There are many people out there who have heard of kratom but have no idea what it is, or how to use it. For others, the concept of kratom powder can be intimidating. If you’re new to kratom, but thinking about trying it out, you can either go from the Kratom liquid shots or the Kratom Powder. Whichever you choose, here are some frequently asked questions about both.
What is kratom?
The kratom plant (Mitragyna speciose) is a tropical evergreen tree that’s part of the coffee family. It grows in Southeast Asia, and most often in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Kratom is sometimes called nature’s Vicodin, as it’s used to relieve pain and boost energy just like prescription painkillers such as hydrocodone or oxycodone. The leaves are dried and crushed into powder for use in herbal teas, foods, and medicine.
How does it work?
Are you new to kratom? Or are you a long-time user who’s switching back and forth between powders and liquids? If so, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Let’s take a closer look at how each works! Liquid kratom is made by extracting alkaloids from raw leaves with various alcohols. For obvious reasons, liquid kratom tends to be more expensive than powder.
Are there any side effects?
Because it’s a powerful psychoactive substance, kratom does have some side effects. Though relatively mild compared to synthetic drugs like heroin or cocaine, there are still adverse reactions that users should be aware of. For example, kratom can cause constipation in some people. It can also interact with other medications and supplements that you may already be taking.
How long does it take to start working?
It takes approximately 10-15 minutes for liquid kratom to take effect and up to 3 hours for powder. Many consumers choose liquid kratom because of its quick onset; however, it also leaves your system quickly. Whereas powdered kratom is less potent, but has a slower onset that lasts longer. It’s important to discuss these differences with your doctor before deciding on which form you should use.
Do you have to cycle kratom?
Another matter is whether or not you should cycle kratom, meaning taking it for a certain period and then taking a break from it. It’s not recommended that you cycle kratom, although many people report great success with doing so. We recommend sticking to one strain at a time when using kratom (don’t switch back and forth) and using it consistently.
Can you mix it with other drugs?
It’s not uncommon for people to combine their kratom with other drugs, especially when used recreationally. However, kratom and similar substances such as kava and iboga shouldn’t be mixed with amphetamines or any other stimulants because they can put you at risk of cardiac arrest. According to experts, there are no known negative interactions between kratom and alcohol so it’s not uncommon for people to mix them.