Kratom extraction may sound like a complicated technical term – one that you may not care to know much about. But think of it this way: It’s a technique that allows us to draw out and experience the beneficial alkaloids found in kratom plants. So thanks to experts and their discovery of kratom extraction methods, we are now able to enjoy its potential benefits for our well-being.Â
If you’re interested in deepening your understanding and appreciation for kratom, read this article below. We discuss the extraction process and how it results in present-day kratom products. Don’t worry because we’ll keep the science simple.
What is Kratom Extraction?
Kratom extraction is exactly what its name suggests. It is the process of extracting kratom alkaloids from kratom leaves. The two main alkaloids are Mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, which is responsible for kratom’s potential benefits on well-being.Â
The result of this extraction process is a concentrated form of kratom, also called kratom extract. It is typically mixed with an oil base to produce kratom oil, which is then used in creating kratom products like powders, pills, or capsules.Â
Alternatively, some brands also sell pure products like kratom oil or kratom extract for direct consumption.Â
Liquid forms like kratom oil and kratom powder offer a more potent experience as they are easily absorbed by the body. Kratom pills and capsules, on the hand, are first digested by the body before effects take place.Â
Either way, this extraction method is necessary to create the kratom products we enjoy today.
The Kratom Extraction Method
The extraction method typically involves the following raw materials and steps:
1. Kratom leaves
The Mitragyna Speciosa plants are indigenous to the Southeast Asian region. It is most abundant in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand, to name a few.
We start the extraction process with the raw material: kratom leaves. These are washed and oven dried for a few days before they are smashed or blended into fine powdered form.Â
2. Solvents
The smashed kratom leaves are then combined with solvents, which are chemicals that aid in extracting alkaloids from kratom leaves.Â
According to published studies on the kratom extraction method, the most commonly used solvents are ethanol, methanol, petroleum ether, acetone, hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate.
These raw materials are necessary to extract metabolites from plant materials, like alkaloids, flavonoids, and the like. Here are some of the advantages of these chosen solvents in an extraction process:
- Ethanol is considered one of the safest solvents for human consumption. As such, it is often used in the extraction of natural substances for food and medicine.
- Methanol is another popular solvent used as an alternative to ethanol. Compared to ethanol, it reportedly has a better extractive yield. It also has a lower boiling point, making it easier to evaporate at lower temperatures.
- Petroleum ether is a common solvent in extracting oils, fats, and waxes. In the case of kratom, it is used to purify the smashed kratom leaves from fats and lipids.
These are just some of the ways solvents are used in the extraction method. Depending on the manufacturer or brand, they are subject to different combinations, temperatures, and processes.
3. Cycle of extraction, isolation, and purificationÂ
From the said list of raw materials, the extraction process involves various steps and long hours of combining the smashed kratom powder and solutions with the different solvents.
The goal is to extract, isolate, and purify the alkaloids from kratom leaves, resulting in a liquid-type substance. Finally, this kratom extract is used to create different kratom products like kratom powder, kratom pills, and kratom capsules.
Considering these factors, there are different ways you can produce the final kratom extract, with each of these elements varying to some degree.
The good news is kratom users do not need to worry about the technical aspects of such a long and tedious process. Instead, we can rest assured that kratom products in the market are a result of proper, well-thought-of extraction techniques.
Now that you’re familiar with the nitty-gritty details of the extraction process, here are some other kratom facts that every enthusiast should know.
5 Quick Facts About Kratom
What is kratom?
Kratom is an herb derived from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. Native to Southeast Asia, kratom alkaloids were discovered to have positive effects on the mind and body. As such, local communities have used it as traditional herbal medicine for centuries. By chewing on kratom leaves, they would benefit from increased energy and stamina and even physical relaxation.Â
Nowadays, kratom is available in many forms for easy consumption. Thanks to proper extraction methods, manufacturers and brands are able to produce kratom products in an efficient and safe way.
What are the potential benefits of kratom?
- Boosts energy levels
- Enhances mental clarity and focus
- Increases motivation
- Uplifts the mood and inspires a positive disposition
- Relaxes the body and calms the mind
Keep in mind that everything we know now is based on user testimonials and limited scientific studies. That said, the potential effects of kratom may vary per person. For starters, you must always update yourself on kratom’s legality in your area.
Is kratom legal?
The legal status of kratom varies per country. While it is generally categorized as an herbal supplement, there is limited research on its effects and safety. As such, some countries put strict regulations on its sale and usage.Â
For example, kratom is legal on a federal level in the United States. However, it is banned in a few states due to its potential risks for abuse and addiction. As of 2022, these states include Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
Other states put regulatory controls on their usage, such as:
- California (legal everywhere except San Diego)
- Colorado (legal everywhere except Denver)
- Florida (legal everywhere except Sarasota Country)
- Illinois (legal for those above 18 years old except in Jerseyville)
- Mississippi (legal everywhere except Union County)
- New Hampshire (legal only for those above 18 years old)
- Tennessee (legal only for those above 21 years old)
Outside the United States, kratom is reportedly illegal in:
- Australia
- Denmark
- Finland
- Israel
- Japan
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Myanmar
- Malaysia
- New Zealand (unless prescribed by a doctor)
- Poland
- Romania
- Russia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Sweden
- Thailand
- Vietnam
While kratom is legal in countries like Ireland, Italy, and the United Kingdom, regulations may vary depending on the city.Â
For Asian nations not found in this list, the legal status remains unclear.Â
In a nutshell, make sure to check kratom’s legality in your country before purchasing it.Â
Where can I buy kratom?
Kratom is available in retail shops and online stores, both offering different advantages.
Buying kratom in local retail shops allows customers to choose among a variety of products in person. They can confirm its authenticity, safety, and effectiveness with the help of a knowledgeable salesperson.Â
Buying kratom online, however, provides a convenient and more cost-effective alternative. Besides an easy and travel-free customer experience, online products are generally cheaper even with shipping fees. Online brands also offer year-round discounts and promos.
Either way, one thing is certain: You will find an assortment of quality kratom products in both retail shops and online stores. Opting for one over the other is a matter of preference in the buying experience and price points.
How is kratom consumed?
Kratom has gone a long way since its traditional form of chewable leaves. It is now available in different product types, the most popular ones being kratom powders and kratom pills or capsules.
Depending on the product type, you will experience different levels of dosage, strength, and effects.Â
Kratom powders are mixed with water and consumed as a beverage. They typically contain 1 to 2 grams of kratom per drink, thus delivering more potent effects.
Kratom pills or capsules contain a lower dose of kratom. On average, each pill contains 500mg of kratom, producing more mellow effects.
Considering the different forms of kratom, none of these products would be possible without the extraction method. As such, extraction efficiency is crucial for ensuring top-quality, safe kratom products for users.
ConclusionÂ
Learning more about the kratom extraction process allows us to appreciate the potency, quality, and safety of kratom products.Â
That said, when purchasing kratom, make sure to only buy from trusted, credible brands. The next time you’re in a kratom store or shopping online, it may help to ask about their production process to ensure you are getting only the best kratom products.Â
DISCLAIMER: This content has not been reviewed by a medical professional. The content on this page is for entertainment purposes only. The FDA has stated warnings about kratom. Please visit the fda.gov site for more information.
