Kratom Culture – An exploration of ancient traditions and contemporary uses
Where did kratom come from? Short answer, it’s a tree that has grown in Southeast Asia since ancient times whose leaves were prized for their healing properties. The use of substances to enhance human abilities is a constant and cross-cultural feature in the evolution of humanity. But how was it used then, and how did it make its way to the United States? Explore the journey of kratom from centuries old traditions to modern uses in this quick read.
Kratom Cliff Notes: What is it?
Let’s start with the basics, what is kratom? All kratom comes from the dried leaves of the Mitragyna Speciosa tree, a species native to Southeast Asia and a relative to the coffee plant. It thrives in hot, humid climates making Southeast Asia the world’s top kratom source. This botanical has been used by the native peoples in this region for centuries as a part of their holistic well-being — lifting spirits, relaxing the body, and liberating the mind. Learn more in the sections below.
Kratom comes in three main varieties, red vein, green vein, and white vein. The color refers to the age of the leaves when they are harvested with red vein leaves being the most mature, green vein in the middle, and white vein the youngest leaves. The age of the leaf also determines its alkaloid content, the part of kratom that makes it work. Learn more about the science of kratom here. After specialized curing techniques and purity checks, the leaves are crushed and made into the kratom you can buy online today.
The effects of the kratom strains can be broken down simply by remembering red is for bed, white gets you right, and green is in between. If you’re looking for a deep dive on kratom, check this out. Dosage also matters in the effects you’d like to experience. A low dose can produce a more energizing effect, a higher dose can bring deep relaxation.
Now that you know precisely what kratom is… let’s dive into the History of Kratom.
What Was Kratom Used for In the Past?
Kratom has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia, mainly Indonesia, where its preparations have played a complex role in their diverse cultural and medicinal practices. Anthropologists believe that kratom has been used in the region for hundreds of years as a multi-purpose remedy in traditional medicine, to help increase alertness and energy while working, or to relax for social events and ceremonies. The plant is even mentioned in some of Indonesia’s traditional medicinal texts dating back hundreds of years. The most common ways of consuming kratom back then were to chew on the leaves themselves or brew them in a kratom tea. Thankfully, there are much easier to take options in today’s market.
Age-old kratom rituals have been passed down through generations of cultivators — kratom is believed to have been most popular among the ancient farming populations in Southeast Asia where the Mitragyna Speciosa tree has deep roots in socio religious ceremonies — rituals involving a combination of social and religious factors. The Indigenous people worshiped nature, believed in spirits, and honored their ancestors by making offerings to trees, rivers, and mountains to guarantee their protection. Some villages still have special ceremonies dedicated to celebrating the plant’s healing properties.
Kratom was used in many early traditional remedies for various ailments such as headaches, gastrointestinal issues, fever, and more. Kratom’s potential analgesic properties were also used to address pain-related issues and it was also believed that consuming kratom could increase mental clarity and concentration levels which aided in meditation practices.
When Was Kratom Discovered?
The exact time of kratom’s discovery is uncertain. The first recorded evidence of kratom was from Dutch colonial botanist Pieter Willem Korthals in 1831. Korthals visited Southeast Asia as part of the Commission for Natural Sciences of the Dutch East India Service. His task was to identify valuable native plants to carry westward.
The next time kratom was revisited was at the beginning of the twentieth century. The first step in understanding and utilizing the plant’s healing properties was to isolate the active compound, mitragynine. In 1921, Edinburgh medicinal chemist Ellen Field was the first person to isolate the alkaloids from kratom leaves. Then in the 1960s, a pharmacy company wanted to develop kratom alkaloids as painkillers to replace morphine. The leaves were scarce in the West, though, which stalled research until now. Since then, scientists have identified over 40 other alkaloids in kratom, most of which are like mitragynine in structure and function.
How Did Kratom Come to the United States?
Over the past two decades this ancient herb has started gaining recognition in the West for its wellness benefits increasing the botanical’s demand in America and Europe. This expansion is attributed to the Internet and its ability to connect people, informing more people about kratom and its potential benefits. Online forums and social media platforms have played a significant role in promoting kratom’s use, often highlighting its ability to alleviate pain, reduce anxiety, and enhance mood. Luckily, the rich biodiversity and favorable climate in Indonesia has allowed the kratom plant to thrive, resulting in meeting increased demand and easier accessibility to strains that are highly sought after.
As researchers uncover more about Kratom’s potential, more people have started to accept its value as a lifestyle supplement that benefits people’s lives, although more research is needed to fully understand the effects of kratom and to develop guidelines for its safe and responsible use.
Why Do People Use Kratom Today?
People take lower doses of kratom to help clear the morning fog or fight the urge to nap. Coffee and energy drinks are America’s favorite way to get mornings going or over afternoon slumps, but did you know that kratom can be even more effective than caffeine? Kratom as a caffeine alternative has been shown to provide longer lasting effects than coffee, plus contains powerful alkaloids that can boost your mood and increase productivity. Many people swear by it as a good caffeine substitute in their daily routine.
At higher doses Kratom can also be used to wind down after a long day or prep for a good night’s sleep. A more body friendly approach than alcohol, at higher doses kratom can also melt away your stress and relax your entire being — helping you drift into a deep peaceful state. Flavored kratom drinks are a fun way to explore this option if you’re looking for a replacement to your nightcap.
How is Kratom Consumed Today?
In modern times, kratom has become much more attainable and easier to take and much better tasting than chewing on fresh leaves. You can find kratom products at many convenience stores, smoke shops and headshops, or even buy it online. There are also a multitude of ways to take it – aside from original kratom powders you can now get it in gummies, shots, capsules and even in flavored sparkling kratom drinks.
Please read all packaging for use recommendations. We also recommend that you talk to your regular health care provider before you start incorporating kratom, or any new herb or supplement into your lifestyle. Your doctor knows your history and can help you decide if kratom is a good fit for your overall health. It is very important to start slow with your kratom intake until you know how the herb will affect you.
Is Kratom Safe?
The best way to ensure the safety and purity of the kratom you buy is to check if the manufacturer is certified by the American Kratom Association. Vendors who are recognized by the AKA follow strict lab testing protocols and good manufacturing processes. If you’re ready to try kratom, talk to your healthcare provider before you start. They know your past and present medical history and will be able to determine if kratom is the right fit for helping you achieve your wellness goals.
Want To Try Kratom, But Not Sure Where to Start?
Here are a few steps we suggest taking for kratom newbies:
-
- Talk to your healthcare provider. If you’re ready to try kratom consult with your regular physician before you start. They know your past and present medical concerns and will help you determine if kratom is right for helping you achieve your overall wellness objectives.
- Read some customer reviews. Who better to hear from than current kratom users? Remember — everyone will experience kratom differently, depending on the strain and how the alkaloids work with your body.
- Sample a variety of strains. Some strains are energizing, some are relaxing. If you want to try several strains before you buy kratom in bulk, we recommend trying a variety pack with many options so it’s easier to find your favorites.
- Try a trusted brand. Make sure you are choosing a retailer who abides by the American Kratom Association (AKA) standards and only sells lab tested, pure 100% Mitragyna Speciosa products.
Is Kratom Legal?
Kratom is legal throughout much of the US, with no federal laws currently pending to mark the Kratom plant as a controlled or banned substance. However, kratom is not legal everywhere. Because kratom is not federally regulated, it is up to each state to develop and enforce legislation. Because of this, things like age requirements for using kratom are constantly changing. There are some states that are also divided within, making kratom legal in a state but not all cities, counties, or municipalities within that state. Check here to see if kratom is legal near you.
Can I Ship Kratom to My House?
If you live in a state and area where on you can buy kratom online and have it shipped to your door! Buying kratom online is If a popular option because you can save money with discounts and coupon codes, and the kratom is more reliable. If you love lots of options, shopping for kratom online is perfect for you! Vendors who sell online tend to have a large variety of strains to try vs. a local retailer who may have only a few. Please note, if your address falls within a banned city or county, kratom cannot be shipped to you.
Finding the Best Kratom Strains Online
There are lots of options when shopping for kratom online, and we’ve had a great experience with NuWave Botanicals. They offer a worry-free guarantee on their in house made products, plus the products from the other manufactures they carry. That means you can rest assured that the Kratom leaves in every one of their products and partner products are lab-tested for purity and strength before being packaged in a facility that complies with the AKA’s current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) program.
If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase from them or any brand they carry, they also offer a no-hassle, 30-day customer satisfaction guarantee! And shipping was fast – we got it in as little as one day, and shipping is always FREE on orders of $100 or more. Also note, their customer service is top-notch.
Not to mention, NuWave is an AKA certified vendor bringing you only the highest quality kratom powders, purest kratom capsules, strongest liquid kratom, best kratom shots, the largest variety of bulk kratom to buy online and more. They only carry products by other AKA certified vendors who adhere to their high-quality expectations.
The AKA and Their Fight to Federally Legalize and Regulate Kratom
Founded in 2014, the American Kratom Association’s vision has always been to protect the rights and safety of kratom users across the nation. Since kratom is not being regulated at a federal level, each state is left to decide how they want to handle this herb. The American Kratom Association, also known as the AKA, is the non-profit advocate group for kratom users throughout the United States.
Thanks to the AKA, not all legislative efforts that affect kratom users and kratom vendors are prohibitive. They are working to get all states on board with the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. This act will help regulate the kratom industry – keeping consumers safe and providing kratom manufacturers a set of safety standards to follow. The AKA actively monitors federal, state, city, and municipal legislation in the battle for kratom legality. Check this out If you’re interested in getting involved with your local legislators regarding kratom.
The NuWave Difference
NuWave Kratom is based in Texas. As believers in the good it can do, they strive to make kratom education and products more accessible to those who could benefit from its wellness properties. They ethically source all their kratom from Indonesia, where they empower local farmers, their families, and communities to thrive. That’s the NuWave difference.
Please note that kratom is not used to treat, cure, or mitigate any disease, illness, ailment, and/or condition. Please see FDA import alert 54-15. We make no representations as to intended use or suitability for use.