Kratom extracts are concentrated forms of standard kratom powder. They are processed to contain higher amounts of the active alkaloids found in the kratom plant. Extracts offer a more convenient way to experience the effects of kratom in a smaller dose. These extracts are made by boiling raw kratom leaves to extract and isolate the alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which are responsible for kratom’s effects. It produces a thick resin, later further processed into powder or liquid extracts. The result is a highly concentrated form of kratom that contains a much higher percentage of active compounds compared to standard kratom powder. For example, a 25x extract contains 25 times the alkaloid content of a regular leaf.
- Require smaller doses for effects
- Effects may come on faster and stronger
- Easier to take for those who don’t like the taste of powder
- Convenient and portable
Popular types of extracts
There are a few different varieties of kratom extracts.
- Powder extracts – This is the most common type of extract, available in various strengths like 15x, 25x, and 50x potency. The powder is created after extracting the alkaloids from the leaves.
- Liquid extracts – These are super concentrated tinctures of kratom resin dissolved into a liquid like alcohol or water.
- Enhanced powders – These are regular kratom powders that have been fortified with concentrated extract to increase the alkaloid content.
- Resin extract – A gummy-like extract that is the precursor to the purified powder form. It may be cheaper, but harder to dose accurately.
How to take kratom extracts?
For powder extract, the toss-and-wash method works well. Measure out the desired dose and take it like you would regular kratom powder. You also mix extracts into foods or liquids to mask the taste. For liquid extracts, use the dropper to measure the correct dosage and take it straight or add it to a drink. Carefully measure as even small amounts of extract tinctures are powerful. Due to their concentrated alkaloid content, extract dosages are much lower than plain leaves.
- Plain leaf: 2-8g
- 5x extract: 0.5-1g
- 10x extract: 0.25-0.5g
- 15x extract: 0.165-0.33g
- 25x extract: 0.1-0.2g
Always start low with extracts, around 0.5g. Give it 45 minutes to take effect before increasing the dose. Never exceed 2 grams of extract.
Extract effects and duration
Effects feel similar to regular kratom but are usually more intense since more alkaloids reach your receptors. At lower doses, you’ll get more energetic, stimulating effects. Higher doses lead to analgesia and euphoria. Effects generally last 3-5 hours. Be patient as extracts may take 15-30 minutes to work. To use extracts safely:
- Only buy from reputable, lab-tested vendors
- Carefully measure doses, start low
- Avoid daily use, limit to 1-2x per week
- Do not combine with alcohol, sedatives or medicines
- Stay hydrated before and after use
- Avoid using if pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18
The key is being cautious and moderate with extract dosage. They enhance the kratom shots experience when used properly, but require extra care. For most purposes and especially beginners, standard kratom powder is likely the better choice. But, extracts are a nice occasional alternative for experienced users looking for a more intense experience.