What exactly is Kratom?

Kratom is also known in the art as Mitragyna speciosa and describes a tree native to Southeast Asia. The leaves of the tree are solely responsible for the effects as they contain psychoactive alkaloids. In local cultures, the kratom tree is cultivated and cultivated solely for this property. In terms of its effects, kratom is comparable to some opioids and stimulants, although the mode of action can be divided into two specific effects that are highly dependent on the dosage. Smaller doses have a revitalizing effect and lift the spirits. On the other hand, when consumed in large quantities, kratom has a relaxing effect. A majority of users resort to kratom in extract or powder form, although brewing a tea is the traditional method. However, since the preparation of the tea is more time-consuming and the dosage is not so easy, the other two forms have become increasingly popular in recent years.

The Chemical Components of Kratom

Although the use of kratom in Southeast Asia has a long tradition, there is little scientific knowledge about it. Only a few researchers have dealt with the chemistry of the leaves. The fact is, however, that 25 alkaloids have been isolated so far, some of which are particularly responsible for the mode of action of kratom. The most common alkaloid is mitragynine. Due to its high abundance, it was originally thought that this alkaloid was primarily responsible for the effects. However, Japanese researchers found out at the beginning of this millennium that this is a fallacy. They discovered that the 7-hydroxymitragynine is much more important for the effect. Although this alkaloid is only found in small amounts in the leaves, its effects are many times stronger. It could also be demonstrated that 7-hydroxymitragynine can dock to three different opioid receptors, whereby it primarily seeks interaction with the MOR receptors.

Kratom - A look into history

In Southeast Asia, the kratom tree has a long tradition that goes back several centuries and is still cultivated today. Especially as a medicinal and stimulant, the kratom tree is indispensable in many cultures. Consequently, it is very surprising that the first written record of the use and application of kratom dates back to the 19th century. Back then, it was Dutch colonialists who first reported on kratom use in Malaysia. It is also interesting that the Dutch at that time still assumed that the medicinal and luxury food was a plant called "biak". Many years later it was proven that "biak" is actually Mitragyna speciosa, i.e. kratom. In fact, the term "biak" is a local term in the Malay language for kratom. The name kratom itself originally comes from Thailand, but was later adopted as the international name for the evergreen plant. According to lore, kratom was taken in a variety of forms as early as pre-colonial times. While both smoking and chewing the leaves were common, a decoction made from the leaves of the plant is considered the traditional method. In Malaysia, kratom was mainly used to make work in the fields easier. So the workers took kratom to arm and strengthen themselves for the hard work in the blazing sun. It is interesting that the consumption of kratom was only allowed under certain conditions. Men were allowed to use kratom for both performance enhancement and relaxation. Women, on the other hand, were forbidden to do so. They were only allowed to take the plant for medicinal purposes. It was primarily used as a medicine against fever, diarrhea and to relieve pain.

Although kratom has a long tradition in Thailand, both trade and consumption became more difficult and ultimately banned in the 1940s. In order to capitalize on the high popularity of certain opiates, the Thai government decided to levy heavy taxes on opiates. The aim was to benefit financially from consumption and to improve the state coffers. However, this price increase meant that kratom was increasingly used as a substitute for opiates. This resulted in a ban issued in 1943, which criminalized the cultivation, trade and consumption of kratom. In the meantime, the legal situation has changed again. Since 2018, Kratom has been allowed to be purchased and consumed for medicinal purposes in Thailand again. In Malaysia, where kratom probably has the longest tradition, it is still illegal today. However, this does not stop the population from consuming. It can therefore be said that in Malaysia, although the tree and its leaves are not talked about, every citizen knows and appreciates its advantages.

What are the effects of Kratom?

A general answer to this question is not possible, since kratom has a wide variety of effects depending on the type of leaf and, above all, depending on the dosage. In principle, it can even be said that the effect of Kratom is paradoxical. If it has a stimulating and euphoric effect in small doses, the effect of kratom changes to a calming effect in higher doses. The cause can be found in the way mitragynine works on the brain. Small amounts primarily stimulate the delta opioid receptors. With larger amounts consumed, however, the MOR opioid receptors are stimulated, which also respond when taking opiates. You can already feel an effect after about five to ten minutes when chewing the leaves.

As mentioned earlier, the way kratom works is also dependent on which strain you choose. The various varieties of kratom come from different Asian countries and have individual properties that are noticeable when ingested. There are also subtle differences in the form of administration. Whether as whole leaves, extracts from the capsules - you can consume Kratom depending on your individual preferences. It is important to know that the various types of kratom have certain optical characteristics, which you can use to assign the effect of a particular product. In the following we would like to bring these differences closer to you.

Red Vein Kratom

Red vein kratom is a type of kratom that is particularly noticeable due to its red color in the veins and stems. Nowadays Red Vein Kratom is considered to be the most popular type. The main reason for its popularity is its high availability. But the effect of the Red Vein Kratom can also convince across the board. Consumed in small doses, ingestion results in a very smooth high. This type of kratom is therefore ideal for beginners who have not yet had any personal experience with the plant. A similarly moderate effect is the result of a higher dosage. In this case, Red Vein Kratom produces a calming and relaxing effect, but less intense when compared to other types.

White Vein Kratom

As the name suggests, White Vein Kratom is characterized by its light and pale veins. In terms of its effects, it is significantly more intense than Red Vein Kratom and is valued primarily for its euphoric effects. The high after consumption is diverse and very intense. This leads to White Vein Kratom being recommended as the next step in exploring the effects of plants. In particular, its mood-enhancing effects are the reason why white vein kratom is often consumed before social evenings.

Green Vein Kratom

If you're looking for a good middle ground between white and red kratom, look no further than Green Vein Kratom. Products made from Green Vein Kratom are characterized by combining the best qualities of the other two plants. It has both a stimulating and a calming effect.

The Kratom Species

Based on the color and the rough mode of action, kratom is first differentiated according to species. Further differences can be found in the area of varieties. You can look at this division similarly to that of marijuana. It is mainly the specific modes of action that ensure that kratom is also differentiated and offered in varieties. The cultivation methods of the plant are primarily decisive for the different effects that kratom brings with it. These differ significantly, which is why the spectrum of types of Kratum is wide and has exactly the desired effect for everyone.

Maeng Da Kratom

One of the most popular strains on the market is undoubtedly Maeng Da. This kratom is primarily characterized by its strong effect. Experience has shown that even small doses lead to the desired, strongly stimulating effect. The effect begins with a dose of around one gram. Maeng Da is one of the varieties that are available in all the colors listed above. For this reason, you will always find luxury foods in this product group that have a strong effect and have slightly different effects depending on the colour. So you can choose Maeng Da perfectly according to your individual ideas and preferences.

Indian Kratom

The name may already give it away: Indo-Kratom comes from Indonesia and is also available in all colors. It is generally considered to be moderately potent compared to other types of kratom, but that is not to say that indo-kratom is a weak strain. In fact, indo-kratom has no significant stimulating effect. Rather, its virtues lie in its relaxing properties, which are appreciated by many.

Bali Kratom

One of the more special varieties is the Bali kratom. This also comes from Indonesia and only comes in red colors. Accordingly, its spectrum of activity can be classified well. In low doses, Bali Kratom is stimulating, while higher doses lead to pleasant relaxation. Some users therefore often compare Bali Kratom to opioids. Bali kratom in powder form is particularly popular because it is so easy to fill into capsules and can be dosed well with a view to the spectrum of action.

Green Malay Kratom

In hardly any other country is the effect of kratom appreciated as much as in Malaysia. It is therefore not surprising that one of the most popular varieties comes from Malaysia. Green Malay has a very diverse spectrum of effects, ranging from stimulating to calming. The latter is described as long-lasting and particularly strong when a larger dose is taken. However, this means that if you are a novice when dosing Green Malay, you should proceed slowly. It is advisable to start with a small dosage and gradually adjust the dosage. In this way you can slowly familiarize yourself with the Green Malay and at the same time discover the different effects of this special Kratom.

Thai Kratom

Thai Kratom is a very diverse strain that originated in Thailand and is available in all colors. Accordingly, you can also choose between different effects here. Its popularity is based on the fact that even in small doses, it has a strong effect that initially manifests itself as an invigorating feeling. After a while, the effect turns into a relaxing feeling that lasts comparatively long.

Borneo Kratom

Due to its dried and powdered form, Borneo kratom is particularly popular with those who prefer to dose their kratom accurately. With Borneo Kratom you can choose between white, red and green veins and thus adapt the effects exactly to your wishes. Borneo kratom has very special properties that make it very different from other strains. The effect usually only sets in about 30 minutes after consumption. However, the effect usually lasts for up to six hours. It is also highly valued for its particularly intense taste.

Malaysia Kratom

Similar to Maeng Da, Malaysian kratom has a particularly strong effect. This is due to the high proportion of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. The two alkaloids ensure the strong effect and make this kratom unique. Its effects are commonly described as very mood-enhancing, although effects can vary. Some users find the effects of Malaysia kratom to be energetic, while others experience deep satisfaction after consumption.

Which kratom for which purpose?

After we have examined all types and varieties in more detail, some of them are particularly convincing due to their effect. If you are looking for strong Kratom, we recommend Maeng Da and Malasia Kratom. Both strains are extremely potent and unfold their effects in smaller doses of as little as one gram. The big advantage is that you can work your way up from small doses to explore the full spectrum of effects of these powerful strains.

If, on the other hand, you want the most relaxing effect possible, Bali Kratom is undoubtedly recommended. Since its effects are similar to those of opioids, it is considered by many to be the most relaxing strain of kratom. The red-veined species in particular promise a high degree of relaxation.

How Does Kratom Affect the Brain?

Based on the types and varieties, you can quickly see that kratom increases two effects in particular. On the one hand it impresses with its stimulating effect, on the other hand with the relaxation it causes. It is not yet possible to say why these effects occur. Scientific research into Kratom is still in its infancy. Because of this, you should exercise caution when it comes to treating illness or pain. Some users report healing or pain-relieving effects, but in the absence of scientific studies, there is no evidence of any effects on the body and mind.

Dosage and Effects of Kratom

Whether and how kratom works depends on the types and varieties on the one hand and the dosage chosen on the other. Basically, it can be stated that a certain rule of thumb usually represents a guideline for the dosage with the desired effect. Ingesting one to five grams of kratom often ensures that users experience an increased ability to concentrate, a brighter mood and sociability. The bottom line is that these feelings can be summed up as stimulating.

At a dosage of between five and fifteen grams, the brain reacts differently to kratom, which is why consumption now brings different effects. Higher dosages lead to a feeling of relaxation and are often used to induce deep and restful sleep.

What are the possible side effects of Kratom?

Since Kratom is a psychoactive substance, the active ingredient in Mitragyna speciosa is not entirely free of the side effects that can occur with consumption. As experience shows, side effects usually only occur with higher doses. For this reason, inexperienced users should start with smaller doses and gradually increase until they achieve the desired effect. Minor side effects are a dry mouth, sometimes abdominal pain and a feeling of drowsiness, which is due to the relaxing effect. Hardly any known serious side effects are known, but they are not impossible. If side effects occur with higher doses, you can keep a kind of diary. With its help, you know exactly which dosage is suitable for you and with which dose you can achieve a certain effect and side effects.

Consume Kratom

When it comes to ingestion, kratom has the advantage of being available in a variety of dosage forms. So you can not only determine the desired effect by choosing the type and variety, but also choose the preferred method of administration. Historically, kratom tea has been particularly popular. This is cooked from the leaves of the tree and is particularly popular with purists. Apart from this possibility, modern technology makes it possible to easily control consumption. Kratom in powder form is particularly suitable if you prefer an exact dosage and want to take the active ingredient as discreetly as possible. Due to the powder form, this variant of kratom offers the option of pressing tablets or making your own capsules. You can also use the powder to make tinctures, which are then filled into dropper bottles and can be taken quickly at any time.

Dose Kratom correctly

Due to its varied effects, accurate dosing of Kratom is essential to promote the desired effect. Since kratom is often ordered in powder form, weighing it out using conventional methods is hardly possible. A microbalance that recognizes weights of 0.001 mg and less is suitable for this. With the help of such a scale, dosing is very easy and done within a few seconds. If you have not yet had any experience with Kratom and its mode of action, you should first consider small dosages between one and a maximum of five grams. Once you have weighed the desired dose, you can fill it into capsules and consume it, for example. Another and very popular form of administration is the so-called Toss and Wash. Here, the previously weighed amount of kratom is simply placed in the mouth and washed down with water. Since the kratom can develop immediately in this way, the effect sets in comparatively quickly. It should be noted that this variant is not for everyone in terms of taste. As an alternative, you can use flavored drinks instead of water, which mask the kratom taste.

Kratom and other stimulants - caution with mixed use

In its countries of origin, the kratom tree is one of the common stimulants that are widespread among the population. It should be noted that people there often only consume the leaves of the kratom tree. You should also orientate yourself on this, because mixed consumption can have different health consequences. When combined with other stimulants such as cocaine or amphetamines, as well as large amounts of caffeine, overstimulation can lead to very high blood pressure. On the other hand, mixed use with opioids carries the risk that the body is put into a strong resting mode, which in the worst case can lead to shortness of breath. A final interaction can be observed with the simultaneous consumption of MAO inhibitors. This is a type of antidepressant that should never be consumed with kratom.

Important Questions About Kratom

Ingestion and dosage are entirely up to you. However, since kratom is a psychoactive substance, questions about its use and potential after-effects keep coming up, which we would like to answer briefly and concisely for you.

Can kratom be combined with other drugs?

Kratom interacts very strongly with other substances. For this reason, we advise consuming kratom without any other substances. In any case, you should refrain from taking alcohol at the same time, as such mixed consumption can result in negative effects. The same applies if you should take certain medications. To make sure that no unwanted side effects occur, you should first ask your doctor if in doubt.

How do drug tests react to kratom?

Most common drug tests don't show kratom. Blood tests look a little different. Especially after high doses, it can happen that such a test detects the alkaloids contained.

How long does the active ingredient stay in the body?

The actual effects last between four and six hours after consuming kratom in most cases. But even if the effect has already worn off, the active ingredient can still be in the body. In some cases kratom could still be detected in the body more than a week after consumption.