Those new to kratom may not understand the terminology vendors and suppliers use to describe their products. This may apply to terms used for different strains of kratom. It may also apply to kratom’s various methods of consumption. Two popular forms of ingestion include kratom extract and kratom powder. Each form has its benefits, depending on the user’s specific needs.

Even experienced users may not understand the differences between kratom extract and kratom powder. In this article, we’ll look at how these two forms compare to one another. This may help you determine if the benefits of kratom extract are ideal for you.

Before you can truly understand the differences between the two, however, it’s important to know what kratom is generally all about.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom is the term for the tropical tree Mitragyna speciosa, which is native to southeast Asia. It is also the term for the tree’s herbal derivative. Historically, natives of the region have used this medicinal plant in one form or another. Whether for an energy boost, relaxation or to alleviate pain, people have been using kratom for hundreds of years.

Kratom contains more than 25 different compounds. However, the primary active ingredients are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Research has shown that the alkaloid mitragynine initiates analgesic (pain-relieving) effects in the body. In turn, 7-hydroxymitragynine works in conjunction with mitragynine to mediate these effects.

However, the benefits of kratom don’t end at easing pain. Users report that kratom is effective for treating other ailments, including:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Lack of energy
• Poor cognitive function (lack of focus and concentration, memory issues)
• Low libido
• Compromised immunity
• Insomnia

Depending on the dosage, kratom herb affects the body in different ways. In general, smaller doses provide stimulating effects. In higher doses, sedating effects occur. Although, regardless of form or dosage, kratom is considered one of the best antioxidants on the market.

What Is Kratom Extract?

In general, herbal extracts are more concentrated and powerful than other forms of consumption. Kratom extract is no different. It is a pure and refined product, rich in alkaloids. This means that users can take smaller, yet more powerful, doses.

As an analogy, think of kratom extract as a pinch hitter in baseball. This essential player serves as a powerhouse when needed the most. Similarly, you can bring in kratom extract when you need an extra push for symptom resolution.

You can buy kratom extract in the following forms:

• Extract powder
• Alkaloid suspension
• Isolate tablets
• Resin extract
• Tincture

The form of kratom rendered will depend on the extraction method used and any follow-up processes. In addition, each form has its own unique benefits. For instance, kratom tincture extract has a relatively long shelf life and is very cost-effective.

Kratom Extract vs Kratom Powder

The primary differences between these 2 forms of kratom are preparation, potency and dosage.

Preparation and Potency

Kratom powder is prepared by simply drying the leaves and crushing them into a fine powder. Users can then take a dose of the powder from a spoon, brew it into a tea or mix it with food. Although you will feel the effects produced by the alkaloids in kratom with these methods, the active ingredients are accompanied by other inactive substances found in the leaves.

On the other hand, kratom extract has gone through a process in which the active ingredients are extracted, or isolated, from the leaves. This leaves a product that is much more concentrated, and thus more potent in smaller amounts.

Dosage

Proper dosage is of the utmost importance if you want to enjoy your experiences with kratom. And it’s important to know that an accurate dose of kratom extract will differ wildly from a comparable dose of kratom powder.

Typical dosages for kratom powder work like this:

• Small dose: 1 to 2 grams
• Moderate dose: 3 grams
• Large dose: Over 3 grams

For those new to taking kratom, it’s a good idea to start out with a dose slightly lower than a small dose. This will allow you to get a good idea of your sensitivity to kratom and avoid taking more than you need for your symptoms.

Dosages for kratom extract will depend on the grade of the product. Extracts are most commonly graded as 2x, 5x, 10x or 15x. These grades represent the amount of leaves or powder needed to equal the same dose of extract.

NOTE: Although following the general rules of kratom dosages is important, proper dosage will also depend heavily on the strain of kratom taken and the symptoms needing treatment.

If you want to improve sleep quality, for example, users report that Bali, Borneo and Indo strains are effective. However, dosages to relieve insomnia may vary among these strains. Users who want to know how to increase focus might benefit from Maeng Da or Green Malay. But dosages with these 2 strains can be raised or lowered to treat either pain or anxiety. Then, there’s isol 8 kratom extract that packs a strong punch when you need an energy boost to last for several hours.

Which Form of Herbal Extracts of Kratom Should You Choose?

So, for the moment of truth. Which is right for you, kratom extract or kratom powder?

This will depend on consideration of the following factors:

Level of experience

For new users, kratom extract may raise tolerance unnecessarily soon. For seasoned users, however, kratom extract may be just what you need to “level up” and align your symptoms with a more potent product.

Absorption

Due to the quick absorption characteristic of kratom extract, it is useful for those who need a quick fix for their pain. Kratom powder takes much longer to take effect.

Taste and smell: Some people just can’t choke down kratom powder in any form due to its bitterness and pungent odor. Taking kratom extract eliminates this concern.

Convenience

Hands down, kratom extract is more convenient than kratom powder. Taking a dose of powder from a spoon may be convenient enough when at home, but an extract is much more convenient when you’re on the go.

Bottom Line on the Benefits of Kratom Extract

Learning which method of consumption is right for you will take some time, research and experimentation. So, consult with a kratom expert or two to find your own personal sweet spot. So, consider kratom extracts in your journey towards a healthier life. There are countless kratom products out there, and one (or more) of them is sure to meet your needs.