'10-20 times more potent than morphine': Toledo has banned synthetic kratom sales. Here's the science behind it

TOLEDO, Ohio — Toledo City Council voted on Wednesday to ban the sale of synthetic kratom , a chemically enhanced version of the plant-based substance that has raised health and safety concerns across the city.

The move follows months of debate over whether to outlaw kratom altogether. Council members ultimately decided to allow the natural leaf form to remain legal while prohibiting synthetic products that officials say are often far more potent and unpredictable.

In east Toledo, shop owner Edward Kleppinger says the decision makes sense. He owns 632 Main Street, a tobacco shop that once sold both types. He says he stopped offering synthetic kratom after the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department raised concerns earlier this year.

“When the health department came out with its procla