Kratom Origins

Kratom originates from huge green leaves of the evergreen trees (Mitragyna speciosa) mainly in Indonesia. For centuries, the natives of Indonesia have chewed or sipped kratom leaves as tea. It is not smoked. The majority of kratom is grown on the main island of Borneo with far less grown on the adjacent island of Sumatra. Moreover, Bali is also grown in Borneo. Malaysia and Thailand DO NOT grow kratom because it is illegal. It, too, is grown in Borneo; yet, many kratom shops still utilize the misleading Malaysian and Thailand names of origin to advertise and sell.  Don’t’ be fooled by fancy packaging names and all the “options.” Most of the time, it is simply a marketing tool.

Colors of Kratom

Kratom only grows in three strains or colors: red, white, and green, despite its origin. The properties of the strain are determined by the color of the stem and vein which is removed before the grinding process. Like most herbs, potency and color are determined by genetics, plant age, and the natural elements: sun, rain, and soil; plus, harvest and storage conditions. Since our environment changes daily, the chemical properties can vary slightly with each batch, but the overall effects remain the same. Not to worry. It is still just red, white, and green.

Alkaloids in Kratom

Kratom owes all its wonderful benefits to two major alkaloids found in its leaves in minor amounts: mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine. These levels fluctuate with the environment, but typically fall within a given range of effectiveness you can count on. Kratom users and studies report a wide variety of effects including increased work capacity, social interaction, mental focus, up-beat mood, calmness, as well as, anxiety and pain relief.

In general, all kratom delivers energy and alertness when taken in small quantities (0-5g); however, in higher dosages (6g or more), levels of sedation begin to take effect pending personal body chemistry. Therefore, know your body, discover how it reacts, and how you expect kratom to help you. Dosage is dependent on individual goals and tolerance. Trial and error are the only ways to determine what works best. The rule of thumb is start slow and increase slowly as needed, usually 1-2g at a time after a 40-minute span.  Never mix kratom with alcohol or drugs, even though kratom is a natural, organic herb or chemicals react when combined. As for taste, though kratom is part of the coffee plant family, do not expect a pleasant sensation. In fact, it is quite bitter. Nevertheless, people buy it for its results, not its flavor.

Orange Juice and Kratom

Studies show an acidic environment potentiates the breadth and length of the kratom experience. Simply consume 1 to 2 ounces of grapefruit (higher acid) or orange juice with the kratom. It is also advisable to not take kratom on an empty stomach. A small amount of food or snack will prevent potential nausea.

Finally, to avoid building a tolerance, alternate kratom strains. Perhaps, Red at night and Green during the day. Or, try blending your own strains to change up your body’s reactions. You not only fake out your body, but save dollars on more purchases!