If you've seen products labeled as kratom, "plant alkaloids," or "botanical supplements" in stores or online, it's important to understand recent legal action taken by California health officials. The California Department of Public Health has filed a lawsuit against a manufacturer for selling illegal kratom-derived products that pose serious health risks.

Here's what you need to know to protect yourself and your family.

What Happened: Legal Action Against Ashlynn Marketing Group

In May 2026, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the California Attorney General filed a legal complaint against Ashlynn Marketing Group, Inc., which does business as Krave, Krave Kratom, and Krave Botanicals.

The complaint alleges that the company:
- Repeatedly manufactured and distributed illegal kratom-derived food products
- Sold products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent kratom compound
- Violated a CDPH embargo by moving, tampering with, and repackaging seized products
- Continued manufacturing and shipping kratom products despite official orders to stop

The state is asking the court to:
- Stop all further manufacturing and distribution of kratom products by the company
- Order the destruction of all seized kratom materials
- Impose civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day for each violation
- Recover costs associated with the investigation and enforcement

"CDPH is pursuing legal action because Ashlynn's continued manufacture and sale of these products pose a clear and preventable public-health risk and violates state and federal law," said CDPH Director Dr. Erica Pan. "7-OH and kratom-derived products have been associated with addiction, serious health harms, overdose and death."

What Is Kratom and Why Is It Illegal in California?

Understanding Kratom

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that can affect the brain and body in ways similar to opioids and stimulants. Kratom is typically sold as:
- Powders
- Capsules or tablets
- Liquids or "shots"
- Gummies or chewable products
- Teas or beverages

Products may be labeled as "plant alkaloids," "botanical supplements," or "dietary supplements" to avoid scrutiny—but if they contain kratom or its derivatives, they are illegal for human consumption in California.

What Is 7-OH?

7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a highly potent compound found in kratom. It is significantly stronger than other kratom compounds and carries even greater risks. Like kratom, 7-OH is illegal to manufacture or sell for consumption in California.

Why California Bans These Products

Under California's Sherman Food, Drug and Cosmetic Law:
- Food and dietary supplements containing kratom or 7-OH are considered "adulterated"
- Adulterated products are illegal to manufacture, distribute, or sell for human consumption
- The law exists to protect consumers from unsafe or unproven substances

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also warns that:
- No kratom-containing drugs are legally approved for sale in the United States
- Kratom use has been linked to serious adverse events, including liver damage, seizures, addiction, and death
- Consumers should avoid kratom products due to unpredictable potency and contamination risks

Health Risks of Kratom and 7-OH Products

Documented Harms

Kratom and 7-OH products have been associated with:
- Addiction and dependence: Users may develop tolerance, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms
- Overdose: High doses can cause respiratory depression, seizures, or loss of consciousness
- Liver toxicity: Some users have experienced severe liver damage requiring hospitalization
- Mental health effects: Anxiety, agitation, confusion, or psychosis in susceptible individuals
- Dangerous interactions: Kratom can interact with prescription medications, alcohol, or other substances

Recent Fatalities

In early 2026, kratom-derived products and 7-OH were linked to multiple overdose deaths in California, including six fatalities in Los Angeles County alone. These tragedies underscore the real-world dangers of these unregulated substances.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While anyone can experience harm from kratom or 7-OH, certain groups face higher danger:
- People with a history of substance use disorder
- Individuals taking prescription medications (especially opioids, benzodiazepines, or antidepressants)
- People with liver, kidney, or heart conditions
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
- Young people whose brains are still developing

How to Identify Kratom Products

Because these products may use misleading labels, know what to look for:

Common Product Names and Descriptions

"Kratom," "Kratom powder," "Kratom extract"
"7-OH," "7-hydroxymitragynine," "7-OH extract"
"Plant alkaloids," "botanical blend," "natural energy supplement"
"Maeng Da," "Bali," "Borneo" (strain names often used in kratom marketing)

Typical Forms

Small bottles of liquid "energy shots"
Powder in resealable bags or jars
Capsules or tablets in supplement-style bottles
Gummies or chewable candies
Tea bags or loose leaf products

Red Flags on Packaging

Claims like "legal high," "opioid alternative," or "pain relief"
Vague ingredient lists that say "proprietary blend" without specifics
No manufacturer contact information or batch numbers
Products sold in smoke shops, gas stations, or unlicensed online retailers

What to Do If You Have Kratom Products

Stop Using Them Immediately

If you have any kratom or 7-OH products at home:
- Do not consume them or give them to others
- Do not attempt to "test" a small amount to see effects
- Keep them away from children and pets

Safe Disposal

Do not throw kratom products in regular trash where others might find them
Contact your local health department or waste management authority for disposal guidance
If available, use a medication take-back program or hazardous waste collection event

If You've Used Kratom and Feel Unwell

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Confusion, extreme drowsiness, or loss of consciousness
- Seizures or unusual muscle movements
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (a sign of liver problems)

Tell healthcare providers about any kratom or supplement use—this information helps guide treatment.

If You're Using Kratom for Pain, Energy, or Mental Health

Some people turn to kratom hoping to manage pain, boost energy, or address anxiety or depression. If this describes you:

Safer Alternatives Exist

For pain: Talk with your healthcare provider about evidence-based treatments, including physical therapy, non-opioid medications, or integrative approaches
For energy: Address underlying causes like sleep issues, nutrition, or stress with a medical professional
For mental health: Licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists offer proven treatments for anxiety, depression, and trauma

If You're Concerned About Dependence

If you've been using kratom regularly and worry about stopping:
- Talk with a healthcare provider about tapering strategies
- Contact SAMHSA's National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential support
- Ask about local addiction treatment resources or support groups

Recovery is possible, and compassionate care is available.

California's Broader Enforcement Efforts

This legal action is part of a larger state effort to protect consumers from unsafe kratom and 7-OH products:

CDPH has seized more than $5 million worth of kratom and 7-OH products statewide
Enforcement partnerships include the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and the Department of Tax and Fee Administration
Activities include retailer education, inspections, warnings, and legal actions
The goal is to remove dangerous products from shelves and prevent further harm

How to Report Suspicious Products

If you see kratom or 7-OH products being sold:
- Contact your local health department or county environmental health office
- Report to CDPH's Food and Drug Branch through their website
- Notify the store manager that these products are illegal in California

Your report helps protect others in your community.

Questions Parents and Caregivers May Ask

"Are these products sold near schools or in places kids might see them?"

Unfortunately, yes. Kratom products have been found in smoke shops, convenience stores, and online retailers that young people may access. Talk with your children about the dangers of unregulated supplements and the importance of only using products approved by a healthcare provider.

"What if my teen has already tried kratom?"

Stay calm and open. Ask about their experience without judgment. Share factual information about risks. If you're concerned about use or dependence, talk with your pediatrician or a mental health professional for guidance.

"How can I help my family avoid these products?"

Teach critical thinking about supplement claims: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
Encourage buying supplements only from reputable pharmacies or healthcare providers
Review product labels together and discuss why vague ingredients are a red flag
Model safe medication practices in your own habits

Staying Informed

Regulations and enforcement actions can evolve. For the most current information:
- Visit the California Department of Public Health website
- Check FDA consumer updates on kratom and dietary supplements
- Follow your local health department for community alerts
- Consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider before trying any new supplement

Our Commitment to Your Health

At Crestwood General, we believe that clear, science-based information helps you make confident choices for you and your family. The world of supplements and alternative products can be confusing—and sometimes dangerous. You deserve to know what's safe, what's legal, and what to avoid.

If you have questions about kratom, supplement safety, or managing pain, anxiety, or other health concerns, talk with your healthcare provider. We're here to support you with trustworthy guidance every step of the way.

Content provided by Crestwood General.