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About Kratom

Native to the Southeast Asia, kratom (Mitragyna Speciosa) is a powerful medicinal plant used by thousands throughout the world.

The medicinal potentials of this plant are vast.

And the most prominent of these include: pain relief, mood lifting, energy and immune system stimulation.

Below, we’ll go through everything from strains, and effects to the alkaloids that make kratom so effective.

…Here we go.

Origins & Locale

The use of kratom goes back several thousand years, but it was first formally documented growing abundantly in Thailand by Dutch botanist Pieter Willem Korthals in the early 19th century.

While the birthplace of Mitragyna Speciosa is unknown, it has flourished abundantly in Southeast Asia and Indochina — growing naturally in regions such as:

Thailand

Indonesia Sumatra Bali Java The Sunda Isles Borneo

Malaysia

As a result of adapting to these different climates and regions, this plant has evolved and diverged into a variety of strains and vein types, each of which vary in both in effects and potency.

It is these differences that have made kratom such an incredibly versatile plant.

Further on, we will cover these strain differences at length to give you a strong understanding of the varied uses, effects, and potential applications of this unique plant.

What is Kratom Used for?

Kratom is used for:

Pain relief

Mood-lifting

Energy Promotion

Anxiolytic (Anti-Anxiety)

Insomnia Relief

Appetite suppression

Focus

Other known qualities of kratom include:

Immune System Stimulant

Anti-leukemic

Anti-malarial

Anti-inflammatory

Lowered blood sugar

*[1]

In addition to this large range of medicinal applications, this plant also has many other positive properties such as high-antioxidant (EGC) and vitamin and mineral content, which has made it an item of interest for general health purposes as well.



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Pain Relief

Kratom’s pain-killing effects are very pronounced, and are much more effective than OTC substances when dealing with chronic pain.

It is these potent pain-killing effects that have allowed many to become entirely pharmaceutical free (an inspiringly common event within the kratom community).

As public awareness increases and fear-mongering and outright disinformation dissipate, you can expect to see this plant as a common alternative to riskier treatments.

Kratom can effectively reduce pain from conditions such as:

Migraines and Cluster Headaches

Back Pain

Minor Injuries: Burns, Scrapes, Broken Bones

Multiple Sclerosis

Neck Pain & Soreness

General Neuropathic Pain [2]

Because kratom’s pain relieving effects occur largely within the brain, it is able to effectively dampen any almost any pain signal.

For this reason, taking kratom for pain tends to be far more versatile and powerful for pain relief, as it can mitigate pain at the perceptual “root”.

Strains for Pain

The primary reason kratom is so effective for pain are it’s two primary painkilling alkaloids: Mitragynine, and 7-OH-mitragynine [3].

Both have agonist activity brain receptors responsible for dampening the body’s perception of pain at the source.

As a result, those who are looking for pain relief from kratom will get the best effects by using strains high in these two alkaloids.

What is the Best Kratom for Pain?

The most effective kratom strains for pain include: Red Indo, Red Bali, Red Borneo, and Red Maeng Da. Green vein strains are also some fo the best for pain, but their pain relieving effects can be less reliable than Red Vein alternatives.

Best Strains for Pain

Preferred Vein Color

Red

Green

Dosage

Moderate/High

For this purpose, red veined strains tend to be the most reliable for pain relieving effects, although a good green vein can be just as effective.

It should be noted, that because green veins tend to be more strongly influenced by the effects of the given strain.

So one should stick to the characteristically pain relieving varieties mentioned above, such as Indo, Bali or Borneo if using green vein strains.





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Psychological Effects (Anxiety, Stress relief and Mood-Lifting)

The psychological effects of kratom are of a very unique quality in comparison to other plants found in nature, as the plant contains both sedating and stimulating properties.

And nearly any quality strain can cause general mood-lifting, but the differences in strain can shift the spectrum of effects between stimulating and sedating, which can largely change the qualities of the experience.

Anxiety and Stress Relief

In order to maximize anxiety relief with kratom, you will likely be best suited to a strong and sedating strain such as an Borneo or Indo.

But other sedating strains can often work effectively.

In our experience, borneo kratom strains have generally been the most effective for relieving stress and restlessness without causing a level of tiredness or brain fog that some varieties of strains like Bali can sometimes cause at high dosages.

For those with insomnia in conjunction with anxiety, they can also double as a great kratom strain for sleep.

What is the Best Kratom for Anxiety and Stress?

The best kratom strains for anxiety and stress are all red vein strains, particularly: Red Bali, Red Borneo and Red Indo. The reason these strains are rated among the best kratom for anxiety and stress is due to their high levels of 7-OHM and other sedative alkaloids. These alkaloids provide these strains relaxing character.

Strains for Anxiety and Stress Relief

Preferred Vein Color

Red

Green

Dosage

Moderate

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Immune System Stimulation

Due to the immunostimulant alkaloids found in kratom:

Isopteropodine

Isorhynchophylline

Isomitraphylline

Mitraphylline

From preliminary evidence, it appears kratom can be effective for boosting the immune system.

And this can be effective for conditions ranging from the common cold to the flu, although more research will be required to be certain. [4].

Because of this, some users have started to take it at the onset of a sickness in an attempt to reduce its duration (as well as negate some of its symptoms).

Strains

Green Malaysian Borneo

Preferred Vein Color

Green Vein

Dosage

– Moderate – Low

Because the research in this regard is lacking, the strain choices above are only defined by the limited regions that were studied.

So many other varieties of kratom may have similar immunostimulant properties as well.

Nootropic (Cognition Enhancing) Effects

Nootropic substances are a relatively new field of interest which shows much promise.

Interestingly, some have reported good results by using kratom as a nootropic in areas such as focus and motivation.

Unlike traditional medications for focus (e.g. ADHD medication), the subjective experience of kratom for many is that it doesn’t make your focus “stick” psychologically.

Instead, many have noted it seems to dampen psychological background noise resulting from stress, anxiety or excessive excitement/restlessness, promoting natural focus ability.

In this way it tends to lend itself to a more natural feeling quality of focus.

Because strain differences can vary, there is typically no set dose for peak cognition boosting effects — though it typically ranges from low/medium to medium.

Best Strains for Nootropic Effects

Preferred Vein Color

White

Green

Dosage

Low – Moderate

If you choose to try a green vein strain, we would suggest a more stimulating variety, such as those mentioned above, at a low dosage, as large doses can sometimes be counterproductive.

Strain Comparison

Due to different growth regions and breeding, kratom has evolved into a variety of different strains which can have very different effects.

There are roughly three primary effect categories one can divide strains into: stimulating, sedating and moderate.

It should be noted that every plant within a strain can vary, so in no way are these analyses set in stone.

Rather we have taken a more psuedo-statistical approach, based upon large amounts of individual user experience reports to provide a guide to the general strain characteristics.

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Stimulating Strains

Stimulating strains are some of the most desirable strains for those with fatigue or lethargy, as well as for those who need to sustain energy and focus for long periods of time.

Thai Kratom

Thai kratom is well-known for its powerful energetic effects.

The unique alkaloid profile of Thai kratom often provokes different reactions between different users, and may not be for everyone.

However, this strain has a very dedicated following, unlike anything we have seen with other varieties of kratom.

It’s important to note that the pain-killing effects of Thai can vary.

Typically, red vein thai (commonly called RVT) is the most effective in regards to analgesia, whereas white and green vein thai strains, while stimulating, are often lacking in this area.

Thai Effects

Maeng Da Kratom

Maeng Da has been widely renowned as one of the most potent strains of kratom

…and for good reason — it can provide both high levels of pain relief and stimulation.

This strain is ideal for those with pain who don’t want to sacrifice energy levels, as well as those who are looking for a mood-boost.

Maeng Da Effects

Sedating Strains

As a whole, sedating strains are lacking in the more stimulating alkaloids contained in the Thai/Maeng Da strains of kratom.

Yet, they can pack a very large punch as far as pain relief is concerned due to their large concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine.

And so these strains have been traditionally used for chronic pain and mood-lifting.

Borneo Kratom

A high-quality borneo strain, especially a red vein borneo, is one of the most unique and you will find in nature.

They are highly sedating, great for pain relief, and unparalleled for anxiety/stress relief.

Borneo strains also tend to have a low side-effect factor in comparison to other strains with similar characteristics.

You can often distinguish a borneo by its relaxing and “clean” feeling quality although a few varieties of Indo have been known to have this quality as well.

Borneo Effects

Bali Kratom

Bali kratom is one of the most economical strains due to large leaves and quick growth.

Proper dosage for some Bali strains can be difficult, as they are known for their fairly low “wobble” threshold. Though many have found one can minimize this negative by mixing it with another strain.

Bali Effects

Indo Kratom

Indo strains are very well-rounded for pain and have less side-effects than comparable Balinese strains, and share quite a few qualities in common with strains such as riau and sumatra.

Although borneo as well is a variety of Indo, it has some unique characteristics.

Many have reported delayed effects from many types of Indo kratom, which is likely due to the leaves tough cell-walls, similar to Green Malaysian strains.

While the effects are similar to Borneo kratom strains on paper, regular users may notice some of the subtle but very notable differences experience.

Indo Effects

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Moderate Strains

Many prefer a moderate strain as their daily go-to, due to its potent, yet smooth, effects.

And of these, one of the most common moderate strains is Green Malaysian.

When using moderate strains, it is good to remember that the interplay between strains, vein types, breeding and growing conditions can make a characteristically sedating or stimulating strain moderate.

Green Malaysian

Green Malaysian has long been known as one of the longest-lasting strains due to leaf cell-wall density.

Some have experienced nootropic effects from this strain.

Particularly, increased mental endurance, providing focus for long periods of time.

Interestingly, due to the quality of these effects, they may only noticed in retrospect due to the strain’s characteristically smooth and natural feeling effects.

Green Malaysian Effects

Vein Types: Effects & Analysis

Something unique to this plant, in comparison to many other medicinal plants, is the distinct differences of vein color which result from breeding and growth conditions.

These different vein colors often correspond to very reliable differences in effects and can provide strong clues as to what to expect from a given strain.

However, there are some minor exceptions, especially when dealing with strains with a less balanced alkaloid profile such as Thai, or Borneo/Indo strains which on the whole provide a more polarized kratom experience (being more stimulating or sedating, respectively).

Red Vein Kratom

Red vein kratom is one of the most popular due to its natural tendency toward higher levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine.

This leads to impressive pain-killing effects, sedation, as well as anxiety and stress relief.

Red veins also tends to be less at the mercy of individual brain chemistry; whereas white and green vein strains often effect people variably.

This is one of the reasons red vein thai (RVT) is so popular among kratom users.

It combines both strong energy from it’s Thai influences, with the red vein’s painkilling effects — leaving the strain stimulating but very well-rounded.

Red Vein Kratom Effects

White Vein Kratom

Despite the lower amount of 7-hydroxymitragynine found in white vein strains, this vein type should not be treated lightly.

White vein kratom has a very strong following, and many have found it very effective for conditions such as lack of focus/energy.

Of all the vein types, white vein shows the most potential as a nootropic (cognition enhancing) substance.

As such, many have found that using this vein type first thing in the morning to be a great substitute for coffee due to its strong effects on alertness and focus.

White Vein Kratom Effects

Green Vein Kratom

For those who prefer neither the sedation of red veins, or the stimulation of white veins, green vein kratom may be the best solution.

Green vein strains are (on average) much more moderate in their effects than other the other vein varieties.

And for that reason, they can provide the best of both worlds, making them great choice for regular daily usage.

However, green veins tend to be much more easily influenced by individual strain differences, making them the most variable vein type in regard to effects.

Green Vein Kratom Effects

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Extract Guide

While typically not as well-rounded as the plain leaf in effects, kratom extracts can certainly serve a purpose for those with chronic pain or other debilitating conditions in which the plain leaf will not suffice.

There are a large variety of different types of extracts with varying effects, based upon both the method of extraction as well as the base plant material used to make them. Read below to learn about these different extract types.

Water-Based Extracts

Water-based kratom extracts are by far the most common variety.

As the name implies, the extract is performed by: dissolving a portion of alkaloids into water, straining the powder, and evaporating the water.

This process leaves a brownish, more alkaloid-concentrated version of the plain leaf behind.

Water extracts are commonly referred to with an ‘x’ (e.g. 10x, 25x), which implies how much plain leaf material was used to create the same weight of resulting extract.

Sadly, these figures are nearly always incorrect due to vendor dishonesty.

Pros:

More alkaloid-concentrated than plain leaf

Can be used in addition to plain leaf to potentiate effects

Relatively side-effect free in comparison to resin and full-spectrum extracts

More stimulating than the plain-leaf base material

Ability to dissolve in water

Cons:

Must be taken in conjunction with some plain leaf for best effects

Not a well-rounded extract in terms of effects (less pain-killing effect and sedation)

High price per potency

Can increase tolerance rapidly

Kratom Resin Extracts

In comparison to water-based extractions, kratom resin extractions have a much more well-rounded profile of effects.

These extracts are typically performed by extracting kratom with both a polar solvent and a non-polar solvent. A simple example of this would be water and ethanol.

Like the water extract, the powder is strained and the alkaloid saturated non-polar/polar solvent is left to dry.

Pros:

Full-spectrum of effects

Ease of use

Easy storage

High potency per weight

Cons:

More expensive than plain leaf

Side-effects to potency ratio comparable to plain leaf

Temperature sensitive (melts in minor heat)

Kratom Tinctures

Unlike the other forms of extracts, kratom tinctures can vary in their method of extraction and their potency; because of this, buying them from an disreputable source can leave one disappointed.

On the other hand, when they are done well, they can be quite potent.

Pros:

Ease of Use

Ease of Use Fast-acting

Convenience of storage

Cons:

Typically expensive

Variable Potency

Rarely provide a full-spectrum of effects

Rapid development of tolerance

Enhanced Leaf

Enhanced leaf has become the go-to choice of many extract users due to it’s high potency and lack of side effects.

Enhanced leaf is used by taking a highly potent kratom extract, dissolving it in a solution, soaking kratom leaves/powder in this solution and letting it dry.

When done correctly, this method can create a highly potent leaf.

One of the most popular enhanced leaf blends of our era is known as UEI (Ultra Enhanced Indo).

Pros:

Very potent when done well

Lack of side-effects per potency

Typically well-rounded

Highly effective for pain

Cons:

Rapid development of tolerance

Relatively high price

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Kratom’s Alkaloids

The reason for the difference in effects from strain to strain is the variability of kratom’s alkaloids; in fact, there are over 28 identified alkaloids found within the plant with different half-lives and durations.

For more information on these alkaloids, their effects, and their content (% of total alkaloid weight, one standard deviation), refer below [4]:

7-hydroxymitragynine – Analgesic/painkiller, antidiarrheal, antitussive – 1.5 – 2.5%

– Analgesic/painkiller, antidiarrheal, antitussive – 1.5 – 2.5% Mitragynine – Analgesic/painkiller, antidiarrheal, antitussive, adrenergic receptor agonist (mild stimulant), antimalarial – 40 – 75% [Lowest recorded content: 12%]

– Analgesic/painkiller, antidiarrheal, antitussive, adrenergic receptor agonist (mild stimulant), antimalarial – 40 – 75% [Lowest recorded content: 12%] Speciogynine – Smooth Muscle Relaxer – 6.5 – 7.2%

– Smooth Muscle Relaxer – 6.5 – 7.2% Mitraphylline – Muscle relaxer, vasodilator, anti-hypertensive, anti-amnesic, immune system stimulant, anti-leukemic – less than 1%

– Muscle relaxer, vasodilator, anti-hypertensive, anti-amnesic, immune system stimulant, anti-leukemic – less than 1% Epicatechin (EGC) – Antioxidant, antiviral, anti-mutagenic, anti-leukemic, anti inflammatory, anti-diabetic. Commonly found in green tea. – 1%

– Antioxidant, antiviral, anti-mutagenic, anti-leukemic, anti inflammatory, anti-diabetic. Commonly found in green tea. – 1% 9-Hydroxycorynantheidine – Painkiller/analgesic – 1%

– Painkiller/analgesic – 1% Corynantheidine – less than 1%

– less than 1% Isomitraphylline – Immune System Stimulant – less than 1%

– Immune System Stimulant – less than 1% Isomitrafoline – Immune System Stimulant – less than 1%

– Immune System Stimulant – less than 1% Isorhynchophylline – Immune System Stimulant – less than 1%

Immune System Stimulant – less than 1% Isopteropodine – Immune System Stimulant – less than 1%

Immune System Stimulant – less than 1% Ciliaphylline – Analgesic, antitussive – less than 1%

– Analgesic, antitussive – less than 1% Corynoxine A – Dopamine Mediator – less than 1%

– Dopamine Mediator – less than 1% Corynoxine B – Dopamine Mediator – less than 1%

– Dopamine Mediator – less than 1% Ajmalicine – Sedative (Anti-Adrenergic), increase blood flow to brain, smooth muscle relaxer – less than 1%

Sedative (Anti-Adrenergic), increase blood flow to brain, smooth muscle relaxer – less than 1% Rhynchophylline – Anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, anti-hypertensive – less than 1%

– Anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, anti-hypertensive – less than 1% Speciociliatine – less than 1%

– less than 1% Speciophylline – Anti-leukemic – less than 1%

Anti-leukemic – less than 1% Tetrahydroalstonine – Anti-adrenergic, lowers blood sugar – less than 1%

– Anti-adrenergic, lowers blood sugar – less than 1% Akuammigine – inactive – less than 1%

inactive – less than 1% Mitrafoline – inactive – less than 1%

– inactive – less than 1% Mitraversine – inactive – less than 1%

– inactive – less than 1% Speciofoline – inactive – less than 1%

– inactive – less than 1% Stipulatine – inactive – less than 1%

Respected kratom researchers such as Takayama H, Shellard EJ, Raymond-Hamet, Becket AH, Philipson JD and Lee CM, have shown that the alkaloid profiles of the plants from different regions vary heavily.

Many suspect that Thai strains, contain more mitragynine than average.

And Malaysian strains, have proportionally lower levels of mitragynine, suggesting its potency may be due to relatively higher levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine.

These differences in alkaloid profile are what make each strain unique and effective in quite different ways.

Yet there is still much research to be done until we have a complete understanding of the varied effects of different leaf alkaloid profiles.

Traditional Dosage

Dosage has been a key factor for those looking for specific effects.

By dosing too low, the medicinal capabilities are nulled, while dosing too high can often lead to relatively harmless, but potentially unpleasant side-effects, such as the “wobbles” and minor nausea.

Average Dosage by Grams

Mild – 1 to 2 grams

Moderate – 2-4.5 grams

High – 4.5 – 8 grams

Average Dosage by Teaspoon

Mild – .5 to .9 tsp

Moderate – 1 to 2 tsp

High – 2 to 3.5 tsp

It should be noted that due to varying potency between strains and plants, this estimate is in no way standardized, instead it an estimate based on historical and experiential reports.

Doses at the the “high” end of the spectrum are also much more likely to cause side-effects, depending upon the strain.

Dosage Intervals

For best effect, many have found that this plant should not be taken in high doses regularly, as some of the medicinal effects can diminish.

However, those who use this plant to combat chronic pain may find this inevitable, as pain doesn’t operate in a convenient time-cycle.

Strain Differences

Differences between strains is a factor that can’t be overlooked when calculating a dosage. There are a few primary strains that should be dosed relatively lower than the average, these strains are:

Maeng Da – Potent, active at lower doses

– Potent, active at lower doses Bali – Side effects encountered at lower doses in comparison to other strains

Side effects encountered at lower doses in comparison to other strains Thai – Can be overstimulating for some at higher doses

Because of this, it is a good idea to modify dosage with these strains accordingly in order to achieve best results.

Some strains, such as Borneo, can be dosed relatively higher, due to their lack of side-effects.

Because of this variability in strains, it is advisable to start low with any new or unknown strain.

Effects By Dosage

Something that is frequently encountered with a variety of strains is the difference in effects at differing doses.

Although this varies depending upon the strain and where you buy kratom, typically, lower doses are relatively more stimulating than higher doses.

While the cause of this is not well known, it likely has to do with the the diminishing returns of stimulating alkaloids in comparison to 7-hydroxymitragynine.

For anyone inexperienced with kratom, it is essential to know about the philosophy, theory and advice regarding kratom dosage in order to get the ideal effects.

The “Less is More” Theory

The “less is more” theory is very popular among kratom forums, and there is some evidence to back this theory.

Almost every strain has an optimal dose for both medicinal and euphoric effects, and dosage above this ideal threshold can have paradoxical effects.

Now, it’s important to note that different strains have differing levels of this alkaloid, so if this common experiences is a result of this alkaloid, it this statement may not apply to all strains — however, the majority of strains seem to be affected.

The “less is more” theory, is also advisable because lower dosage also creates less tolerance to effects, which can help maintain the plant’s medicinal potential over time.

Empty Stomach

As plain leaf has to be digested in order to have medicinal benefit, many have found it to be best taken on an empty stomach, as this will ensure the effects are delivered quickly and reliably.

In addition to taking kratom on an empty stomach, many have found that some foods seem to not only delay the effects of kratom, but nullify them almost entirely.

Because eating is a necessity, it may not always be possible to use it in this manner; for this reason, many have turned to kratom tea to deliver effects more quickly and reliably.

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Kratom Preparation – Traditional and Modern Methods

Throughout the thousands of years kratom has been used, preparation methods have remained relatively the same; however, as western society has interacted with this plant, there have been some unique additions — recipes and methods to fit our unique needs.

The Kratom Quid The Kratom Quid

The quid is the original method of kratom use for Southeast Asian cultures, especially Thailand.

The quid method of use involves taking fresh kratom leaves (a rare commodity in the western world), removing the stems and veins in one quick motion, bundling the kratom and chewing it while holding the saliva and chewed leaf material in their mouth.

The quid works through mostly sublingual methods, however, the swallowed portion also has a considerable effect.

Toss and Wash Method

One of the most common kratom preparation methods, if it could be called preparation at all, is the toss ‘n’ wash.

This method is typically done by:

Putting water (or other liquid) in the mouth

Adding desired kratom dose to this water

Submerging and mixing the kratom/water mixture within the mouth to avoid dry particles getting caught in the mouth and throat

Taking another gulp of water while simultaneously swallowing the mixture

Chasing with more water to get down any debris

Kratom Tea

This is another very common preparation method, both in the west and east. Learning how to make kratom tea is fairly simple:

Add water to pot (3-10 ounces)

Add desired kratom dose

Simmer for 15 – 45 minutes (20 minutes typically suffices)

Optional: strain powder

Tea is considered effective by many because of the quick onset of effects; however, by straining out the powder, one may lose the full alkaloid spectrum of the plain leaf, reducing some medicinal potentials.

Tea Tips

Adding water to kratom powder and freezing prior to making tea can increase the amount of alkaloids absorbed

Adding lemon juice, or small amounts of citric acid can also increase amount of alkaloids absorbed

One can salvage the strained powder from tea and reuse it to ensure no alkaloids are wasted

Kratom Tea Recipes

Because some are more sensitive to the bitter taste of kratom tea, many tea recipes have been developed. One of the most effective we have seen for masking the taste of kratom is to mix it with a flavoring, or mixture.

Speciosa Chai

One of the most effective kratom recipes we have found is what we have heard called “Speciosa Chai”. This method is very simple and is composed of a few simple steps:

Condense kratom tea to 3-4 ounces

Add 4-5 ounces of Chai tea mixture

Add sugar & cream/milk if desired

There are a variety of different chai mixtures one can experiment with; however, the Tazo Organic Chai Black Tea mix is the favorite we have seen at an associated kava bar in our area.

Simple Flavorings

Something that we have seen to be surprisingly effective at masking the taste are pump flavorings– especially the fruit-based flavorings. You can find these pump flavorings at local coffee shops or online for a very reasonable cost.

Mixtures & Blends

Another common method that has been more recently for those who don’t want to toss ‘n’ wash or make tea, is to mix kratom. Some of the most common mixers we have heard are:

Yogurt

Applesauce

Peanut Butter

Honey

Juice

Chocolate Milk

Mixing kratom with these has the added benefit of allowing it to be taken while minimizing the taste, however, with some of these it may take longer to digest.

Another creative method we have heard is to kratom with peanut butter to form little peanut butter balls to swallow. Nearly any decent tasting drink/mixture can be effective.

Additionally, tools such as blender bottles, commonly used for protein shakes, have been suggested for this process.

Kratom Capsules

A common form of kratom preparation is by capping the kratom powder rather than taking it whole, mixed or in tea form. Kratom capsules have the benefit of being easy to use.

Considerations

Buying capsules can be extremely expensive in comparison to powder, and kratom capsules (especially the variety sold by less reputable companies at shady stores and gas stations) that have had a big part in giving kratom a bad name.

Also, when buying these capsules you don’t really know what you’re getting, as it isn’t an approved dietary supplement

…and this could lead to dangers for both the user, and kratom’s legality.

Because of this, anyone who wants to keep kratom legal should avoid buying kratom capsules.

There are a large variety of capsule tools, such as “The Capsule Machine” and “Cap m Quick”, which can make capsules in bulk (and save you a tremendous amount of money over time in the process).

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Reducing Kratom Tolerance

Kratom tolerance is the number one impediment when looking to ensure peak medicinal effects. Besides taking this plant less frequently, there are some tricks one can use to keep tolerance low.

Strain Rotation

Many have found strain rotation is a great way to keep the medicinal effects of kratom fresh.

When using a specific strain for a long period, you can develop a tolerance to its specific alkaloid profile; however, by switching strains regularly, the alkaloid levels many not remain stable enough to develop a complete tolerance to the effects.

Methods

Rotation by Effects – This method involves using alternating strains types (e.g. Mon. – Sedating, Tues. – Stimulating, Weds. – Sedating)

– This method involves using alternating strains types (e.g. Mon. – Sedating, Tues. – Stimulating, Weds. – Sedating) Rotation by Vein Color – Similar to the above method, this involves rotating by vein color (e.g. Mon. – Red, Tues. – White, Weds. – Green)

By using these methods, one can ensure that the alkaloid profiles are as varied as possible on consecutive days or periods, which can keep tolerance at bay for a longer period of time.

Note: Stem and vein kratom is often used as a substitute to further reduce tolerance, as its alkaloid profile is typically very different than the plain leaf.

However, although using this technique to it’s fullest requires 3-5+ different strains, this method of tolerance reduction can still be somewhat beneficial with 2 or 3 varieties.

Supplementation

There are a variety of other ways to supplement tolerance reduction, including:

Magnesium

Magnesium supplementation is a great way to keep kratom tolerance low due to its NMDA antagonist effects, which helps regulate how the brain and body react to frequent exposure to these compounds [5].

Exercise

Exercise is a very effective yet under rated method of reducing tolerance. Exercise’s reduction of tolerance is cumulative, meaning the more you exercise, and the more in shape you are, the less tolerance is developed, which potentiates the medicinal effects of kratom.

The Infamous “Wobbles” The Infamous “Wobbles”

The “Wobbles” is a term that was coined within kratom communities to describe the most prominent side effect of kratom, especially Bali strains.

The wobbles are defined by the difficulty to refocus the eyes at a specific point without strain and annoyance; this effect can lead to headaches and nausea.

While the wobbles are not much more than an annoyance, driving or operating other heavy machinery while experiencing the wobbles is dangerous, and should never be attempted.

Avoiding the Wobbles

The easiest way to avoid the wobbles is to keep dosage below the side effect threshold. This threshold can vary between strains and plants. Typically, doses under 5 grams will generally prevent the wobbles, although there are some exceptions

Strains by Wobble Factor

Note: It is much more rare to experience the wobbles with strained kratom tea; leading many to believe that it is an effect that may be caused by one of the fat-soluble alkaloids.

Combating the Wobbles

While there is not much information available on combating the wobbles, there are a few things that can help in the process.

Activated Charcoal – This supplement is one of the most effective ways to get rid of the wobbles; it works by adsorbing a portion of the wobble-causing alkaloids, negating the effects almost entirely.

– This supplement is one of the most effective ways to get rid of the wobbles; it works by adsorbing a portion of the wobble-causing alkaloids, negating the effects almost entirely. Food/Carbonated Drinks – While these won’t help get rid of the wobbles, they can speed up digestion, allowing the symptoms to pass more quickly (if inevitable).

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[1] https://books.google.com/books?id=BtPMBQAAQBAJ&dq=mitragynine+malarial&lr=

[2] https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/348/3/383.short

[3] https://jaoa.org/article.aspx?articleid=2094342

[4] https://patents.google.com/patent/US20180169172A1/en

[5] https://journals.lww.com/anesthesia-analgesia/Abstract/1998/04000/Antinociceptive_Potentiation_and_Attenuation_of.28.aspx