BANGKOK-
The Thai House of Representatives has voted to legalize kratom by removing the plant from the prohibited narcotics list as of yesterday afternoon.
The measure will not become official, however, until 90 days after being published in the Royal Gazette. This will give time for certain laws to be developed around the herb, primarily geared to preventing youth from having access and to avoid substance abuse.
The measure to delist kratom won by 319 yes votes to 7 no votes.
According to the Minister of Justice, Somsak Thepsuthin, this change will allow people to consume the herb legally without restrictions, save for those restricting access to minors. Of course, it does not go into effect until after it is published in the Royal Gazette and after 90 days.
The Thai government hopes that the legalization of the plant will boost Thailand’s economy and provide better economic opportunities for many, especially farmers.
Mitragyna speciosa, as it is technically known, is a tree native to Southeast Asia. It has been used in herbal medicines for a long period of time and has opioid properties and effects similar to stimulants.
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