Beginner’s Guide to Kratom: Strains, Dosages, and Effects
Have you heard the buzz about kratom? Known by users for its pleasant and uplifting vibes, this 100% natural substance is reported to enhance your day and boost your wellness. But what is kratom, exactly? Who is it for? How do you use it? If you’re looking for the answers to these questions, we’ve got ‘em — and more.
In this kratom guide for beginners, we’ll discuss everything you need to know for the perfect first-time kratom experience. Whether you’re curious about the potential benefits of using kratom or confused about different strains, this article is for you. By learning all about kratom, you’ll also be able to make an informed choice when shopping online.
What is Kratom?
No kratom guide is complete without a basic definition. In a nutshell, kratom is a plant that delivers feelings of positivity and well-being. Many people enjoy kratom to feel brighter, more present, and more grounded in their life. Users report that it can increase your sense of motivation while also helping you feel balanced.
More specifically, kratom refers to the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree. A relative of the coffee plant, Mitragyna speciosa is native to Southeast Asia. In regions now defined by countries including Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Myanmar, native cultures have used the leaves of this tree in religious ceremonies, traditional medicine, and home remedies for centuries.
Kratom leaves are broad and oval in shape, with numerous veins and a pointed tip. They are a rich natural source of two alkaloid compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which have an impact on kratom’s effects.
Strains of Kratom & Their Effects
When you click on a kratom website or walk into a store that sells it, you’ll quickly realize that kratom is available in different varieties. Generally, kratom is categorized into different strains based on region and color.
Region, of course, refers to the place where that particular strain is grown and harvested. Similar to wine or coffee, environmental conditions like soil and humidity levels affect kratom. Kratom from Bali is slightly different from kratom from Thailand. However, the average beginner probably won’t be able to detect these subtle variations, which is why our kratom guide will focus more on color.
Kratom strains come in red, white, and green. These colors result from the age of the leaves when they are harvested. You may also see colors referred to as “veins” because that’s the part of the leaf that undergoes the most visible change as the plant matures.
As kratom leaves change color, they also change chemical composition. The balance of alkaloids shifts, resulting in different effects and benefits.
White kratom
White kratom is prepared from the youngest leaves. This variety of kratom contains a higher amount of mitragynine, which can create a feeling of sharper focus and more “get up and go.” Best for daytime use, white kratom might just replace your morning espresso!
Green kratom
Green kratom comes from middle-aged leaves and offers a balance of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Many kratom enthusiasts use green strains because they combine the effects of both white and red kratom.
Red kratom
Red kratom occurs when the leaves are the most mature. It has higher levels of the 7-hydroxymitragynine alkaloid than white and green kratom. Using red kratom results in a more mellow vibe and is reported to help you feel more centered.
How To Use Kratom
There are multiple ways to use kratom. Traditionally, people in Southeast Asia would chew the raw leaves or smoke them like tobacco. It can also be used in tinctures and teas. However, in the United States, most commercially available kratom comes in capsules or powder.
Capsules are one of the most convenient ways to enjoy your kratom experience. They’re pre-measured, no-mess, and tasteless (as long as you swallow quickly). To use kratom capsules, simply pop them in your mouth and wash them down with your favorite nonalcoholic beverage.
Powder is a little messier and requires measuring the dose, but the benefit of kratom powder is its versatility. You can add it to smoothies, teas, or other drinks or use the powder in baking recipes. Many kratom enthusiasts also enjoy buying powder to make DIY capsules, which allows them to blend strains and customize their dosage.
Kratom Safety Tips
Safety is an important part of any kratom guide. Although kratom is a 100% natural product, always talk to your healthcare provider before using kratom if you have any medical conditions or use prescription medications. Do not use kratom if you’re pregnant or nursing.
When you’re trying kratom for the first time, start with the lowest possible dose. Allow yourself to feel how it affects you and learn the way your body responds to the kratom. As you increase your dosage, it’s recommended to ramp up slowly, over time.
For the best beginner’s kratom experience, try it in a safe and comfortable place where you can enjoy the sensations and feelings without too many distractions. Some people may experience side effects of kratom, including nausea and dry mouth, so you may wish to have ginger ale or a lemon-lime soda nearby just in case.
Storing Your Kratom
When you buy kratom, it will usually come in an airtight package. To preserve the freshness of your powders and capsules, always seal the package after use. Store your kratom in a dry, dark place.
Where Can You Buy Kratom?
If this kratom guide has inspired you, you’re probably wondering where to buy kratom.
Kratom is often sold in local head shops, but use caution when buying from these stores because their products may not be fresh or pure. Always look for kratom that’s been tested for impurities by a third-party lab and make sure you choose brands that don’t use any fillers or additives.
Here at Kratom Gecko, we’re passionate about bringing you premium powders and capsules that are 100% natural, pure, and ultra premium quality. When you’re ready to experience the best vibes kratom has to offer, give us a try!
