A Series of Matters with MitraMike: Extracts 101
Today we’re are on page with MitraMike to speak about the basics of extracts specifically plant based extracts. In it’s simplest form, extracts are a result of a heat or solvent process that removes parts from the raw plant.
For this article we will not get to much into the process but rather why extracts might be a good addition to your plain leaf collection.
Coming from the consumer side meeting Mr. Whilden, more know to most as MitraMike, was an eye-opener and has become a dear and trusted friend. Today I just wanted him to explain briefly to any new consumers coming across extracts or thinking about purchasing some can get a more educated understanding of why extracts are a great addition to your plain Kratom line well as a basic understanding of how to use extracts properly.
Me: When I first started buying Kratom I often saw a lot of different extract brands but most of them are labeled 60:1 or 60x and other variations. What does this all mean?
MitraMike: There is a lot of different numbers on the market, mostly as a marketing ploy. Some use the actual alkaloid content, I prefer to use the count that compares 1 gram of extract to an equal tea serving. For instance a 10:1 Where 1 gram has the same potency as taking 10 grams of kratom powder. Sometimes 50x means 1 gram is the strength of 50grams and others may say 50x is 5:1 so you have to do your due diligence and ask what their labeling is implying.
Me: How often and how much do you recommend a novice consumer to take if that want to try extracts?
MitraMike: For newcomers I always recommend them to start slow. Know your plain strains and your dosage before you start mixing in extracts. Extracts should only be use when you are in severe pain and should be used on a need be basis. If you misuse extracts or don’t properly measure out your dose you have the potential to build up a tolerance fairly quickly.
Me: So on the subject of building up a tolerance, how do you make sure that you aren’t.
MitraMike: Trying different strains is a great way for your body to take a break from your go to strain choice. People often think tolerance leads to addictive behaviors but the reality is that anything we do on a regular basis is a habit. The word addiction gives habits of any sort a bad reputation. We all have our routines because we are creatures of habit but when it comes to dealing with pain daily, you have to manage it the best way possible. Whether you are taking Tylenol every four hours or drinking Kratom, its’ purpose outweighs the other people’s perception of what they might think is a bad habit or addiction. Life is about moderation. It’s when you get excessive then it becomes a problem.
Me: On a personal note, why do you use Kratom?
MitraMike: I too have my struggles with chronic pains and I prefer to use more traditional and alternative forms than modern medicines. I find that mother nature’s remedies tend to work better with my body’s chemical makeup. In regards to extracts I find that there are days that my body needs a little more than my daily maintenance dose and extracts give me a more concentrate dose and that extra boost to get over my flare ups.
