La Quinta becomes first city to pass regulations on ‘Kratom’ substance

LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) - Kratom, an herbal substance often found in energy drinks and pills at gas stations, will now face new regulations in La Quinta.

La Quinta City Council passed ordinance chapter 5.94, passing new limits on the Kratom substance that is derived from the tropical tree, Mitragyna speciosa.

Narcotics expert say the substance can have similar affects as opioids, creating withdrawals, dependency and in some cases, overdoses.

According to the California Narcotics Association, "7-OH, the psychoactive component of kratom leaves, is being synthetically concentrated into various products that are sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and other retail and online venues in the county."

The ordinance will set a minimum age limit of 21 to purchase the drug, a maximum potency limit and prohibit advertising that appeals to minors.

Tonight, News Channel 3 is speaking with officials and experts more.