Kratom leaves retain their potency better than powder. However, you must grind them into a powder using a coffee grinder to reap its potency. They can be used to make tinctures or tea in either leaf or powder form. I suggest kratom leaf for those who store kratom for extended periods or want to reap maximum potency.
For ages, people in Southeast Asia have taken kratom leaf to relieve pain and treat certain conditions. Today, more people are turning to Kratom as an alternative treatment for various conditions.
The kratom leaf, derived from the tropical tree Mitragyna Speciosa, commonly finds use in treating and managing certain conditions as a psychotropic leaf.
People also use it for recreational purposes because of its effects on the body. Kratom is not illegal in most of the US and many parts of the world, hence its wide consumption.
Those who have been using kratom for a long time know that it comes in different types and categories. Keep on reading this piece to learn more about the types, consumption, and uses of kratom, among others.
Want to learn more regarding the proper use of kratom? Check out these posts!
- 3 Crucial Rules For Storing Kratom
- How Long to Wait Between Kratom Doses
- Green Maeng Da: The King of Green Strains
1. What is a Kratom Leaf?
Kratom leaf is a tree native to Southeast Asia whose extracts cause psychotropic effects. In other words, the leaf has mind-altering properties.
Kratom is classified into three main categories: white leaf, red leaf, and green leaf.
Each type of kratom has its effects, strengths, and side effects. For instance, red-leaf kratom is a strong sedative that is popular among those who wish to find relaxation, while the white leaf is a strong energy booster.
The experience a person has when using kratom may vary widely from different users due to such categories.
Read More: “Best Kratom Strains For Anxiety”
2. What is Kratom Leaf Used For?
The uses of kratom are many and endless. The most common uses are to relieve pain, control depression, manage insomnia, and treat opioid addiction.
Many online stores market and stock different types of kratom, claiming to offer diverse health benefits.
The traditional known uses for kratom have evolved. Today, credible institutions have conducted studies to shed more light on the uses and health benefits of kratom.
Studies have found medicinal properties in the herb, but no conclusive recommendations support its medical use.
3. Health Benefits of Kratom
The main health benefit of kratom is pain relief based on the accounts of those who have used it and some studies. Even so, recent studies have linked the Southeast Asia herb to many other benefits.
Some of the benefits are yet to be proven by accredited health bodies.
Potential health benefits include:
- Libido Enhancement: Anecdotal studies have shown that consuming kratom leaf may offer users some health benefits, including boosting libido. It is a long-known fact that some strains of kratom may help boost the overall body’s energy.
A good example is the white leaf kratom, which leads to a burst of energy when consumed. People suffering from low libido have found such strains quite helpful.
- Pain Relief: The most important health benefit of kratom is pain relief. One of the compounds found in kratom is 7-hydroxymitragynine, which is 13 times more powerful than morphine. As a result, the herb is commonly used to manage pain.
Those suffering from chronic pain conditions find kratom helpful since it is a strong painkiller. The beauty of it all is that individuals can use the herb as a supplementary part of their daily diet to help reduce pain rather than having to take it as medication, particularly for those suffering from chronic conditions.
Read More: “5 Best Kratom Strains For Pain Reliefs: From Personal Experience ”
- Anxiety and Panic Attacks Treatment: Different types of kratom have different strengths. The red leaf kratom is the best option for those seeking to enjoy kratom’s sedative properties. Those suffering from stress and panic attacks commonly use the herb as a sedative to calm their bodies.
- Insomnia: Just as anxiety patients use kratom to calm their bodies, those suffering from insomnia may also use it for its calming effects. Studies have indicated that one of the major causes of insomnia is anxiety. People suffering from anxiety and panic attacks are likely to lack sleep.
Thanks to the relaxing nature of some kratom strains, patients who use them tend to experience calm sleep without a problem. It is important to remember that some types of kratom may cause the loss of sleep entirely. For instance, white and green kratom strains cause a burst of energy that may disrupt sleeping patterns.
- Opioid Addiction Recovery: Those who use opioid drugs are prone to addiction. Opioids are substances present in many prescription medications and some illegal drugs, such as heroin. Addiction is common among most opioid drug users, leading to a compulsion to use them even when unnecessary.
Kratom may help treat opioid addiction thanks to its compounds. Kratom is rich in mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, two substances that interact with the body in the same way as opioid drugs, but they do not have the addictive nature of opioid drugs. As a result, individuals may use kratom to aid in addiction recovery.
- Management of Diabetes: The other emerging use of kratom is in the management of diabetes. Anecdotal evidence indicates that people suffering from diabetes may find some relief by using kratom. Studies have also indicated that the herb influences insulin levels and overall blood sugar balance.
3.1. Green Leaf Kratom
Green-leaf kratom is a pure breed of kratom that balances the effects of white-leaf and red-leaf kratom. Originating from Southeast Asia, this type of kratom takes longer to mature than white kratom but not longer than red one.
The green leaf contains a special blend of alkaloids, providing users with a pleasing euphoric state. Although it also leads to a gentle boost of energy, it is not as strong as white kratom in terms of energy boosts.
3.2. Red Leaf Kratom
The red leaf kratom is one of the popular kratom types due to its effects on users. It offers a strong sedative effect to users and is a good option for those who wish to feel relaxed.
Because of its sedative effects, people use red vein kratom in treating and managing various conditions.
Conditions commonly treated with red leaf kratom:
- Sleep disorders such as insomnia are commonly managed by consuming red-leaf kratom. Its sedative properties promote a calming mood that can lead to quick sleep, even among those who suffer from anxiety.
- This strain is also used in the treatment and management of depression and anxiety. Those who suffer from panic attacks find this strain quite helpful.
Besides its sedative properties, this type of kratom also offers a slight euphoric experience. As a result, it is commonly used by those looking to feel good. Although its high effect is not very strong, it can be significant for some users.
3.3. White Leaf Kratom
The white leaf kratom is probably one of the strongest strains of kratom. When consumed, the users experience a burst of energy.
The working class and students popularly use this strain due to its energy-boosting properties. It provides the energy needed to run through the day.
Besides its energy boost, white kratom is also a mild stimulant. It may be used to stimulate sexual desires and boost the overall libido.
Those suffering from erectile dysfunction or low libido tend to use the herb, even though no scientific studies are backing its use for such.
Read More: Trainwreck Kratom: Complete Guide 2022
4. Kratom Leaf Side Effects
Most people tolerate kratom leaf well, although a few report experiencing side effects after using the herb. However, documented cases show that mild and severe side effects are possible.
Individuals who experience mild side effects typically have systems that react negatively even to small amounts of kratom. Conversely, those who are new to kratom, overdose, or use other medications that do not interact well with kratom commonly experience severe side effects.
A 2016 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that most people who experience side effects due to using kratom only exhibit mild effects.
Those who experience mild side effects often get better after some time. In the case of severe side effects, some form of treatment may be necessary.
The common mild effects of kratom are as follows:
- Dry mouth: Commonly experienced by individuals. Some people experience dry lips, while others may experience cracked lips. I’ve found this to be perfectly normal and have never had any other issues arise from having a dry mouth. Just make sure to drink plenty of water, as kratom is known to dehydrate the body.
- Itching: Although not a common side effect, some kratom users have complained of itchiness all over the body after using the herb. This mostly happens to individuals who experience allergic reactions.
- Frequent urination: One of the most common side effects of kratom is constant urination. People who take kratom commonly have to visit the washroom several times a day.
- Headache: Mild headaches are reported by some kratom users. This side effect does not occur in all people but is likely to occur, especially among first-time kratom users. Users who consume a level of kratom that exceeds their tolerance typically cause the headache, which then goes away on its own after some time. Like most compounds, the more you use kratom, the more your tolerance will increase.
- Constipation: Although not a common side effect, some people experience stomach problems such as constipation after using kratom. To avoid this effect, first-time users should take small doses of the herbs and drink lots of water.
- Drowsiness: One of the benefits of kratom is that it may be used to boost sleep and get rid of insomnia. This is particularly true when using the red leaf kratom. The downside is that it can cause drowsiness among people who do not have sleep problems.
- Dizziness: Some people have complained about feeling dizzy after using kratom. Sedative strains of kratom are more likely to lead to dizziness, which is usually caused by taking larger quantities. This can be worse in people who suffer from heart conditions.
- Nausea: Some studies have linked kratom to nausea and other stomach problems. Although not a common side effect, first-time users may experience nausea after using kratom leaf.
- Vomiting: While some people only experience nausea, some may get to the extent of vomiting. This is a rare situation and may only occur in case of overdose or to first-time users. If a person feels nausea, it is advisable to take a rest to avoid going to the extent of vomiting.
- Mood changes: Mood changes are not necessarily a side effect but one of the positive effects of kratom. A user may experience a rollercoaster of unique moods when taking kratom for purposes other than mood-lifting.
Severe side effects may include:
- Heart Palpitations: Medical professionals advise people suffering from chronic heart conditions to avoid kratom unless necessary. The main reason is that some individuals may react negatively to the heart and experience heart palpitations.
- High Blood Pressure: Excessive use of kratom may cause blood pressure imbalances. Some studies indicate that kratom may affect insulin levels and blood sugar levels. It may also affect the rate of blood flow. All these factors may lead to blood pressure imbalances.
- Insomnia: Normally, kratom is used in the treatment and management of insomnia. People who suffer from insomnia may use some strains of kratom to calm the condition. But in some situations, insomnia may occur as a result of using some forms of kratom.
- Loss of Appetite: This is not a common side effect, but it does occur. Some people have reported a severe lack of appetite after using kratom for hours or even days.
- Loss of Libido: Not common but has been reported. Normally, kratom would be used to boost libido. However, due to the differences in strains of kratom, some strains may lead to a drop in libido rather than a boost.
- Memory Problems: Users of kratom may experience a bit of energy that leads to increased productivity at work and school, especially those using white strain. At the same time, some people may react negatively and suffer from memory loss.
- Kidney Problems: Some studies have suggested that people who use kratom are likely to suffer from liver and kidney problems. Research is still underway to ascertain the facts behind such claims.
- Psychosis: Kratom, like most drugs, affects the normal functioning of the body, including the brain. It is no surprise that some people may experience euphoria after using kratom. Even so, kratom is not a strong psychoactive compound as cannabis.
The side effects of kratom are many, but they are also rare. With kratom, different people have different experiences. Studies show that side effects commonly experienced are mild and moderate. Nonetheless, first-time kratom users should be cautious about messages and other aspects.
5. Kratom Leaf vs Powder
When it comes to the consumption of kratom, users have the option of either using the leaves or the powder. There are also other methods of consuming kratom, as we will see later.
The most common question about consuming kratom is whether the leaf is better than the powder.
The difference between kratom leaf and kratom powder lies in the processing. When using the leaf, the user is responsible for processing it, i.e., using it to prepare tea or just chewing the leaves raw.
The user may also combine the leaves in salads and other dishes.
On the other hand, people purchase kratom powder in a processed form where the leaves undergo drying and industrial extraction to produce the powder.
The powder can be taken directly or can be mixed with tea. The option depends on whether the user prefers a processed or raw product.
In other words, they are the same. It all comes down to how you like to prepare your kratom serving.
Read More: “How to Make Kratom Tea: Like Professional Herbalists”
6. How to Consume Kratom Leaves the Right Way
Traditionally, South Asians used to take kratom by chewing fresh leaves from the tree. They would remove the veins when chewing fresh leaves to avoid the bitter taste.
Today, there are more advanced ways of consuming kratom. Online stores sell kratom in various forms for easy consumption.
The main forms of kratom are as follows:
- Raw Leaves: Like traditional users, modern kratom enthusiasts also have the option of chewing raw leaves. The problem is that raw leaves are not readily available in the market.
- Dried Leaves: For those with access to dried leaves, add the desired amount of grams into a teapot with lemon juice and let it sit for 15 minutes. Add boiling water and brew it for 5 minutes. Use a strainer to pour your tea into a cup, and voila, you’re good to go.
- Capsules: Capsules are the easiest way of consuming kratom for those who do not want to go through the process of measuring grams. With capsules, the manufacturer provides an accurate prescribed dose that users can follow.
- Kratom Powder: The most popular form of kratom is the powdered version. The powder is commonly inhaled or taken orally. Some people mix it in teas or smoothies.
Some people utilize advanced extraction processes to attain highly concentrated kratom isolate, which is a common way kratom is consumed.
Read More: “How to Take Kratom For Maximum Results”
7. Where to Buy Kratom Leaf?
If you are looking for a place to buy kratom for personal use, there are two main options. You can either purchase your kratom online, or you may purchase from a local store.
Locally, vape stores may stock kratom powder, leaves, and even capsules, but they usually charge more for their products.
In the case of online shopping, it is necessary to establish a trustworthy dealer. The beauty of online dealers is that they offer varieties you may choose from.
