Irvine has implemented new regulations on the sale and distribution of synthetic kratom products, becoming the latest Orange County city to address concerns surrounding the substance. The Irvine City Council approved an ordinance that restricts the sale of natural kratom to individuals aged 21 and older and establishes potency limits for kratom products, specifically banning those with more than 2% of the compound 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH).
Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, is known for its stimulant or sedative effects. While natural forms can offer stimulant-like effects in small doses, the compound 7-OH can produce opioid-like effects, particularly when its concentration is artificially elevated in synthetic products. Supporters view kratom as an alternative to prescription painkillers, but critics cite risks associated with concentrated synthetic versions.
The newly enacted ordinance requires retailers to verify customers' ages and prohibits the sale and distribution of synthetic kratom within city limits. Violators face potential misdemeanor charges, fines up to $1,000, or jail time, and retailers risk losing their business licenses. Councilmember Melinda Liu, who initially proposed similar restrictions last year, advocated for proactive measures, stating, "We probably should not be waiting for something bad to happen before we act on it."
However, Vice Mayor James Mai expressed reservations, questioning the necessity of local ordinances given anticipated federal regulations that could classify synthetic kratom compounds as Schedule I controlled substances. He suggested that the number of shops selling such products in Irvine might be minimal.
Irvine's decision follows similar actions by other Orange County cities. Fountain Valley has already banned synthetic kratom, while cities like Los Alamitos, Anaheim, and Huntington Beach have implemented restrictions on products exceeding 2% 7-OH content. Newport Beach, Dana Point, Tustin, and Stanton have enacted broader bans on all kratom product sales. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is also considering classifying the drug as a Schedule I controlled substance, reflecting a growing regulatory focus on kratom at both local and federal levels.