Introduction

Although Kratom is a herb that belongs to countries in Southeast Asia, it is now becoming popular across the globe. But, since it is legal in many states in the U.S, people wonder if military personnel are also allowed to use it or not.

People serving in the military are known to be fit and healthy, thanks to their exercise and active lifestyle. However, they work very hard and may also come across some health issues. But the question remains, are they allowed to use this herb? If not, then are there any punishments for those who use it? Does the military test for Kratom? And there are so many more questions people have in their heads. Let’s discover the answers!

What Is Kratom?

Kratom, also known as Mitragyna Speciosa, is a tree commonly grown in Southeast Asia. Its leaves are popular for their usage for medicinal and recreational purposes. It comes in different strains; all strains hold unique properties and have peculiar colors. The leaves of this plant can be consumed in a number of ways. They can be chewed, mixed with foods and drinks, and can also be brewed into tea. Moreover, they are also available in multiple forms, including capsules, powder, dried leaves, tinctures, gummies, and more. 

Will Kratom Show On A Military Drug Test?

Although Kratom has plenty of benefits to offer, due to insufficient research, nobody can vouch for it being completely safe. Therefore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers it unsafe. 

So far, no military tests for kratom have been conducted specifically to check the presence of Mitragyna Speciosa. However, some tests may show its presence. So, let’s know what these tests are.

Blood Tests

It can show that you have consumed it even after days of consuming it. Moreover, it also tells how much you took and at what time. 

Saliva Tests

In saliva tests, the metabolites of the substance can be easily detected. Even a normal spit test can reveal it. 

Hair Tests

These tests are commonly used for court purposes or to check the progress of rehab patients. The results don’t come out that fast, but the results are considered more accurate than the rest of the tests.

Urine Tests

It is known as a systematic method. It can also detect the consumption of Mitragyna Speciosa even after a week of taking the substance.

Standard 5-Panel Drug Tests

Tests like NIDA and SAMHA-5 usually don’t detect the alkaloids’ presence. However, ten-panel tests can detect it even after one week of using it. 

What Happens If Military Personnel Tests Positive On Kratom Use?

Military personnel are not allowed to use products that the FDA does not approve. Kratom is an intoxicating substance, and as FDA doesn’t approve Kratom, therefore, they are not allowed to use it. 

It was in 2014 when it became illegal for military personnel. So, they are prohibited from using any product that contains it. If they are caught using it, they can face judicial action, can be prosecuted, or can face charges. For instance, in 2009, some Navy Seals had to face serious consequences for using a substance called Spice. It was basically a substitute for marijuana. 

Can Kratom Usage Lead To Disciplinary Action In The Military?

Yes, it can. As any product that contains Kratom is banned in the military, someone using it can face charges, disciplinary action, judicial action, and even prosecution. One of the primary reasons behind it is that the substance can make you high. Secondly, it is not FDA regulated. However, the stance on Mitragyna Speciosa can change in the future if the research proves it to be safe.

Can Kratom Products Be Obtained Through Military Medical Facilities?

No. As this substance is prohibited in the military, its products cannot be obtained through military medical facilities. Furthermore, if they detect that someone in the service has taken it, then the person may face serious consequences. 

Can Kratom Generate A False Positive For Substances? 

Getting false positives for substances is common. One of the reasons behind it is the cross-reactivity between Mitragyna Speciosa and the antibodies in it. In simple words, Mitragyna Speciosa’s metabolites seem similar to the ones of other substances, or the test mistakes alkaloids for the other substances. So, what you can do is to stop taking it for some days so there’s no chance for false positives for substances.

Can Kratom Be Effective In Treating Military Personnel Health Issues?

Even if it is effective, it cannot be used as long as you are an active-duty military personnel. If you are caught with an illegal or intoxicating substance, then you will face disciplinary action. This is so because these substances can impact day-to-day routine. So, the Department of Defence (DOD) has banned this substance.

What Substances Are Tested On The Military’s Drug Test?

Well, there are a number of substances tested on these tests. These substances also include prescription medicines, designer substances, and anxiety medicines. Let’s know what are some of the substances that are tested.

• Heroin
• Oxycodone
• Cocaine
• Marijuana
• Methamphetamines
• Bath salts
• Cush
• Soma
• Ritalin
• Adderall
• Vicodin
• Valium
• Xanax
• Spice
• Ecstasy

Conclusion

Finally, you have the answer to your question, does the military test for Kratom or not? There’s no specific test to detect Kratom, but some tests may reveal its presence. In some cases, it can also show a false positive for substances. So, it is better to pause for some days and start taking it afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions!

Is Mitragyna Speciosa legal in military?

No, because it is not FDA approved, and all the substances that are not FDA regulated are prohibited from being used by the people working in the military.

How long does kratom last?

Well, the effects can last for about 6 to 8 hours. However, there are some factors that influence the duration of its effects.

Does kratom make you fail a military test?

It can make you fail the test because some tests reveal its presence. However, there’s no particular test to detect it because many people are unaware of its properties due to limited research on it.