What is Kratom

Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia.  Its leaves contain psychoactive compounds - most notably mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine - which can produce both stimulant and sedative effects depending on the dose.  Kratom may be sold in powders, capsules, extracts, beverages, or other ingestible forms.

Health authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have raised significant concerns about kratom.  Reported effects include:

*Nausea, vomiting, irritability, and agitation
*Rapid heart rate and changes in blood pressure
*Sedation and respiratory depression
*Seizures and, in rare cases, hemorrhagic stroke
*Symptoms of dependence or withdrawal when used frequently or at high doses

The FDA has stated that kratom is not lawfully marketed in the United States as a drug, dietary supplement, or a food additive.  The DEA has classified kratom as a "drug and chemical of concern."

Kratom Regulations

The Foxborough Board of Health, following the March 2, 2026, public hearing adopted a new regulation titled "Restricting the Manufacturing, Sale, and Distribution of Kratom."  This action was taken to protect the health and safety of our community based on growing concerns about the health risks associated with kratom products.  The Board of Health may reconsider this regulation if federal guidance changes, new scientific information becomes available, or upon citizen petition.