Kratom or Mitragyna speciosa is a plant that has been traditionally used by the local communities in Southeast Asia for a wide variety of purposes including boosting energy and helping with pain. As technology and transportation improves, kratom was introduced to the Western world and has gradually increased in popularity over the last two decades. As more people turn to this natural health supplement, there are now more kratom products available on the market. This article highlights the similarities and differences of kratom capsules and kratom powder to help users choose a product that is better suited for their lifestyles.
What is Kratom Powder?
In the local communities, kratom leaves are consumed fresh. However, exporting fresh kratom leaves can be challenging in terms of freshness and cost. For this reason, kratom powder is now the bread and butter of the kratom world as it is easy to transport and extends the shelf life of kratom products. To make kratom powder, kratom leaves are first harvested from the tree. These leaves are then dried and crushed into fine powder.
Advantages of Kratom Powder
Kratom powder is very affordable and easily accessible. Almost any reputable kratom vendor offers a wide variety of different strains of kratom powder. It has a long shelf life and can be stored easily without special care. Even for kratom users on the go, kratom powder is travel-friendly. It is often preferred by kratom veterans as it is cost effective and takes effect faster as it is easily digestible compare to kratom capsules. Kratom powder is also vegan-friendly. Although all kratom products are vegan friendly, some kratom capsules may not be suited for vegans as the capsules are made from gelatin of a bovine source.
Disadvantages of Kratom Powder
There are several disadvantages to kratom powder. One of the main disadvantages is the palatability of kratom powder is the strong aroma and taste of kratom. This is especially true for kratom users who are sensitive to strong flavors. Kratom powder can also be inconvenient as the user has to measure out their dose each time before taking it.
How to Take Kratom Powder
The most popular method to take kratom among kratom veterans is the toss-and-wash method where kratom powder is placed on the tongue before it is washed down with a beverage of their choice. For those who dislike the taste or smell of kratom, it can also be added into food or drinks such as smoothies and juices. Kratom powder is very versatile and can even be made into kratom tea by adding hot water to kratom powder. Let this mixture steep for 5 to 10 minutes before straining it. Additional flavors such as lemon, ginger, and honey can also be added to improve palatability.
What are Kratom Capsules?
Kratom capsules are made from kratom powder. Kratom leaves are first harvested and dried. After the drying process, the leaves are crushed into fine powder and measured accordingly before packed into capsules. Kratom capsules are a popular form of kratom product. These capsules can be made from gelatin or vegetable-based ingredients.
Advantages of Kratom Capsules
There are many advantages to kratom capsules. In fact, it is often recommended for beginners to kratom as there is no need to measure out the kratom dose. This helps to reduce the possibility of taking a wrong dosage of kratom. Kratom capsules also help to mask the smell and taste of kratom for those who find it to be intolerable. Capsules are also easier when the user is on the go since it is much more convenient.
Disadvantages of Kratom Capsules
One of the main disadvantages of kratom capsules is the cost as it is much more expensive compared to kratom powder. This is why kratom veterans tend to choose powder as it is more cost effective. Besides that, capsules also cause delayed action as it takes an extra 15 to 20 minutes to digest it. With kratom capsules, there is a higher possibility of getting low quality kratom. Since the capsules mask the taste and smell of kratom, it can disguise the quality of kratom powder in the capsule. For users who like to experiment, kratom capsules are only available in limited strains.
How to Take Kratom Capsules
Kratom capsules are very easy and convenient. There is no need to measure the dose as the capsules contain premeasured doses by the manufacturer. All that is needed is to swallow the capsules with any beverage.
Which Form of Kratom is Better?
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between kratom powder and kratom capsules. The right answer simply depends on what the user is looking for. Users can also opt for both options as each choice has its pros and cons. Go for kratom powder on days that are less busy and enjoy kratom in a smoothie or as a tea. If there is a busy day ahead, pack a few kratom capsules in the bag for a little pick-me-up during the day. The table below shows the summary of the different variables to consider when choosing kratom powder or kratom capsules:
| Kratom Powder | Kratom Capsules | |
| Taste | Strong | Masked |
| Price | Cheaper than capsules | Pricey |
| Consumption methods | Toss and wash, mixed into food and drinks, tea, shots | Swallow with water |
| Variety | Wide range | Limited |
| Need to Measure | Yes | No |
| Time to Take Effect | Fast | Delayed |
| Vegan-Friendly | Yes | Not if capsules are made from gelatin. Yes, if capsules are made from vegetable-based ingredients. |
Making Homemade Kratom Capsules
Some users may prefer to make their own kratom capsules. This guarantees the quality of the kratom capsule and makes it more cost efficient. Enjoy all the benefits of kratom capsules and kratom powder together. To make homemade kratom capsules, all that is needed is:
- A capsule filling machine
- Kratom powder
- Empty capsules
Where to Buy Kratom Powder and Kratom Capsules
Ask any experienced kratom user for their best advice and they will say to source kratom products from a reliable kratom vendor. Purchasing from a credible kratom vendor guarantees the quality of the kratom product and the safety of the user as they test their kratom products for purity and contaminants. One of the best kratom vendors of 2021 is Nova Kratom, a very young company that made its mark on the kratom industry by offering high-quality kratom at the lowest prices on the market.
Many of Nova’s customers are impressed by what the company has to offer as the brand sets a high bar for other kratom vendors. Offering a wide variety of kratom strains in both powder and capsule forms, Nova has attracted many kratom users from across all the United States. As part of their promotion, they offer an additional 20% off all orders and free shipping for orders above $40. Along with a 30-day money back guarantee, Nova also has a stellar customer support team that is highly responsive and efficient. They test all their products to ensure the purity and safety of all their products.
General Kratom FAQs
- What Are The Benefits of Using Kratom?
Kratom has been used traditionally by the local communities in southeast Asia for a wide number of ailments. They use it for an energy boost especially during long workdays and to help relieve pain. Kratom contains alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine that acts on the opioid receptors to produce opioid-like effects. It can help relieve pain, improve mood, increase concentration or focus, relaxation, and more. Some users with opioid withdrawal have also reported that kratom helps eases their symptoms.
- Are There Any Side Effects With Kratom?
Yes, like any supplement or medication, kratom can cause side effects. However, the risk is minimal and is generally only seen among beginners and those who use kratom in larger than recommended doses. Some of the side effects include nausea, vomiting, headaches, constipation, abdominal pain, irritability, etcetera.
- Is Kratom Legal?
Yes, kratom is legal in most states. However, there are some local counties where kratom is illegal despite being in a state where kratom is legal. Examples include San Diego, California and Sarasota County, Florida.
Conclusion: Kratom Powder vs Kratom Capsules
After understanding the differences between kratom powder and kratom capsules, users can make a choice based on their lifestyle needs. There is no right or wrong answer as the choice is highly dependent on user preferences. Whatever the choice, the most important takeaway lesson is to always purchase kratom products from a reputable kratom vendor for the best user experience and to guarantee user safety.
