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A Quick Guide to Kratom Extracts

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Laura Henry
A Quick Guide to Kratom Extracts

Herbal extracts provide a way for individuals to access the power of a botanical without using the raw product. Extracts are convenient, portable, and strong, so consumers should approach them with care, especially if you’re new to kratom. Before you buy, explore how kratom extracts are made and the different products that are available to you. 


Extraction Methods



Extracts are made using different methods that separate the active ingredients of a botanical sample from the rest of the product. The active ingredients can then be collected and processed. The preferred extraction method depends on the type of material being processed, and the typical methods used include physical and chemical processes. 


Some extracts are made, for example, by applying pressure and squeezing the desired material out of the inert matter or the organic matrix that is holding it. Some extracts are made using cryogenic temperatures, and some use water or organic solvents to dissolve the active ingredient from the biomass. The solvent is then collected and the active ingredient is removed from it by using a suitable process such as distillation or simple evaporation. 


Many manufacturers use a combination of methods to develop their final products.

 

Kratom Extracts


The alkaloids in kratom can be extracted using ethanol alcohol and water. 


Water-based extracts of kratom are easy to make at home by soaking kratom leaves or dried, pulverized kratom powder in warm water. This creates a weak extract or tincture. Citric acid or other products may be added at this point to act as a preservative. Industrial water-based and alcohol-based extraction methods work similarly, except they are more efficient. 


Industrial extraction processes typically use a large amount of preprocessed biomass plus pressure, heat, and a solvent. Most of this solvent, water or ethanol alcohol, is removed at the end of the process, resulting in a concentrated liquid extract. Manufacturers will often blend a carrier material like distilled water, alcohol, or glycerine, into this extract to help make each batch consistent. Flavoring, vitamins, and different herbal blends may be added later to create a wide variety of products suitable for different users. 


Another type of kratom extract is resin. Resin is the solid material, usually in powder or paste form, that remains when all of the liquid is eliminated from an extract. Kratom resin is extremely powerful and is used mostly in the manufacturing process to make other kratom products. It may also be found in capsules and some powdered kratom products. 


Common Extract Products



Due to their high strength, extracts are not recommended if you haven’t used kratom. You should only buy kratom extracts if you understand how the plant affects you.


Liquid Extracts – These products are usually sold in small bottles, vials, or containers. The flavor and strain of kratom are entirely dependent on the manufacturer. Strength may vary between brands so if you try this kind of kratom be sure to check the label.


Tinctures – Tinctures are weaker suspensions of extract and vary in strength, depending on the manufacturer. They will often be water-based, or use alcohol or glycerin as a carrier. 


Capsules – Capsules may contain powdered extract. This product, packaged in gelatin or vegan-friendly capsules, may be found in herbal stores or from online suppliers.


Powder – This product can be purchased loose and in bulk form. It may contain powdered kratom resin or a blend of kratom strains, depending on the manufacturer. Users must measure it carefully to be consistent. Powder may be added to hot water or alcohol to create tinctures, or to creams and lotions for use on the skin. 


Powerful Natural Substances – Handle With Care


For experienced users, kratom extracts may represent the most cost-effective and least complicated means of using kratom. If you try extracts, make sure to get them from a trusted manufacturer and always read the label carefully. Try to find a manufacturer that provides lab-tested products or certificates of analysis, if possible. 


If you are new to kratom, you may want to start with something milder than typical extracts. Products like Bali red kratom or Malay green kratom, for example, may help you gain a better understanding of the benefits of kratom. After learning how those milder strains work, you’ll be better able to decide if extracts are right for you. 

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