How To Consume Kratom

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant from Southeast Asia that packs a range of psychoactive alkaloids, meaning it can produce multiple, and sometimes contradictory, effects. This strange plant can serve many uses, and can be taken in many different ways.

In this article, we look at the different ways to take kratom, including their pros and cons.

Understanding kratom's effects

Unique among psychoactive substances, kratom has opposing effects depending on the dose. This is due to the fact that it contains a myriad of active compounds that compete to exert their influence. At lower doses, kratom tends to be energizing and uplifting, while higher doses tend to be relaxing and sleep-promoting.

Due to this, kratom can be used for different purposes. For more information about kratom and its effects, check out our dedicated page. But for now, let's focus on how to consume kratom.

Kratom dosing

Kratom, as mentioned, offers different effects depending on the dose. Doses below around six grams of dried leaf tend to be energizing, akin to the effects of caffeine. Doses over six grams tend to be more relaxing, and can even be quite soporific at higher doses due to kratom’s increasing influence on the brain’s opioid receptors.

Some users also microdose kratom, claiming that it gives them energy and focus without the side effects. As with all microdosing, though, it’s hard to say how true this is.

How to consume kratom

Below, we take a look at the different ways in which you can consume kratom. There is no single best method (or worst for that matter), although, depending on your preferences, you may be drawn to some over others.

Kratom leaves

Chewing kratom leaves is the traditional method of experiencing its effects. In doing so, the active compounds are extracted from the plant material and absorbed through the mucous membrane in the mouth, reaching the bloodstream and producing effects within minutes.

The main upside of this method is that it offers a steady release of alkaloids that can be maintained throughout the day. The main downside is that it doesn't exactly taste good, and it's certainly not discreet.

Kratom tea

Drinking kratom tea is another traditional way to consume this plant. You can use dried leaves or powder to make tea. Though the effects take some time to kick in, once they do, they can be steady but powerful. You can even treat it like tea or coffee and make a flask for yourself.

The main benefit of kratom tea is that you control how you consume it. Take it all in one go, or sip it throughout the day for prolonged effects—the choice is yours!

Ice Tea Passion Fruit Instant Kratom Drink (Kratomade)

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Kratom powder

Although some people use dried leaves in their kratom tea, many others use kratom powder for a more consistent experience. However, powdered kratom can also be added to capsules and swallowed or used to make edibles. As such, kratom powder is arguably the most versatile form of the plant, which can be beneficial for those who like to experiment with different consumption methods to keep things fresh.

Kratom powder also makes for easy dosing. The only real downside is that you can’t chew it, and some might prefer more traditional methods of consumption.

Kratom Bali Green Powder (Super Speciosa)

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Kratom capsules

Kratom capsules contain kratom powder, and are probably the simplest way to consume this plant. Simply pop one in your mouth, take a sip of water, and you're done. As a result, those who prize utility over ceremony will probably have a preference for this consumption method.

The main benefit of capsules is their ease, as well as their discretion. The primary drawback is that they lack ceremony, which is very important to some people. Just think of how much you enjoy your first cup of tea or coffee in the morning!

Kratom Bali Green Capsules (Super Speciosa)

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Kratom tinctures

Kratom tinctures, whether bought or homemade, can also be a great option. Either place a few drops beneath your tongue for fast-acting effects or add them to food or drink for a slower, more controlled onset.

Tinctures have the benefit of being versatile. Take them alone, with water, with coffee, or with food—the choice is yours. This offers the ability to customize your experience. If taken with food, kratom tinctures offer a softer, less pronounced experience. Taken alone and on an empty stomach, their effects are much stronger. Change things up and keep it fresh!

Kratom edibles

Kratom edibles offer a novel way to ingest this plant. As mentioned, the effects can be a little less intense when taken with food, but sometimes all the better for it. The downside of this method is that it lacks the versatility of some of the others. The upside is that it can be significantly more subtle than taking a tincture or powder.

Another upside is that it may have a slower release, meaning the effects might be sustained over a longer period, which could be beneficial during the workday or while sleeping.

Strawberry Kratom Gummies (Super Speciosa)

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Kratom extract

Creating kratom extract involves soaking kratom powder in acid and ethanol. Once the extraction is complete, the solution is then evaporated, which leaves behind a potent kratom concentrate. It’s best not to consume this alone, but it can instead be added to edibles, tinctures, and so on.

Kratom extracts are geared mainly towards those who want to go to the extra effort to ensure they have a product that perfectly suits their needs and can be modified for a range of different purposes.

Lucky 80 Liquid Kratom Extract 80% (Zion Herbals)

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Kratom side effects and safety

The potential side effects of kratom are as follows:

• Sedation
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Dry mouth
• Increased urination
• Loss of appetite
• Itching
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Confusion

Rarer side effects associated with chronic use and high doses include:

• Addiction
• Withdrawal
• Hypothyroidism
• Liver injury
• Aching of muscles and bones
• Jerky limb movements

Consuming kratom: Find your perfect match

There are many ways to consume kratom, and each offers benefits and drawbacks depending on what you want from your experience. But don’t limit yourself to a single method of consumption; diversify!

Why not double-up on diversification and use different consumption methods alongside different strains to really get the most out of the experience? By doing this, you can help to keep your tolerance on the lower end while also making for a novel experience every time.

Max Sargent

Max has been writing for over a decade, and has come into cannabis and psychedelic journalism in the last few years. Writing for companies such as Zamnesia, Royal Queen Seeds, Cannaconnection, Gorilla Seeds, MushMagic and more, he has experience in a broad spectrum of the industry.

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