For those that are avid kratom users, you already know that a little can go a long way (especially when using a high-quality third-party tested product, such as those from The Kratom Connection.
You may also have seen headlines in major media over the last year touting the potential benefits of microdosing; a trend that has taken corporate America and Silicon Valley tech professionals by storm.
But is there any truth to this hype? And would microdosing kratom actually work?
For centuries, humans have been experimenting with psychoactive herbs and substances, trying out new ways of consuming these products and dosing schemes that help them achieve various desired effects.
Silicon Valley, known for innovation (especially within the realm of technology), has been at the heart of the biohacking movement, pushing the envelope of what’s possible and finding ways to improve cognition, productivity, work performance, and more through various means.
One such trend includes microdosing various psychotropic compounds, drugs, and herbs, from psychedelics such as LSD, to natural botanicals such as kratom.
As the name implies, microdosing involves the use of ‘micro’ doses of a substance, usually between 1/10th to 1/20th of what would be considered a ‘normal’ dose.
The goal when microdosing any substance is generally to achieve a subtle, manageable and reduced, but noticeable effect of the desired substance or herb. In some cases, smaller doses result in very different effects that can be even more beneficial in certain circumstances.
For example, too high of a dose may result in the inability to perform work or adult obligations at peak efficiency, while a smaller dose may provide some of the benefits that kratom is known for, without those effects feeling overwhelming or reducing abilities. In some cases, microdosing may even improve performance, be it via increased energy, focus, clarity, creativity, and more.
For others, microdosing is an arguably safer way to get the body and mind used to the effects of the herb, slowly increasing the microdose until a ‘sweet spot’ is found. This sweet spot, known as the ‘lowest effective dose’, is the lowest dose capable of achieving the desired effects.
Sometimes less really is more. A too pronounced effect can be just as detrimental (if not more) than no effect at all. Microdosing is a strategy that enables the user to better mediate and control desired effects, potentially uncovering benefits not seen at higher doses.
Managing expectations is key to getting the most from microdosing anything, kratom included. While you may be used to the effects of a full kratom dose, microdosing (at first) may seem like nothing is happening.
Getting the most from microdosing involves staying in tune with your body and mind, paying close attention to how you feel after the dose. We suggest keeping a journal at first, taking note of how you feel in 15-minute intervals for the hours after dosing.
Use this journal to compare against future adjustments to dosage and to confirm what may be a placebo effect.
Although clinical studies on microdosing kratom are virtually non-existent, science does have a good grasp on the pharmacological and physiological effects of standard kratom doses. Using that as a benchmark, we know that higher doses tend to result in a stronger sedative effect, while smaller doses tend to result in a more energizing and uplifting effect. This dose-dependent effect can be used to your advantage.
Knowing what we know about small doses of kratom, microdosing may be a perfect fit for work, motivation, creativity, and more. It could even be a viable replacement for coffee or energy drinks, allowing you to stay motivated and energized without the crash or harmful chemicals and sugars.
That is ultimately up to you. Due to differences in doses, strains, and biochemistry, each person will react differently to microdosing. Some may find it highly beneficial for certain tasks or goals, while others need a larger dose to achieve adequate results.
No matter your goal, remember that the quality of your kratom can make a world of difference. Make sure you purchase fresh, pure, potent kratom that is third-party tested for safety.
At The Kratom Connection, we take great pride in bringing the highest quality kratom to market. From field to store shelf, we stand behind our kratom, as do our customers. We offer a variety of strains of Kratom, including red hulu kapuas kratom powder and white elephant kratom capsules.