Kratom regulations in Australia and New Zealand:
Kratom is a controversial topic with strong opinions on both sides. Some people swear by its effectiveness, but others find it too risky and think it should only be consumed by certain people.
The latter group is calling for its regulation, and these calls have been heard by governments and legislative bodies worldwide.
Individuals who are calling for Kratom to be banned or regulated have feelings about the herb because of its Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine strong effects. It is considered addictive by many, and they say the side effects can be dangerous.
Many people think that Kratom leads to addiction, but there’s no proof of this. It might be a valid concern, but it shouldn’t stop anyone from using it. There isn’t much data on Kratom as there hasn’t been much research on the product, so we’re relying on the experiences of people who have used it.
Kratom is illegal in Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Denmark, and several other countries. If it is legal in your country but you’re still not sure about the legality of its use then get in touch with your country’s medicines regulatory agency.
The legal history of kratom in Australia and New Zealand:
In 2003, the Australian government has banned kratom use considering its potential abuse as a narcotic substance. However, there is no evident proof of potential abuse over there. Since then, kratom cultivation, production, and distribution are banned.
In 2005, the Australian government classified kratom innate substances (Mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine) as narcotics. Its name was amended to the controlled list of the country. Under the law, the use of kratom in any form such as tea, capsule, or powered was banned. And official punishment was approved for those who are caught under the influence of kratom.
Australia has placed Kratom on the list of schedule 9 substances. Its possession, sale, purchase, and usage is completely prohibited however its use is allowed for research purposes only.
New Zealand has classified kratom as a schedule 1 substance. It means you can use it according to the doctors’ prescription. It is because kratom is considered a medicinal herb. However, its import and export are strictly banned. Every kind of trade regarding kratom is prohibited and punished by the law.
In 2009 in Australia, kratom leaves and other ingredients were banned to sell and import or export. Australians couldn’t get enough of the substance and it has been classified as a narcotic to reduce harm. However, no potential harm was reported of kratom abuse.
Although the New Zealand government might not be too keen on kratom, they haven’t outright banned it either. As of now, kratom is illegal to grow, buy, or sell in New Zealand within the free market; although you can apply for a prescription and get permission from your doctor to buy and use it.
Legal status for Kratom is an ongoing conversation and there’s not a clear perspective. The progress of research will be essential to determine whether Kratom will be legalized or still illegal
Due to the unknown long-term effects of kratom, it would be natural to assume that in future decades; it will be more closely regulated and treated similarly to medicinal marijuana.
The kratom powder bears a strong aroma that is nearly as strong as substances like marijuana and heroin. The difference is that kratom is nothing like other controlled substances. Whereas heroin is a synthetic opiate and marijuana is a psychoactive drug. Kratom is an evergreen tree-like herb that is extracted from the leaves.
There have been a lot of benefits that come with Kratom, and its popularity is on the rise. As more people are discovering these benefits, you’ll find that they’re slowly warming up to Kratom as well.
As of 2021, kratom has been controlled as a narcotic in Australia and under Medicines Regulations 1985 (Amended August 6, 2015) in New Zealand.
Conclusion:
The law on the production and possession of kratom leaves should not be an offense under criminal law. Similarly, the law should not restrict the growing of kratom trees in a more liberal environment. Government agencies are required to take legal responsibility to create awareness among people with adequate information about Kratom’s benefits and risks for use.
In addition, decriminalizing kratom puts less pressure on the judicial system. By addressing these through other methods and empowering the community behind it, they could deal with production and consumption in a way that fits their geographical needs.