Even if kratom has made its presence known in Canada for quite some time, it’s still in a gray area. It’s natural for people to ask if kratom is legal in Ontario, when Canadian laws about it remain unclear. But what is precisely the legal status of kratom?
Is Kratom Legal in Canada?
Let’s start with the basics first before we narrow down to a specific area. In general, yes, kratom is legal in Canada. There are no laws that ban the presence of kratom in Canada.
However, beneath the surface of legality is a complex web of scenarios. Kratom is legal for personal use and possession, yes. However, the sale, distribution, and other activities involving the botanical is considered illegal.
Although the substance is not criminally prohibited, there are still some conditions. As of October 2020, Health Canada tagged the botanical as an “unauthorized health product.” This means marketing kratom for any use by ingestion is not allowed.
Is Kratom legal in Ontario?
We understand why you’re asking is kratom legal in Ontario. Canada is a large country and we have so many provinces that have their own set of laws. That’s what makes Canada great. Because some conditions and environments require specific laws to make your province a better place to live in.
Just like in the US, where there are specific laws when it comes to botanicals like kratom. To ease your mind about this, the simple answer is:
Yes. Kratom is legal in Ontario.
However, the same umbrella rule. Sale, distribution, and marketing of it for human consumption are not allowed.
Why is kratom’s legality in Ontario put into question?
That’s because kratom is a potent ethnobotanical. The reason for that is the two alkaloids present which are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. They’ve undergone several studies similar to the one published in the National Library of Medicine. These studies show that the alkaloids show similarities to how our body reacts with opioids.
Currently, many professionals are conducting research on the benefits of kratom for human. However, these studies remain inconclusive, which is why the government is still putting its foot down. There are also instances wherein the misuse and abuse of kratom has led to undesirable and even tragic results.
As of now, Health Canada and CFIA have made a statement that kratom is safe as long as you don’t ingest it. So, in effect, you can buy kratom legally in Ontario, whether in powdered form or capsule.
You might be saying now: but there are some claims on the benefits of Kratom. That is also true. However, those are purely anecdotal. So far, scientific-based studies have varying findings, so they’re not 100% reliable.
The challenge here is that although some claim kratom is beneficial to them, they didn’t document their research. Every governing body will always rely on facts that come from objective data. Something that you can measure and test repeatedly to get the same results. Since no scientific data can support those claims, they will be inadmissible.
Why is the Government so Careful with Kratom?
Every botanical substance that has benefits also has some serious side effects. Since they show opiate-similar effects, it’s being studied as a possible solution for opioid addiction. Unfortunately, the risks are also high. When taken too much or used indiscriminately, kratom can result in:
- Constipation
- Anorexia nervosa (lack of appetite)
- Insomnia
- Hyperpigmentation
One major side-effect is addiction. Kratom is banned in Thailand because of this.
Will the Legality of Kratom in Ontario Change?
No one knows if the status of Kratom in the province will improve or not. What we do know is that there’s a movement to make kratom acceptable in Canada. The result can vary depending on the tides, so always keep tabs on it. Especially if you’re traveling.
Can I Bring Kratom to Ontario?
Usually, one of the reasons why people ask if is kratom legal in Ontario is they’re traveling to or inside the province.
If you’re from the US, where kratom is also legal, and plan to bring kratom here, you’re allowed. However, be prepared to ask questions. There’s also a possibility you’ll undergo some tests depending on how the investigation goes. To be on the safe side, leave your kratom where you are now. Many reputable online vendors in Canada can support your research.
Where can I buy Kratom in Canada?
There are several kratom Ontario vendors to look at. Do note that because kratom is legal, there will be some scrupulous vendors around. That’s one of the reasons why this botanical is getting a bad rep.
Some vendors jump into the kratom bandwagon and carelessly import kratom without doing their research. The result is you get poor quality, inconsistent, and even contaminated products.
To ensure your safety and research success, get your botanicals only from licensed vendors. Know where they get their kratom and how long they’ve been in the business. Ask for lab testing that shows the quality, purity, and safety of the product.
Also, the company should observe proper labeling. The package should state it’s not fit for human consumption. If it promotes otherwise, don’t use it. You’ve more likely made a transaction with a shady vendor, and that product is not safe.
How Old Should I Be to Order Kratom in Canada?
You have to at least 18 years of age to order kratom in Canada. In some vendors, the lowest age is 19. Make sure to check the terms and conditions of different vendors before you order. Some make their conditions known on the front page, some on the order page, and others in their terms and conditions.
Is Kratom Legal in Ontario Conclusion
TL;DR; yes, kratom is legal in Ontario. Provided that it’s not sold, marketed, or used for human consumption. A company can get penalized for improper labelling of kratom based on Health Canada laws and regulations. A company can also deny your business when they see you won’t be using kratom for research.
Also, take note that laws can change. There is some research underway that aims to help make kratom 100% legal in Canada. However, some incidences can cause the government to backpedal. So, keep an eye on the kratom legalities in Ontario as you do your research.
Will you be travelling to Ontario, which is why you’re asking if kratom is legal in Ontario? Or are you a budding researcher who intends to study kratom? Let us know in the comment section!