Blythe Ordinance Banning Kratom Products For Youth Takes Effect Thursday

BLYTHE, CA — A ban on the sale of kratom products to those under 21 years of age takes effect Thursday in Blythe.

The Blythe City Council approved the prohibition on Aug. 11, mirroring a Riverside County ordinance passed in October 2025. The Blythe law prohibits the sale and distribution of kratom products.

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia that contains compounds of mitragynine and 7-hyrdroxymitragynine, otherwise known as 7-OH. Some energy drinks, gummies and pills containing 7-OH are synthesized, which means they contain alkaloids that produce a much stronger result.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved any products containing the chemical as an added ingredient or at enhanced levels due to its opioid-like effects. The agency said products with 7-OH, which can be found in gas stations, online, smoke shops and other retail stores, should be avoided at all costs as they could lead to addiction, serious harm or overdose.

According to a staff report, on July 2025 the FDA issued warning letters to companies for illegally marketing products with 7-OH and recommended that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration add 7-OH products to the nationwide list of controlled substances.

Under the Blythe ordinance, those over 21 with a valid ID will still be able to purchase the products. Those found guilty of selling kratom products to people under 21 will be subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000.