Category: Kratom How To’s

  • Rotating Kratom Strains: Why and How to Do It?

    Rotating Kratom Strains: Why and How to Do It?

    If you’ve purchased your kratom strain of choice for the first time, you may think that, as with other herbs, you’re good to go for the long term. And that’s precisely what many beginners usually do. Well, not really how kratom works.

    While at first, it may seem like there is no issue with consistently taking the same strain, over time you may notice that the effects are not the same as they once used to be. This is the beginning of kratom tolerance.

    To combat that, many simply increase the dose, discovering that it only solves the problem for some limited time, after which they get into the cycle of weakening effects and continuously upping their kratom dose. After a time, kratom is no longer working.

    Does any of that sound familiar?

    We’ve got some good news for you! Regardless of where you are, there is a fix for your problem.

    If your kratom tolerance is really high, the best option is to temporarily quit kratom and let your body flush out the accumulated alkaloids. That’s because while your body eliminates most alkaloids daily, some of them still remain in your system.

    If you take kratom daily and more than once, this amount builds up, preventing you from feeling the effects. A break from kratom can reverse that, yet to will depend on your body and the intensity of your tolerance how long that should be.

    The best way, however, is to keep kratom tolerance at bay. It will allow you to take kratom long-term without needing to take indefinite breaks.

    One of the most effective forms of doing this is by rotating kratom strains.

    What Is Kratom Rotation?

    Kratom rotation or rotating kratom is taking a different kratom strain each day. So, in essence, you would buy several kratom strains and alternate between them. Ideally, you should also take a few days off each week to allow your system to get rid of any excess alkaloids.

    As a result, if you do both rotate kratom and take regular day-long breaks, tolerance should not be an issue, at least not for a very, very long time.

    Why Is Rotating Kratom Good?

    When you consistently take one and the same strain over and over and over again, this results in this strain becoming stagnant. There is even a term or that – Stagnant Strain Syndrome. That is kratom tolerance that results from continuously taking a single strain.

    While kratom tolerance can eventually develop even if you take different strains, especially if you don’t take any days off, it usually takes longer to develop it if you don’t only take the same strain.

    Just like anything else, your body will simply become used to it. For instance, if you eat your favorite dish for each meal every day, you will eventually end up not enjoying it as much. You can also develop tolerance to the main compound in the cousin of kratom – coffee. Caffeine tolerance is rather common in regular coffee drinkers.

    The same happens with exercise. If you perform the same type of exercise every day, your body will eventually get used to it, and it will no longer be as beneficial as it once was. Therefore, exercise programs alternate between different exercises to make sure you do not reach a plateau.

    An added benefit of rotating kratom is getting a wider range of benefits of this beneficial herb. Since there are many types of kratom, each strain comes with its unique set of alkaloids and beneficial properties. Rotating kratom strains will allow you to experience more of what kratom has to offer.

    Now you see why kratom discount bundles and variety packs are so popular!

    How Many Strains Do You Need to Rotate Kratom?

    While this is a personal matter, and it may feel different for everyone. However, you should at least have three strains to start with. This will allow you to have three days in between taking the same strain, allowing your body ample time to reset from the same combination of alkaloids.

    Yet, if kratom in your life is to stay, aim to rotate five to seven strains for the most beneficial effects.

    Which Kratom Should you Rotate?

    That is actually completely up to you and the effects that you are looking for. There is no magic bullet. We advise you to first make a list of the effects that you are looking for and proceed by finding the strains that deliver those.

    Then, it’s best that you try those and see how your body responds. We are all different; so, the effects won’t be the same with every person. Some vendors offer free kratom samples for a small shipping fee and may add new samples with your order. So, you can try out different kratom strains and see which ones are best for your lifestyle.

    As you try different strains over time, you’ll be able to settle on the strains that deliver the best effects.

    Tips When Rotating Kratom

    1. Rotate Kratom Vein Types Too Not Just Strains

    Keep in mind that you should not only rotate strains, but also vein types. So, if you take Red Bali for pain relief, consider supplementing that with Green Maeng Da or Green Malay. Or if you take White Borneo for energy, try alternating it with a green, a yellow, and, perhaps, a faster red, like Red Sumatra.

    2. Measure Each Strain Individually

    Since you will be taking different kratom strains and even vein types, you need to make sure that your dosage for each is accurate. Fast whites will require a lower dosage than moderate greens and yellows and even lower than slow reds.

    Therefore, it is important to know exactly how much of each strain you need to experience your desired effects. Taking inadequate doses can lead to increased kratom tolerance and unpleasant side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.

    3. Keep a Kratom Log

    Keeping a kratom log can be an extremely beneficial practice to ensure that you take the right strains and the right doses of each respective strain.

    You can also take note of how you are feeling and make informed adjustments in case your dosage is inaccurate, and you aren’t feeling the way you expected.

    Keeping a kratom log can also help you notice immediately when your tolerance may start to develop. This way, you’ll be able to immediately make the changes needed – take a break, swap strains, use kratom potentiators to ensure that your tolerance doesn’t get out of hand.

    Do you rotate kratom strains? Which is your favorite combo of strains and vein types? Share that to inspire other kratom lovers!

  • What Is Kratom Hangover and How You Can Avoid It

    What Is Kratom Hangover and How You Can Avoid It

    Kratom has a great number of benefits and positive effects. Because of them, an estimated 3-5 million people in the United States use kratom to feel better.

    Some of the most popular kratom benefits include pain, stress, and anxiety relief, as well as increased energy and focus. Yet, the list of kratom effects and benefits is actually much longer.

    Despite these, it is also possible to experience kratom side effects although they are relatively rare and can be easily avoided. One of them is kratom hangover.

    Wait…what?

    Yes, you read that right. It is possible to have kratom hangover. However, it’s generally very rare.

    So, if you wake up feeling like you’ve had a wild night but didn’t actually have one, it’s possible that you are experiencing kratom hangover. The good news is that just like the other kratom side effects kratom hangover can also be easily prevented.

    What Is Kratom Hangover and What Causes It?

    Kratom hangover is a state caused by symptoms that are hangover-like. Users normally experience it a few hours after taking kratom.

    Note that the symptoms are hangover-like. Kratom hangover is not the same as the hangover that you would experience after taking alcohol. It’s also milder than and not as unpleasant as alcohol hangover.

    Alcohol-induced hangover is caused by inflammation, a drop in blood sugar, and dehydration. However, kratom does have the same effect on the body. It can dehydrate you, but it does not cause inflammation and blood sugar drop.

    In most cases, kratom hangover happens if you take an excess dose of if your body is very sensitive to kratom. The latter may happen if you are a novice user and/or have very low body fat percentage.

    It can also happen accidentally, for example, if you switch sellers and start taking kratom that is more potent without adjusting your dose accordingly.

    Users are also more likely to experience kratom hangover after taking slow or sedative strains such as Red Bali.

    This is because kratom in smaller doses causes stimulating effects and in larger doses – sedating effects. If you go straight for the higher doses or suddenly up your dose without letting your body adjust properly, it can be easy to misjudge how much kratom you actually need.

    Sometimes, you may also experience kratom withdrawal if you abruptly stop taking it. You may experience something akin to what you may feel after abruptly stopping drinking coffee.

    What Are the Symptoms of Kratom Hangover?

    Users usually experience kratom hangover symptoms in the morning after taking a larger dose the night before. Note though that it’s not actually that common.

    Nausea and Stomachache

    In the majority of cases, nausea that one may experience during a kratom hangover is rather mild. Yet, its strength will depend on the dose taken. It doesn’t normally last long.

    Some users may experience kratom stomachache if they are sensitive to kratom and/or take it on an empty stomach.

    Headache

    Another symptom you may experience is kratom headache. It is usually even rarer than nausea and mild rather than pounding as it may be after an alcohol hangover.

    You may experience it if you are not hydrating yourself properly.

    Sleep Issues

    Similarly to alcohol, kratom can cause sleep issues. While there is little scientific proof to back this up, these most likely happen because it disturbs REM sleep.

    REM sleep and deep sleep are the most restorative parts of your sleep. Therefore, disturbing it could mean that your body isn’t getting as much rest as it normally would. The same effect can happen if you take too much coffee or certain medications. Alcohol too can affect it.

    Fatigue

    Because of insufficient rest, you may also feel fatigued or lethargic. This is more typical after taking the slow strains and typically lasts for a few hours. But, you should be able to easily fix it by taking a cup of coffee or the fast strains of kratom.

    However, we do advise you to stick with coffee as trying to cure kratom hangover with more kratom can cause alkaloid buildup in your system and contribute to you developing tolerance.

    Depression

    If you suffer from depression, it is possible that you may feel even more depressed the next morning after taking an excess dose of the sedating kratom strains. For instance, you may be feeling apathetic or have an extremely hard time finding the motivation to get up or do anything.

    If that happens, remind yourself that you are OK. That it’s simply your body responding to an excess dose of kratom.

    It may also be a good idea for you to use the faster stains such as green, yellow, or white vein instead. They are less likely to enhance the symptoms of depression that the slow strains.

    How to Avoid Kratom Hangover?

    1. Start Small

    If you are a novice kratom user, start with small doses. Even if you go for the sedating strains like Red Bali.

    If you are looking for sedating effects, start with a lower dose. Then, keep adding half a gram or a gram every 30 to 60 minutes until you start feeling the desired effects. Keep note of how much you have added so that you can calculate the exact amount that you should be taking next time.

    2. Measure Your Dosage Properly

    We’ve emphasized it before that eyeing your kratom dose is never a good idea. You can easily scoop a larger dose if you do not accurately measure it. Make sure you use a sensitive scale instead of regular kitchen scale to do so.

    3. Keep a Kratom Log

    Another useful idea is to keep a kratom log. It can help you keep track of the dosage that you are taking. By doing so you can notice if you start developing kratom tolerance or what is causing side effects and kratom hangover if you experience them.

    4. Hydrate Yourself Well and Eat Regularly

    Kratom can cause dehydration which may contribute to you experiencing kratom hangover. Therefore, it is important to drink plenty of water to avoid that. Not to mention that drinking plenty of water is beneficial for optimal health either way.

    You should also keep eating regular meals and healthy snacks. These can help you metabolize kratom better.

    5. Take Quality Kratom

    Make sure that you buy quality kratom. Don’t automatically go for the lowest price to save a couple of dollars. You may end up getting low-quality, adulterated, or even fake product if you opt for cheap kratom. So, you may be experiencing hangover-like symptoms, but it may not actually be kratom that’s causing them.

    6. Don’t Mix Kratom and Alcohol

    Kratom and alcohol don’t go well together. So, it’s best to avoid mixing them. Alcohol is a depressant. Taken together with kratom, it can intensify kratom’s sedative effects. As a result, you are likely to feel nauseous and lethargic the day after.

    How To Get Rid of Kratom Hangover?

    If you find yourself in a situation when you experience kratom hangover, the best thing you can do is drink plenty of water. You may add a cup of coffee if you are feeling exhausted or lethargic.

    Do, however, stay away from soda and make sure to drink an extra glass of water for every cup of coffee that you take. That’s because both soda and caffeine can further dehydrate you.

    Have you ever experienced kratom hangover? What were your symptoms and how did you cope with them?

  • Quitting Kratom: How to Do It Right

    Quitting Kratom: How to Do It Right

    Kratom is a highly versatile herb with numerous benefits. So, it may come as a surprise that someone may be looking into quitting kratom. It may even alarm you as some of the top results on search engines will come from drug rehab centers or similar sources claiming that kratom is a dangerous drug.

    Rest assured that in most cases there is nothing to worry about. Let’s dive deeper and find out why.

    How Do People Get Here?

    Kratom can relieve severe pain from a wide variety of ailments, ease stress, anxiety, improve depression symptoms, and aid sleep. It can also boost energy and productivity and well as enhance the mood and focus. Some of the lesser-known kratom benefits include a better immune system and sex life, as well as the possibility of improved diabetes symptoms and better heart health.

    So, why would one possibly want to quit kratom?

    Well, there are a few reasons for that. Keep in mind that many of those who quit kratom do so temporarily. In fact, if you plan to take kratom long-term, it is actually recommended to quit kratom and take breaks from it regularly.

    Kratom Tolerance

    The most common reason for quitting kratom is tolerance buildup. Kratom intake during an extended period of time can result in tolerance. In simple terms, kratom alkaloids build up in your system, and your body gets used to them. As a result, the dose you initially took no longer yields the effects it used to.

    While some sources make it sound worse than it is, tolerance isn’t something that is exclusive to kratom.

    Regular intake of coffee, which is a close relative of kratom, can also lead to tolerance buildup. And, in the case of certain food sensitivities or allergies, tolerance can be built up over time with controlled exposure to the substance. For instance, if one is lactose intolerant, regularly taking small amounts of milk can build up their tolerance to lactose over time, eliminating the unpleasant food sensitivity.

    Keep in mind that this is a blog about kratom, so if you suffer from food allergies or sensitivities, make sure to consult that with a doctor. In more severe cases, exposing yourself to allergens can be dangerous.

    Kratom tolerance can be unpleasant as you experience that kratom is no longer working, that you keep upping your kratom dosage, or that you’re burning through kratom supplies and money.

    So, quitting kratom for some time can help your body reset. As a result, you should be able to go back to your initial dosage.

    Travel or Similar Reasons

    Another instance of needing to resort to quitting kratom is travel. Unfortunately, kratom isn’t legal everywhere. So, if you have pending travel plans and can’t take kratom with you, quitting kratom and making any necessary adjustments prior to that can make the experience less taxing on your body and emotional wellbeing.

    Quitting Kratom to Prevent Tolerance

    It’s also common among experienced kratom users to quit kratom regularly to keep their tolerance in check. This allows their bodies to fully eliminate alkaloids on a regular basis. This way, they are able to maintain their regular dosage and kratom spending while experiencing the same effects.

    Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms

    If you are considering quitting kratom for one reason or another, you may experience kratom withdrawal, especially if you have not been careful about your dosage, such as roughly measuring kratom with a spoon rather than using a sensitive digital scale. You may have developed kratom tolerance without being aware of it.

    You may also experience withdrawal symptoms if you have been consistently increasing your doses or if you already know that you have developed tolerance.

    The most common kratom withdrawal symptoms are:

    • digestive issues
    • runny nose
    • irritability
    • agitation
    • restless limbs,
    • sleep issues

    The severity and combination of symptoms can vary. Some people with higher tolerance may have a harder time, while others may only have a runny nose or feel slightly irritable. There are also people who do not experience withdrawal at all.

    However, one thing that many in the kratom community agree on is that kratom withdrawal is nowhere near as severe as opioid withdrawal.

    3 Approaches to Quitting Kratom

    If you’ve decided to quit kratom, there are a few ways in which you can do it:

    1. Quitting kratom cold turkey is the roughest and quickest of the methods. This means that you will abruptly stop kratom intake. If you have already developed tolerance, your withdrawal symptoms may be rather intense for approximately one to two weeks.
    2. Gradually tapering off to zero will be the easiest transition; you are likely not going to experience any withdrawal symptoms at all. The essence of this method is gradually reducing your kratom doses until you no longer take any. It may take around one or two months. However, if you have stopped feeling kratom effects, this may be a challenging approach.
    3. Tapering off slightly and quitting is a mix between the two. You would gradually reduce your dose until quitting cold turkey feels alright to you. With this approach, you are likely to experience some withdrawal symptoms, though they won’t be as severe as they could have been if you were quitting kratom cold turkey.

    Objectively assess how severe your tolerance is and how willing you are to be going through an uncomfortable period.

    Tips When Quitting Kratom

    1. Stay Hydrated

    Make sure to hydrate yourself properly. It will help your system flush out the alkaloids. Proper hydration can also make you feel better overall, reducing, for instance, headaches. If you take kratom for energy and decide to up your coffee intake instead, drink an extra cup of water for each coffee cup you take.

    2. Consider Reducing or Quitting Dairy Intake

    Kratom constipation is rather common. So, if you are quitting kratom and it no longer constipates you…. this means…. hello diarrhea! So, you may need to go easy on dairy, such as yogurt or milk, or quit it altogether, until you feel a bit more balanced. Dairy tends to be diuretic; so, consider using non-daily alternatives such as oat or almond milk instead.

    3. Maintain a Healthy and Balanced Diet

    Even though you may not feel your best, nourish your body properly to help your body recover as well as to keep your immune system strong. Eat a diet that rich in protein and complex carbs as well as has plenty of fiber and probiotics.

    4. Take Supplements or Medication if Necessary

    When you quit kratom or start tapering off, you’re likely to experience the issues that kratom used to relieve. Therefore, go back to reviewing why you take kratom and consider looking into medication and supplements that can serve as kratom alternatives. Stock up in advance to avoid any unpleasant situations.

    In addition to that, consider sleeping aids, such as melatonin or soothing herbal products like valerian root as well as means of managing stress, anxiety, or mood. It is common to experience sleep issues and agitation when quitting kratom. So, it can be beneficial to prepare for that in advance.

    5. Use Relaxation Techniques

    Agitation and irritation are common when quitting kratom. So, if you feel like that can interact with your daily life, look into means of supporting you through that. Medication can provide relief, but if you’d like to try alternative methods such as meditation, yoga, or similar.

    Regular exercise ensures proper blood flow that properly supplies the brain and other vital organs with oxygen and nutrients. Additionally, exercise releases endorphins, which can boost mood and emotional wellbeing.

    Staying active, such as exercising, can also be beneficial.

    6. Get Distracted

    If you are going through a rough time adjusting to how you feel after quitting kratom, staying mentally engaged can help you take your mind off of how you are feeling. Therefore, consider working on your hobbies or projects that bring you joy.

    7. Seek Support

    Before quitting kratom, it can be beneficial for you to talk to your friends and loved ones and inform them about your decisions. This can help them understand what’s going on with you, provide support, and hold you accountable if things get tough.

    Many people with underlying depression report feeling worse than quitting kratom. Having a support group can assist you if you experience that, as well.

    8. Stay Away from Alcohol

    There are many downsides to consuming alcohol. Therefore, during a time when you may already feel in pain, irritated, and agitated, it may be best to stay away from alcohol, especially if you suffer from depression.

    How to Avoid Kratom Tolerance

    If quitting kratom isn’t something that you would like to do, focus on keeping your tolerance low. This would involve ensuring that your dosage is right and precise each time you take kratom.

    Since a lot of kratom products on the market tend to fluctuate in quality, find a trusted vendor who consistently delivers quality kratom products. This will ensure that you can get the effects you want without needing to increase your kratom dose.

    Buying from cheaper vendors frequently results in you getting kratom that is weaker than the previous batch. If you increase your dose yet feel the same effects that you would with a smaller dose, you’re still taking in a much larger dose of alkaloids. Even though those may be weak, they still accumulate in your system.

    In addition to that, rotate kratom strains and regularly take days off when you allow your body to reset from kratom.

    Are you considering quitting kratom? Why? And how do you plan to do it? If you have quit kratom before, let us know what has worked best for you.

  • 3 Immune-Boosting Kratom Smoothie Recipes

    3 Immune-Boosting Kratom Smoothie Recipes

    COVID-19 outbreak has shifted the way we do many things in our daily lives. Washing hands has gained a completely new level of importance in our lives, and along with it, people are also making a greater effort to remain healthy and support our immune system.

    There are various ways in which this can be done, yet one of the easiest and perhaps the most powerful are through food. Our choice of food can affect our health, the likelihood of us developing certain diseases, and even our mood and mental health.

    So, it’s no wonder that food can also provide the nutrients needed that can support our immune system. And it’s not only important during the pandemic.

    Immune-boosting foods can help you ward off colds and the common flu as well as make you more energetic and optimistic during the colder months of the year when not only viruses but also conditions such as seasonal affective disorder can affect your wellbeing.

    One beneficial way of adding more immune-boosting nutrients to your diet is through smoothies. And, if kratom is a part of your daily life, you can add it to your smoothies too. This enables you to not only experience the benefits of kratom but also provide additional support for your immune system.

    Moreover, the additional flavors in smoothies can help you mask the taste of kratom. This can help you if your usual intake method isn’t very pleasurable.

    Keep in mind though that immune-boosting foods alone won’t protect you against disease. You still need to remain cautious and follow safety instructions.

    Immune-Boosting Kratom Smoothie Recipes

    1. Immune-Boosting Triple Berry Kratom Smoothie Recipe

    Blueberries are rich in flavonoids. These are a form of antioxidant that can reduce the risk of cell damage and support our immune system.

    In addition to that, a study concluded that flavonoids help our bodies defend against upper respiratory tract infections. These include sore throat, the common cold, sinusitis, nasal obstructions, and more. So, adding foods rich in flavonoids such as blueberries may protect you against those.

    Oranges and other citrus fruits are rich sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C aids in while blood cell production, which are crucial for fighting infections. Therefore, citrus fruits can support your immune system too.

    Other berries such as strawberries as well as raspberries are also rich in flavonoids and vitamin C and can provide additional support for your body’s immune system.

    Chia seeds have much fiber in them. They also have mucilage, a substance that becomes gluey when exposed to moisture. This is great for digestion and gut health and can support your digestive system and prevent kratom constipation.

    Ingredients:

    • ½ cup of frozen blueberries
    • 1 cup of frozen strawberries
    • ½ cup of frozen raspberries
    • ¼ cup of unsweetened almond milk
    • Freshly-squeezed orange juice from one orange or a quartered orange
    • Vanilla or vanilla extract to taste (optional)
    • A tablespoon chia seeds
    • Your usual kratom dose

    Instructions:

    1. Wash and freeze berries overnight. Frozen berries or any other frozen fruit gives smoothies a thick icy texture. However, you can also use fresh fruit if you prefer that.
    2. Measure and prepare your ingredients. Make sure to use a sensitive digital scale with kratom so that you accurately measure the dose you need.
    3. Place all ingredients in a blender and mix at medium speed until your mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
    4. Pour in a glass and garnish with leftover berries or chia seeds.

    2. Immune-Boosting Citrus, Turmeric, and Ginger Kratom Smoothie Recipe

    As mentioned above, citrus fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C, which can help our bodies provide move white blood cells.

    Ginger is beneficial for the immune system for a variety of reasons. It mas antibacterial properties and can help our immune system fight bacteria. It also has anti-inflammatory compounds and can aid our bodies in reducing inflammation. Ginner can also soothe an upset stomach and improve digestion.

    Turmeric is another powerhouse of immune-boosting properties. It can help activate a variety of cells that protect our bodies against various diseases. Keep in mind that piperine in black pepper helps our bodies absorb turmeric.

    Nutrients in raw honey have anti-viral and antibacterial properties. Make sure that you are using raw honey. Most store-bought honey is so heavily processed that it does not contain most or all of these immune-boosting compounds such as pollen.

    Last but not least probiotic foods such as kefir and yogurt can support a healthy gut and aid it in killing harmful bacteria. A healthy gut is also necessary to properly absorb the nutrients our bodies need to support all necessary functions.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice or 3 quartered oranges
    • ¼ cup of plain Greek yogurt or kefir
    • 1/3 ounce or 1-inch piece of ginger
    • 1/8 teaspoon of turmeric
    • 1 tablespoon raw honey
    • A pinch of black pepper
    • Your usual kratom dose

    Instructions:

    1. Measure all ingredients, especially kratom. There is no need to peel ginger. Ginger peel has some nutritional value and is safe to eat.
    2. Combine all nutrients in a blender. Then, mix it at medium speed until smooth.
    3. Pour in a glass and serve.

    3. Immune-Boosting Kiwi Kratom Smoothie Recipe

    While oranges and orange juice are popular sources of vitamin C, a kiwi actually has more vitamin C than an orange. Kiwis are also excellent for digestion and can help relieve kratom constipation. Lime is another powerful source of vitamin C.

    Coconut water is a great natural source of electrolytes that help the body if it’s dehydrated. Optimal hydration is necessary for the body to detoxify and for the immune system to work properly.

    Avocadoes are rich in healthy fats. Therefore, it can help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and K, which are also needed for a healthy immune system.

    Spirulina can help increase the number of antibodies that can help fight infections.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 ¼ cup of raw coconut water
    • 1 peeled and cubed kiwi
    • ¼ lime juice
    • ½ diced ripe avocado
    • 1 frozen ripe banana
    • ¼ teaspoon spirulina
    • Your regular kratom dose

    Instructions:

    1. Measure, peel, and prepare the necessary ingredients.
    2. Mix in a blender at medium speed until your immune-boosting kratom smoothie reaches a smooth consistency.
    3. Pour in a glass and serve.

    Bonus Point: Kratom Can also Support Your Immune System

    Kratom has two alkaloids that can boost the immune system. In addition to that, other kratom benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, can also have immune-boosting effects. Since stress and anxiety can weaken our immune system, the ability of kratom to help you manage those can assist your body in fighting infections.

    Is there an immune-boosting kratom smoothie recipe that you like and make at home? We’d love to read and try that too! So, don’t hesitate to share that with us.

  • How to Relieve Kratom Constipation

    How to Relieve Kratom Constipation

    A common topic in the kratom community is poop. Or, well, the lack thereof, to be more precise. Kratom constipation is a common occurrence and one of the side effects of taking kratom.

    Does Kratom Cause Constipation?

    Kratom can cause constipation, especially if you’re not drinking plenty of water or having a healthy balanced diet. The good news, however, is that constipation in itself is not a disease but simply a symptom.

    Keep in mind though that some medical conditions can cause chronic constipation. So, if you are unable to get kratom constipation relief or you are constipated even if you’re not taking kratom, seeing your doctor for a checkup may be a good idea.

    How Does Kratom Cause Constipation?

    Kratom constipation occurs because kratom powder is ground up leaf matter, and as any edible part of a plant, it consists of fiber, primarily indigestible fiber. Too much insoluble fiber can cause constipation.

    Let’s take a look at why we need fiber in our diet to understand this better.

    Fiber, also known as dietary fiber, is an indigestible plant nutrient and a type of carbohydrate that you can find in all plants. Sometimes, it’s also referred to as roughage or bulk.

    Our bodies cannot completely digest fiber. So, it travels down our digestive tract as it absorbs water on the way. This helps our bodies absorb nutrients, create the bulk of stool, and pass it easier and faster.

    Though not all fiber is the same. Instead, there are two kinds:

    • Soluble fiber: It absorbs water creating a thick paste. It helps slow down digestion which allows our bodies to absorb more nutrients
    • Insoluble fiber: It does not absorb water, but forms the bulk of stool, which helps our bodies to comfortably eliminate waste.

    For optimal digestion, we need to consume both and too much (or too little) of either one of these can disrupt digestion.

    Too much soluble fiber can result in gas, bloating, and diarrhea. On the other hand, too much insoluble fiber can create a solid bulk of stool that’s hard to pass, resulting in constipation.

    Why Is Constipation Bad?

    Constipation, kratom constipation including, is not life-threatening. However, if untreated, it can cause problems, and complications if left untreated. Most common ones include:

    Hemorrhoids: if you push when you’re trying to go, this can cause the veins around your anus to swell. Basically, these are like varicose veins around your anus. They can be painful, bleeding, and itchy. In severe cases, they can result in infections and blood clots.

    Anal fissures: Passing stool that’s hard, can cause the tissue around your anus tear making going to the bathroom even worse. Serious tears can affect the ring muscle that keeps your anus closed and may even require surgery.

    Impaction: If stool remains in your intestines, hard parts may stick together, causing a blockage. Over time, it can become too big to move and may require an ER visit.

    Rectal prolapse: If you continuously push and strain when trying to go, it can cause a part of or the whole rectum to slip out. This can be very painful and cause bleeding.

    Kratom is not working: Moreover, you may experience that kratom effects are no longer there. This can occur if you have a lack of soluble fiber in your diet, and your body is unable to properly absorb nutrients including alkaloids from the stool.

    Now that you know you shouldn’t be holding that in, let’s look at ways to get you pooping.

    Tips to Get Kratom Constipation Relief

    1. Drink More Liquids

    Drinking more liquids can soften your stool and make it easier to pass. On a regular basis, this can prevent kratom constipation from occurring in the future.

    Aim for eight eight-ounce glasses every day. However, add an extra glass for every cup of coffee and approximately 30 minutes of exercise. Make sure to drink water. Fresh juices are beautiful to add, but in moderation, as they tend to have high amounts of sugar. Stay away from soda.

    2. Increase Your Soluble Fiber Intake

    Balance the insoluble fiber in kratom with foods that are rich in soluble fiber. Some examples include:

    • Fruits such as apples, strawberries, oranges
    • Vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower
    • Oatmeal and oat bran
    • Lentils, beans, and peas
    • Barley
    • Chia seeds
    • Flaxseeds (make sure they are ground up, or your body won’t absorb them)
    • Wild rice

    Make sure not to overdo soluble fiber though and not to load up on insoluble fiber instead. Too much of any fiber can lead to other issues such as diarrhea or worsen constipation.

    3. Take Magnesium Supplements

    Studies have linked magnesium supplements to reduced constipation. Therefore, kratom and magnesium taken together can result in easier stools. However, rely on it as a short-term solution only and look for the underlying factor behind your kratom constipation.

    4. Add Probiotics

    Probiotics contain live bacteria that help our bodies balance gut flora and absorb nutrients. They can help alleviate a number of digestive issues, including kratom constipation.

    We currently have a limited understanding of the gut flora, though evidence points that a healthier gut can result in improvement of a variety of conditions such as depression, and anxiety and ADHD.

    You can choose a probiotic supplement or add fermented foods to your diet. Some options include:

    • Yogurt
    • Kefir
    • Sauerkraut
    • Kimchi
    • Pickles
    • Miso
    • Tempeh
    • Kombucha

    It’s best to opt for organic versions of these for more benefits.

    5. Adjust Your Kratom Dose

    The kratom dose that you’re taking may be too large. Review how much kratom you’re taking and whether you’ve recently upped your dosage. It that is the case, you may be developing kratom tolerance. Instead of increasing your dose, try rotating strains or looking into a different vendor.

    6. Try Different Kratom

    The kratom that you’re using may not be potent or consistent. So, you may be dealing with weak alkaloids that are not delivering the desired results. If you’re simply increasing the dose, you’re still being exposed to the same alkaloid content. Thus, the risk of developing kratom tolerance increases.

    If your kratom supply is inconsistent, try looking into other vendors and trying different kratom. Higher-quality kratom will require lower doses, and your body will need to process less insoluble fiber.

    7. Try (But Don’t Rely On) Laxatives

    If you are looking for immediate kratom constipation relief, you can opt for over-the-counter laxatives. Make sure only to use them sparingly and drink plenty of water while you do so.

    Laxatives are like a band-aid on a more severe wound. They alleviate your discomfort, but won’t actually solve the problem. They can also severely dehydrate you.

    8. Try a Squatty Potty

    Did you know that the western toilet does not provide the most optimal pooping position? In fact, it actually obstructs the angle of the colon and makes it harder to eliminate waste. It’s more civilized, but not how our bodies were designed.

    Instead, squatting is a much better position. So, elevating our feet and propping them up on a stool creates a better angle and makes pooping easier and faster.

    9. Do Yoga or Exercise

    Most people in the west have sedentary lifestyles, which can be a contributing factor to kratom constipation. Increasing your activity and exercise level can boost your metabolism. Studies confirm that. So, try light exercise or yoga.

    Keep in mind that one of these won’t likely not solve the issue, and you may need to have a holistic approach to kratom constipation.

    Has kratom constipation bothered you? What works best for you? 

  • How to Make Kratom Taste Better?

    How to Make Kratom Taste Better?

    Let’s face it. Kratom is a miracle herb. Yet, most kratom doesn’t taste well. While you may get some getter quality kratom that may not taste as bad and be rather easy to get down, often it’s bitter and has an unpleasant aftertaste.

    What Does Kratom Taste Like?

    There is one thing that kratom users agree on – kratom doesn’t taste great. Mitragyna speciosa powder has a grassy, earthy, and bitter flavor. It’s similar to green tea, yet much more intense. Due to this many find it hard to tolerate it.

    Why Does Kratom Taste Bitter?

    Kratom has a myriad of different benefits that are due to its alkaloids. A bitter taste a common trait of alkaloids. While scientists aren’t quite sure of the purpose of alkaloids, one of the theories is that they repel animals or insects that may feed on the plant.

    So, how do you mask kratom taste and make your kratom experience more pleasurable?

    Below are our top tips.

    How to Mask Kratom Taste and Make It Taste Better?

    1. Use Lemon and a Sweetener

    If you make kratom tea, squeeze in some lemon juice and add a sweetener to it. While there is a large choice of kratom sweeteners available, not all of them are beneficial for your health.

    Therefore, it is essential; to review your kratom sweetener options and choose the best you’re your needs and health. For instance, regular white sugar or sweetened syrups may add a sweet taste and extra flavor, but it has no nutritional value and its high consumption can lead to health issues like diabetes.

    On the other hand, honey can be extremely beneficial if it is raw and organic. That’s because it contains pollen, vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. By contrast, most store-bought honey usually gets stripped off of all beneficial nutrients during the production process.

    2. Mix Kratom with Juice

    Orange and grapefruit juice can be great choices to mix kratom with and mask its taste as well as to potentiate kratom effects. They can also be extremely healthy if you take freshly squeezed juices. Keep in mind that store-bought juices may have sugar and other additives, so it may be best to avoid those.

    Another alternative to mask kratom powder taste and make your kratom taste better is pineapple juice. It also has beneficial nutrients such as bromelain which may reduce inflammation among other benefits.

    3. Make Kratom Smoothies

    A great way to make kratom taste better and get some extra nutrients is to mix kratom with smoothies. By using fresh organic fruit you can not only mask kratom taste but also easily up your fruit and vegetable intake and even boost your immune system.

    Kratom smoothies are easy to make and can also be great to take your kratom on the go. If you worry about the stigma and judgment about using kratom, mixing it in smoothies can be a wonderful way to take kratom without others knowing about it.

    4. Mix Kratom with Milk

    Some kratom users prefer mixing kratom with milk due to its sweet and soothing flavor. If you don’t mind warm milk, consider adding a bit of raw honey for an additional boost of flavor. Some prefer chocolate milk. So, if you are a chocolate lover, that could be a great option for you.

    If, however, you are lactose-intolerant or are not a fan of milk, almond milk or oat milk can be great alternatives.

    5. Use Flavored Tea

    While brewing kratom tea, why not add some flavored tea to improve its taste. There are various options that you can try:

    • Chamomile tea
    • Rooibos tea
    • Chai tea
    • Raspberry tea
    • Lemon tea

    Or any other kind of tea that you prefer.

    6. Try a Different Vendor

    Not all kratom is of the same quality. Since alkaloids give kratom its bitter taste, a larger concentration of them may lead to a more bitter taste. This can happen if you are using lower quality kratom with weaker alkaloids. As a result, you will need more kratom and your dose will be more bitter.

    Therefore, it’s always a good idea to buy kratom that is higher quality, fresh, and potent. This will ensure that you will need to take a smaller dose of the powder to achieve your desired results, and may taste less bitter.

    Depending on the vendor and where they source their kratom from, the quality and taste will differ. So, we urge you to try a few and see which you like better.

    7. Try Kratom Capsules

    Quite a few users opt for kratom capsules as a means of getting their kratom to taste better. Capsules prevent you from tasting the powder as you only expose yourself to its coating.

    Keep in mind that quite a few of those who have taken capsules have noted that the effects are weaker and slower. You won’t know, however, until you try it yourself.

    Mitragyna speciosa capsules tend to be much pricier than powder. Nonetheless, you can also try making your own kratom capsules at home and save in the process.

    Do you like how kratom tastes or do you prefer to mask kratom taste? Which is your favorite way to make kratom taste better?

  • 5 Kratom Tea recipes You Should Try

    5 Kratom Tea recipes You Should Try

    There are many ways in which you can take kratom. Yet, kratom tea remains one of the most popular ones. It’s relatively easy to make, and, if done correctly, can potentiate the benefits of kratom alkaloids.

    The most popular way of making kratom tea is by boiling water and simmering kratom in it for about 20 minutes. However, powder offered by some vendors may not taste as well. Or you may even get bored from drinking the same tea every time. Therefore, we will describe 5 kratom tea recipes to spice up your kratom journey.

    5 Kratom Tea Recipes

    Kratom Lemon Honey Tea Recipe

    This is the simplest way of enhancing the effects of kratom and changing its favor. It’s also one of the most popular kratom tea recipes. Lemon (and other citrus fruits) is one of the most popular ways to enhance kratom tea effects.

    Lemon is rich in vitamin C. Therefore, it helps strengthen the immune system. It also has strong antibacterial properties and can protect against different infections. When taken with warm water, lemon juice can help the body maintain a normal PH level.

    Honey, however, can sweeten the tea and make it more pleasurable to take. Raw organic honey also has antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. As a matter of fact, it can even be used for healing wounds.

    Yet, note that not all store-bought honey will be the same. It’s best to look for raw and organic varieties to reap all the benefits.

    To make kratom lemon honey tea, you will need:

    • the dose of kratom powder that you normally take,
    • ½ liter of water
    • half a lemon,
    • honey to taste.

    How to make kratom tea with honey and lemon:

    1. Fill your pot with water and bring it to boil.
    2. Lower down the heat so that the water simmers rather than boils.
    3. Stir in kratom powder and simmer for about 15 minutes.
    4. Add lemon juice and honey and simmer for a few more minutes. Some sources will advise you to add lemon and honey at the beginning. We do, however, suggest adding it at the end as exposure to hot water can destroy the beneficial properties of both lemon and honey.
    5. Remove your tea from the heat and strain it.

    Kratom Masala Chai Recipe

     

    If you’d like to spice up your daily dose of kratom and enhance kratom tea effects, you can do so by making kratom masala tea. Masala chai is an indian type of sweetened tea with milk and Indian herbs and spices that has become popular in the west. Traditionally, it is made with black tea.

    For this kratom recipe, you will need:

    • the dose of kratom powder that you normally take,
    • a quarter liter of water,
    • a quarter liter of milk (you can use any non-dairy milk if you prefer),
    • half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder,
    • a quarter teaspoon clove powder,
    • a pinch of nutmeg,
    • 1-2 teaspoons of honey or another kratom sweetener.

    You can either make the spice mixture every time you prepare your kratom masala chai, or you can mix it in advance and use a teaspoon and a half or two teaspoons every time you need it. If you choose to do the latter, combine the spices and herbs using the proportions above. Feel free to modify the proportions according to taste.

    The process of how to make kratom tea with spices is as follows:

    1. Combine spices and herbs with water and bring it to boil.
    2. Add milk and bring it to boil. You should keep an eye on your mixture as milk can boil over. You can make a mess and waste some of the ingredients.
    3. Reduce the heat so that the mixture simmers.
    4. Add kratom powder and simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes.
    5. Add honey during the last couple of minutes to ensure that it melts properly.
    6. Remove your tea from the heat and strain.

    If you use sugar instead of honey, you can add it together with the milk.

    Don’t skimp on the sweetener. You can add even more as masala chai tends to taste better when it’s sweet. Avoid burning the milk as that can too destroy the taste of your tea.

    Kratom Mint Tea Recipe

    Mint tea has multiple health benefits that can be very useful in combination with kratom tea effects.

    It can ease and speed up digestion as well as regulate the cholesterol levels. Peppermint, in particular, can also relieve pain caused by gas and bloating. Spearmint, however, can regulate hormones and lower blood sugar. It may also aid in reducing stress.

    Whenever you are making herbal teas, it’s best to use actual leaves instead of teabags. Teabags usually contain fannings (or dust) though some companies do offer whole-leaf tea.

    For this kratom tea recipe, you will need:

    • your dose of kratom,
    • half a liter of water,
    • approximately a teaspoon of mint leaves (you can use a teabag instead if you prefer),
    • honey or another sweetener to taste,
    • ½ lemon (optional if you like the taste and would like to enhance kratom tea effects).

    How to make kratom tea with mint:

    1. Bring water to boil.
    2. Turn down the heat and let the water simmer.
    3. Toss in your kratom and mint.
    4. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
    5. Add honey and lemon and simmer for a few more minutes.
    6. Remove from the heat and strain.

    You may come across a green tea and mint mix. You can use that too. However, keep in mind that green tea has caffeine in it and can have stimulant effects. So, you may need to adjust your kratom dose to make sure that you do not get jitters or experience other side effects.

    It also would be best not to take green tea with slow strains such as Red Bali Kratom or in the evening. Otherwise, you may disturb your sleep.

    We’ve covered the question of kratom and caffeine in another post. So, check it out if you’d like to learn more about how kratom and caffeine interact.

    Kratom Chamomile Tea Recipe

    Chamomile is another herb packed with loads of antioxidants and with lots of health benefits. It is most commonly used to improve sleep and digestion. But it may also regulate your blood sugar and protect you against certain types of cancer and heart disease.

    Chamomile is best to use with the slow strains as it may help you relax. Since it soothes your stomach, it may also help you if you are experiencing digestive issues after taking kratom.

    As mentioned above, we always recommend using the actual herb (flowers in this case) instead of teabags.

    For this kratom tea recipe you will need:

    • your dose of kratom,
    • 1 or 1 ½ teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers or 1 chamomile tea teabag,
    • ½ liter of water,
    • honey or another sweetener to taste.

    How to make kratom tea with chamomile:

    1. Bring the water to boil and lower down the heat so that it simmers.
    2. Add kratom powder and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
    3. Meanwhile, add chamomile flowers to a pot.
    4. Thurn of the heat and strain kratom tea.
    5. Add strained kratom tea to the pot with chamomile flowers.
    6. Steep for 5-7 minutes.
    7. Add honey or another sweetener to taste if you’d like to sweeten your tea.

    If our suggested dose of chamomile isn’t enough and you’d like a stronger taste of it, add more flowers rather than leave your tea steeping for longer. Herbal teas tend to turn bitter if left steeping for a longer time. In combination with the natural taste of kratom that may not be as pleasant.

    Note that some people may be allergic to chamomile. So, if you are allergic to ragweed, daisies, and chrysanthemums, it may be best to avoid chamomile.

    Kratom Yerba Mate Tea

    Yerba mate kratom tea isn’t one of the most popular kratom tea recipes, but it definitely has many benefits that make it worth trying.

    Yerba mate is a popular South American beverage. It contains approximately a third of caffeine as the same amount of coffee along with other chemicals with stimulant effects.

    There are people who like it as a substitute for coffee. It can improve focus and physical performance. It can also boost your immune system, regulate blood sugar, and may even help you lose weight. In addition to its stimulant effects, it is rich in antioxidants. Even more than green tea.

    Traditionally, yerba mate is made in a gourd and drunk from a special straw called bombilla. But you can use a French press if that’s more convenient for you.

    Since yerba mate contains caffeine, you may want to lower your dose. Especially if you’re taking it for stimulant kratom tea effects.

    For this kratom tea recipe, you will need:

    • kratom powder,
    • ⅓ of ½ cup of yerba mate,
    • ½ liter of water,
    • sweetener to taste,
    • cat’s claw (optional if you would like to potentiate kratom tea effects)
    • lime (optional if you like the taste and would like to strengthen kratom tea effects).

    The process of this kratom tea recipe is the following:

    1. Place yerba mate, cat’s claw, and kratom powder in a French press.
    2. Ass a splash of cold water to moisten the yerba mate leaves.
    3. Boil the water.
    4. Pour hot, but not boiling water over the mixture and let it steep for 5 minutes.
    5. Strain your tea.
    6. Add lime juice and sweetener to taste.

    If you’d like to try something other than kratom tea, here are also 5 kratom smoothie recipes.

    Have you tried any of these kratom tea recipes? Which one would you like to try?

    If you know any other kratom tea recipes that are worth trying, share them with us in the comments below!