How do you prepare kratom, and how do you keep it fresh? A practical guide to brewing tea, the toss-and-wash, and storing your powder. This is about use and preparation, not about effects, and we make no health claims.
Kratom is bitter, and that shapes a lot
Kratom powder has a firmly bitter taste. Most preparations therefore revolve around making that taste bearable or getting it over with quickly. Which method you choose is mostly a matter of preference.
Brewing tea
The classic approach. Add the desired amount of powder to water, keep it just below boiling without letting it boil hard, and stir well. Then strain out the powder with a fine sieve or a filter. A splash of lemon can soften the taste a little. Let it cool until it is drinkable.
The toss-and-wash
The fastest method: take the measured amount of powder in your mouth and immediately wash it down with a good gulp of water or juice. Do not breathe in while you take it, because dry powder can tickle your throat. Some people split it across two smaller mouthfuls.
Mixing with something else
You can also stir kratom powder into yoghurt, a smoothie or fruit juice. That softens the taste, though it does not fully dissolve. A more strongly flavoured juice masks the bitterness best.
Storing and shelf life
Store kratom powder dry, cool and dark, in a well-sealed package or jar. Moisture, heat and direct sunlight are its biggest enemies. Stored this way, it keeps well for a long time. Keep it well out of reach of children and pets.
Stay careful
Preparation changes nothing about the care that always applies: never combine kratom with alcohol or other sedatives, be aware of the risk of dependence with regular use, and do not use it during pregnancy, breastfeeding, alongside medication (talk to your doctor first in that case) or under the age of 18. More on this in learning to use kratom safely.
New to kratom? Start with what is kratom and the difference between the strains.
This article is informational and not medical advice. If you use medication or are in doubt, consult your doctor.