Kratom extract is a highly concentrated form of kratom that contains high concentrations of the alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. It is extracted from the leaves of the tropical plant Mitragyna speciosa Korth and used by people to achieve a variety of different effects. Kratom has become popular in the United States for its pain-relieving, mood-enhancing, and energy boosting properties.
Kratom’s analgesic properties stem from the alkaloids in the plant that interact with opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to produce pain-relieving effects without the negative side effects of traditional opioids like nausea, constipation, and vomiting. Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine have also been shown to be effective in relieving anxiety and depression by producing mood-enhancing effects.
Despite the effectiveness of kratom for alleviating various conditions, a number of users have experienced adverse reactions from its use. A number of kratom-related deaths have been reported, and the FDA and U.S. DEA have classified the plant’s active compounds as schedule 1 drugs for their potential for abuse and addiction. Some of the most common kratom-related adverse reactions include hostility, aggression, jerky limb movements, muscle and bone aches, and hallucinations.
While kratom can provide an effective alternative to opioids for those suffering from chronic pain, it is important that individuals begin with a low dose and gradually increase their dosage over time. A majority of kratom users report that a dosage of up to 5 grams per day of the powder is adequate to experience the desired effects. However, kratom extracts contain higher concentrations of the alkaloids and thus can have more intense effects than the powder.
The extraction methods used in the production of kratom extracts significantly influence the phytochemical concentration in the final product. A wide range of extraction solvents can be used in the kratom extract manufacturing process, and these solvents can have varying effects on the extraction yield and phytochemical composition. Solvent selection is therefore crucial in determining the quality of the resulting extract.
The most commonly used solvent for kratom extracts is supercritical CO2. This solvent has the ability to function as both a liquid and a gas, which allows it to effectively penetrate the plant’s cells and remove the alkaloids. It is also highly efficient and environmentally sustainable, which is why it’s becoming increasingly popular among kratom extract manufacturers. Oftentimes, supercritical CO2 is combined with ethanol or another organic solvent to increase its solubility and efficacy.
Regardless of the method chosen for kratom extract manufacturing, precision is key to achieving the desired results. Using a digital scale to measure your kratom powder will ensure that you’re taking the correct amount of the product. This will help to avoid over-dosing, which can lead to unwanted side effects. A typical starting dose for kratom is between 3 and 8 grams, and the average user will find their optimal dose between 5 and 6 grams. This moderate dose is usually well-tolerated by most, and provides the user with a balanced experience that can provide pain relief, boost energy, and elevate mood.