Can You Find Kratom at Walgreens?
Are you one of the many individuals wondering if you can buy kratom at Walgreens? This popular herbal supplement has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. However, you won't find kratom on the shelves at your local Walgreens. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why the FDA has concerns about kratom and why it's not available at Walgreens. We'll also provide alternatives for those interested in purchasing kratom.
Why the FDA Doesn't Like Kratom:
Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves have been traditionally used for their stimulant and pain-relieving properties. Kratom's active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing various effects.
Despite its traditional use, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised concerns about kratom for several reasons:
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Lack of Regulation: One major issue is the lack of regulation in the kratom industry. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, kratom is not subject to strict quality control standards. This can lead to variations in product quality and safety. So while the FDA is unwilling to implement any regulations themselves, they use this as an argument against kratom. The AKA has been advocating for regulation so we have safe kratom products to consume for a while.
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Adverse Effects: Kratom use has been associated with various adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, and dependence. In some cases, it has even been linked to more severe health issues, but usually these claims are unsubstantiated. But most conglomerates like Walgreens will not risk offending the FDA.
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Lack of Research: The FDA argues that there is limited scientific research on the safety and efficacy of kratom. More studies are needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks. We actually have hundreds of studies on kratom by Johns Hopkins and more are coming out all the time.
Why You Won't Find Kratom at Walgreens:
Due to the FDA's concerns and the uncertain regulatory landscape surrounding kratom, Walgreens, like many other major retailers, has chosen not to carry kratom products. Walgreens prioritizes the safety and well-being of its customers and is reluctant to offer products that haven't undergone the rigorous testing and approval processes typical of pharmaceuticals. Although this may be true, they still do not want to carry kratom, more so due to the stigma associated with it and the FDA's vendetta against kratom. The Kratom community has many reputable kratom vendors who DO actually initiate rigorous testing on their kratom products to the standard of consumable goods with those standards equal to the FDA. Many kratom vendors, like Legends Kratom Company, maintain these high standards, and care deeply about the health and safety of our customers.
Where to Buy Kratom:
If you're interested in purchasing kratom, there are alternatives to Walgreens where you can find a variety of kratom products. Here are a few suggestions:
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Online Retailers: Many reputable online vendors specialize in selling high-quality kratom products. They often provide detailed product information, customer reviews, and lab testing results to ensure transparency and product safety.
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Local Specialty Shops: Some specialty stores, such as smoke shops and herbal stores, may carry kratom products. However, it's essential to research the shop's reputation and the quality of their products before making a purchase.
Conclusion:
While you can't buy kratom at Walgreens due to the FDA's concerns and lack of regulation, there are alternative options for purchasing kratom. Online retailers, local specialty shops, and farmers' markets may offer access to a variety of kratom products, allowing you to make an informed choice based on product quality and safety. Remember to do your research and consider your health and safety when exploring kratom as a potential supplement.