Health experts warn that kratom and 7-OH may pose serious health risks

The California Department of Public Health is sounding the alarm on Kratom, as well as a potent derivative of the plant called 7-OH.

In a January letter, the California Department of Public Health states that Kratom and 7-OH products are “not approved as a food product, dietary supplement, or drug product” per the Food and Drug Administration. The letter also states that retailers are not permitted to sell “in any form for consumption.”

“Kratom and 7-OH products vary widely in potency, which increases the risk of unexpected effects and contamination,” wrote the CDPH. “Therefore, CDPH is warning the public that foods and other products containing kratom and 7-OH are illegal to sell or manufacture for consumption.”

Yet, they are widely available in smoke shops and gas stations. They are often labeled as a dietary supplement to help with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and opioid withdrawal. When properly used in small doses, some people believe they can be effective.