Kratom and 7-OH products are not FDA-approved and are not legal for retailers to sell.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is raising concerns about kratom and a potent derivative of the plant known as 7-OH.
In a letter issued in January, CDPH stated that kratom and 7-OH products are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration as food products, dietary supplements, or drugs. The department further emphasized that retailers are not permitted to sell these substances in any form intended for consumption.
“Kratom and 7-OH products vary widely in potency, which increases the risk of unexpected effects and contamination,” CDPH wrote. “Therefore, CDPH is warning the public that foods and other products containing kratom and 7-OH are illegal to sell or manufacture for consumption.”
Despite these warnings, kratom and 7-OH products remain widely available in smoke shops and gas stations. They are often marketed as dietary supplements and promoted for relief from chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and opioid withdrawal. While some users believe these substances can be effective when taken in small doses, health officials continue to caution against their use.