in their windows. “It’s kind of a unique challenge for regulators to figure out how to tackle this because it is such a gray market industry,” says one lawyer whose clients include companies in the cannabis industry and others regulated by the FDA. She pointed to Tara Flour, which is made from the legumes of the plant of the same name, as an example of a substance that federal and state agencies struggled to regulate. In 2022, Daily Harvest recalled a product made with Tara Flour — a new ingredient in the US market — as the FDA and Center for Disease Control investigated reports of serious stomach pain from those who had consumed it. 500 people became ill, and 39 of them had their gallbladders removed. This May, two years after the initial recall, the FDA finally banned its use in food. Those in the kava and kratom industry have similarly seen uneven enforcement: federal regulators tend to go after the producers, while local agencies try to shut down sellers like Here & Now. And enforcement is uneven across the country; in Hawaii, where kava is Known as ‘Awa’ and is part of the native culture, the state’s Department of Health distinguishes between the way Hawaiians have consumed it for centuries, in beverage form, and the concentrated extracts that the health studies were based on. According to a 2023 World Health Organization report, there “are very few published adverse health effects arising from the traditional consumption” in the South Pacific. This is the method Here & Now says it is using.

Tobly McSmith behind the bar at Here & Now. Photo: Here & Now/Co-Owner Tobly McSmith

When McSmith’s bar was first hit with violations for selling kava last July, a health inspector made him dump all of the bar’s product — around $1,500 worth, McSmith says. It’s a sum that KavaSutra, a chain with several stores, could eat, but Here & Now, a smaller operation, couldn’t. In addition to dumping the product, McSmith had to promise not to sell kava and kratom and take down the menus.

The cease-and-desist order came the following month, and McSmith had a hearing in November. The judge ruled in the bar’s favor, dismissing the violations because of failure “to establish that kava or kratom is an adulterant, that when added to water, is poisonous, injurious to health, or unsafe.” The charges were also dismissed in a second hearing and in a December trial before an administrative law judge. None of this seemed to matter: the city wouldn’t renew Here & Now’s food service establishment permit and had issued a petition to revoke it. When reached about the kava bar shutdowns, a representative for the Health Department responded that New York health codes “prohibit” adding kava to food because of “significant” health risks: “We are requiring restaurants serving food containing kava or kratom to stop. And, if they refuse, we are requiring them to close.”

These substances can be dangerous, is the thing. In 2002, the FDA issued an advisory warning consumers that dietary supplements containing kava might be “associated with severe liver injury,” based on studies that measured the effects of highly-concentrated extracts, and in 2020, it published a memorandum concluding that kava is not generally recognized as safe. There have been dozens of lawsuits filed over kratom products, and one Washington family was awarded $2.5 million dollars in the wrongful death lawsuit of Patrick Coyne, who had been taking Kratom Divine’s Maeng Da strain to treat chronic back pain. Unlike Kava, Kratom is also found to mimic the effect of “scheduled opioid drugs,” according to the FDA. In a Tampa Bay Times analysis of 20 kratom products, researcher Abhisheak Sharma compared one of the tablets, 7ΩHMZ, to “legal morphine,” and a one-ounce bottle of another extract contained nine times the amount of mitragynine (an alkaloid in kratom that functions like opioids) that Sharma considers safe to consume in a day. And while kratom has been adopted by some as a tool for opioid recovery, some treatment groups think it’s detrimental to that process, and even potentially addictive.

But kava and kratom’s boosters make the same arguments as other harm reductionists: They’re just as invested in safety as the city. Shuttering legitimate businesses will only reward shady manufacturers. “Let’s regulate this. Let’s not sell extracts. Let’s have good sourcing. Let’s let customers know what the effects are,” McSmith says. “We’re all pro-regulation because it should be regulated. We don’t want people to get sick.” He says that Here & Now doesn’t sell extracts for this reason, and no other kava and kratom than what they brew in-house. Bartenders go through up to 20 hours of training, depending on their experience with kavatending, and McSmith says he’s careful about sourcing from reputable businesses. One night at Here & Now, he pulled out his phone to show me a photo of what he’d seen at a CBD shop. “Look at these kratom extracts,” he said. “No label, no real education about what you’re drinking, very high dosing, very dangerous.”

For now, McSmith is waiting for a sign that his legal limbo will end. The cafe’s permit expired in December, and he was told he had to wait to renew it until after the closure order was lifted. Then in February, after a judge recommended lifting that closure order, the permit renewal was still denied. His appeal was denied, too, in early May. This week, one of the bar’s regulars launched a GoFundMe to cover costs for the business’s “next legal step.” “We are closed by the city, no longer have a permit, and have until August to try and raise funds through donations and decide to challenge the arbitrary and capricious determination made by the city in state court under an Article 78 proceeding,” McSmith says. Health Department inspectors have been back twice, and cops paid the bar a visit as well.

Here & Now is still in business, kind of. The door is papered over, and curtains are drawn over the front doors. “It’s our community coming through to support us, for sure,” McSmith says. There are enough regulars to stay afloat, but it’s unclear how long this can last. For now, it seems unlikely that the city will come around to kava. Going back to court for the fourth time seems inevitable, he says: “They really try to drown you in paperwork and fines and lawyer time until you just give up.”

[365kratomcanada]

Find Your Zen: Best Kratom Strains for Relaxation

Life can really throw you for a loop sometimes, right? Deadlines looming, stress bubbling up, and finding that chill zone can seem like an impossible mission. That's where kratom steps in—a natural remedy from Southeast Asia that's gaining a lot of fans for its potential to help you unwind.

But with so many kratom strains out there, each promising different effects, finding your perfect chill pill can be overwhelming. Don't fret, though! Let's dive into the best kratom strains tailored for kicking back and finding that inner calm.

Red Strains: Unwind Like a Boss

When it's relaxation you crave, red vein kratom strains are the way to go. They're packed with this thing called 7-hydroxymitragynine (say that five times fast), which is said to bring on those calming vibes. Here are a few popular red strains to check out:

Red Bali: A classic choice known for its gentle relaxation powers. It melts away tension, sets the stage for tranquility, and might just improve your sleep game after a tough day.

Red Maeng Da: This one's like the heavyweight champ of relaxation. It's strong enough to knock out stress and anxiety, leaving you feeling like you're floating on a cloud. Start slow with this potent one, though.

Red Borneo: Smooth sailing ahead with this strain. It's all about easing muscle tension, boosting your mood, and coaxing your mind into that perfect state of chill. Ideal for winding down before you hit the sack.

Green Strains: Balanced Bliss

If you're after relaxation without losing your daytime mojo, green vein kratom strains are your go-to. They strike a nice balance between the energizing whites and the super-chill reds. Here are a couple to consider:

Green Malay: Versatile and oh-so-smooth. It kicks anxiety to the curb without making you feel like taking a nap. Plus, it can give your mood and focus a nice boost—perfect for unwinding without losing productivity.

Green Borneo: Think of it as the chill cousin of Red Borneo. It's got that calming effect that eases muscle tension, promotes peace of mind, and might just upgrade your sleep quality. Great for evenings when you need to switch off.

Picking Your Perfect Match:

Remember, what works for one person might not be your cup of tea. Start slow, with a low dose, especially if you're new to kratom. Listen to your body, pay attention to how it responds, and if something feels off, stop and chat with a healthcare pro.

A Word of Caution:

While kratom seems promising for relaxation, it's still being studied. Before diving in, especially if you have health stuff going on or take meds, talk to a healthcare pro. And check the rules where you live—kratom laws can vary.

Finding Your Chill Zone:

Relaxation's a journey, not a race. Mix in some mindfulness, maybe some meditation, and explore your kratom options responsibly. Take a deep breath, enjoy the ride, and find your zen.