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Global Kratom Coalition Applauds New AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook Entry for Kratom

New entry will bring certainty to the industry and aid consumer confidence

July 18, 2024 11:52 AM
EDT
(EZ Newswire)
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The Global Kratom Coalition celebrates the recent publication of a new entry for kratom (Mitragyna speciosa [Korth.] Havil.) in the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) online Botanical Safety Handbook, 2nd edition. 

This entry details the pharmacological and toxicological profile of this herb, as well as clinical investigations and case reports of adverse effects. The entry also includes information relevant to the traditional use of kratom in Southeast Asia, marking a significant milestone in the botanical industry and for kratom.

"The inclusion of kratom in the AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook not only underscores kratom’s safety profile but also significantly enhances manufacturers', healthcare providers', and consumers' understanding of kratom," said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition. “It’s important to note that not all kratom is the equal, so this is a significant step that will aid all stakeholders by setting a precedent for the consistent and safe availability of kratom products. Consumers can now make informed choices, knowing that kratom has been scrutinized and appropriately classified for safety."

The entry classifies kratom as not to be used during pregnancy (Safety Class 2b) or while nursing (Safety Class 2c), and notes the potential for biologically plausible interactions with other substances (Interaction Class B).

The AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook is an invaluable resource for manufacturers, health professionals, and consumers. It provides detailed safety information on over 500 species of herbs. Subscribers to the online version can access updated entries and revisions, ensuring they have the most current information available.

For more information on obtaining a subscription or purchasing a hard copy of the Botanical Safety Handbook, please visit the AHPA website.

About the Global Kratom Coalition

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) exists to protect and expand access to leaf-based kratom around the world. The organization represents the interests of advocates committed to positive change benefiting consumers. The organization supports education and the development of kratom science, which is central to the GKC’s mission—to empower individuals worldwide with access to safe and responsibly sourced kratom products by advancing scientific research and sensible regulation.

The GKC operates on five key values:

  • Access: The belief that individuals should have a choice as to how they look after their health, informed by the latest unbiased information available.
  • Education: Providing accurate, evidence-based information about kratom (including on our website), allowing consumers to make informed decisions.
  • Advocacy: Serving as a united voice for kratom consumers worldwide, seeking fair and sensible regulations that prioritize consumer safety, freedom of information, and good sourcing and manufacturing practices.
  • Community: Fostering a global group of enthusiasts, experts, vendors, and advocates to promote the benefits of kratom and fight for informed and responsible use.
  • Responsibility: Promoting the responsible use of kratom and encouraging vendors to adhere to strict quality and safety standards so that consumers have access to products that are safe, well-manufactured, and appropriately labeled.

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