Are you interested in trying kratom, but are unsure of how to use it? Don’t worry, we’re here to walk you through the process!
The truth is that there is no right or wrong way to use kratom – it’s really a matter of personal preferences. Experienced users may mix kratom into a tea, consume the powder directly, take kratom capsules, or even sprinkle it on their food.
Read on to learn about the best way to take kratom, the health benefits of kratom, and risks involved with using this ancient medicine.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom, also known as Mitragyna Speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its hanging bundles of yellow flowers and its large size – reaching up to 42 feet.
It grows abundantly in regions of Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia as it thrives in hot and humid environments.
Kratom has a long history in these Asian regions of the world, with many uses in folk medicine and a major reason for finding smoothie kits across many Asian homes. Kratom is traditionally harvested by picking the green leaves off the kratom vine, hand drying them in the sun, and using the leaves to make a tea or powder.
Kratom can be categorized into different strains, with each strain causing a different physiological reaction.
What makes these strains different is the color of the veins the leaves are picked off of, or the process used to make the kratom powder. The most common kratom strains are red, white, and green.
Health Benefits of Kratom
Although there are no mainstream uses of kratom on the market, personal anecdotes have shown its effectiveness in treating chronic pain and mental disorders.
Pain is the most common health benefit reported by kratom users. Kratom leaves have an opioid-like effect on the body which acts similarly to prescription painkillers. Kratom has also been shown to help opioid withdrawal patients with unpleasant symptoms.
Other health benefits of kratom include lifting mood, relieving anxiety, improving focus and cognitive ability, and aiding in addiction recovery.
Best Way to Take Kratom
Kratom comes in two forms: powder and leaves. In Asia, the kratom farmers often chew on the kratom leaves as they work in order to boost their energy. In western society, it is far more popular to take kratom in powder form – here’s how:
Toss and Wash Method
The toss and wash method is by far the simplest way to take kratom. This method requires no preparation and its effects are felt quickly on the body.
To use this method, measure out your desired kratom dose and put it directly into your mouth. Then drink a gulp of water, swirl it around your mouth, and swallow.
If you are taking a large dosage, separate your dose into smaller doses to avoid the uncomfortable feeling of too much kratom powder in your mouth at once. Kratom often has an unpleasant bitter taste, so separating your dose into smaller parts is advised. Doing this will not interfere with the effectiveness of the kratom.
Tea
Making kratom tea is a time-consuming process, but it is one of the more enjoyable ways to consume kratom.
To make kratom tea you will need a pot, filter or strainer, kratom powder, and a lemon.
First, pour half a cup of water and lemon juice from 1 lemon into your pot. Let the water come to a boil and add the kratom powder in. Let it boil for 20-30 minutes and let cool. Use your coffee filter or strainer to remove the leaf residue from the liquid and your tea is ready to drink.
This tea can be consumed hot or cold, and you can add in your favorite sweetener to help with the bitterness of the kratom.
Capsules
Capsules are an easy way to take kratom if you are looking to avoid cleaning up a mess. If you’re wondering how to buy kratom and begin your kratom exploration, capsules are the easiest place to start.
Capsules are great because they allow you to avoid the bitter taste kratom leave behind. Although, you may have to take more capsules in order to feel the kratom effects you desire.
Food
Similar to the toss and wash method, kratom powder can be consumed directly by adding it to your food. You can add kratom powder to a smoothy, sprinkle it onto yogurt, or cook it into a sauce.
To make a tasty kratom smoothie just add your choice of milk, 3 grams of kratom powder, 1 banana, and spinach. Combining bananas with kratom works well due to its overpowering sweetness, and its ability to naturally release dopamine.
If you want to try cooking or baking with kratom, you may need to do some experimenting first. There isn’t a definite kratom-to-food ratio in place, so playing around with it is advised.
It is also important to note that you may not imminently feel the effects of the kratom when you add it to food. It takes some time for your food to fully digest, and for the kratom to enter your system.
Kratom Usage Risks
Before you use kratom it is important to understand the possible risks involved with kratom consumption.
Kratom is similar to coffee in the way that it dehydrates the body, so make sure to stay extra hydrated when using kratom. Kratom may also cause nausea, so consuming kratom on an empty stomach is advised. Consuming kratom slowly can also reduce possible nausea.
It is important to note that there is a risk of addiction with long term kratom use. The best way to avoid this is to set a limit for yourself on how much kratom you consume on a regular basis.
Are You Ready to Try Kratom Yourself?
Kratom is a pain-relieving herb that serves as a good natural alternative to other pain-reducing drugs. As you begin experimenting with different ways to use kratom, make sure you take kratom responsibly and remember the possible risks involved with overconsumption.
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