Kratom Infoboard

What is Kratom?

Kratom is the common name for the leaf of a tropical tree called Mitragyna speciosa. It contains chemicals that can affect the brain. One of these chemicals, called 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), acts like a powerful opioid. 

Both kratom and 7-OH can be dangerous. They may cause addiction, serious harm, overdose, and death.

Health Risks and Dangers

While there are claims that kratom and 7-OH can help with pain, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal, these claims are not proven.

Kratom and 7-OH can cause serious side effects, including:

  • Withdrawal symptoms
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Anxiety
  • Seizures
  • Slow or stopped breathing, which can be fatal 

Ways to Protect Yourself and Your Family

  • Avoid buying or consuming products with kratom or 7-OH.
  • Kratom and 7-OH products are typically sold as beverages, shots, powders, tablets, capsules and gummies.
  • Carry naloxone. Naloxone is a life-saving medication used to reverse an opioid overdose. Naloxone is available at the Fresno County Department of Public Health and Community Regional Medical Center at no cost (while supplies last), or at local pharmacies.
  • Have open conversations with teens about kratom. Products may be marketed as “natural” or “safe,” which can be misleading. Talking early and often helps teens understand the real risks and make informed choices.
  • Kratom addiction symptoms parents need to look out for include, but are not limited to:
    • Mood changes, such as anxiety or depression
    • Strong urges or cravings to use kratom

For Emergencies:

  • Call 911
  • California Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 (24/7)

If you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking kratom or 7-OH, there are Medication-Assisted Treatments (MAT) that can help. You can contact the Fresno County Access Line for more information: 1-800-654-3937

Fresno County Kratom Law

The Fresno County Kratom Law goes into effect on January 8, 2026, and allows the sale of kratom leaf and some kratom products in the unincorporated areas of Fresno County. Only businesses or individuals authorized to sell tobacco products are allowed to sell kratom, and all sellers must follow the rules listed below. 

  • Kratom cannot be sold, shared, or given to anyone under 21 years old.
  • Kratom products cannot have 2% or more of 7-OH in the total alkaloids.
  • Kratom products cannot contain synthetic or chemically changed substances.
  • Products cannot be sold if labels are missing, changed, or used to hide ingredients.
  • Sellers must check ID to confirm age before selling kratom.
  • Kratom products cannot be packaged to attract children. This includes cartoons, toys, characters, candy-like images, or packaging that looks like snacks or foods for kids (such as candy, cereal, or chips).

Penalties for Violations

Violations of the Fresno County kratom ordinance may result in administrative fines:

  • First violation: $1,000

  • Second occurrence of the same violation (within one year of the first violation): $2,000

  • Third or subsequent occurrence of the same violation (within one year of the first violation): $3,000

Additional Consequences may include:

  • Civil lawsuits, including injunctive relief.

  • Possible business license revocation, if applicable.

  • Enforcement by the County Health Officer.

Individuals harmed by violations may file private lawsuits seeking:

  • Actual damages of $1,000 minimum per violation, whichever is greater.

  • Liable for reasonable attorney's fees and costs of litigation.

  • A jury or court may award punitive damages where warranted.

 

Resources

To report illegal sales:

  • Fresno County Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Division: 559-600-3357

For more Kratom information:

Educational Material

Kratom - Frequently Asked Questions

Kratom - Factsheet for Retailers

Back to top