With the growing popularity of natural supplements to promote energy, support relaxation, and enhance overall well-being, kratom has carved out a separate niche for itself. However, users are still wondering, kratom tincture vs. extract, which is the best for them and why. 

Tinctures and extracts can be counted among some of the most popular kratom forms, but the dilemma surrounding their strengths and efficacy remains. The two forms vary in terms of their concentration, method of preparation, potency, and expected effects. 

While a tincture is considered a rather diluted form of the natural herb associated with milder effects, extracts are more concentrated with relatively stronger and longer-lasting impacts. 

Let’s dig deeper into this guide provided by Happy Go Leafy and explore the key differences between kratom extracts and kratom tinctures. 

What is Kratom Extract?

Kratom extracts are pure, concentrated forms of kratom extracted naturally from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa plant, which originates in the dense forests of Southeast Asia. They contain high levels of mitragynine, the primary Kratom alkaloid responsible for the general benefits users may experience. 

To prepare kratom extracts, the leaves are collected in fresh or dried form and soaked or boiled in water or an alcoholic solvent. This method extracts kratom’s active alkaloids into the solvent, after which the plant material is strained. What remains is a clear kratom extract liquid with a high concentration of kratom alkaloids. 

What is Kratom Tincture?

Kratom tinctures are a type of kratom extract but in a relatively diluted concentration. They are usually prepared by collecting fresh or dried Kratom leaves and soaking them in alcoholic solvents, such as methanol or ethanol. 

Instead of boiling, the mixture is stored in a cool, dry place so the alkaloids can dissolve into the solvent. Once the dissolution process is complete, the leaves are strained out of the solvent, leaving kratom tincture and its alcoholic substrate, which may have a bitter aftertaste. 

Difference Between Kratom Tincture and Kratom Extract 

Now that you know the basics of Kratom tinctures and extracts, let’s understand what sets them apart! Kratom tinctures and extracts primarily differ in their preparation methods, concentration, and potential onset timing. Based on these parameters, here’s a detailed discussion on Kratom tincture vs. extract.

• Common Forms: Both kratom tinctures and extracts are available in liquid form for consumption. You can find kratom extracts as concentrated liquid shots, whereas tinctures can be available in relatively more diluted versions. 
• Potency: Tinctures have a higher mitragynine concentration compared to extracts. Standard liquid shot extracts, which are generally sold in 60 ML bottles, have a potency of 150 mg mitragynine, whereas tinctures available in 30 ML bottle sizes usually have a potency of 360 mg mitragynine.
• How Long They Last?: Tinctures are usually more long-lasting than extracts. 60 ml of concentrated liquid shot extracts can usually be consumed in 3 servings. On the other hand, tinctures available in 30 ml sizes may take up to 6 servings to finish.
• Serving Recommendations: For beginners, 1 serving of kratom liquid extract (50mg MIT) is enough in 12 hours. On the other hand, those starting their journey with tinctures can consume 1ml (12 mg) from the dropper in 12 hours. Servings can later be adjusted based on individual capacity, metabolism, and the body’s response to the substance.

Benefits of Using Kratom Tincture and Extracts

Despite varying in concentration and form, Kratom tinctures and extracts have many potential benefits that have enhanced their overall market reputation as a natural, supportive dietary supplement. Let’s have a closer look at each of them. 

Convenient and Easy to Use

Kratom tinctures and extracts are extremely easy to use. They come in small bottle containers with droppers for convenient and controlled intake. Also, they’re lightweight, so you can carry them wherever you’re required and consume them on the go.   

Generally Strong and Potent

Both Kratom tinctures and extracts can be considered strong and potent owing to a potentially high concentration of Kratom alkaloids. Extracts or liquid shots have been estimated to have  50mg Mitragynine, a potent and active kratom alkaloid, per serving in a standard 59 ml bottle. 

Long-Lasting Effects

The direct oral intake of Kratom alkaloids while consuming Kratom extracts and tinctures has been found to deliver a strong and long-lasting sense of well-being, increased energy, and mental clarity, extending for several hours. 

Versatility in Consumption

Both kratom extracts and tinctures are available in liquid form. They can be consumed orally or sublingually to dissolve and be digested quickly in your body, reflecting instant effects within minutes of consumption.  

Which Is Better: Kratom Tincture or Kratom Extract

If you’re still deciding between a Kratom tincture and an extract, let us help you select the one that best suits your needs. Both tinctures and extracts are ideal if you’re looking for quick effects. 

However, owing to their relatively higher concentration, extracts can offer more intense outcomes to some users at lower serving sizes. The first effects may start showing after 5 to 10 minutes of consumption for many. 

On the other hand, tinctures may be a good choice for those seeking instant effects that are not generally too intense or long-lasting. Anyway, it is always recommended to consider your personal consumption preferences, tolerance, and frequency, as well as intent to use kratom, before choosing between a kratom extract and tincture.  

FAQs on Kratom Extract Vs Tincture

Which Is More Potent: Kratom Tincture or Kratom Extract?

Kratom extracts are generally considered more potent than tinctures, as they are believed to contain active alkaloids at a higher concentration. Compared to tinctures, they can offer more pronounced effects in smaller servings. 

Are Kratom Tinctures and Extracts Legal?

The legality of Kratom tinctures and extracts depends on the country where it’s being consumed. In the United States, they are federally legal, barring a few states like Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, Sarasota County, FL, Union County, MS, San Diego, CA, Jerseyville, IL, Oceanside, CA, and Ontario, OR. In Tennessee, the sale of kratom extract is prohibited. 

What Is the Shelf Life of Kratom Extract and Kratom Tincture?

Kratom extracts and tinctures can be stored for up to a year in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. They should typically be consumed within a few months of purchase for optimal freshness.

Can I Mix Kratom Extract and Tincture?

Both kratom tinctures and extracts have a high concentration of active kratom alkaloids, and combining them might make them more intense than you need. Mixing the two kratom liquids is your personal preference. However, it’s best to assess your capacity and start with smaller servings before you’re comfortable and later adjust the same based on your individual tolerance. 

Conclusion 

Kratom tincture vs extract: what’s best for you? The answer will always depend on your personal preference, usage intent, frequency of consumption, and individual tolerance. However, understanding how the two differ can help you make an informed choice. 

Kratom extract is a more concentrated form of kratom than tinctures. It is extracted from kratom leaves soaked in boiling water or alcoholic solvents. On the other hand, kratom tincture is prepared by simply dissolving kratom alkaloids from leaves soaked in an alcoholic substrate. 

As a result, extracts may provide more intense, long-lasting effects at lower serving sizes than tinctures. However, both generally start working within a few minutes of direct oral or sublingual intake.