KRATOM:
The kratom plant(mitragyna spesiosa) is widely used in southeast Asia where its benefits have been known for what appears to be thousands of years. Primarily used by Indonesia and Malaysia day laborers to combat fatigue, kratom is also used for aches and pains, diarrhea, coughs and opiate withdraw among other things.
Sadly, in 1943 the Thai government made it illegal to possess, use or cultivate kratom plants. The reason for this ban was greed! At the time Thailand was attempting to control the opium trade and kratom was putting a big dent in their profits... so they removed the threat. Kratom may face this very same fate in present day America.
*UPDATE* Recently the Thai government has removed its ban on kratom!
TRADITIONAL USE:
traditionally the fresh leaves of the kratom plant are folded in half with one hand while the other pulls out and discards the large vein that runs down the middle of the leaf. The leaves are then chewed and the juices slowly swallowed.
Tea is also made from fresh leaves. Water with a squeeze of citrus is brought to a light boil and fresh torn kratom leaves are added. after 20+ minutes of steeping, the kratom leaves are strained out and discarded. The tea is now ready to drink.
MODERN AMERICAN USE:
kratom is usually found in dry powdered form or as a prepared liquid extract. Kratom powder can be eaten straight (usually in capsules), placed in the lip like chewing tobacco, mixed into a beverage or applesauce, or made into a tea as mentioned above.
Kratom dosage varies depending on the kratom itself, the user and the way its taken.
DIFFERENT WAYS KRATOM IS TAKEN :
Capsules: this is a popular option for those on the go, dont have time for most other methods, or don't like the taste of kratom. The kratom powder is simply encapsulated in either vegetable or gelatin capsules for convenient consumption. The effects take a little bit longer to kick in as compared to other methods but does typically last a longer time.
The toss-and-wash: the toss and wash is very effective but can be difficult for some. The kratom powder is placed in the mouth and then a drink of water or other beverage is used to wash it down. Alternatively the powder can be directly mixed into a small beverage and drank quickly while the kratom is still suspended. The effects come on a little faster than with capsules and thus tends to have a stronger peak but is a bit shorter lived experience overall.
Slurry: kratom powder is quickly mixed with a beverage and while everything is suspended...gulped down.
Kratom tea: Im a big advocate of strained kratom tea because consuming the plant matter can lead to digestion system upsets. Tea is another popular method and removes the need to consume the leaf material and is easy to flavor...not to mention a nice hot cup of any tea has a soothing aspect to it. Making the tea is just like making any other tea other than the citrus thats added to help the extraction process. water with a squeeze of citrus juice is brought to a near boil and the kratom is then added either straight into the water or is first placed into a tea bag. This is allowed to steep for around 20 plus minutes. The kratom is then removed from the water either by straining or simply removing the tea bag.
Applesauce: This is where the kratom is mixed with applesauce or other similar food as opposed to water. This is great for those who are trying to mask kratoms bitterness.
Sublingual (dipping): Not very common for how quickly and efficiently sublingual absorption works! This may be due to the taste of kratom and the fear of leaving that in your mouth for an extended period of time; or maybe because the little bits of kratom getting all over the teeth isnt very attractive. Whether its one reason or another its well worth a try as the effects come on very quickly and requires a much smaller amount on average!
Dipping kratom is done by placing kratom in between the lip and gums not unlike chewing tobacco. The Kratom alkaloids are then extracted as the bundle is moved around a bit to thoroughly wet it. The alkaloids are then absorbed through the mucus membranes. Most absorption takes place under the tongue where the alkaloid laden saliva can be held for stronger effects. The juices are swallowed slowly along with small amounts of kratom until gone.
A great way to make this method convenient is to mix kratom powder with honey until it reaches a dough like consistency. spices can also be added for a custom flavor. This not only improves the taste but makes it a bit easier to work with.