Once native to the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia, Kratom has risen through the ranks of herbal supplements and has become a household name in alternative wellness circles. In fact, millions of Americans are turning to Kratom, drawn by its reputation for providing a natural boost to well-being.
But why this sudden surge in popularity?
Well, Kratom is a botanical powerhouse, and has been used for centuries to help with a variety of ailments. It’s popular for its potential to relieve discomfort, enhance mood, and even boost energy levels.
But like all products experiencing a boom, the Kratom market is not immune to its share of counterfeits and low-quality knock-offs.
So how can you differentiate authentic from inferior tea, and make sure what’s in your cup is exactly as promised? Rather than guesswork or blind faith, testing thoroughly provides peace of mind and assurance about what exactly lies within each sip of tea you take.
The Kratom Testing Process
Testing Kratom requires more than just an annual review; rather it involves conducting multiple tests on carefully chosen samples to assess purity, potency and safety in products. An accredited and independent testing facility oversees these checks to guarantee reliable and unbiased results.
When the Kratom testing lab analysis is complete, the findings are compiled in a document known as a Certificate of Analysis (COA).
The first step in the Kratom testing process is collecting a sample—one that accurately represents the entire batch. If you’ve ever glanced at a Certificate of Analysis (COA), you’ll notice it references a specific batch number, date of collection, and detailed notes on the sample’s origin. This information is important , as it ties the lab results directly to the Kratom you hold in your hands.
Here are some of the most common tests conducted on Kratom:
Alkaloid Profiling
Kratom can only truly reveal itself through this analysis process. When reviewing its COA, not only are you exposed to Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine alkaloids but their exact concentration levels as well. This data is important for determining the potency and, consequently, the effect you can expect from the Kratom.
Contaminant Testing
With the alkaloid profile established, attention turns to ensuring the Kratom is free from unwanted guests. Contaminant testing scrutinizes the sample for the presence of heavy metals, pesticides, and microbiological agents like E. coli and salmonella.
The COA will detail the acceptable limits for these potential intruders and confirm whether the sample meets the stringent safety criteria.
Adulterants Testing
Contaminants are not the only substances that could compromise product quality and efficacy. With the booming popularity of Kratom, it’s not unheard of that some unscrupulous vendors might mix Kratom with adulterants to stretch their supply or mimic effects. This screening is a critical line of defense, carried out to ensure that your Kratom is pure and has not been cut with any foreign substances.
Methods of Kratom Testing
After collecting the sample and identifying what to look for, the real science begins. Kratom testing employs state-of-the-art methodologies that enable investigators to gain an in-depth look into its molecular composition.
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
This technique is renowned for its ability to separate and identify compounds even in minute quantities. GC-MS detects and quantifies the alkaloids, painting a detailed picture of the product’s potency.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
This method is also useful in quantifying the alkaloids in Kratom. HPLC can handle the complex matrix of a botanical sample, providing accurate measurements of Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-MS)
ICP-MS is an invaluable way of detecting even trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, mercury and cadmium. The process works by first ionizing your sample with a plasma torch before using a mass spectrometer to identify and detect these ions in your sample.
Benefits of Kratom Testing for Consumers
Safety Assurance
Kratom testing provides a safety net, catching anything that shouldn’t be there. Heavy metals, pathogens, pesticides — these are not companions you want in your wellness journey. Testing spots these unwelcome hitchhikers and ensures they’re not part of the equation when it comes to your health.
Quality Verification
There’s comfort in knowing that the Kratom you use meets a high standard. The tests reveal the potency and purity of the product. With a glance at the COA, you’re privy to the exact profile of the Kratom you’re consuming.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
The Kratom market operates within a web of regulations that vary from place to place. Testing ensures that the products you access are not just safe, but also legal. It’s a clear-cut way to navigate the complex legal landscape, giving you the power to choose products that adhere to the highest standards set forth by authorities.
Consumer Education
With transparent testing results, you become a more informed consumer. You’re no longer at the mercy of fancy packaging or bold claims. You have the data to make choices that align with your standards and expectations, ensuring that your experience with Kratom is positive and beneficial.
