Kratom is at the heart of a complex landscape marked by regulatory uncertainty, misinformation, and polarized opinions. Advocates highlight its benefits for mood enhancement, and addiction support, while critics express concerns over its safety and potential for abuse.

Navigating this terrain requires diverse voices—those who have experienced both the positives and negatives of Kratom. Users who have benefited can provide insights into its potential as an alternative to traditional medications, while those who have faced adverse effects can underscore the need for caution.

Mission Statement

The Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) plays a crucial role in this dialogue, uniting a broad spectrum of perspectives to promote responsible use, shape informed policies, and advance scientific understanding. By fostering education and engaging with policymakers, the KCAC seeks to bridge the gap between public perception and scientific evidence, guiding the conversation toward a balanced and informed view of Kratom.

KCAC Position Statement: The Status and Legality of 7-OH (7-Hydroxymitragynine) Products

KCAC Members

David Bregger

David Bregger is a retired professional with a wealth of experience in business and sales. Throughout his career, he played a significant role in the growth and success of the companies he worked with, contributing to their expansion across various markets.

Originally from Philadelphia and raised in Cincinnati, David later made his home in New Hampshire, where he raised his two sons. He began his career as an entrepreneur, starting a successful solar heating business before transitioning into sales and business development roles.

After the tragic loss of his son Dan due to a concentrated form of Kratom, David became a passionate advocate for safer regulations. He now works to prevent similar tragedies and supports efforts to make Kratom safer.

Dijon Evans

Dijon Evans, a 61-year-old Sacramento resident, is a survivor. Living with chronic pain from complex regional pain syndrome, neuralgia, multiple organ failure, and other conditions, Dijon's journey has been marked by surgeries, complications, and the loss of a limb. After traditional pain management options failed, Dijon found hope in kratom, a plant used for centuries in Southeast Asia. Kratom provided pain relief and restored Dijon's sense of purpose, allowing for a life once thought impossible.

Now, Dijon is a strong advocate for Assembly Bill 2365, which would regulate kratom in California, ensuring its safety and accessibility for those who rely on it.

Dr. C. Michael White — Chairman

Dr. C. Michael White is an internationally respected clinical pharmacologist and pharmacist, making him an ideal choice for the inaugural Chairman's role. He has published several comprehensive reviews on kratom and has been interviewed by numerous national and international media outlets about this herbal product. His work on kratom is part of his larger body of research on natural products, substances of abuse, and manufacturing quality. 

Dr. White has extensive experience promoting consensus. He directed an Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality-designated Evidence-based Practice Center for over a decade, conducting rigorous and unbiased reviews of biomedical literature. These projects included key informant stakeholders who provided insight into the research questions and methods used to answer them.

"I am excited to gather this council together and learn about their experiences and thoughts regarding kratom," said Dr. White. "By sharing and discussing the evidence, we can ensure that everyone has the same platform of knowledge. Together, we will look for ways to maximize kratom’s potential benefits and minimize the chances of harm for consumers."

KCAC Goals

  • The KCAC will show that diverse stakeholders can find common ground on complex issues.

  • Providing policy recommendations prioritizing safety, access and informed decision-making.

  • Work to increase public understanding of the complexities surrounding kratom.

  • The KCAC will serve as an example of how to approach contentious issues with open dialogue and a commitment to finding solutions.

  • Work to improve industry standards and consumer protection regulations.

  • Influence the Global Kratom Coalition’s direction and industry practices through direct stakeholder engagement.

Apply to Become a Member

Who We're Looking For:

  • Researchers & Scientists: Professionals actively studying kratom.

  • Advocates & Critics: Individuals who are passionate about kratom, whether to support its responsible use or concerned about its potential risks.