Government not planning to ban kratom and HHC

The Czech government will not ban kratom and cannabinol HHC, but wants to significantly increase safeguards and regulate the sale of these products to better protect users, the Pirate Party announced after Wednesday’s cabinet session. Kratom, which is derived from a tropical plant, has become increasingly popular among teenagers. The Czech National Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Addictions has advised placing both kratom and HHC on the list of banned substances arguing that they can cause serious health problems and result in addiction. They are moreover sold freely in selected stores and vending machines where children have access to  them.