On Tuesday night, the Cocoa City Council approved a new rule regarding the sale of kava and kratom, two substances often used in tea and considered by some as alternatives to alcohol.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) provides insights into kratom, describing it as potentially acting as a stimulant in low doses or a sedative in high doses. Kava, on the other hand, is noted for producing mild euphoria and acting as a sedative.

In Florida, unregulated establishments known as kava and kratom bars have been gaining popularity. The recent Cocoa ordinance now mandates that any business selling these substances must be located at least 500 feet away from schools, parks, playgrounds, and religious institutions.

During the council’s discussion, Manny Martinez, who sells kratom tea from his food truck, expressed his perspective. He likened kava to a solution that could help deter individuals from alcohol and other drugs. Martinez emphasized that, in his view, these substances are not drugs and highlighted the potential impact of the new rules on him as a resident of Cocoa.

The city’s rationale for these regulations is to limit exposure, drawing parallels with restrictions on alcohol sales. Samantha Senger, representing the city of Cocoa, explained that due to many unknowns and a lack of extensive federal regulations, the city aims to ensure that the youth in their community do not have direct exposure to these substances.

In essence, the new rules reflect a balance between public health considerations and individual perspectives on the use of kava and kratom, seeking to regulate their sale in proximity to specific sensitive locations within the community.

What Is Kava? Why Regulate It?

Kava is a traditional beverage made from the root of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), native to the South Pacific. While kava has been consumed for centuries in the Pacific Islands for its sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, there have been reports of adverse effects associated with its use. It’s important to note that the safety of kava can depend on various factors, including the specific type of kava, method of preparation, and individual differences in metabolism. Here are some of the known dangers and concerns associated with kava use:

The most significant concern with kava is the potential for liver damage. There have been reports of liver toxicity associated with the consumption of certain kava products. In some cases, this has led to severe injury, including hepatitis and liver failure. Due to these reports, several countries have restricted or banned the sale of kava.

The quality of kava products can vary, and there have been concerns about the potential contamination of kava supplements with molds or other substances that could contribute to adverse effects. Kava may interact with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver. Combining kava with drugs that affect the liver increases the risk of adverse effects. Individuals taking medications should consult with their healthcare provider before using kava.

In some cases, long-term and excessive use of kava has been associated with a condition known as “kava dermopathy,” which can cause dry, scaly, and discolored skin.

High doses of kava may cause drowsiness, muscle weakness, and impaired coordination. It is advised not to operate heavy machinery or engage in activities that require alertness until the effects are fully understood.

What Is Kratom? Why Regulate It?

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves have been traditionally used for various purposes, including as a stimulant at low doses and a sedative at higher doses. Kratom contains alkaloids that can interact with opioid receptors in the brain, leading to a range of effects. The primary active compounds in kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine.

The safety of kratom is a subject of ongoing research and debate. While some people use kratom for its perceived benefits, such as pain relief or mood enhancement, there are potential risks associated with its use. Regular use of kratom has been associated with the development of dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Some individuals have reported addiction to kratom, and discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms similar to those of opioids.

Kratom can cause various side effects, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, itching, and increased heart rate. At higher doses, it may lead to sedation and respiratory depression. Like kava, the quality and safety of kratom products can vary, and there have been reports of contamination with harmful substances, including bacteria, fungi, and heavy metals.

Kratom can interact with certain medications, and individuals taking prescription medications should exercise caution. Kratom may have effects on liver enzymes involved in drug metabolism, similar to kava, potentially affecting the levels of co-administered drugs. In some cases, individuals have experienced adverse events, including seizures and fatalities, associated with kratom use. The risk of deadly overdose appears to be higher when kratom is used in combination with other substances.

Kratom has the potential to interact with medications similarly to kava. Both substances can affect liver enzymes, potentially influencing the metabolism of co-administered drugs. Individuals taking medications should consult with their healthcare provider before using kratom to ensure that there are no potential adverse interactions.

It’s important to note that the regulatory status of kratom varies globally, and some countries and states have implemented restrictions or bans on its sale and use due to safety concerns.