Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) remains legal in Tennessee as of mid‑2025, but the state is facing mounting pressure to constrain its sale and use. A 2017 Attorney General’s opinion made it clear that the botanical form, whole leaves, powders, or crushed leaves, is not a controlled substance under Tennessee law. Adults aged 21 and over can legally purchase and possess kratom, provided it remains natural and unadulterated. The law prohibits synthetic or chemically enhanced forms of kratom alkaloids, making products with lab-made mitragynine illegal and potentially punishable as a misdemeanor . Vendors are also required to label products clearly, distinguishing natural leaf forms from non-natural derivatives.
However, the future of kratom in Tennessee is far from settled. In April 2025, the legislature passed House Joint Resolution 147, signaling strong support for either strict regulation or a full ban, a direct response to reported kratom-related harms, including one fatality in Hamilton County. Backed unanimously in the Senate and signed by Governor Bill Lee on May 2, HJR 147 reflects a clear legislative intent to revisit kratom’s legal standing. With this political momentum and historic scrutiny, Tennessee may soon move from permissive use toward tighter regulation or outright prohibition, making it vital for consumers, vendors, and advocates to stay engaged.
What is Kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree grown in regions such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Papua New Guinea. Its leaves contain active alkaloids, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which produce dose-dependent effects. At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, enhancing energy and focus, while at higher doses, it can induce sedation, euphoria, and pain relief, resembling opioid effects. Traditionally used in Southeast Asia for pain relief, fatigue management, and opioid withdrawal support, kratom is sold in the U.S. as powders, capsules, extracts, or beverages, available in smoke shops, vape stores, kava bars, and online.
Despite its growing popularity, kratom is controversial due to its potential for addiction, overdose, and adverse effects, particularly when adulterated with synthetic substances. The lack of federal regulation has led to a patchwork of state laws, with Tennessee implementing specific rules to govern its use.
Is Kratom Legal in Tennessee?
As of June 2025, kratom is legal to purchase, possess, and use in Tennessee for individuals aged 21 and older, provided it is in its natural botanical form. This legal status was clarified through Public Chapter 1040, passed in 2018, which distinguishes natural kratom (whole leaf, crushed leaf, or powdered leaf) from synthetic or adulterated forms. Key regulations include:
- Age Restriction: It is illegal to sell, distribute, or possess kratom to or by individuals under 21. Violating this restriction is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.
- Natural Form Requirement: Kratom products must be free of synthetic alkaloids (e.g., synthetic mitragynine or 7-hydroxymitragynine) or other dangerous substances like fentanyl. Products containing these are illegal and subject to criminal penalties.
- Labeling Requirements: Vendors must accurately label kratom products, including ingredient lists, dosage instructions, and warnings (e.g., not for use by pregnant or nursing women, those under 21, or with alcohol/medications).
These regulations reflect Tennessee’s adoption of elements of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA), introduced via Senate Bill 2258 in 2019, which aimed to ensure consumer safety through age limits, product purity, and transparency. Unlike states with comprehensive KCPA laws (e.g., Utah, Georgia), Tennessee’s regulations focus primarily on age and purity, with less emphasis on mandatory testing or manufacturing standards.
Local Regulations
As of June 2025, no counties or municipalities in Tennessee have imposed local bans on kratom, making it legal statewide, including in major cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga. This uniformity contrasts with states like Florida, where local bans (e.g., Sarasota County) exist. However, users should remain vigilant, as local ordinances could emerge in response to public health concerns.
Recent Legislative Developments
Tennessee’s kratom laws have evolved through several key milestones, balancing consumer access with safety concerns:
- 2014 Legislation: Tennessee passed laws targeting synthetic drugs, which initially created confusion about kratom’s legality. Some interpreted these laws as implicating kratom, but the 2017 Attorney General’s opinion clarified that natural kratom is legal, while synthetic forms are not.
- 2017 Attorney General Opinion: Issued to address confusion, this statement confirmed that possessing kratom in its natural botanical form does not subject individuals to criminal prosecution under Tennessee law.
- 2018 Public Chapter 1040: This legislation explicitly legalized natural kratom, set the 21-and-over age restriction, and prohibited synthetic or adulterated products, reducing ambiguity for consumers, retailers, and law enforcement.
- 2019 Senate Bill 2258 (KCPA): Introduced to regulate kratom sales, this bill established age restrictions, labeling requirements, and bans on adulterated products. It laid the foundation for Tennessee’s current framework, though it is less comprehensive than KCPA laws in other states.
- 2021 House and Senate Bills: Proposed bills aimed to restrict kratom sales to licensed retailers and limit package sizes to 5–7 ounces (140–200 grams). These measures, intended to curb bulk purchasing and enhance oversight, did not pass but reflect ongoing regulatory interest.
- 2023 House Bill 861 (HB 861): This bill sought to strengthen KCPA provisions by prohibiting kratom products with:
- Dangerous non-kratom substances or adulterants.
- Residual solvents exceeding U.S. Pharmacopeia limits.
- 7-hydroxymitragynine levels above 2% of the alkaloid fraction.
- Synthetic alkaloids.
- Inadequate labeling for safe use. Penalties included a $500 fine for a first offense (Class B misdemeanor) and a $2,500 fine for subsequent offenses (Class A misdemeanor). The bill was deferred to 2023 but did not become law.
- 2025 House Joint Resolution 147 (HJR 147): Passed in February 2025 and signed by the governor in May 2025, this resolution, sponsored by Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes, advocates for stricter regulation or a potential statewide ban on kratom. It cites health risks, including a reported fatal interaction in Chattanooga involving kratom and prescription medication. While not a law, HJR 147 signals potential future restrictions and reflects growing public health concerns.
These developments indicate Tennessee’s ongoing effort to balance kratom’s availability with safety, driven by concerns about adulterated products and health risks.
Federal Context and Kratom’s Legal Landscape
At the federal level, kratom is not classified as a controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), though it is listed as a “drug of concern” since June 2020. A 2016 DEA proposal to classify kratom as a Schedule I substance was withdrawn due to public backlash. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has consistently warned against kratom use, citing risks of liver toxicity, seizures, and substance use disorder. The FDA has not approved kratom as a drug, dietary supplement, or food additive, deeming products containing kratom adulterated under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Without federal regulation, kratom’s legality varies by state:
- States with Bans: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin prohibit kratom entirely.
- States with KCPA Laws: Utah, Georgia, Arizona, Nevada, and others have comprehensive KCPA laws, requiring testing and labeling standards. Tennessee’s KCPA is less stringent, focusing on age and purity.
- States with Age Restrictions: Like Tennessee, South Dakota and New Hampshire set a minimum age of 21 or 18, respectively.
Tennessee’s approach aligns with states prioritizing regulated access over outright bans, though its regulations are less robust than those in states like Utah.
Health and Safety Considerations
Kratom’s legal status in Tennessee is closely tied to concerns about its safety and potential for abuse. Below are key health considerations:
Reported Benefits
Advocates, including the American Kratom Association (AKA), highlight kratom’s potential benefits:
- Pain Relief: Kratom’s alkaloids may alleviate chronic pain, appealing to those seeking alternatives to opioids.
- Opioid Withdrawal Support: Some users report kratom helps manage withdrawal symptoms, though no FDA-approved medical use exists.
- Mood and Energy Enhancement: Low doses may boost energy, focus, and well-being, similar to caffeine.
Risks and Side Effects
Health authorities, including the FDA and CDC, emphasize significant risks:
- Addiction and Dependence: Regular use, especially at high doses, can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms like irritability, nausea, and cravings.
- Overdose Risk: The CDC reported 91 kratom-related overdose deaths nationwide from 2016–2017, often involving other substances like fentanyl or alcohol. In Tennessee, incidents like the Chattanooga death cited in HJR 147 highlight risks when kratom is combined with medications. A kratom lawyer can help families fight for compensation.
- Adulteration: A 2024 Global Kratom Coalition investigation found Tennessee products marketed as kratom containing synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is not naturally present in kratom leaves and poses significant risks.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, constipation, dizziness, and, in rare cases, liver toxicity or seizures. Neonatal abstinence syndrome has been reported in newborns exposed to kratom in utero.
Addiction Treatment in Tennessee
For those struggling with kratom dependence, Tennessee offers treatment options through facilities like Cumberland Heights or Bradford Health Services, which provide medical detox, inpatient, and outpatient programs. Early intervention is critical for addressing kratom addiction.
Practical Guidance for Kratom Users in Tennessee
For individuals considering kratom use in Tennessee, here are key guidelines to ensure compliance and safety:
- Adhere to Age Restrictions: Only individuals 21 and older can legally purchase or possess kratom. Retailers violating this rule face misdemeanor charges, so verify vendor compliance.
- Purchase Natural Kratom: Ensure products are 100% natural, free of synthetic alkaloids or adulterants. Avoid capsules, extracts, or beverages with added flavorings or substances, as these may violate Tennessee law.
- Choose Reputable Vendors: Buy from vendors adhering to AKA’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), offering third-party testing for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, or pathogens. Reputable online vendors like Kats Botanicals, The Kratom Company, or Kona Kratom emphasize purity and compliance.
- Retain Labels: Keep product labels intact, especially when traveling, to demonstrate compliance with Tennessee’s labeling requirements. Missing labels could lead to misunderstandings with authorities.
- Consult Healthcare Professionals: Speak with a doctor before using kratom, particularly if you have medical conditions or take medications, as kratom may interact with other substances.
- Monitor Legislative Changes: Stay informed about bills like HJR 147, which advocates for stricter regulations or a potential ban. Check the Tennessee General Assembly (www.capitol.tn.gov) or AKA (www.americankratom.org) for updates.
The Future of Kratom in Tennessee
Tennessee’s kratom laws face an uncertain future due to recent developments like HJR 147, which signals growing legislative concern about kratom’s safety. The resolution’s reference to a fatal incident in Chattanooga and its call for stricter regulation or a ban suggest that lawmakers may revisit kratom’s legal status in 2026. Advocacy groups like the AKA and Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) are pushing for enhanced KCPA regulations, including mandatory testing and labeling, to ensure product safety without banning kratom outright.
Public sentiment on platforms like X is mixed, with some users supporting kratom’s benefits and others highlighting its risks or referencing unrelated bans (e.g., posts about other substances being illegal in Tennessee). These posts are inconclusive and reflect individual opinions rather than verified facts.
At the federal level, the DEA’s ongoing scrutiny and FDA’s warnings could lead to a nationwide ban or classification of kratom as a controlled substance, which would override Tennessee’s laws. For now, Tennessee remains a buyer-friendly state for kratom, but users and vendors should prepare for potential regulatory changes.
Conclusion
Kratom is legal in Tennessee for individuals aged 21 and older, provided it is in its natural botanical form, as clarified by Public Chapter 1040 (2018) and reinforced by the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (SB 2258, 2019). Regulations prohibit synthetic or adulterated products and mandate accurate labeling, but Tennessee’s framework is less comprehensive than KCPA laws in other states. No local bans exist, making kratom accessible statewide, though recent legislative efforts like HJR 147 (2025) signal potential future restrictions due to health concerns.
Users should purchase from reputable vendors, ensure products are natural and lab-tested, and stay informed about legal developments. For those facing kratom dependence, treatment options are available through facilities like Cumberland Heights (800-646-9998). As Tennessee navigates the balance between access and safety, kratom’s future will depend on advocacy, research, and legislative action.
For updates on kratom laws, visit the Tennessee General Assembly (www.capitol.tn.gov) (www.capitol.tn.gov) or the American Kratom Association (www.americankratom.org) (www.americankratom.org).
For those harmed by kratom, legal recourse is available under Georgia’s product liability and wrongful death laws. Our Kratom Lawsuit Attorneys can guide related claims, though consulting a Georgia kratom attorney is advised. Fill out our secure contact form today to explore your legal options and navigate Georgia’s evolving kratom landscape.
Sources
- Kats Botanicals, “Kratom Legal in Tennessee in 2025: What You Need to Know,” October 17, 2024.
- Sprout Health Group, “Is Kratom Legal? Kratom Legality by State,” October 28, 2020.
- Choice Botanicals, “Is Kratom Legal in Tennessee? Full Facts,” March 15, 2024.
- Kraoma, “Is Kratom Legal In Tennessee,” July 25, 2021.
- Bicycle Health, “Kratom Use Statistics & Legality By State,” February 21, 2023.