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CBD and kratom are both effective means of treating chronic pain and other conditions. The popularity of both has been growing significantly over the past years, yet kratom remains a lesser-known and more controversial herb.

Because of the beneficial properties of both substances, you may be wondering which, CBD or kratom, would better suit your needs.

While CDB and kratom may seem similar, there are differences between the two in a variety of aspects such as the way they interact with the body on a molecular level.

What Is CBD?

CBD or CBD oil is short for cannabidiol, a substance found in cannabis plants. It’s one of many cannabinoids that are uniquely present in cannabis plants. Unlike marijuana, CDB is not psychoactive.

The substance that causes the psychoactive properties in marijuana is THC. However, CBD is non-psychoactive. Therefore, it does not produce a “high” one can expect from marijuana.

CBD can be produced from medical marijuana plants and hemp, another plant from the cannabis family. Most of the CBD available for sale comes from hemp. There are a few reasons for it.

While hemp has THC, it’s present in very low quantities. Therefore, hemp is non-psychoactive. Help is also much easier and cheaper to produce. It does not require heat and high-voltage laps that marijuana plants cannot survive without.

Hemp plants can grow in moderate climates. They grow fast and require less water and can be grown in more sustainable conditions that, for instance, corn.

This makes hemp CDB much easier, faster, and cost-efficient to produce. In addition to that, hemp plants are very versatile in use. You can make fabric, shoes, and ropes from hemp. Beauty and personal hygiene products such as sunscreen and soap are becoming more popular. So is hemp milk, a plant-based substitute to regular dairy milk.

CBD comes in liquid oil form and can be infused with a variety of substances such as lemon, peppermint, cinnamon, and even chicken.

What is Kratom?

Kratom is a plant from the coffee family that is indigenous to and only grows in Southeast Asia. It’s most frequently is sold in the form of fine raw powder. Kratom farmers produce it from dried kratom leaf matter. Nonetheless, you can also find kratom extracts and resin.

Despite frequent false claims kratom is not psychoactive and does not result in a high. In smaller amounts, it produces coffee-like effects. However, in higher doses, it relaxes and relieves pain.

7 Differences between CBD and Kratom

CBD and kratom can both be extremely beneficial; however, the differences below can help you determine which is the better option for you.

1. Legalities

While both a rather controversial, CBD does have more approval from the public as well as the government. CBD is legal across all 50 states as long as it contains less than 0.3% of THC. CBD from hemp still contains traces of THC, though it is not nearly enough to produce a “high.”

CDB products are not approved by the FDA. However, the FDA has approved one pharmaceutical drug that is marijuana-based.

Kratom, however, is less-known and less accepted. It is also not legal in all states. A number of states, as well as counties and cities, have banned it. Nonetheless, other states have chosen to keep kratom legal but regulate it with KCPA (Kratom Consumer Protection Act).

2. The Active Ingredients and their Effects

CBD and kratom both have active ingredients that result in their respective beneficial effects.

The active ingredient in CBD is cannabidiol. Research has identified more than 65 pathways and targets of CBD. In contract with THC, CBD does not bind with cannabinoid receptors, Instead, it affects them indirectly through various non-cannabinoid channels and receptors.

CBD activates receptors that allow it to manipulate body functions such as inflammation, pain perception, and temperature. It also increases the levels of anandamide, a brain lipid that binds to cannabinoid receptors. This allows it to mimic the effects of cannabis-derived drugs and affect the brain’s pleasure response and motivation.

Kratom, on the other hand, contains at least 25 different alkaloids and 40 active compounds. Yet, studies on kratom have been limited and the actual number of alkaloids and active compounds may be much higher.

The two most potent alkaloids in kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain, but in a different way than opioids. Kratom alkaloids also affect the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.

3. Effects

While CBD and kratom can both provide relief from pain, anxiety, stress, and depression, slight differences apply.

CBD has many different effects. Nonetheless, the most popular ones are:

• stress relief,
• anxiety relief,
• inflammation reduction,
• better sleep,
• joint pain relief,
• arthritis relief,
• substance withdrawal, and
• epilepsy and treatment.

Some sources also indicate the effectiveness of CBD for cancer treatment.

In addition to the above, CBD can be used for pets and in cooking, such as bakery.

In the meantime, kratom can help with:

• chronic pain relief,
• anxiety relief,
• stress relief,
• PTSD relief,
• depression relief,
• relaxation,
• euphoria,
• fibromyalgia,
• mood enhancement,
• improved focus and concentration,
• more productivity,
• more energy,
• better social skills, and
• more self-confidence.

4. Methods of Use

The most popular ways of taking kratom are by steeping a tea from it or toss-and-wash method. The latter involves swallowing the dose of kratom and washing it down with liquids such as orange juice.

You can also add kratom to smoothies and yogurt.

In most cases, kratom tends to be bitter. Therefore, there are people who prefer to take kratom capsules. Those can be bought online or made at home.

CBD comes in various forms. While CBD oil tincture is the most popular one, there are also gummies and other edibles, capsules, vapes, as well as balms and creams for topical use.

CBD oil tincture is taken sublingually. This means that you need to apply drops of the CBD oil tincture under the tongue. You can also apply CBD tincture to food.

Because you usually take much smaller amounts of CBD than kratom and tinctures can be infused, people find it to be easier to take than kratom. CBD is also easier to take in public. It’s much easier to remain discreet by taking CBD oil or edibles.

If you’d like to know if you can mix kratom and CBD, check out our post “Is Taking CBD and Kratom Together a Good Idea?”

5. Time and Duration of Effects

Kratom effects are fast. You can start experiencing them rather quickly – within 10 minutes after ingesting, and they’ll be the strongest within an hour.

The duration of kratom effects will depend on each particular strains. Many last for 4-5 hours; however, with some, you’ll experience kratom effects for up to 8 hours.

In the meantime, CBD is slow-acting and you should take it as a regular supplement. You should take it consistently. This will allow your system to get used to it and produce the desired effects.

Therefore, kratom can be a better option for someone who is looking for instant effect whereas CBD would be better for someone looking for a continuous duration of effects that become more prominent over time.

6. Tolerance

With kratom, it is important to take adequate breaks between doses and rotate strains. Otherwise, it is possible to develop kratom tolerance.

CBD does not develop tolerance. As a matter of fact, it can actually produce the opposite effects – reverse tolerance. Once your body has gotten used to CBD, you can lower your dose yet experience the same effects for a period of time.

7. Side Effects

Most kratom side effects result from taking it improperly. This can happen is you take a dose that is too high, or do not take the necessary measure to avoid tolerance.

The most common kratom side effects are:

• nausea,
• dizziness,
• vomiting,
• dry mouth, and
• constipation.

However, these are easily treatable and avoidable.

With CBD, most users report side effects such as:

• tiredness,
• dizziness,
• dry mouth,
• vomiting,
• nausea,
• changes in appetite and mood, and
• diarrhea.

Nonetheless, CBD and kratom are both non-addictive and non-psychoactive. Nor do they produce serious side effects that some pharmaceutical drugs have.

Have you tried CBD and kratom? What has your experience been? Do you prefer one over the other?

Pain can be debilitating and drastically decrease the quality of one’s life. It can make even simple tasks agonizing. Therefore, merely quitting pain medication is not an option for many people.

With numerous issues and side effects, as well as abuse and overdose instances associated with prescription pain medications, an increasing number of people seek alternative pain medications.

Kratom is the answer to relieving pain for millions of people.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom, or Mitragyna speciosa, is a tree of Southeast Asian origin. It thrives in the hot and humid tropical climates of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.  You can also find it in Vietnam, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea.

The leaves of kratom trees have beneficial properties. In fact, according to the limited studies on kratom that we have now, kratom has at least 25 alkaloids and 40 beneficial compounds.

The two main alkaloids are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. The latter is approximately 13 times more potent than morphine. These two alkaloids make kratom an alternative solution for pain management.

Types of Pain and Common Treatment Methods

Not all pain is the same. There are different kinds of pain and health conditions associated with pain.

Generally, you can classify pain into two categories – acute and chronic. Acute pain is temporary. It occurs suddenly and lasts for a short period of time. On the other hand, chronic pain is long-term. If you experience pain for longer than six months, then, most likely, it’s chronic.

Often, chronic pain is the result of nerve damage. Acute pain can sometimes develop into chronic pain.

Chronic pain can be either inflammatory nociceptive, or neuropathic. Inflammatory nociceptive pain happens after an injury to the muscles, bones, skin, tendons, joints, or visceral organs. Meanwhile, neuropathic pain results from injury to your nervous system.

Severe acute pain and chronic pain require potent treatment methods. Therefore, doctors often prescribe opioids as they are considered to be the strongest.  Yet, pain, especially chronic pain, can resist medication, and as it increases, people tend to up their opioid dose.

Despite past claims that opioids are not addictive, they are. Sadly, the number of overdoses and deaths caused by opioids is steadily increasing.

Buying kratom directly from kratom farmers in Indonesia or any kratom where kratom is indigenous to may have crossed your mind. Especially if you’ve had negative experiences with kratom vendors in your home country, be it America or a different country you may live in. But how do you go about it? And most importantly – should you?

We recently received a comment from a person asking for recommendations of how to find best kratom farmers in countries where kratom is legal. When responding to it, we decided to address this in greater detail a blog post so that more people could benefit from it.

We’ll focus specifically on kratom farmers in Indonesia since that’s what most of the kratom products come from. However, the same will apply to any country where kratom is indigenous to such as Malaysia and Thailand.

Keep in mind that our goal with this blog is to provide reliable and trustworthy information on kratom, clear out the misinformation, and help keep kratom legal. We also aim to empower kratom lovers with valuable information to ensure that they make wise and informed buying choices.

However, our answer to whether you should look for local kratom farmers Indonesia to buy your kratom supply from may seem counterintuitive.

Don’t.

Yes, you could technically establish a relationship with a kratom farmer in Indonesia and get fresh and potent kratom powder for cheaper. Yet, the risk involved a far greater than the benefits of taking this route.

Trust us on this. We have your best interests in mind and buying kratom directly from the source isn’t actually the best choice. And we have some pretty solid reasons for why you should not do it.

Let’s take a look at them.

Reasons NOT to Buy Directly from Kratom Farmers in Indonesia

1. Kratom Legality Is a Grey Area in Indonesia

You may be surprised to find out that kratom isn’t actually legal in Indonesia. Not really. Indonesia is a member of the ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. There is a blanket regulation that forbids kratom in all ASEAN countries.

Considering the fact that most of the kratom comes from Indonesia, this may not make much sense to you. Well, that’s our point.

In Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, kratom is illegal for domestic consumption. But, it is legal to grow it and sell it in unprocessed form. So, you can absolutely grow kratom in Indonesia and cash in on its popularity, yet not take it yourself.

Indonesians knew very well about the opioid crisis in the United States and the growing popularity of kratom. Which means an excellent opportunity to cash in on it. As a matter of fact, about 90% of all exports from West Kalimantan those of kratom to the US. Data from 2016 shows that total exports of kratom were approximately $130 million.

Considering that Indonesia ranks the 121^st according to the projected GDP as opposed to the US which is the 8^th, that’s a lot of money for Indonesians. This brings us to our next point which is…

2. There Are Plenty Dishonest Kratom Farmers in Indonesia

Indonesians can be wonderful and friendly people and many travelers point that out. However, things can be different when money is involved.

So, basically, the scamming game is strong in Indonesia. And the kratom industry is no exception to it. Here’s some proof, some more, some more, and some more. Yes, sure, there are also legitimate and trustworthy farmers out there. But do you really want to deal with the headache of finding out which one you’re dealing with?

Kratom vendors in the US aren’t foreign to scams either. Even those who sell from the source have experienced issues with vendors in the past.

3. Indonesia Has Poor Sanitary Regulations

From our own experience traveling in Southeast Asia, we can tell that things there don’t work in the exact same way as they do in the West. When it comes to sanitary regulations, they are poor. You will notice that people do not wash or change their clothes as often as your average American would and places like restaurants would not pass a basic US-standard sanitary expectation.

Unicef also states that access to a safe and sanitary environment in Indonesia is extremely low.

What does it mean for kratom? It’s unregulated. Which means that there are no rules or regulations which would require kratom to be clean.

In addition to that, most farmers in Indonesia aren’t wealthy. As a matter of fact, a while ago there was a video online of kratom farmers in Indonesia begging the US not to ban kratom as it would mean going out of business and losing out on a lot of profit.  (The original video has been taken down, but if you get a hold of it elsewhere, please let us know.)

Because these farmers are, for the lack of a better word, poor, you can’t expect them to be able to comply with US sanitary regulations and standards.

4. Your Risk of Getting Contaminated, Fake or Adulterated Kratom Increases

That is, of course, if you get your kratom, to begin with. There is a risk that the Indonesian or your local customs may seize your package. In certain countries, you may even need to cover importing fees which can be higher than the cost of what you’re importing.

Reputable and trusted kratom vendors lab test their kratom for purity and quality. Ideally, they send a batch of each shipment of each strain they receive to an independent 3^rd party laboratory.

These kratom lab testing results are actually rather detailed. They can not only detect contaminants, any foreign substances, but also the concentration of alkaloids and even tell if the stain is actually the one that the label claims it to be.

If any products test as contaminated, adulterated or otherwise unsafe or inadequate, kratom vendors should be discarding them.

Lat tests are a reliable way of telling whether the kratom you buy is safe to consume. So, you could technically do it by yourself. The problem is that these tests aren’t cheap. The prices aren’t a huge deal if you import and lab test kratom in bulk. For individual shipments though, this isn’t the most optimal approach price-wise.

5. Many Kratom Vendors Are Inexperienced

Imagine if you were a potato farmer all your life, and suddenly you decide to switch to growing tomatoes because they yield more profits. While growing both of them would qualify you as a farmer, you cannot apply the same knowledge and experience to produce both.

This also translates to the kratom industry. The increased demand for kratom has resulted in many farmers abandoning other traditional industries such as growing rubber trees and harvesting palm oil and switching to kratom. While that could indeed mean a greater kratom supply, many of the new kratom farmers in Indonesia aren’t actually experienced with kratom.

6. You Risk Putting Your Health and the Future of Kratom in Danger

Kratom is regulated neither in Indonesia nor the US. This means that you most definitely can end up with fake or unsafe kratom and put yourself at risk.

In addition to that, you risk negatively affecting kratom legality. If you take fake, contaminated or adulterated kratom and up in a hospital, your records would inevitably indicate that there is kratom in your system.

Then, how it’s going to be interpreted is up to whosever hands this data reaches. We know very well that the FDA wants kratom banned, and despite the fact that most CDC kratom deaths were likely not caused by kratom, it’s still spreading negative fame about kratom.

What Should You Do Instead?

To save yourself the headache and to minimize the risks, it’s best to go for US-based trusted kratom vendors.

That’s because trusted and reputable vendors will have already done all the hard work for you. They have already done the vetting and found farmers who can be trusted and provide a consistent supply.

They also lab test their products to ensure their purity and quality. In addition to that, it’s much easier for you to locate authentic reviews and determine whether you can trust them or not.

Of course, you still need to choose carefully and you still have the risk of choosing a bad vendor, however, your risks are much lower with US-based vendors than with kratom farmers in Indonesia. Especially because individual states are becoming more open to passing the Kratom Consumer Protection Act and regulating kratom statewide.

Basically, the saying “better the devil you know than the one you don’t” applies to this situation perfectly.

What are your thoughts? Vendors in the US or kratom farmers in Indonesia? We’d love to hear your take on it.

If you are looking for tips on how to choose a vendor, you can check out our post on common beginner buying mistakes, whether cheap kratom is worth buying, what the best strains for beginners are, as well download our FREE e-book on how to buy kratom.  

Kratom has many beneficial effects, yet, instead of feeling amazing after taking it, you’re experiencing terrible kratom stomach pain.

Can this be possible?

Kratom is a herb, it’s natural, so…

Can Kratom Cause Stomach Pain?

Kratom has many uses and can help with a variety of health issues and conditions. However, inadequate use can result in side effects such as kratom stomach pain, constipation, and nausea. However, in most instances, this is manageable with some adjustments to how you take kratom.

The beneficial effects of kratom are due to its alkaloids. Kratom alkaloids affect the receptors in our brains. But for you to experience kratom effects, your body first needs to absorb the alkaloids. This happens through your digestive system.

What to Do If you Experience Kratom Stomach Pain

Drink More Water

Dehydration is one of the most common causes of kratom stomach pain. About 60% of the human body is made of water. We lose some of it daily through different body processes such as urine, feces, sweat, and even as we breathe. Therefore, we need to continuously replenish our body’s water reserves for optimal health.

The chances are that you’re not drinking enough water. Even if you think you are. It’s actually rather common. Some studies indicate that it’s a worldwide problem. It’s estimated that Americans, on average, drink only half of the recommended water amount.

In addition to that, we often consume beverages that dehydrate us even further, such as soda and coffee.

Kratom powder is leaf matter, and leaf matter is fiber. Fiber is needed in our digestion because it binds with water creating bulk, which helps our bodies pass stool.

The problem is that this process requires water. So, if you aren’t drinking enough water as it is, kratom can dehydrate you even further.

The solution to that is drinking more water. The recommended daily amount is about 8 cups of water. However, the exact amount will depend on your weight, exercise level, and habits. For instance, you’ll need to drink more water if you drink coffee. The same goes for exercise. Aim for approximately an extra glass per each cup of coffee as well as one for every 30 minutes of exercise.

Keep in mind that you should drink water even if you aren’t feeling thirsty. You can be dehydrated without feeling that you’re thirsty.

Often when you’re not feeling thirsty but a little hungry, it may also signify dehydration. Your body knows that it can absorb water from food. Therefore, it sends you signals of hunger

Lower Your Dose

Taking a dose that is too high is common among new kratom users in particular. Though there are guidelines for the recommended dosage, many factors affect the effects of kratom, and the amount of the right dose will vary on a case-by-case basis.

Some of the factors are age, weight, habits, diet, and metabolism. For instance, people with lower body fat percentages, such as athletes, will require a lower dose.

Keep in mind that you will not know what dosage is right for you until you try it yourself. So, if you are new to kratom, start with the threshold dose and gradually build up. We talk more about it here.

Another mistake that many make is using a spoon to measure their kratom dose. A spoon is not a reliable reference as each time, you can take a different amount. In terms of kratom, especially if you’ve bought it from a good vendor and it’s very potent, a slightly larger amount can make a massive difference.

A sensitive digital scale is best for this purpose. You’ll know exactly what amount you’re taking.

Add More Fiber and Probiotics to Your Diet

If constipation is bothering you, try adding more fiber-rich foods and probiotics to your diet. Working together, they both can improve your digestion.

You may already know that there are bacteria in your gut. It’s known as gut flora and is needed to help your body break down food and absorb nutrients. However, certain dietary choices, such as high consumption of sugar or the use of antibiotics, can severely disrupt gut flora. As a result, you may be experiencing digestive issues that kratom aggravates.

Fiber, soluble fiber, in particular, dissolves in water. It results in a gel-like substance that helps stool pass through the gas. It also works as a fertilizer for the gut flora, lowers fat absorption, and regulates blood sugar.

Oatmeal, fruits and vegetables, and legumes are great sources of fiber.

Prebiotics, however, contain the beneficial live bacteria needed for healthy gut flora. It helps our body break down and absorb nutrients, as well as keeps our immune system strong.

Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, tempeh, miso, and kombucha are good sources of probiotics. Organic and homemade fermented foods are usually best as commercially made products aren’t always properly fermented.

Don’t Take Kratom on an Empty Stomach

While some users recommend taking kratom on an empty stomach for more potent results, it can cause kratom stomach pain for those who have sensitive stomachs.

So, if you are in the habit of taking kratom on an empty stomach, try having some food before or after you take your dose and see if your kratom stomach pain subsides.

Try Magnesium Supplements

Magnesium is used by many as a kratom potentiator because it helps with constipation. Magnesium can also serve as a laxative. It pulls water into your intestines. That, in turn, loosens your stool and makes it easier to pass.

Keep in mind though using magnesium supplements, and any other laxative regularly can result in dehydration. So, make sure you drink plenty of water to compensate for the additional water loss.

Take Kratom Tea, but Strain It First

If you toss and wash or do not strain your kratom tea, the kratom powder gets into your gut.

We mentioned soluble fiber when we talked about fiber above. While certain foods like oat bran are soluble fiber, kratom powder isn’t. It’s insoluble fiber. Therefore, it still absorbs water and can help pass the stool, yet it does not form the gel-like substance, but simply moves through your gut.

Thus, if some amounts of it stick to your gut or move slowly, it can irritate your stomach and gut lining. This may occur if you eat high amounts of fat and protein.

To avoid that, simply make kratom tea and strain it using a regular coffee filter before you take it.

Try a Different Vendor

If nothing else works, perhaps the kratom powder you’re using is low quality or contains substances that cause stomach pain. Kratom is a natural substance, and there aren’t enough regulations controlling its quality and purity.

As a result, kratom may have been exposed to harmful substances that will go undetected if the powder is not tested properly. Sadly, that happens regularly. Especially if you try buying kratom from the source.

So, you can try kratom from different vendors. Some vendors offer samples for a symbolic price, so you can try those and see if your kratom stomach pain goes away.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes it may not be one but two or more factors at once causing kratom stomach pain. So, try a few things to see if you start feeling better.

You may also want to give each option some time. For instance, if you suffer from dehydration, a single day of drinking a lot of water may not be enough.

Have you experienced kratom stomach pain? What was its cause? What made you feel better? Let us and others know!

Buying kratom for the first time can be quite of a struggle. Because of the stigma created around it, it’s not as easy as buying a protein powder or a magnesium supplement for your diet.

You may even feel completely isolated or afraid to share your intention with others. As a result, you can waste quite a lot of money and time until you find the right product and vendor for you.

We absolutely understand you as we were in the same boat a few years back when we started off. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of common mistakes that new buyers make.

7 Common Mistakes When Buying Kratom

1. Not Doing Proper Research

If you only recently found out about kratom, you likely googled “buy kratom online” to find a vendor. However, it’s easy to get confused if you have limited knowledge of what you should be looking for.

So, before you buy kratom online or at a local store, make sure to do plenty of online research. Look at things such as:

• kratom vein types,
• strains and their effects,
• best strains for the effects that you’d like to achieve,
• user reviews on the strains and vendors,
• information on the vendor,
• and more.

Make sure to look into a variety of sources. Since there are no regulations on kratom, there is also lots of misinformation on it. So, you need to be able to objectively assess the information available to you in order to make the most optimal decisions.

2. Not Seeking Support and Advice

Not everyone supports kratom. Some even state that it’s a deadly and dangerous drug and advocate a kratom ban. So, you may feel like you can’t speak to anyone about your decision to take kratom.

Yet, there are plenty of forums online where you can connect with other kratom users and seek help and advice.

As rare as it may sound, one of these forums is Reddit. There are several Reddit subgroups where kratom users discuss a variety of kratom-related topics. Keep in mind though that changes in regulations made in early 2018 do not allow reviewing or suggesting vendors.

Nonetheless, you can inquire about other users’ experience with different kratom veins and strains. This can help you evaluate which beginner strains may be better for you. You can also learn about different ways of taking kratom and other tricks that kratom users have.

There are, however, other forums such as I Love Kratom, where you can get feedback on some more popular kratom vendors.

3. Paying Too Much

People often believe that the more expensive products are the ones that also have the best quality. While this can be true, it’s not always like that.

We’ve mentioned before that there are no regulations on kratom as there is with plenty of other supplements. As a result, not every vendor follows ethical practices.

Some vendors do indeed have higher prices because they offer strong and high-quality kratom. The consistency of their quality also tends to be high. Because of that, you may pay more upfront, but you save money in the long run.

On the other hand, there are also plenty of vendors who purchase kratom from a distributor and then resell it for a higher price. This bumps up the price, but the quality of their product may not necessarily be worth it.

This is another reason why doing proper research before you buy kratom online is extremely important.

4. Paying Too Little

Kratom isn’t the cheapest supplement available on the market. We get it. You may want to save some money on a bargain purchase.

While expensive doesn’t necessarily mean good quality, cheap doesn’t always mean a good bargain.

There are many fake vendors online who take advantage of the fact that kratom is unregulated yet is gaining increasing popularity. They may sell kratom that is fake, old, or adulterated.

Cheaper vendors may also offer inconsistent quality. You may buy a very strong product once, but then get weak kratom the next time you order.

Cheap vendors may also not test their product or test it, but offer contaminated or adulterated kratom for sale anyway.

We’d also advise you to not buy directly from the source or from vendors in Southeast Asia where kratom is native. While often this may sound like an excellent deal, you won’t know exactly whom you’re dealing with.

We’ve heard of multiple instances of such scams. Even western kratom vendors who buy directly from the source go through lots of them before finding a supplier whom they can trust. Therefore, it’s best not to risk. Especially if you have little or no experience with kratom.

5. Not Looking Into Lab Test Results

The FDA has expressed its strong interest in banning kratom multiple times. They claim that kratom is a drug. They even compare it to heroin and other hard drugs.

Yet, the FDA is also the institution responsible for regulating dietary supplements and herbal medicines. Since they don’t do it for kratom, vendors are responsible for it.

Sadly, there have been several instances in the past when contaminated kratom was available for sale.  After an incident in 2018 when salmonella-contaminated kratom affected about 200 people, many kratom vendors started paying stricter attention to lab-testing their product and publicly displaying the test results.

If kratom is contaminated, adulterated, fake, or otherwise unfit for sale, vendors should not be offering it for sale. In some instances, it may mean that they need to discard batches worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

This can be a massive loss to any business. So, some may be compelled to still sell it instead of losing such an amount of money. Especially is their profit margins are low.

So, make sure to look for kratom lab test results and critically assess them before you buy kratom online.

6. Falling for Marketing Gimmicks

Because of the sensitive situation that kratom is in, there are certain things that vendors can’t or at least shouldn’t do when marketing their product.

These include using certain vocabulary, such as “organic” or “safe” in their advertising. It is also not allowed to advertise kratom on platforms such as Facebook or Instagram.

Some vendors may even claim that “kratom will give you the best high of your life”. This is not only inaccurate but also spreading negative information about kratom.

When you give your money to a vendor, you not only get a product in exchange but also choose a side. This can be either one that complies with the rules and tries to keep kratom legal or one that is simply interested to jump on the bandwagon of kratom popularity in order to earn money.

Vendors who do the latter care neither about their customers nor the future of kratom. Following unethical marketing practices can spread negative information on kratom and ruin its reputation.

As a result, your purchase can determine whether kratom will or won’t be banned.

7. Buying Kratom in Bulk

Another mistake novice users can make is buying kratom in bulk. Buying in bulk is usually cheaper and it can be especially tempting when it comes to a pricier product such as kratom.

Yet, kratom is a natural substance and it may affect different people in different ways. You won’t know how your body will react to it until you actually try.

Therefore, it is possible that you invest your money in a large pack that you may not use or like.

In order to avoid that, we suggest that you start with samples or beginner packs. Some vendors offer these for symbolic prices. This way, you can get a variety of different strains and see which one suits your needs best.

Only once you know exactly what you like and what dose you need, you should buy kratom in bulk.

In Conclusion

It may seem that buying kratom is an incredibly hard task. Trust us, it’s not. But you need to do proper research and take different factors into consideration.

Take your time to inform yourself and experiment first. For many, the start of their kratom takes some trial and error. It may be inevitable for you as well. Yet, we hope that our tips will help make your kratom journey a bit less bumpy.

Feel free to reach out to us if you need any tips or advice on kratom. You can do it through our contact form or by leaving a comment below.

You may also be interested in our FREE kratom buying guide where we discuss our favorite tips when buying kratom and choosing a kratom vendor.

Have you made any mistakes when buying kratom? What were they and how did you deal with them? Are there any tips that you’d like to share as well?

Kratom has multiple health benefits with pain relief and increased energy being two of the most popular ones. An estimated 3-5 million people across the United States are using kratom to improve the quality of their lives.

However, it is also possible to experience side effects. Especially if one takes an inadequate dose or mixes it with incompatible substances. Weight loss is claimed to be one of these side effects and some even say that it isn’t safe. Others, however, are extremely pleased and happy about it.

Is kratom weight loss a health benefit or a side effect? Is taking kratom for weight loss effective? And most importantly – is it safe?

Let’s dive into this topic and find out!

The Dangers of Overweight and Obesity

A staggering 2 billion people are either overweight or obese. That is about 30% of all the population. What makes this fact is even scarier than the number of overweight people has doubled in the past two decades.

An overweight person is considered someone whose BMI (Body Mass Index) exceeds 25%. Someone who is obese will have a BMI of 30 and higher.

You can easily calculate yours by dividing your weight by your height in meters squared. If you get anything between 18.5 and 24.9, you are within a healthy range. Anything below that is a sign of underweight.

Overweight and obesity can be extremely harmful and cause a myriad of health problems and complications. Some of these include:

• heart disease,
• stroke,
• cancer,
• type 2 diabetes,
• gallstones,
• sleep apnea,
• arthritis.

It’s even associated with a higher mortality rate. And obesity is quickly getting younger. More children and adolescents are overweight than ever before.

Common Causes for Overweight and Obesity

The most common way of developing extra weight requires two variables:

• eating more calories that are needed by the body, and
• leading an inactive, primarily sedentary lifestyle.

However, it can also be caused by poor food choices, excessive consumption of alcohol, genetic diseases and other health issues, such as thyroid problems. Mental health can also affect one’s weight. People who are suffering from conditions like stress and anxiety can be more prone to comfort and binge eating.

Common Ways of Losing Weight (And Are They Safe?)

Losing weight isn’t easy. It requires time, as well as lots of effort and determination. And most importantly – lifestyle and diet changes.

Not everyone is willing or able to do that. Therefore, some resort to alternative ways such as diet pills and fat burners. However, these are expensive, may not be as efficient as expected, and can even be harmful.

How Does Kratom Weight Loss Happen?

Kratom frequently suppresses the appetite and, as a result, makes you less likely consume fewer calories. This calorie deficit then makes you lose weight.

However, that isn’t the only way in which kratom influences one’s weight.

While there is no straightforward explanation for which one causes which, scientists have discovered a correlation between obesity and depression. Nations with higher rates of overweight and obesity also have higher rates of depression. This, in turn, means that by lowering one we may be able to lower the other.

How can kratom help?

Self-care is hard for those who are depressed because depression affects the function of their frontal lobes. The frontal lobe is the part of the brain responsible for executive function and skills such as decision making, emotional control, self-monitoring, willpower, and many others. All of which are imperative for self-care.

Therefore, if one has an easier time managing these skills and practicing self-care, they may also be more likely to lose weight.

Certain strains, such as white vein kratom, can be used to ease the symptoms of depression. Numerous users report having a better mood, more optimistic thoughts, as well as an easier time socializing after taking kratom.

All of these are important for one to be able to practice proper self care. Hence, it can make them more aware of their diet and lifestyle and, as a result, more likely to lose weight.

Is Taking Kratom for Weight Loss Safe?

Studies on kratom suggest that kratom is as safe and addictive as coffee, yet has a wide array of positive effects.

As long as you maintain a healthy diet, nourish your body with high-quality nutrients, and get proper sleep, you should have no issues with kratom. Even if it suppresses your appetite.

Best Strains of Kratom for Weight Loss

White Vein Kratom

White vein kratom strains are a frequent pick for those who’d like to take kratom for weight loss. They have stimulant effects, boost the energy and focus, as well as improve one’s mood.

Since the white strains are energizing, they can help one stay alert throughout the day but feel tired in the evening. This can also result in better and longer sleep, something that those who suffer from depression frequently lack.

White vein kratom strains also tend to suppress the appetite and can provide extra energy for one to exercise.

Red Thai Kratom

Red Thai is among some of the post popular kratom strains. It has strong pain-relieving and relaxing effects, yet it also makes one feel euphoric, and more optimistic. While this train does not boost the energy in the same way as white or green vein kratom does, it has the potential to suppress one’s appetite.

Green Maeng Da Kratom

Another users’ favorite, green Maeng Da has stronger properties than some other kratom varieties. Green Maeng Da makes one alert and more optimistic, but doesn’t have as strong energizing effects as the white strains.

Some users report that white strains make them more agitated and restless and achieve the opposite effect when it comes to depression. They do, however, experience milder but more effective results from Green Maeng Da.

Like after taking white vein kratom, one can have the energy to exercise after taking Green Maeng Da.

Kratom Strains to Avoid if You Aim to Lose Weight

If kratom for weight loss is what you are looking for, avoid red vein kratom, for instance, Red Bali, Red Borneo, and Red Indo. With the exception of Red Thai and Red Sumarta, reds tend to be relaxing and even sedative. Taking them may worsen the symptoms of depression in some people and make them less likely to be willing to exercise.

Do you take kratom? Have you noticed any weight changes ever since you started? Which strains of kratom for weight loss are your favorite and why?

Mental health is becoming an increasing concern, with millions of people being affected by some form of mental health issue or disorder each year.

According to The National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI), every one in five adults experienced mental illness in 2018, and every one in six young people aged 6-17 also experienced a mental health disorder. As a result, suicide is the 2^nd leading cause of death among those aged 10-24.

What Is Mental Illness?

Contrary to popular belief, mental illness isn’t necessarily a severe disorder. NAMI ranks a variety of anxiety disorder and depression as the most prevalent mental health issues, with depression being the leading cause of disability worldwide.

Mental illness is a condition that affects the way a person thinks, feels. It can also affect their ability to relate to and interact with others as well as function effectively. Mental health issues do not only affect individuals and their families. It is estimated that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy nearly $1 trillion each year.

The rates of suicides are increasing. Since 2001, the rates of suicide in the US increased by 31%. Suicide is especially common among males, with them forming 75% of all suicide victims.

Mental illness rarely occurs as a result of a single event, but rather as a result of a combination of factors. So, factors such as a stressful job or issues at home can significantly lower one’s quality of life and make them more susceptible to mental health issues.

On many occasions, such external factors are hard for people to control. Therefore, they can become continuously susceptible to mental health issues and have a much harder time overcoming them.

Common Mental Health Issue Treatment Methods

While there is a stigma around mental health issues and mental illness, it’s getting increasingly more common for people to seek help and treatment. The two most common treatment approaches include psychotherapy and medication, or a combination of the two.

Psychotherapy

Depending on the condition of the affected person, the exact approach may differ. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and more. It is vital to work with a skilled and qualified professional who can help improve a person’s well-being through exploring thoughts, behavioral patterns, feelings, and beliefs.

Often, people suffering from mental health issues are prescribed a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

Medication

While medication does not actually solve the underlying problems causing mental illness, it helps manage symptoms. It helps modify chemical imbalances in the brain, helping a person to function and support them during their recovery process.

Some examples include:

• Anti-anxiety drugs
• Antidepressants
• Mood stabilizers
• Tranquilizers
• Sleeping pills
• Stimulants
• Antipsychotic drugs

However, as any type of medication, they do not come without risk. Often, they take some time to take effects, even up to several weeks. These medications also have various adverse side effects that may otherwise affect the people taking them.

Not all adults’ health insurance includes mental health coverage, and medication, in general, can be costly.

Due to these reasons as well as the stigma, many people seek alternative means of managing their mental health.

Luckily, kratom can help. Let’s take a look at how and what the best mood-enhancing kratom is.

How Can Kratom Help?

Kratom has a number of beneficial effects that a person with mental illness can benefit from. These include:

1. Euphoria

Kratom, especially when taken in higher doses, can create a feeling of euphoria. Therefore, people who experience depression or stress may benefit from feeling euphoric.

Generally, all strains can provide euphoria, though some strains will be more potent in this regard than others. Most commonly, Maeng Da is referred to as the best mood-enhancing kratom, followed by Malay Kratom and White Borneo.

Keep in mind that different strains and vein colors will result in different effects. Therefore, we recommend researching a strain and its effects beforehand. For quick reference, reds will be relaxing and are best taken in the evening, whereas whites and greens are more energizing and are good morning and daytime strains.

Whites are much more energizing than greens, and they can feel too much, especially for those who are new kratom. We also do not recommend whites for anyone with anxiety and depression as they can make one feel jittery and may worsen the anxiety and depression symptoms.

2. Relaxation

Reds are potent pain relievers and relaxants. Strains like Red Bali can be helpful for those who suffer from pain and health conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia or have strong chronic pain.

Severe anxiety and stress can also create muscle tension, which can result in pain, making one’s overall wellbeing worse. Reds can be excellent to help with that.

3. Improved Mood

In addition to euphoria, kratom can also improve your mood and make you feel more positive and optimistic. Whites such as White Borneo, White Thai, White Horn, and White Bali are some of the best mood-enhancing kratom strains.

Yet, if you start feeling agitated and your symptoms are worsening, try greens instead. Green Malay and Green Maeng Da will be less energizing, but can still be great for your mood.

4. Clarity of Mind

Many people take kratom to boost their productivity. While kratom, especially green strains, can increase your energy levels, what they also can do is clear your mind of intrusive and disruptive thoughts. This can be extremely beneficial if you need to get things done in a stressful and high-demanding job.

Kratom can also be helpful if you experience ADHD.

5. Improved Focus

If you suffer from depression and anxiety, it can be hard to maintain focus on tasks that you need to get done. Kratom, especially greens, can be a great aid for you to maintain focus, even if you need to deal with plenty of unpleasant tasks.

6. More Energy

People who suffer from depression tend to have a hard time to find motivation and willingness to do much. In severe cases, it can be hard to even get out of bed and take proper care of yourself. White and green vein kratom can help you find the energy you need.

As mentioned above, while whites are more energizing, greens may be a better fit for you if you are new to kratom or whites make you feel worse.

7. Better Sleep

Reds are great to relax, fall, and stay asleep. However, there are several ways in which even energizing strains as white vein kratom can help. Taken at regular early times, fast and moderate strains can help you feel more energetic during the day.

As a result, you will be able to get more done and feel tired by the time you would need to go to bed. Over time, it can help your body regulate its melanin production and naturally improve your sleep.

Final Thoughts

While kratom can be extremely helpful in managing mental health issues, keep in mind that it will be addressing the symptoms rather than the cause of the problems and challenges that you are effacing. Therefore, it is important to look into psychotherapy, counseling, or some other form of support that can help you deal with the root of the issues.

Kratom can also have interactions with other drugs such as stimulants and depressants. Therefore, we do not recommend mixing it with anything else. If you are taking medication and have doubts, please consult your physician before you start taking kratom.

Last but not least, seek professional help if you are considering suicide. We understand that you may be feeling extremely low, but you most definitely deserve help and support.

Have you ever taken kratom to boost your mood? Which do you consider to be the best mood-enhancing kratom, and why?

While kratom has a wide variety of beneficial properties, users can experience side effects. While those are generally unpleasant rather than serious, as is the case with most prescription medications, they can make your kratom experience less enjoyable.

The good thing is that these side effects are relatively easy to prevent and manage.

Nausea and kratom constipation are some of the most common side effects. Kratom dizziness is another common one, especially among those with little to no experience with the herb.

So, your first few times taking the herb may not be as pleasant as kratom can make you dizzy and cause wobbles.

Don’t worry though; as a raw herbal product kratom can have different effects on different people and it may take an adjustment period until you find what works for you. You’re not alone in this. Many users go through similar experiences.

Let’s take a look at why kratom makes you dizzy and how to manage and prevent kratom dizziness.

Why Does Kratom Make You Dizzy?

Kratom is a complicated herb with at least 25 different alkaloids and other beneficial compounds. There have only been limited studies on the herb and its alkaloids thus far. While more studies are underway, there is still plenty we do not know.

Moreover, there are no regulations on kratom in the United States. The FDA does not regulate it, and only a few states do so with the Kratom Consumer Protection Act.

As a result, vendors do not have a standard to follow. Every imported batch can have different freshness and quality, and as a result, different effects.

Below are a few reasons that can lead to kratom dizziness.

1. You Are Taking a Dose That Is Too High

Kratom dizziness and eye wobbles are some of the signs that you may have taken a dose that is excessively high.

Different types of kratom require different amounts to achieve the desired effects. For instance, you would need to take more red vein kratom than white vein kratom.

In addition to that, your body may simply need a lower dose than indicated or the batch may be stronger than you expected.

2. You Are Taking Low-Quality Kratom

Low-quality batches purchased from questionable vendors or vendors who do not provide consistent quality can cause kratom dizziness and wobbles.

That’s because they have weaker properties but the alkaloid composition remains the same. You still get exposed to the alkaloids and may even up your dose, but the beneficial effects aren’t as strong.

3. You May Have Low Blood Sugar

Drops in blood sugar can result in dizziness, shakiness, and confusion. Your blood sugar drops when you get hungry, and a quick snack can help you with that.

Additionally, kratom can suppress appetite which can potentially result in you not feeling hungry when your body may actually benefit from some food. This is why kratom use can lead to some individuals losing weight.

4. You’re Taking Kratom with Coffee

A high dose of kratom can make you dizzy and so can a high dose of coffee. If your mix kratom with coffee and retain your usual dose of coffee and kratom, it can be too much for your body. Instead, you should be lowering your dose of both.

5. You’re Taking Kratom Too Frequently

Regular kratom use can lead to alkaloids accumulating in your body and develop tolerance. This, in turn, can cause kratom dizziness in some individuals. So, if you take kratom every day without any breaks or take it several times a day, this can eventually make you dizzy.

6. You May Be Dehydrated

Kratom can dehydrate you, and dehydration can result in dizziness. So, if you are not consuming enough liquids to replace what you lose daily, your brain may not get enough oxygen, thus making you dizzy. This is especially true about individuals who are older, seniors, as well as those who suffer from diabetes.

How to Avoid and Manage Kratom Dizziness

Now that you know that kratom can make you dizzy, let’s look into what you can do to manage and prevent kratom dizziness.

1. Take a Lower Dose

Not all kratom produces the same effects. They depend on the vein type and strain, and each vein type has a different concentration of the primary alkaloids. Due to that, strains of different vein types require different dosages to achieve the desired effects:

• White vein kratom is energizing and uplifting and can result in effects that are similar to coffee. You typically need 2-4 grams of white vein kratom; however, new users should start with 2 grams or even less.
• Green vein kratom offers mild analgesic, relaxing, and energizing effects. It offers more pain relief yet slightly less energy than white vein strains. The usual dose is 4-6 grams. Nonetheless, new users should start with 2-3 grams.
• Red vein kratom is relaxing, analgesic, and sedating. You need to take it in higher doses than green or white vein kratom. Usually, users prefer 6-8 grams though new users should start with less and gradually add more.

Due to the lack of regulations on the quality of kratom, there is no standard quality and potency you can expect. It’s natural for t to vary from vendor to vendor. With less reliable or cheaper vendors, you can even expect individual batches to vary.

So, the same dose of kratom from different vendors will not necessarily result in the exact same effects. Because of that, we always recommend starting with a low or threshold dose.

If your dose is too high, you will likely experience unpleasant side effects like kratom dizziness, nausea, and wobbles. However, if our dose is not enough, you can always add on to it, until you finally reach the effects that you are looking for. Do so gradually adding an extra half a gram every 30-60 minutes.

2. Measure Your Dose with a Digital Scale

We suggest that you invest in a sensitive digital scale, one that can measure down to a 0.1-gram precision. This will ensure that you are taking exactly the same dose each time you take kratom.

Measuring kratom with, for instance, a spoon is not precise. Depending on how much you scoop, you may end up with a completely different dose each time. With faster strains like whites and greens, you can easily take an excessively high dose without even realizing it. This can result in kratom dizziness and other side effects.

3. Switch Strains

Some individuals have reported feeling kratom dizziness and wobbles when taking some strains as opposed to others. This would stop when they would switch to different strains.

While this is by no means a guarantee, try taking different strains and see if the dizziness persists. If you are unsure which strains could be a more suitable option for you, do your research on the effects and properties and try samples, smaller packages, or small bundles first.

4. Take a Break from Kratom

Some users have noticed that as their tolerance to kratom increases, they tend to get kratom dizziness. Try taking a few days off and reintroducing kratom at a slightly lower dose. If that solves the issue for you, avoid taking your dose every day. Instead, have a few days a week when you don’t take kratom or opt for kratom alternatives instead.

5. Choose Kratom from a Different Vendor

If the quality of kratom that you are taking is low or it happens to contain contaminants or adulterants.

This may not be a deliberate intention of adding adulterants, but simply mishandling the product, such as exposing it to moisture while packaging which can lead to the development of mold. Improper testing could also lead to pathogens like E.coli and salmonella not being identified.

So, if you are experiencing wobbles or dizziness, try getting kratom from a different vendor, preferably a reputable online one.

Local vendors such as head shops, gas stations, and smoke shops usually have older kratom. That’s because it spends a lot more time in transit and warehouses. This can result in low-quality bathes that may require you to up your usual dose. A number of users testify that.

Research online vendors and try a few to see if you like their quality and the kratom dizziness persists.

6. Take Kratom with Some Food

If you take kratom on an empty stomach, the effects tend to be faster and more pronounced. This happens because your stomach only has kratom to digest and the process of you taking your dose and it reaching your bloodstream through the digestive tract is much faster.

If, however, you take kratom with food, your stomach digests kratom and releases it into your bloodstream at a slower rate.

Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, and there are users who prefer taking kratom on an empty stomach. Nonetheless, new users may find it more pleasant to have kratom with some food such as a small snack or some time after a larger meal.

If you are hungry, your blood sugar levels tend to be lower. Moreover, kratom can suppress your appetite. As a result, you may be hungry but not aware of it. Try taking a small snack and see if the dizziness gets better.

7. Drink Plenty of Liquids

Dehydration can make you feel dizzy, and kratom tends to dehydrate. Therefore, make sure to consume plenty of liquids if you take the herb. Try to stick to water and avoid beverages that can further dehydrate you such as coffee, soft drinks, and store-bought juices.

Final Thoughts

While kratom dizziness can be unpleasant, it can be rather easily manageable and preventable. Take a suitable dose, choose high-quality kratom, and drink plenty of liquids. Switching strains or vendors, and taking a break from kratom can benefit you too.

Have you ever experienced kratom dizziness? What was causing it in your case and how did you deal with it?