Kratom tinctures offer a potent and convenient alternative to traditional kratom powder. Learn about their advantages, how to choose the right type of kratom tincture and tips on finding a reliable tincture brand.
While kratom powder has long been the go-to choice for kratom enthusiasts, it's time to step up your game and explore the plethora of kratom products that have hit the market. However, if you haven't kept up with the latest trends, you might have missed the exciting options available to kratom lovers today.
Gone are the days when kratom was only synonymous with its bitter-tasting powder. Now, you can venture into kratom shots, kratom gummies, and even the uniqueness of kratom tinctures. These tinctures offer a fresh and distinct way to experience the natural wellness benefits of kratom, all without having to deal with the hassle of the powdered form.
Just like any other product, kratom tinctures have their own advantages. And that's where this guide steps in—to equip you with everything you need to know. From unraveling the benefits to guiding you through the nitty-gritty details, we've got your back on this journey of discovery.
What is a Kratom Tincture?
Tinctures have been around for centuries, rooted in ancient traditions. Typically, they combine alcohol with a substance to extract its valuable and active chemical compounds. These extracts are then concentrated into a liquid form, ready to interact with your body's systems to influence your health positively.
Kratom tinctures follow the same principle. They're created by dissolving kratom leaves in high-ABV (alcohol by volume) alcohol, extracting essential alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine.
These alkaloids are the powerhouses behind kratom's unique stimulating and body-soothing benefits and effects. Once the extraction process is complete, the kratom powder or leaves are strained out, leaving behind a mighty, alcohol-based liquid known as a kratom tincture.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is an herbal compound of an Asian tropical tree. This naturally occurring compound is believed to possess a multitude of health benefits. For centuries, it has been cherished by the natives of Southeast Asia, who have relied on its remarkable properties for various purposes, including energizing and enhancing the endurance of hardworking farm laborers.
The news of kratom's benefits spread worldwide and reached the United States, where kratom has become a household name among avid natural health proponents.
Interestingly, the kratom tree belongs to the same botanical family as the coffee tree, and they even share some similarities in the effects they produce. However, it's the leaves of the kratom plant that hold the most allure.
Among the native communities, these leaves are chewed to extract their potent juice, which is rich in mitragynine. Alternatively, they are used to make refreshing kratom tea. In the US, kratom comes in many forms, but they all trace their origins back to those valuable leaves.
As people continue to learn more about the leaves and their benefits, the applications of kratom have evolved. Many individuals turn to kratom for body-soothing support, while others seek its energy-boosting properties. Some find it aids their focus during work or workouts.
With different types of kratom available, each known to produce specific effects, you can choose the strain that works best for you depending on your desired kratom experience.
Types and Strains of Kratom
There are three primary types of kratom, categorized by the color of the veins running through the leaves. This color variation depends on the maturity of the leaf and provides insight into its unique alkaloid profile.
Processing methods, exposure to UV light, and fermentation techniques also play a role in determining the leaf color. Each color comes with its own set of physical and physiological characteristics.
Down the line, we will also look at the different kratom strains categorized by location. But let's start with the three primary categories of kratom:
White-vein kratom
White vein kratom is obtained from the youngest kratom leaves. Known for its uplifting and stimulating effects, white vein kratom packs a powerful punch. It's the most potent among the kratom colors and offers a highly intense experience. While it may be challenging for new kratom enthusiasts to appreciate its full potential, it holds great rewards for the more experienced users.
To create white vein kratom, leaves are harvested from young kratom trees. At this stage, the veins of the leaves still exhibit a white color. The leaves are then carefully dried indoors, away from any light, ensuring their precious alkaloid content is preserved.
Due to their tender age, white vein kratom leaves boast the highest concentration of mitragynine among all kratom strains, resulting in their remarkable potency. If you're new to kratom, we recommend starting your journey with green vein kratom for a milder experience.
White vein kratom provides a mild stimulant effect in small kratom doses, gradually transitioning to increased energy and alertness at its peak. Consider incorporating white vein kratom products into your morning routine for an energizing and clarity-boosting start to your day.
Red vein kratom
Red vein kratom is the most popular type of kratom. Renowned for its calming properties, this kratom strain is perfect for relaxation and a respite from racing thoughts.
The leaves that produce red vein kratom are harvested from the most mature kratom trees and boast a high content of 7-hydroxy mitragynine.
To create red vein kratom, the leaves undergo sun-drying or drying with the assistance of UV lamps. Additionally, they can be fermented to produce the unique Bentuangie kratom.
Red vein kratom is not considered an energizing strain, unlike its stimulating counterparts. However, its elevated 7-hydroxy mitragynine content and its interaction with specific receptors suggest it may help relieve everyday discomfort and soreness. Due to its non-stimulating nature, red vein kratom is often more approachable for new kratom enthusiasts than white vein kratom.
The benefits of red vein kratom extend beyond its calming effects, with users reporting mood elevation, an overall sense of well-being, and improved sleep quality. Red vein kratom might be your best companion if you struggle with sleepless nights or general body discomfort.
Green vein kratom
Green vein kratom bridges the gap between its red and white counterparts. The leaves used to create this type of kratom are harvested when the tree has reached its optimal maturity. Many kratom connoisseurs consider green kratom to have effects similar to white kratom but milder.
Once harvested, the leaves are carefully dried indoors, often in air-conditioned rooms, before being transferred outdoors to complete the drying process.
Green vein kratom delivers a gentle boost of energy without the subsequent crash, making it an ideal choice for kick-starting your day. In addition to its stimulating effects, users have reported better mental clarity and enhanced focus, allowing for increased endurance when tackling tasks.
Kratom Strains
Within each type of kratom, there are various strains named after the specific location where it is cultivated. These strains may exhibit slight differences in effects due to variations in alkaloid content. These strains include:
- Sumatra
- Borneo
- Malay
- Maeng Da
- Bentuangie
- Thai
- Vietnam
- Horn
- Elephant
- Bali
What is the Best Kratom Type?
So which kratom type is best for kratom tinctures? There's no one-size-fits-all solution here. Each class and strain of kratom offers a unique set of effects. The best kratom type for your tincture will depend on the specific results you want to experience.
For those new to kratom, this means embarking on an adventurous journey of experimentation. We recommend taking it one step at a time. Start by trying one type and strain at a time, and do so in small quantities to gauge your body's response. Then, by observing how you feel with each experience, you'll gradually uncover the strain that suits you best and determine the ideal serving size for achieving your desired results.
How Do Kratom Tinctures Work?
The full details of how kratom tinctures work in the body are in the air. However, experts have some insights into how kratom and kratom tinctures interact with the body to produce their effects. But more research is needed to fully comprehend how kratom operates in the human body.
Kratom tinctures deliver a concentrated volume of alkaloids in liquid form. Once you consume the tincture, the liquid and its alkaloids embark on a journey through your digestive system, eventually absorbed into your bloodstream.
According to experts, some of these alkaloids interact with receptors in your body, which explains kratom's ability to positively influence feelings of discomfort, promote stimulation, and enhance focus, among other effects.
When it comes to functionality, kratom tinctures and kratom powder operate similarly. The main distinction lies in the concentration level. Kratom tinctures are more potent, meaning their effects may be more intense and kick in faster than consuming kratom powder.
How Long Do the Effects of Kratom Tinctures Last?
If you're a kratom enthusiast accustomed to using kratom powder, how long kratom lasts will remain essentially unchanged. The intensity of the experience, however, might vary notably.
When it comes to kratom tinctures, you can anticipate the effects to last approximately three to four hours. Nevertheless, the exact duration of kratom's presence in your system depends on factors such as serving size and duration of use.
Your experience with kratom tinctures can vary from someone else's. For example, some may feel the effects dissipate within one or two hours, while others enjoy the lasting benefits for up to six hours.
Types of Kratom Tinctures
As you delve into the world of kratom tinctures, you may encounter some terms that initially seem puzzling. These terms describe the various types of kratom tinctures available in the market. They include:
Raw kratom tincture
Raw kratom tinctures are crafted by dissolving kratom leaves, rather than kratom powder, in alcohol. The name "raw" signifies that this tincture is made using the unprocessed ingredients of kratom, preserving its natural form.
However, regarding effects, there is no significant disparity between raw kratom tinctures and those made from kratom powder.
Full spectrum tincture
A full-spectrum tincture contains all the alkaloids present in the kratom plant. These tinctures are created through a straightforward extraction process. Rest assured; a full-spectrum kratom tincture delivers the same effects as the kratom powder it originates from. It encapsulates the complete range of alkaloids found in the plant.
Isolated kratom tincture
Isolated kratom tinctures undergo a more advanced extraction process, which selectively extracts specific alkaloids rather than encompassing all compounds present in the leaves or powder. Therefore, with isolated kratom tinctures, you can choose which alkaloid you wish to consume, allowing you to purchase a tincture that solely contains your desired alkaloid.
Naturally, isolated kratom tinctures may not produce the exact effects of taking kratom powder. However, they offer the desired outcomes you seek, depending on the specific alkaloid contained within the tincture. As a result, you can better customize your experience.
Ways to Take Kratom Tinctures
Kratom tinctures offer you various ways to enjoy their benefits.
Sublingually
To take kratom tinctures sublingually, apply a few drops under your tongue and hold it there for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing the remainder. The thin tissue under your tongue, known as the buccal cavity, contains abundant capillaries that facilitate the efficient absorption of kratom.
This method is ideal for those seeking fast-acting effects. By bypassing the digestive process, you can experience the effects of kratom sooner. Taking kratom tinctures sublingually is highly effective.
Orally
Taking kratom tinctures orally involves placing the drops on your tongue and swallowing them. There's no need to hold them in your mouth for a specific duration. While this method doesn't enhance the absorption rate of the tincture, you will still feel the effects faster than consuming kratom in powder form. It's a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of kratom tinctures.
Mixing it in food or drinks
One drawback of kratom tinctures is their bitter taste, particularly with unflavored options. This may be discouraging for new kratom consumers. However, you can overcome this by adding a few drops of tincture to your food or drink to mask the taste. Remember that this method has a more prolonged onset of effects as the kratom needs to go through digestion before absorption. The timing will also depend on the type of food or kratom drink you mix the tincture with.
Are Kratom Tinctures More Potent than Kratom Powder?
If you have already experienced kratom powder, you may wonder why you should consider switching to kratom tinctures. One compelling reason is potency.
In general, tinctures are significantly more potent per volume than kratom powder. This is because they are highly concentrated in alkaloids. It's essential to remember this when transitioning from kratom powder to tinctures to avoid taking too much.
It's also worth noting that the potency of tinctures can vary based on the specific extraction process and the amount of alcohol used. Generally, tinctures with lower alcohol levels have higher potency per milliliter.
Other Benefits of Kratom Tinctures
Apart from the increased potency of kratom tinctures compared to kratom powder, there are other compelling reasons to consider making the switch.
Convenience
Kratom powder can sometimes be messy and requires extensive preparation. You need to mix it with a beverage or make kratom coffee or tea to consume it properly. However, tinctures come in convenient resealable bottles with droppers, making them easier to use. They are portable and can be used anytime, anywhere, without additional preparation.
Faster effects
When you take kratom tinctures, the effects kick in quicker than in other forms. This is because liquids are absorbed faster by the body than powders, resulting in a faster onset of effects. Additionally, kratom tinctures often contain higher quality kratom than powders or kratom capsules.
Versatility
Tinctures offer more versatility in consumption compared to kratom powder. While you can consume tinctures directly, you can also incorporate them into bath products and soaps for a broader range of effects. Kratom powders do not offer the same flexibility.
Easy storage
Kratom tinctures are packaged in resealable bottles, making them highly portable and extending their shelf life. You can store tinctures easily for extended periods without worrying about drying out or spoiling.
Pure and residue-free
The extraction process for tinctures has evolved significantly. Reputable kratom brands use safe and effective methods that result in a pure and highly potent product without impurities or residue. Switching to tinctures can provide a welcome relief if you struggle with the residue left by kratom powder.
Factors to Consider When Buying Kratom Tinctures
Kratom brands have made significant efforts to provide quality kratom tinctures for enthusiasts. However, not all brands are the same, and considering the lack of regulation in the industry, you may come across a few unscrupulous sellers trying to take advantage of unsuspecting kratom lovers by offering substandard kratom tinctures.
Whether you are new to kratom or transitioning from kratom powder to kratom tinctures, knowing what to look for is essential to ensure you get the highest quality products.
Brand reputation
The first thing you should consider is the reputation of the brand you are considering. When assessing a brand's reputation, look into how long they have been in business, what customers are saying about their products, and the quality assurance measures they have in place to ensure the integrity of their kratom tinctures.
If the brand is relatively new, it is advisable to be cautious. While they may be genuine, it can be challenging to verify their reputation and the quality of their products without a sufficient online presence.
Customer reviews
The best way to gauge the quality of a brand's kratom tinctures and whether they live up to the hype is through customer reviews. Most brands provide a section for customers to leave their feedback. You can also check third-party review websites or Google for unbiased customer reviews. Customer reviews offer valuable insights into the quality of the tinctures and can help you anticipate the kind of experience you can expect.
Type and strain of kratom
Kratom tinctures are derived from various types and strains of kratom. Each kind and strain has a unique alkaloid profile, resulting in distinct effects. Therefore, selecting kratom tinctures that align with the specific outcomes you desire is essential. For energizing and stimulating effects, White vein kratom is recommended. Red vein kratom is ideal for calming and relaxation and improving sleep quality.
Source of kratom
A reputable and diligent kratom brand should know where it is sourced and packaged. They should be involved in the quality assurance process of growing, harvesting, and packaging the kratom. Getting kratom from a reputable and organic source sets the basis for the quality of their kratom tinctures.
Leading kratom brands are open about mentioning where they get their kratom from and their sourcing process. This is crucial in ensuring customer trust and the quality of their final product.
Extraction process
Different brands employ various extraction processes. The safest and most common method is alcohol extraction, which is effective and poses no health risks to consumers. Other methods may leave behind solvent residues that could potentially harm your health.
It is crucial to know the extraction process used by a brand and its purification methods. This knowledge is important not only for health reasons but also for ensuring the tincture's quality, purity, and potency.
Type of kratom tincture
There are three types of kratom tinctures: raw kratom tinctures, full spectrum kratom tinctures, and isolated kratom tinctures. While minimal differences exist between full spectrum and raw kratom tinctures, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, the isolated option provides more specific results, containing only particular alkaloids.
Lab testing
Lastly, purchasing kratom tinctures from brands that conduct third-party lab testing on their products is essential. Since the kratom market is unregulated, most brands rely on third-party labs to test their products and provide unbiased and honest results.
These tests evaluate the product composition, concentration, and presence of contaminants. In addition, the brand should have a complete certificate of analysis for each batch of kratom tinctures, which you can review before making a purchase.