The effects of kratom are dose-dependent, making dosage crucial when taking kratom. For coffee-like, mild, stimulating effects, take smaller doses, while larger doses work best for sedative and pain-relieving effects, just like opioids.
There is no way to experience a one-size-fits-all dose. You have to tailor your dose for the desired effects. Dosing becomes complicated because of several factors, such as kratom strain, consumption method, body composition, tolerance, metabolism, and usage frequency.
So, knowing more about kratom dosing is important.
What is Kratom?
Kratom contains kratom extracts, which come from kratom, aka Mitragyna speciosa, a tree in the coffee family. This tree has more than 25 bioactive alkaloids, of which mitragynine and hydroxymitragynine are the most studied and significant. These compounds are predominantly responsible for the effects of kratom on the body and mind.
These alkaloids in kratom capsules interact with the opioid receptors in the body, often involving serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine receptors to produce the effects associated with energy boosts and mood upliftment.
What Are Kratom Capsules?
Kratom capsules look like ordinary capsules. They are made of a soft and thin gelatin shell that holds a pre-measured dose of kratom powder. The gelatin shell is easy to swallow and dissolves inside for quicker absorption.
The naturally bitter taste of kratom may be overwhelming for some—for them, kratom capsules are perhaps the best solution.
How Much Kratom Is in One Capsule
Kratom capsules may come in various sizes, including 00 and 000. A 00 capsule usually contains approximately 0.5 grams of kratom powder, and a 000 capsule has about 0.8 grams to 1 gram. However, this is just a general idea—the exact weight can depend on the density of the powder.
How to Take Kratom Capsules
The capsules have powdered kratom leaves. Available in different strains, they produce different effects, from sedative to stimulating. So, keeping a few things in mind is the right way to start.
Step 1: Choose the Right Strain
- Maeng Da is potent and produces energizing and pain-relieving effects.
- Red Vein/Bali is known for its pain-relieving and relaxing effects.
- Green Malay is the mid-point between stimulation and sedation.
Step 2: Discern Your Dosage
The dosage that works for you can depend on factors like body weight, tolerance, and the effects you want. Here is a general dosing guideline for you:
- Beginners should start with 2-3 grams.
- If you’ve had kratom before, 3-5 grams is ideal for enjoying moderate effects.
- 5-8 grams of kratom will produce strong effects.
Step 3: Follow a Few Initiation Steps
- You’d want kratom to absorb faster and digest easily upon consumption. Drink plenty of water before taking a capsule.
- If you want the effects to kick in fast and hard, take the capsules on an empty stomach. An empty stomach facilitates absorption and enhances the result.
Step 4: Take Your Capsule
Swallow your capsule with a glass of water or juice. If you have a hard time swallowing a capsule or tablet, open the shell and mix the powder with a beverage of your choice. But the taste may be bitter.
Step 5: Let the Effects Kick In
Kratom capsules take a while to produce the effects, as the body needs to digest the capsules first. Expect about 30 minutes to one hour for the effects to begin.
Step 6: Adjust the Dose
Did the dosage work for you? If it is too mild, increase the dose the next time you take capsules. There’s always room to assess and adjust the dosage, but only if you start slow. We recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as desired.
Safety Tips for Kratom Dosing
- Do not mix kratom with alcohol or other drugs, recreational or medicinal
- Beginners should start with less than 1 gram a dose and wait about an hour to understand the effects
- Do not exceed 8 grams to minimize the risk of negative side effects
Conclusion
Kratom capsules offer the easiest way to take kratom. They are ideal for those who don’t like the naturally bitter taste of kratom, are on the go, or are in a rush. Keep yourself hydrated, preferably take the capsules on an empty stomach, and, most importantly, buy kratom products from a reliable, reputable source.