Kratom is a psychoactive substance with the potential to cause both stimulant and sedative effects, depending on the dosage. It has no accepted medical use in the United States, but there are currently no federal controls on it.
Several states have laws on the books regulating or restricting kratom use. Tennessee is one of them, but most of the states that border it have no such laws.
What is kratom?
Kratom is a tree that originates from the tropical regions of Southeast Asia. The leaves of the tree can produce either sedative or stimulant effects on the body when chewed or ingested. High doses work as a sedative, while low doses work as a stimulant. Physical effects of kratom include
- Drowsiness
- Nausea/vomiting
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Itching
- Sweating
- Abnormally fast heartbeat
People who use kratom have experienced psychological symptoms such as delusions, confusion and hallucinations. Though not scheduled under the Federal Controlled Substances Act, the Drug Enforcement Agency considers kratom to be a Drug or Chemical of Concern due to its addiction potential and associated risks.
What is its legal status in Tennessee?
Though the federal government has yet to schedule kratom as a controlled substance, the state of Tennessee has passed laws against it. According to Recovery Village, Tennessee law considers kratom to be a controlled substance, banning its use, possession and sale.
Of the states that border Tennessee, only Arkansas and Alabama have laws regulating and restricting the use of kratom. Therefore, it may be possible to purchase it legally in another state and then face charges upon bringing it back to Tennessee