What is Kratom?
Kratom is a natural supplement that comes from trees native to Southeast Asia. It’s been used in herbal medicines by indigenous cultures for centuries, and recently, it’s blown up across the United States and Europe.
Even though kratom has been around for years, there’s still not a ton of information readily available for the kratom-curious. If you’re starting from scratch and you just want to know “What is kratom?” then read on for a simple kratom guide from the folks at Kratom Gecko.
We’ve compiled the basics on what kratom is, how it’s used, and what to expect. If this intro to kratom sparks your curiosity, Kratom Gecko has a host of fresh, safe, high-quality kratom products for you to peruse.
Where Does Kratom Come From?
Kratom is a tropical tree indigenous to Southeast Asia. It’s actually a member of the coffee family. Kratom products are typically made from the leaves of the tree, which may be chewed, brewed into a tea, or ground up and processed into powders, extracts, and capsules.
In Indonesia, Bali, Malaysia, Thailand, and many other countries in the region, kratom is a staple part of the culture. It’s been used by manual laborers to combat fatigue and improve productivity and utilized as a natural remedy to treat pain and other conditions.
In the U.S., kratom started gaining popularity in the early 2010s. By 2020, an estimated 15 million people in the country had used kratom. By all accounts, kratom is continuing to get more and more attention nationwide. If you’re just starting your kratom journey, you’re not alone!
What Are the Effects of Kratom?
Kratom’s effects are drawn from two naturally occurring chemical substances, known as alkaloids, present in kratom leaves. These alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are known to have a stimulating effect. The most common alkaloids you’ve likely come across are caffeine in coffee or capsaicin, which gives peppers that spicy effect.
People who use kratom say they enjoy a boost to their energy and focus, as well as feeling positive vibes overall. Many people feel more sociable and talkative after taking kratom.
Different strains of kratom are said to have different effects, and those effects can change depending upon your body composition, your experience with kratom, and the dosage you take. For example, some people report more sedative-like effects when taking higher doses in general.
White vein kratom (meaning kratom made from leaves with white veins) is typically reported to give the biggest boost to energy and clarity, while people say they feel more grounded after taking red kratom. Green kratom is especially popular for being a middle option that has some effects on both sides. Yellow kratom is an up-and-coming strain, made with a blend of other strains in order to find that Goldilocks experience.
The way kratom affects you, in particular, may vary. Experimentation and staying in tune with your own body are key.
Is Kratom Medicine?
Although kratom has been used as a natural remedy in Southeast Asia, the FDA has not yet approved kratom to treat any medical conditions. There are a number of studies currently underway to evaluate whether kratom can be a safe and effective alternative for pain relief or to help with addiction to opioids.
Is Kratom Legal?
There’s a lot of muddled information about kratom’s legal status. The American Kratom Association has a handy state-by-state guide explaining how kratom is regulated across the United States.
For the most part, kratom is legal in the U.S. Kratom is legal in 44 out of 50 states, and one more state (Vermont) is in the process of legalization. There are no federal regulations governing kratom sales, although FDA rules limit how kratom can be marketed.
In most places, you can pick up kratom over-the-counter from a local nutrition shop or head shop, or you can order kratom products online. Some states restrict sales by age (18 or 21, depending on the state), so make sure to check the law in your area.
How Should I Use Kratom?
Most shops in the U.S. sell kratom in either powder or capsule form, although you may be able to find raw leaves or extracts. You can also find a variety of kratom strains, which differ by country of origin, cultivation process, and other elements.
How you prefer to take your kratom is really up to you. Some people like brewing kratom into tea, mixing the powder into fruit and veggie drinks, or adding powder to smoothies. If you’re one of those people, a powder or extract gives you the most flexibility.
For other people, convenience and exact measurement are more important. Capsules can help you pick precise, consistent doses so you know exactly how much you’re getting. Make sure you buy your kratom from a trusted source with accurate labels and consistent doses.
As for the different strains and other options, it’s worth doing some research to see what might work best for you. After that, experiment! Figuring out the right strain and dosage is part of the process.
For newer folks, we advise starting with small doses before taking more in a single sitting. The cautious approach is always wise. Ultimately, it’s up to you to find the right strain, dosage, and product to suit your personal needs. There’s no right answer for everyone; listen to your body and do what works best for you!
Find the Kratom Product That’s Right for You
The team at Kratom Gecko is delighted to help you start your kratom journey. Whether you’re looking to manage pain relief, improve your energy levels, or just experience some positive vibes, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our online shop for a wide range of kratom options.
If you need more info about the different types of kratom or how you can make the best of your kratom experience, check out our blog. Feel free to reach out directly if you have any questions about our products or about kratom in general.
