Kratom supplements are all the rage in the health and nutrition market. This botanical has been around since the 19th century and has recently gained popularity as a trendy fitness product.
If you’re trying to find green vein products and don’t know enough about them, you’re not alone. Many are curious about the full spectrum of this botanical. Read on for more on its forms, potential health benefits, and exciting strains to enjoy.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is an herbal extract made from the foliage of the Mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia.
This tropical evergreen tree is a member of the coffee family and has similar stimulating properties to caffeine.
Southeast Asian farmers chew or smoke the leaves as they believe it boosts energy and prevents illness.
The leaves hold two special alkaloids, mitragynine, and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which give the plant its powerful effects. Each dark, glossy leaf has around 12–17 veins packed with active compounds.
The Forms of Kratom
Aside from rare options like kratom concentrate products, the herb typically comes in two forms: powders and capsules. Each consumption method has its pros and cons. Let’s unpack them below.
Kratom Powder
If you enjoy hot beverages, kratom powder is an excellent pick. It’s a blend made from the dried and cured leaves of the evergreen tree. It’s commonly brewed into kratom tea, which is a bitter yet comforting drink.
Kratom powder gives you more freedom over the amount and the way you consume the herb. You can use it to bake edibles or sprinkle it over your food for a powerful bitter kick (similar to matcha).
The downside is measuring the correct dosage is tedious and intimidating to beginners.
Kratom Capsules
If you’re looking for the most convenient method, capsules are the best. They’re pre-dosed, so you won’t have to spend extra time measuring the correct amount.
You don’t have to infuse capsules into your food or brew them. Simply take the recommended amount with a full glass of water.
Many people don’t enjoy the bitter taste of the kratom herb. Capsules are excellent as they hold the powder within and the cap shells are typically flavorless and odorless.
Proposed Benefits of Kratom
Studies on this botanical are lacking, so most evidence is anecdotal. There are three main possible benefits of kratom that people typically report at low, medium, and high doses.
Energy Boost and Mood Upliftment
What are kratom’s benefits in low doses? It may have stimulant effects similar to a strong cup of coffee. People say it helps with focus and concentration and could prevent procrastination.
The uplifting effect makes it a perfect way to start the day. Kratom may boost the production of dopamine and serotonin, which could increase motivation.
Relaxation and Pain Relief
In medium to high doses, kratom could provide pain relief. The alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine may have opioid-like effects which might relax muscle tension and relieve discomfort.
How is kratom used for relaxation? In moderate amounts, it has a profoundly calming effect that may quell racing thoughts and calm you from head to toe.
Sedation
In high doses, kratom may deliver a deeply sedating effect, sending you straight to dreamland. For beginners, bigger amounts might cause paranoia or other side effects like dizziness.
The sedative effects could be beneficial for those who battle with getting enough sleep. Larger amounts may also quiet the mind, making it ideal for people who worry or have racing thoughts before bed.
Different Kratom Strains
Different strains have varying alkaloid profiles and deliver unique effects. There are many kratom supplements, but they all fall under four major categories:
- Green vein: Medium maturity level and a balanced alkaloid profile. These strains may possess mildly energizing or relaxing effects.
- White vein: Least matured with more mitragynine. These cultivars are typically uplifting and energizing, ideal for high-focus tasks.
- Red vein: Most mature and potent alkaloid content. These strains are known for being sedating and having powerful analgesic properties.
- Gold kratom: A blend of mature red and white strain leaves with varying alkaloid levels and effects. Gold kratom shots have a balance of energizing and relaxing properties.
Final Thoughts
Kratom is an herbal extract originating from parts of Southeast Asia that people use as a natural medicine for various ailments. It typically comes in powder or capsule form, both of which have unique advantages.
There are three main strain types: red, white, and green, which are named after their vein colors and maturity levels. Each category has different effects and possible medicinal applications.
Kratom may be beneficial as a natural method for an energy boost, pain-relief, or a night of restful sleep.
