People have been using kratom for centuries, and kratom extracts have been used for nearly just as long. The search for kratom extracts is just one way that people have worked to maximize the output from kratom leaves over the years.
Historically, people have pulverized kratom leaves or turned them into tea. Others have used more complicated methods of creating extracts from kratom leaf. When you buy kratom extract today, you can expect it to be part of a larger-scale operation. But you can still find these other products, like powders. Today, you can choose the form you prefer, from kratom capsules to liquid kratom to kratom powder to a thick paste.
Because kratom is still relatively new to many people, it’s worth taking a closer look at what kratom extracts are. This information can help you choose the right extract from a reputable company. It can also help you confirm that an extract is the form of kratom ideal for your experience level.
Botanical Extracts in History
At its core, kratom extract is just one of the numerous botanical extracts available on the market today. But botanical extracts aren’t anything new, as people have been creating extracts from plants for millennia.
The use of botanical extracts goes back to at least ancient Rome. There is evidence of people using specific extracts to treat aches and fevers. Other extracts have been used to protect people’s skin from sun damage, keep insects out of crops, dye clothing, and support various systems in the body.
While kratom is more used for focus, feelings of well-being, energy, motivation, and relaxation, the idea behind the extract is the same. With both those historical botanical extracts and the modern ones made from kratom, people aim to find another useful form of their favorite plant.
Historically, kratom extracts were typically made with a combination of hot water and evaporation. This led to a serum rich in alkaloid content that could be saved for later. But the concentrations of those extracts were somewhat limited, and they didn’t always last as long as people wanted. This led to the development of more modern kratom extraction methods.
Methods of Kratom Extraction
As you search for extracts made from kratom, you may notice several different extraction methods. Most of these are also commonly used to extract active molecules from other types of organic materials, so they are not limited to kratom. Keep in mind that the extraction method used on your kratom is important, as it can dramatically affect the kratom alkaloid concentration. Given that this active alkaloid concentration is a crucial factor when choosing kratom, the process used is important.
Maceration, Infusion, Percolation, and Decoction
Of the various kratom extraction methods, this one is the simplest. It requires water and a solvent, as well as filtering. After the filtering, it delivers a usable extract. The final product has more oil-soluble compounds than some of the other extraction methods. However, it isn’t quite as stable. If you see mention of the “Red Bubble Method,” this is the method used to manufacture those kratom extracts.
Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE)
Given the name, it is unsurprising that this method relies on microwaves. But those aren’t the types of microwaves the average person can produce (safely) at home. It requires more advanced processing equipment. During the process, the exposure to microwaves helps release the active compounds in the kratom, creating the kratom extract.
Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME)
This is among the newer extraction methods available. It involves an integrated process that combines extraction, introduction, and concentration. That combination makes it highly efficient, leading to environmental sustainability in the production of kratom extracts.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE)
To understand this extraction method, you need to know that a supercritical substance is both a gas and a liquid; it has the properties of both. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one common supercritical substance. As a bonus, it is also widely available and has incredibly low toxicity. As such, CO2 is commonly used to create kratom extracts. Many versions of SFE also include methanol or ethanol. This boosts efficiency by boosting the solubility of the supercritical CO2.
Understanding Concentrations of Kratom Extracts
When you look at a kratom extract, you will frequently notice a note on the concentration. This specifically measures the concentration of Mitragynine, the principal active alkaloid that leads to the desired effects in kratom. That being said, there are also other kratom alkaloids that can enhance the effects. Most users agree that opting for a kratom product with all of these alkaloids will lead to a more positive kratom experience. That being said, many users prefer products with just the single alkaloid content instead of the full-spectrum kratom extract.
You can tell whether a kratom extract just has Mitragynine or also has other extracts based on how it is labeled. A full-spectrum kratom extract will also contain other alkaloids, while a Mitragynine isolate will only contain that alkaloid. But in either case, the percentage of alkaloid content listed on the product typically refers to the concentration of Mitragynine.
Sometimes, you may also see the concentration of an extract labeled with a ratio, like 2:1 or 3:1. This refers to the ratio of the concentration of the extract compared to a kratom powder.
What’s the Difference Between Kratom Extract and Kratom Powder?
Another common question related to extracts is how they compare to kratom powder or even capsules or other forms. Of these, the most important comparison is with kratom powder, as you can actually find extracts in various forms, including capsules and liquids. This includes kratom shots.
But it can be helpful to understand the difference between the kratom extract and kratom powder. Whether you are a new or experienced kratom user, it is worth refreshing your memory before choosing premium kratom.
How Kratom Powders Are Made
The biggest difference between kratom powders and the kratom extract is the way they are made. We have already covered various methods of producing the kratom extract. To make traditional kratom powder, you wait until the plant matures. Then, you dry the kratom leaves of the adult plant. Finally, you crush them until they become a fine powder. Kratom powders will include the entire plant.
The key differences between the processes are that making extracts requires more equipment, time, and effort.
Differences in Concentration
Although there are exceptions, kratom extract tends to be more concentrated than powder. This comes from the fact that you will find more kratom alkaloids in the concentrate. That higher concentration also means kratom extracts tend to appear darker than a kratom powder.
Because the extract is more concentrated, you will need to consume less of it to experience the same effects as with the powder. And as always with kratom, beginners should start with a smaller concentration. This makes kratom extract a better choice for seasoned kratom users.
If you want to know exactly how much kratom to consume and are curious about its nutritional value, familiarize yourself with kratom nutrition facts. This information can guide beginners and seasoned users alike in making informed decisions about their kratom intake, ensuring a safer and more effective experience.
Choosing Kratom Extract
You can find a variety of kratom extracts in our selection at MIT45. No matter where you shop, the key is to always choose kratom from a reputable kratom vendor. Look for a retailer that is part of the American Kratom Association (AKA), as this indicates they have a strong reputation, including quality control measures to deliver the best quality kratom. All of our kratom products are made from high-quality kratom that has been carefully chosen, and we are proud to be part of the AKA.
If you need help choosing any of your kratom products, including extracts, reach out to our MIT45 team. We are happy to assist you, putting our decades of kratom experience to good use. From liquid kratom extract to kratom capsules, we have various quality kratom options to suit your tastes.
Sources:
https://theapopkavoice.com/stories/kratom-extract-vs-powder-whats-the-difference,2525
https://online.smc.edu/eportfolios/1412/Home/Differentiating_Between_Kratom_Extracts_And_Powder
