In many convenience stores throughout Alabama you can small packets labeled to assist with relaxation and pain. Sometimes they also promote being natural or holistic. Numerous products contain a substance called kratom, which is outlawed in the State of Alabama. The herbal extract contains psychoactive compounds that act on the body similarly to opioids, posing risks of addiction, abuse, and serious health consequences.

Attorney General Steve Marshall this week, announced that the Office of the Attorney General has issued a Cease-and-Desist order directed at businesses currently possessing or selling products containing mitragynine and/or hydroxymitragynine (commonly known as Kratom) which are Schedule I controlled substances under Alabama law. The action followed independent laboratory testing that confirmed the presence of these illegal substances in products currently on store shelves across the state.

Products including. "Boujee Bliss," "Better Weather," and "Happy Hour"—marketed for pain relief and relaxation—were tested by an internationally accredited laboratory and confirmed to contain Kratom with no notice given to the consumer. These products, along with any similar items containing mitragynine or hydroxymitragynine, are illegal to possess, sell, or offer for sale in Alabama under Ala. Code § 20-2-23 (1975), regardless of how they are marketed or labeled.

"Alabama will not be a marketplace for dangerous, illegal substances regardless of what they are called or how they are packaged," said Attorney General Steve Marshall. “These products prey on unsuspecting consumers, including children, who have no way of knowing what they are purchasing. We are putting every retailer on notice that they need to remove these products immediately. Those who choose to ignore this order will face the full force of the law, including seizure of assets and felony prosecution."

Businesses that continue to sell or possess these products face serious legal consequences, including seizure and forfeiture of contraband, property, proceeds, and assets under Ala. Code § 20-2-93 (1975); felony prosecution under applicable Alabama law; and civil liability for violations of the Alabama Deceptive Trade Practices Act, Ala. Code § 8-19-1 (1975).

The letter warns consumers that product labels for these items may not fully disclose all ingredients, meaning purchasers may unknowingly possess a controlled substance and are at risk of experiencing adverse health events upon ingestion. The public is urged to exercise caution and avoid purchasing any product suspected of containing kratom-derived compounds.

The Attorney General's Office is coordinating enforcement efforts with local district attorneys and law enforcement agencies statewide to identify and remove these products from the market. Businesses with questions regarding compliance are encouraged to contact the Office of the Attorney General at CeaseAndDesist@AlabamaAG.gov.