Kratom FAQ
What is Kratom?
We're glad you asked! Kratom is technically the name of a tree native to a select group of Asian and Pacific island countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Borneo, and Papua New Guinea. These tropical regions harbor the ideal conditions for growing these tall trees, which can grow as high as 80 feet in height!
In order to make what most people know as "kratom", the leaves of these trees are gathered and dried. These dried leaves, as well as the products made from them, is the kratom you see in our online shop.
Kratom has a rich history of botanical use in the warm regions where it's grown. For centuries, the dried leaves were used to make tea. Kratom has also been used in a variety of ceremonies in these native countries. In the modern day, kratom has grown wildly popular across the globe.
What does kratom do?
As we just stated, kratom is incredibly popular nowadays. This is with very good reason! It contains two naturally-occuring alkaloids: Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These are the active compounds in kratom.
When consuming the kratom leaf, these two compounds can elicit certain effects in the user. These effects can vary based on three main factors: dosage, vein, and growing location. Let's go over how each of these factors come into play.
Kratom Dosages: How much kratom should I take?
Kratom is unique in the fact that the effect it can elicit is partially dependant on the dose size that you take. At low doses, kratom may have stimulant-like effects. Just a few grams can result in feelings of increased energy, alertness, and even higher sociability. These effects have been reported to take hold after about 10 minutes, and can last up to 1 1/2 hours. This stimulation is great for those working long hours or dealing with fatigue issues.
While it does have potent effects at lower does, the majority of kratom users generally take higher doses. At doses of 10 grams or more, it may work as a sedative. The alkaloids within kratom have been shown to work as an analgesic (pain relieving), anti-inflammatory, and muscle relaxant. It may also produce feelings of euphoria and calmness. These effects are great for those dealing with chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and more.
Kratom Veins: What does the kratom vein color mean?
If you've ever seen kratom products before, then you may have noticed that each one usually references a color in the title. Historically, these colors allude to the vein color of the kratom leaf from which the kratom product was harvested. This color is indicative of leaf maturity. It's also common to see different amounts of the two alkaloids we mentioned earlier in differing colors of leaf vein, but this is not always a direct corellation.
In the current market, the vein color listed on the package can also indicate the process method of the leaf and how to company wants to market that specific product. Let's briefly go over each color.
White Vein
White Vein Kratoms are harvested when the kratom leaves are at their youngest. They tend to hone in on the stimulant effects of kratom, eliciting more energy, alertness, and euphoria. Anyone who experiences jitters from too much caffeine may experience similar effects with white vein kratoms. Those looking for boosts in energy and concentration should definitely consider white vein kratoms.
Green Vein
Green Vein Kratoms are harvested at a moderate level of maturity. It's often considered by kratom regulars to be a great middle-of-the-road option. They can provide mild feelings of both alertness and sedation. Anyone looking to treat pain without high amounts of drowsiness should look into using green vein kratoms.
Red Vein
Red Vein Kratoms are picked at the peak of their maturity. As one may expect, they tread heavier into the sedation side of kratom effects. Red kratoms are known for inducing higher levels of calmness, relaxation, and pain relief. They may be good for those with chronic pain, opiod dependence, and insomnia. Red is the most popular kratom vein color.
Yellow Vein
While its origins are mysterious, most veterans believe that Yellow Vein Kratom is not actually a "vein" at all. Rather, it's a mix of all three vein colors in one product. There doesn't seem to be much of a consensus, though. One thing people can agree on is that it's great middle ground in terms of effects, eliciting similar feelings to that of green vein. Yellow Vein Kratom is exceptionally rare.
Kratom Strain Locations: Why does kratom strain location matter?
Most kratom products prominently feature the name of a specific location. This isn't actually the harvest location, but rather the origin of the strain. Each name references where strain was discovered, a practice that was created by kratom importers in order to tell them apart. Some of these places have since banned kratom, but nonetheless, their strain name remains.
At this point, there's no guarantee that a certain kratom strain is directly sourced from the original strain of kratom trees from which the strain originates. That being said, what you can be sure of is the effects that a specific kratom product elicits will be very similar to that of the original strain it names.
For example, an "indo" kratom may not be directly sourced from an Indonesian strain kratom tree, but it will elicit similar effects to that of the original strain. Strain names are mainly used to communicate characteristics rather than origin. Here's a rundown of each strain and its characteristics.
Maeng Da Kratom
Maeng Da Kratom is the most popular strain. Originating in Thailand, this strain can induce intense feelings of both stimulation and sedation, depending on the dosage. It lasts a long time and requires lower dosages than other strains to get the same effects, making it both potent and economical.
Bali Kratom
Coming from the Indonesian island of the same name, Bali Kratom is most popularly sold in the red vein variety. It is primarily sought after for its mild sedative effects. Red Bali is great for people looking for a lighter feeling of pain relief or relaxation. It can still elicit stimulation at lower doses, but its calming nature is its specialty.
Indo Kratom
As you can guess, this kratom strain hails from the lush islands of Indonesia. With a focus on relaxation, Indo Kratom is known for evoking a fantastic sensation of calmness. It's also a solid choice for those experiencing symptoms of chronic pain or opiate withdrawal. Indo's effects can take a little longer to be felt then other strains.
Thai Kratom
Originating from Thailand, Thai Kratom is a quality strain that accentuates the effects of any vein color it comes in. Its potency is what continues to bring users back. Some people seem to particularly enjoy the white vein variety, citing it to be one of the strongest strains of this vein color.
Borneo Kratom
Admittedly, Borneo Kratom is not the strongest of strains. This makes it a good choice for those who are searching for milder effects of their vein color of choice. One unique characteristic of Borneo Kratom is its pleasant aroma.
Malay Kratom
While Malay Kratom comes in all vein colors, it's the green vein type that is the most pursued. Green Malay is one of the most potent green vein kratoms. It's particularly known for its ability to combine high feelings of stimulation with a non-drowsy relaxation. These effects tend to last longer than in other strains.
Vietnam Kratom
Originally sourced near the banks of the Mekong River, Vietnam Kratom is usually found in its green vein form. Green Vein Vietnam is lauded for its energy-boosting qualities, making it feel almost like a white vein in effect. That being said, it still provides some feelings of sedation, leaving the user with a high level of relaxed concentration and focus.
How do I take kratom?
Kratom Powder
The one big caveat of powder is that is has to be prepared in some fashion, and doesn't taste very good. Traditionally, kratom powder has often been used to make tea. Nowadays, it can be mixed into many different things, like smoothies, juices, and even salads. Consuming kratom powder in these ways can also help to mask the undesirable taste.
Kratom Capsules
Capsules can technically be classified under either powders or extracts, as they usually contain one of the two. People normally buy pre-filled capsules, but it can be cheaper to buy them empty and pre-fill your own.
Kratom capsules are very portable, easy to store, and simple to use. Just pop them in your mouth and down with the liquid of your choice! You can also avoid the unpleasant taste of kratom with this method. A small downside to capsules is the lack of variety when it comes to pre-filled capsules, but there are still plenty of fantastic capsule options out there.
Kratom Extracts
Kratom extracts are great for those looking for a more direct way to consume kratom. Extracts are more concentrated than regular powders, often consisting of a distilled liquid version of kratom. Since it's more concentrated, it requires a lower serving size to get the same amount of alkaloids.
It's important to note that extracts are not exactly kratom. Rather, they're the alkaloids of kratom extracted using a solvent, like ethanol, water, or CO2. Some extracts only feature the main two alkaloids (Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine), while others contain other compounds pulled from kratom as well.
In addition to liquids, extracts can also be found in powdered form. These simply add an extra step to the extraction process, evaporating the solvent so that only a highly concentrated alkaloid powder is left behind. Just like with the liquids, these extract powders are not pure kratom, but the alkaloids of kratom. Extract powders can also be found in capsule form.
Kratom extracts are well-known for their ease of use. Liquid shots and capsules can be downed in one quick gulp with water or other liquids. Both liquid shots and powders can be combined with food items. Powders can also put into capsules for consumption.
Just a word of warning: Extracts are often much stronger than standard kratom. For some, this may be exactly what they're looking for, but for others, this may be too much. Easing into using them is key to finding the right balance.
How much kratom should I take?
Your ideal kratom dosage can depend on a wide range of factors. If you're a new user, it's best to go through a period of trial and error in order to find the best dose for you. After a little bit of testing, you should be able to find the right amount. You'll ideally want to hit that point where you're taking the least amount of kratom in order to gain the desired effects.
While kratom is generally considered safe by most at the proper doses, there is such a thing as taking too much. Overdoing it can result in undesired side effects, such as nausea, tachycardia (speeding heart rate), hypertension, and even seizure. Most reports say that it takes quite a lot of kratom to get to that point, but it's definitely important to monitor your intake.
It's also important to note that there is a lack of information on how kratom may interact with prescription drugs. If you're on any prescription drugs, we highly suggest that you do your own research to ensure safe kratom use.
Taking all of this into account, kratom dosage really comes down to one main phrase: Start low, go slow!
Upon taking your first dose, it is generally recommended to begin with 3 grams of kratom max on a relatively empty stomach. Having an empty stomach ensures that you're consuming the least amount of kratom necessary in order to reap the most benefits. With a full stomach, you're more likely to take a higher dose.
After taking this first dose, wait 30 minutes and then assess how you feel. If you don’t feel any effects, take another gram or so. Beginners shouldn't need more than 4 grams of kratom, generally speaking.
Beyond dose size, there's a few other ways to ensure safe usage of kratom. Buying the best brands helps to make certain that your kratom is going to be pure and lab-tested. Luckily, we only carry high quality brands, ensuring our customers have experiences that are both enjoyable and safe.
Powder is the ideal form to use as a beginner, despite the lack of convenience in comparison to other forms. If you plan on using one, buy a scale (like one of these, for example). It's important to measure how much kratom you should take accurately.
If you're really strapped for time, try using kratom capsules. Each capsule is pre-filled with a set amount of kratom powder. This makes dosing convenient, easy to measure, and discreet.
Is kratom illegal?
This is entirely dependant on where you live. Given that we only currently ship to the United States, we'll keep our discussion there. On a federal level, kratom is currently legal in the U.S. It is legal in most states, too, but some states and localities have banned kratom. There are several laws being voted on in certain states as well, and things are constantly changing.
We will not ship kratom products to any state or locality where it is banned. While this is definitely inconvenient if you live there, you will at least not have to worry about accidentally shipping a banned substance to your area! Here is a list and map of all the areas in the United States where kratom is banned:
States Where Kratom is Banned and/or Restricted: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
Localities Where Kratom is Banned and/or Restricted: Over 30 localities in Mississippi; San Diego, CA; Denver, CO; Parker, CO; Monument, CO; Sarasota County, FL; Jerseyville, IL; Alton, IL; Glen Carbon, IL; Edwardsville, IL; and Franklin, NH.