While Kratom has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal and therapeutic benefits, little was known about this incredible herb outside of Southeast Asia until relatively recently. Now that Western Nations are beginning to understand the benefits of Kratom, its popularity and demand have surged.
Given that people are using Kratom for everything from natural anxiety and depression medication to treatment for opioid withdrawal, it is no wonder that more and more people are purchasing Kratom in large quantities.
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Storing Kratom
The problem with purchasing Kratom supplements in bulk is that many users do not know how to properly store excess Kratom. In many cases, the Kratom spoils and what would otherwise be useful medicine is wasted.
Proper storage techniques are incredibly important as they not only prevent spoilage but also preserve the natural alkaloid content of the plant. Maintaining the correct alkaloid content means that the Kratom keeps its natural potency and is as effective as possible. These tips are also helpful if you’re wanting to travel with your Kratom.
Luckily, we are here to help! We’re going to explain in detail how you should store Kratom to maintain its potency and ensure as little as possible goes to waste. By following these straightforward tips, you can extend the shelf life of your Kratom and make sure it is fresh for the next time you want to use it.
Short Term Storage (1 – 3 Months)
The types of storage techniques you use to preserve your Kratom will depend partially on the amount of time you plan on storing the herb.
Type of Container
For shorter periods of less than three months, choose a container that provides an airtight seal but is also easy to open and reseal.
In general, short-term storage techniques are used for Kratom that you plan to use regularly, so convenience is important. There are plenty of simple containers that provide airtight seals without being overly difficult to open. Glass mason jars and similar airtight containers that open and reseal quickly are an excellent choice. You can also choose a high-quality Ziploc-style bag as these make it easy to push out excess air and create a semi-vacuum.
For small and average size amounts, most reputable Kratom vendors will package their powder in resealable Ziploc-style bags, which is convenient, and these are perfectly adequate.
Temperature and Location
Short-term storage should be in a dark location with a fairly consistent temperature. Avoid temperature fluctuations by storing your Kratom away from drafty windows or in places where the temperature goes up and down throughout the day. A dark kitchen pantry is a good choice as is a refrigerator that operates at a consistent temperature.
Remember, these techniques are best suited for short-term storage, so if you are looking to store Kratom for regular use, make sure it is in an easily accessible location.
Long-Term Storage (3 – 12 Months)
If you plan on storing Kratom for a longer period, you probably made a bulk purchase. This is a convenient and affordable way to purchase Kratom, but you have to take extra precautions to make sure you are storing it correctly. Keep in mind that even properly stored Kratom starts to deteriorate after a year, so try to avoid storing Kratom for over 12 months if you can.
Type of Container
Rather than a simple Ziploc-style bag or a resealable glass container, consider investing in a vacuum sealer. Kratom that is stored in a vacuum-sealed container fairs much better than Kratom that has been exposed to excess air. Vacuum sealers are fairly inexpensive, and if you plan on storing a large quantity of Kratom for a long time, it will pay for itself over time.
Temperature and Location
The best place to store Kratom for a long period of time is in a dark place with a consistent temperature. Kratom also tends to store well when frozen, so consider storing your vacuum-sealed Kratom in a freezer.
If you choose to store your Kratom in a freezer, which we recommend, allow it to thaw and get to room temperature before you open it. This keeps your Kratom from becoming damaged due to excess moisture.
Factors That Impact the Shelf Life of Kratom
- Light Exposure – UV light can damage Kratom and accelerate deterioration. Make an effort to avoid exposing your Kratom to sunlight. This is why we recommend storing Kratom in a dark location, such as a refrigerator, freezer, or cupboard.
- Temperature – Kratom keeps better if it is stored in a cool location, but you should avoid exposing it to fluctuating temperatures. While cooler temperatures are best, consistency is key.
- Oxygen Exposure – Kratom is an organic compound that reacts when exposed to oxygen. To avoid oxidation, which impacts the alkaloid composition of the Kratom, you should limit the amount of oxygen your Kratom is exposed to. This is why we recommend using an airtight container for short-term storage and a vacuum seal for long-term storage.
- Moisture Levels – As mentioned, Kratom deteriorates faster when exposed to excessive moisture. Always store your Kratom in a dry container, preferably one that is kept in a dry location. This is especially true if you live in a humid climate.
How Do You Know If You Stored Your Kratom Correctly?
Make sure your stored Kratom has no visible signs of deterioration after it has been stored.
When you pull your Kratom out of storage, quickly check for mold, discoloration, wetness, and other obvious indicators that the powder has spoiled. Unusual smells or a complete lack of scent can also indicate your Kratom is no longer fresh.
Kratom can go stale and still be safe for consumption, but it will likely be less potent than fresh Kratom.
Founder of Kratom IQ; a self-improvement junkie and Kratom enthusiast. I started this website in 2015 to help people avoid the common pitfalls and mistakes with Mitragyna Speciosa, and ultimately get the most out of this amazing plant. Learn More…
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