7d (edited) • Christopher's Tea Talks
Christopher's Tea Talks Episode 21 December 18th 2025
Quick recap
The meeting focused on the challenges and advocacy efforts surrounding kratom, particularly the issues with 7-OH and other extracts in the market. Christopher shared his experiences with educating the public and policymakers about the differences between natural kratom powder and synthetic extracts, emphasizing the need for regulation and proper labeling. Participants discussed the decline of traditional kratom powder in stores, the rise of extracts, and the impact on farmers in Indonesia. Venus and Twinkle expressed concerns about the lack of differentiation between products and the potential for stricter regulations. The group also touched on personal experiences with kratom and its effectiveness for pain management. The conversation highlighted the ongoing efforts to educate and advocate for responsible kratom use while addressing the challenges posed by the evolving market and regulatory landscape.
Summary
Kratom Education and Misconceptions
Christopher discussed the challenges of educating people about natural kratom, particularly its form as a tea, and the misconceptions surrounding it. He shared his experience with a woman from Tewksbury who was conducting a presentation and expressed his intention to provide her with documentation and further education. Christopher emphasized that kratom, when used responsibly, is not habit-forming and can be an effective pain management tool. He also noted the difficulty of convincing people to try kratom for themselves, despite its minimal risk of side effects when used correctly.
Kratom Availability and Advocacy Challenges
Christopher discussed the decline of kratom powder availability in smoke shops, attributing it to the popularity of 70H products and limited space for inventory. Venus and Paul agreed that the DEA's upcoming regulations might address some concerns, though Christopher expressed frustration about the ongoing stigma and lack of public awareness about kratom's benefits. The group acknowledged challenges in organizing advocacy efforts and encouraging people to share their stories, with Christopher noting that even simple incentives like discounts were met with hesitation due to fear.
Kratom vs Synthetic Isolates Debate
Christopher, Paul, and Venus discussed the differences between natural kratom and synthetic isolates like 70H, emphasizing that kratom's purpose is maintenance and stability rather than euphoria. Christopher shared his experience with extracts, noting their rapid tolerance build-up and lack of long-term effectiveness, while also highlighting the industry's shift from natural kratom to synthetic isolates. They questioned the intentions of companies adding synthetic opioids to kratom products, with Christopher recounting an Ayurvedic doctor's refusal to involve himself in such practices. The conversation concluded with observations about the growing dominance of 70H vendors at trade shows, reflecting a broader industry trend toward synthetic products.
Kratom Industry Fair Trade Challenges
Christopher and Paul discussed the challenges faced by farmers in Indonesia due to the decline in demand and pricing for kratom, leading to financial difficulties. They highlighted issues with low-quality kratom being mixed into shipments and the importance of fair compensation for farmers. Christopher expressed frustration that larger companies are not leading ethical practices in the industry, while smaller companies like his are advocating for proper labeling, testing, and fair trade practices despite limited recognition.
Kratom Advocacy and Education Challenges
Christopher discussed the challenges vendors face in speaking up about plant safety and education, emphasizing his experience with Kratom and the need for clear instructions and education. Venus and Christopher shared their experience at a Trenton hearing, where they advocated for Kratom-related bills, including CJ's Law and the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. Christopher mentioned meeting the sponsor of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act and providing her with a sample of their product. Venus expressed her willingness to attend future hearings and highlighted the importance of having their voices heard.
Work Habits and Home Organization
Venus and Twinkle discussed their recent work schedules and personal habits. Twinkle described working long hours without breaks, while Venus shared her experience of using food as a coping mechanism, which her therapist explained as a form of control. They also talked about Twinkle's ongoing home organization project, which involves clearing out multiple rooms and dealing with items that are up to 35 years old.
Home Care and Infrastructure Updates
Twinkle discussed moving household items and managing her medical supplies, including switching out numbing patches. She mentioned her son's training at North Porter to administer medicine through a PICC line, which will allow for home care. Christopher joined the call after a power outage interrupted the meeting, explaining that infrastructure improvements in the area have sometimes led to technical issues. The group briefly discussed recent news but couldn't recall any significant updates Twinkle might have missed.
Kratom Advocacy and Scheduling Challenges
Christopher shared a link to a two-part investigative series by Vince Fargas about kratom, which includes interviews with Jordan and others. Twinkle and Venus learned how to copy YouTube links without leaving the Zoom meeting. The group discussed their current busy schedules and the challenges of keeping up with various tasks. Christopher mentioned his efforts to explain his story to the Department of Health and the similarities he's heard from others in their advocacy group.
Kratom and Its Derivatives Discussion
Christopher, Twinkle, and Venus discussed their experiences with kratom, with Christopher emphasizing that while kratom might provide a mild euphoric effect, it is not comparable to opioids like Percocets. They watched a video featuring Ryan Neidell, CEO of Diversified Botanics, who explained the difference between mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, highlighting that 7-hydroxymitragynine is more potent and potentially addictive. Neidell also demonstrated how easily high doses of 7-hydroxymitragynine can be consumed, emphasizing the need for regulation to prevent abuse. The conversation underscored the importance of distinguishing between kratom and its more potent derivatives in policy discussions.
70H Industry and Supplement Insights
The group discussed a video about the 70H industry, which included hidden footage and a cliffhanger ending, with a second part recently released. They also talked about their experiences with a supplement, with Christopher sharing his previous trials at different dosages and Twinkle discussing his current usage pattern. The conversation touched on concerns about high dosages and the responsibility of manufacturers in marketing products to vulnerable communities.
Chronic Pain Management Discussion
Twinkle and Christopher discussed their experiences with chronic pain conditions, including CRPS and neuropathy, and their management strategies. Twinkle shared her husband's recent medical treatment for a severe foot condition, highlighting the challenges of neuropathy. Christopher mentioned his conversation with Laura about a Tewksbury health department presentation on kratom, noting concerns about the town's ban on kratom products, including tea, which Maria from the health department had not observed in local stores.
Kratom Regulation and Personal Experiences
Christopher and Twinkle discussed the challenges of Kratom availability and regulation, particularly in gas stations versus smoke shops. Christopher shared his experience at a hearing where he spoke for about 7 minutes, emphasizing the importance of Kratom for pain management and its potential benefits. They also talked about the effectiveness of Kratom for sleep and energy, with Christopher noting that it varies depending on his sleep schedule. Venus joined the conversation briefly, expressing her support for Christopher's efforts and mentioning her own experiences with Kratom.
Kratom Advocacy and Regulatory Changes
Christopher expressed frustration about the challenges of advocating for kratom and the lack of progress in the industry, noting that people are tired and disengaged. He suggested that more collaboration among organizations like the AKA and GKC is needed to push for positive change. Christopher also shared his willingness to establish a kratom education and research center, emphasizing the importance of proper education and consultation before use. The group discussed potential regulatory changes, including the possibility of kratom being sold in a dispensary-like setting, and the need for accessible pain relief options.
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Christopher's Tea Talks Episode 21 December 18th 2025
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