How to Use Kratom: Dosages, Frequency and Methods of Consumption
Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a plant native to Southeast Asia now gaining popularity worldwide.
The local populations have been using it to increase energy, relieve dysentery, manage pain, and improve focus for centuries.
There are a number of ways to use Kratom.
In the ancient times, Kratom leaves were mostly chewed or crushed to make herbal tea. While these methods have a side effect – it doesn’t really taste good – a lot of new methods have been introduced, making it a lot easier to use Kratom.
If you are new to Kratom, you might find it difficult to decide the correct dosage, frequency, and the preferred method of consumption.
It is necessary to go through some trial and error before achieving the most suitable dose that works for you.
If you do not have much experience and want to know about how to use Kratom in the safest and the best way possible, this guide might help you out.
Methods of Consumption
Kratom is mostly available in the form of powders (the leaves are dried out and then ground to a powder). Some of the most popular methods of consuming Kratom, especially in the form of powder, are explained below:
Toss and Wash Method
Toss and wash method is the easiest and the fastest way of getting Kratom into your system. A large majority of Kratom users rely on this method because of its simplicity.
The method involves measuring the right amount of Kratom powder on a teaspoon and place it into your mouth. This is followed by sipping on some water and swilling the powder before swallowing it.
You can also divide your required dose into small sections and consume it one by one. This makes the process more convenient and reduces the chances of having too much powder and making you gag.
Additionally, people have often found that using some orange juice instead of water can make the toss-and-wash much more palatable.
Herbal Tea
The Southeast Asian locals have been consuming Kratom Tea for centuries. The process is really simple and requires boiling a suitable amount of Kratom powder in water for half an hour. The liquid can be strained off and used as a herbal tea.
Consuming Kratom in the form of herbal tea is preferred by a lot of users because it provides better results. Moreover, it masks the unpleasant taste of Kratom powder at the same time.
Mixing in Yogurt
Adding Kratom to yogurt is another way to mask its bitter taste. This particular method of consumption is especially beneficial if Kratom makes you nauseous.
As the strongest effects of Kratom can only be achieved on an empty stomach, mixing Kratom powder in yogurt might not be suitable for everyone.
Adding to Protein Shakes
Adding Kratom powder to protein shakes is similar to mixing it in yogurt. The only difference is that this method allows you to consume it with a higher amount of calories. Some users have reportedly claimed to experience better effects after taking Kratom along with protein shakes.
Kratom Capsules
Kratom capsules can be a convenient way to achieve all the effects of Kratom while completely avoiding its taste.
The only drawback to this method is that capsules are available in different forms, each containing different amounts of Kratom powder.
For example, a size 00 capsule usually contains 0.5 grams of powder. So, if you need to take 5 grams of Kratom, you will require 10 such capsules to achieve the required effects.
Kratom capsules can be extremely convenient for those who are always on the move.
After choosing a preferred method of consumption, it is important to find out about the right Kratom dosage.
Choosing the Right Dose
Choosing the right dose of Kratom can be tough. It is generally recommended to start with the smallest dose, 2 to 3 grams ideally, and wait for at least 30 minutes.
Too little quantity will obviously not provide the required effects but too much can start producing the unwanted side effects of nausea.
Hence, it is always wise to start with the minimal amount possible and gradually work your way up until you start experiencing the desired effects.
Most of the times, a good quality Kratom can provide you satisfactory results if taken in a dose of 3 to 5 grams depending on your needs and your own tolerance.
At the same time, it is important to remember that not all Kratom strains are equal and their doses may have to be slightly varied.
In addition, your ideal dose will vary depending on the effects you need.
There are two general rules in regards to dosing for specific effects:
- Lower doses will provide a more energizing and stimulating effect. So the 2-3 grams dose might be perfect for someone who is looking for a mood enhancer that gives a bit of motivation and energy.
- Higher doses will provide a more sedative effect. So if someone wanted to feel relaxed and get some much needed sleep, a higher dose might be needed. However, it’s always safe to start low, relatively speaking, even if you are planning on taking a “higher dose”. It’s always possible to take more, but not possible to take less.
A bit of testing can quickly help you decide what your ideal dose is for your individual needs.
In addition to the two dosing rules above, your tolerance level might also make it necessary to use a higher dose to achieve the desired effect. In the following section we will discuss how to help prevent tolerance.
How Frequently Should Kratom be Used?
Using Kratom too much can be habit forming, therefore, it is important to control its frequency of consumption.
It is generally advised to restrict the consumption of Kratom to twice or three times per week unless your condition requires. Keeping a record of Kratom consumption on a calendar can also help use it responsibly while avoiding addiction.
To avoid any possibility of addiction or tolerance, Kratom should not be used on consecutive days. A gap of one or two days between two successive dosages would be ideal to prevent any addiction and/or tolerance.
Finding the best dosage and method of consuming Kratom can be challenging and may require trial error. However, by considering all the factors mentioned above, the benefits of Kratom can be enjoyed while preventing the pitfalls.