Kratom vendors and U.S. advocacy groups, notably the American Kratom Association and the Botanical Education Alliance, got together for the first time yesterday in Atlanta for a seminar and strategy session on the future of kratom in this country. I am writing this without hearing the feedback from any of the more than 50 leaders who took the time to participate, but I feel certain that good things will come from this momentous meeting.
Here's why: The few real issues with the use, processing, packaging, and marketing of this herb are solvable; and this gathering empowered the industry players to decide what needs to be done for the continued growth of their businesses and the benefits for consumers.
Those who have run successful kratom selling companies know some things that others in this growing industry need to learn. I expect the wisdom and best practices that are necessary to stay legal and largely unmolested by the FDA will be published and shared as a result of this summit, for the benefit of all who wish to be successful in this challenging arena. This information is much-needed and should be welcomed by both vendors and consumers who have an interest in keeping this herb legal.
It is unfortunate that the FDA has chosen not to play a constructive role -- so far -- in this process. I think they are going to find they have positioned themselves on the wrong side of the tide of history, in an effort to suppress a correct understanding of this unique botanical and its potential for improving the lives of hundreds of millions of Americans.
The truth is getting out. Now, the public needs to do its part in learning the simple rules for successful use of this plant -- after years of FDA disinformation, which led some to mistakenly abuse kratom.
Knowledge is Power. I foresee the knowledge that comes out of this important "meeting of the minds" of the kratom industry will bring positive changes for the health and wellbeing of this nation (and eventually, perhaps, the world).
Many thanks to Happy Hippo Herbals for the use of this image:

Today, leaders from 50+ companies met at the American Kratom Association's Summit in Atlanta to discuss the issues in our industry.

With your support, this is a battle that we ACTUALLY should win.

We have the numbers, we are better organized, and the truth is on our side. pic.twitter.com/2cApM3JxJ2

— Good Looking Loser🇺🇸 (@GoodLookingLosr) May 1, 2018