Exploring Scientific Insights and the Legislative Future of Kratom At the Cannon House Office Building

On September 20, 2024, the Cannon House Office Building in Washington, D.C., became a hub of scientific discussion and legislative debate as experts and lawmakers gathered for a Congressional Briefing on Kratom. Hosted in Room 360, this event featured prominent researchers and policymakers who shared the latest scientific insights and legislative perspectives on kratom, a botanical substance that has sparked considerable debate in recent years.

I was thrilled to participate in this insightful scientific briefing on kratom held in Washington, D.C. It was invigorating to hear these esteemed researchers present their findings on the potential benefits and applications of kratom. Their discussions highlighted the significant progress we are making in understanding this botanical substance, and it’s clear that we are at the forefront of groundbreaking research. The possibilities for kratom’s role in various therapeutic areas are truly exciting, and events like this are crucial for advancing our knowledge and informing future innovations.

Understanding the Science Behind Kratom

The briefing on kratom kicked off with a breakfast and registration session at 8:30 AM, followed by opening remarks at 9:00 AM. The event aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of kratom research, addressing both its potential benefits and risks.

Dr. Chris McCurdy, Professor at the University of Florida, led the presentations with his extensive research on kratom’s pharmacology and potential therapeutic applications. His insights were followed by Dr. Jack Henningfield from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, who discussed the safety profile and potential for kratom.

Dr. Ed Boyer, a renowned expert from Ohio State University and a visiting professor at Harvard School of Medicine, explored the complexities of kratom’s chemical makeup and its implications for human health. Dr. Kirsten Smith, also from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, wrapped up the scientific presentations by addressing the socio-behavioral aspects of kratom use and its impact on public health.

The congressional hearing highlighted the importance of focusing on Dr. Chris McCurdy’s presentation regarding the 7OH products, which are not classified as kratom. These products have significant implications in forensic toxicology and other fields.

We were also reminded that 7 Hydroxymitragynine is a metabolite of the kratom drying process. 7 oh is not an actual alkaloid of the kratom leaf.

Legislative Perspectives: A Look at Kratom Regulation

Prior to the scientific presentations, Congressmen Jack Bergman took the stage to provide His perspectives on the legislative landscape surrounding kratom. Congressman Bergman, a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, emphasized the need for balanced regulation that protects public health while ensuring that kratom remains accessible to those who benefit from it. Congressman Pocan highlighted the importance of basing legislative decisions on scientific evidence rather than misinformation or stigma.

Former Senator from New York David Carlucci also weighed in on the significance of the event, stating, “Last week, I had the opportunity to attend an enlightening congressional briefing on Kratom science at the U.S. Capitol. Too often, the complexities surrounding Kratom are overlooked, leaving many policymakers without a clear understanding of the latest scientific research.

Effective legislation requires a solid foundation in fact, and it is critical to educate lawmakers on the need for robust consumer protections. My sincere thanks to Representatives Bergman and Mark Pocan, as well as the American Kratom Association, for organizing such an impactful event.”

The discussion underscored the critical role of research in informing policy, particularly for substances like kratom that are both widely used and heavily debated. Both lawmakers and Senator Carlucci expressed their commitment to supporting research initiatives that will help clarify kratom’s safety and efficacy, ultimately guiding appropriate regulatory measures.

Personal Stories and Advocacy

The briefing on kratom was not only a platform for scientific and legislative discourse but also a space for personal testimonies. Melody Woolf shared an emotional account of how kratom significantly improved her family’s well-being, enabling her to be more active and present in her grandchildren’s lives. Similarly, Heidi Sykora, a retired DNP, testified about how kratom has been transformative for her health and quality of life.

These personal stories added a powerful human element to the scientific data and legislative discussions, highlighting the real-world impact of kratom on individuals and families across the country.

Advocacy Group “Forgotten Not Gone” Testifies on Kratom’s Benefits for Veterans

During the Congressional Briefing on Kratom, the advocacy group Forgotten Not Gone provided powerful testimony on how kratom has positively impacted the lives of veterans. Representing a community that has long struggled with mental health issues, the group highlighted the significant role kratom has played in improving the quality of life for many veterans.

Forgotten Not Gone is dedicated to supporting veterans who have been affected by PTSD, and other service-related conditions. They testified that, for many veterans, kratom has been a safer alternative to traditional medications, offering relief without the debilitating side effects often associated with pharmaceuticals. They emphasized that kratom has not only helped veterans manage their issues but has also contributed to reducing dependency and improving mental health outcomes.

The group’s testimony underscored the urgent need for continued access to kratom, advocating for fair regulation that recognizes its therapeutic potential.

They called on lawmakers to consider the voices of those who have found hope and relief through kratom, urging a balanced approach to regulation that would allow veterans and others to benefit from its use safely and responsibly. Their heartfelt plea highlighted the importance of listening to the experiences of those who have found solace in this natural botanical, particularly as legislative discussions continue to shape the future of kratom’s legality and availability.

A Step Forward for Kratom

The Congressional Briefing on Kratom was a landmark event, bringing together diverse voices to discuss the future of this controversial yet potentially beneficial substance. As research continues to unfold, events like this play a crucial role in fostering a nuanced understanding of kratom and shaping the policies that govern its use.

For those who could not attend in person, the American Kratom Association (AKA) streamed the event live on their YouTube channel, ensuring broader access to this important dialogue. The AKA, a consumer-based non-profit organization, has been at the forefront of advocating for the safe and responsible use of kratom, representing the nearly 20 million Americans who use it annually.

Conclusion – Scientific Briefing on Kratom

The Congressional Briefing on Kratom marked a significant step toward a more informed and balanced approach to kratom regulation. With input from leading scientists, dedicated lawmakers, and affected individuals, the event highlighted the complexity of the issue and the need for continued research and dialogue. As the legislative outlook for kratom evolves, the insights shared at this briefing on kratom will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of kratom policy in the United States.

For more information about the event and to watch the recorded briefing on kratom, visit the American Kratom Association’s YouTube channel. To learn more about the AKA and their efforts to protect consumer rights, visit www.americankratom.org. You can Watch the briefing on kratom below.