Sharing Kratom Experiences with the FDA: Advocacy and Public Comments
Posted by Laughing Lion Herbs on 23rd May 2020
The original campaign described here is in the past. Check a current official notice and its deadline before submitting comments or contacting officials about a specific proposal.
This article originally encouraged kratom consumers to share their experiences as part of an advocacy campaign. Laughing Lion Herbs continues to support informed participation and research. We have updated the guidance so readers can distinguish an old campaign from an open official comment opportunity.
Advocacy and Agency Positions
The American Kratom Association advocates for consumer access and protections. The FDA has expressed concerns about kratom. Disagreement between an advocacy group and a regulator does not, on its own, establish a financial motive or prove either side’s interpretation of the evidence.
Our original discussion included allegations about motives and a past request for a meeting. We are not presenting those allegations or that historical meeting status as verified current facts.
Find the Right Official Channel
The FDA’s Regulations.gov instructions explain how to find a docket and submit an electronic comment. Confirm that the topic is relevant and the docket is open. Follow its instructions and deadline; this article does not identify a particular kratom docket as currently accepting comments.
Make Your Comment Useful
State the policy issue, explain your own experience and identify the change you are requesting. Provide study citations when making a research-based point. A survey, laboratory experiment and clinical trial answer different questions, and none should be described as stronger evidence than it is.
Comments may be publicly visible. Read the docket instructions before sharing identifying or medical details, and avoid including another person’s information without their permission. The FDA provides information about posting comments.
A personal story is appropriate context for advocacy. It should not be framed as proof that kratom cures disease or replaces medical treatment.
Personal Experience and Research
A personal account can explain why a policy matters to you. It cannot establish that kratom treats a condition, replaces prescribed care or is safe for everyone. Share both positive and negative experiences honestly, and distinguish published research from interpretation. Our kratom research guide provides study details and limitations.
We support clear labeling, transparent testing, responsible manufacturing and continued research. Read our GMP guide to understand what manufacturing programs do and do not establish.