Cart
FREE Priority shipping on all orders $100 or more!
How Much Kratom Should I Take? A Guide to Kratom Dosing
- April 2025
- By: The Kratom Spot Team
Kratom provides numerous wellness benefits. However, like many botanicals, there’s a lot of misinformation about kratom. Many new users have difficulty cutting through the noise and finding answers they need. One of the most common questions about kratom is about dosing, and it’s something we hear all the time: how much kratom should I take?
It’s a very important question – and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The truth is that kratom dosing is very individualized. The answer to how much kratom you should take depends on several factors, like your wellness goals, body mass and metabolism, which strains of kratom you’re taking, and how you’re taking them.
But that doesn’t mean kratom dosing is a shot in the dark. By learning more about kratom and listening to your body, you can confidently find the right dose for you. In this guide, we’re covering everything you need to know about how much kratom to take. We’ll cover:
- Why kratom measurement isn’t straightforward
- Kratom dosage categories
- How different forms of kratom affect the dose
- Tips for accurate measurement
- How to find the right kratom dose for your needs
- Common mistakes to avoid
So let’s dive in:
Why Kratom Measurement Isn’t Straightforward
Kratom is a raw, natural product made from the dried leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree. Its effects come from bioactive compounds naturally occurring in the leaves, which are known as alkaloids. Even if you’ve never tried kratom before, you’ve probably consumed alkaloids in other foods or beverages – caffeine is an alkaloid, which is consumed by millions of people every day!
Although the alkaloids found in kratom are not the same as caffeine and perform very different functions in the body, they share some similarities because they’re in the same chemical class. One similarity is that different people may react differently to kratom’s alkaloids.
Just like you might have a friend who can drink a cup of coffee at night and still sleep soundly, some people aren’t very sensitive to kratom’s alkaloids and need a larger dose to feel its effects. Alternatively, some people may be extra sensitive to kratom and require smaller doses.
Additionally, kratom is currently unregulated at the federal level in the United States. Although advocates are working to achieve full legalization for kratom and thereby pave a pathway for more research funding, current studies on kratom are limited. As a result, there is currently no evidence-based recommendation for serving size or dosing.
This is why many kratom users prefer to think of serving sizes in “ranges,” rather than strict measurements. In kratom dosing guides and forums where people discuss how much kratom to take for different purposes, you’ll often find people using terms such as:
- Microdose
- Low dose or light dose
- Medium dose or moderate dose
- High dose or strong dose
We’ll get into these ranges in more detail in the next section.
Kratom Dosage Categories
Remember, there are no official dosing instructions for kratom. This kratom dosage guide (like any dosage guide) is a general reference point, not a recommendation.
Ultimately, there’s only one person who can determine how much kratom you should take: you! (Although you should always consult a physician prior to taking kratom if you have any health conditions, or take medication. Do not use kratom if you are pregnant or nursing.)
Here’s a general reference guide for kratom dosage categories:
Kratom Dosage Chart
| Dose Level | What It’s Called | Common Uses & Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Very Low | Microdose | Lift mood, improve mental clarity |
| Low | Light dose | Enhanced focus and motivation |
| Medium | Moderate dose | Balanced sense of well-being |
| High | Strong dose | Deep tranquility and grounding |
If you are new to kratom, follow the adage, “start low, go slow.” Begin with the smallest possible dose and only increase once you understand how your body responds. You can always take more kratom—but you can’t undo a high dose.
As with any botanical or dietary supplement, discontinue use if you experience unwanted side effects or worsening physical symptoms.
How Different Forms of Kratom Affect the Dose
Does it matter how you take your kratom? Yes!
Kratom is commercially available in many different forms, from powders and capsules to teas and tinctures, or even kratom sodas and candies. Although all kratom more-or-less offers the same general effects, our bodies absorb it differently depending upon how it’s consumed.
How you take kratom also affects how you measure it. For teas, tinctures, and other drinks or edibles, refer to the directions on the packaging or ask the vendor directly. For the two most common forms of kratom consumption – capsules and powers – see below:
Kratom Capsules
Capsules are kratom powder. But they’re premeasured and prepackaged in convenient, easy-to-swallow capsules. Many people love capsules because they’re premeasured, which makes dosing relatively simple.
Capsules are also a great way to enjoy kratom discreetly, on-the-go. Plus, swallowing capsules lets you bypass the earthy, slightly bitter taste of kratom.
A standard kratom capsule contains approximately 0.5 grams of powder. This lets you adjust your dosage by taking more capsules, or fewer. However, bear in mind that it takes longer to feel the effects of kratom capsules. That’s because your body has to break down the capsule itself before it can metabolise the kratom inside. If you feel like a small dose wasn’t enough, give yourself extra time before you take more.
Kratom Powder
Outside of chewing raw leaves, kratom powder is the most traditional way to consume kratom. But there are many ways to enjoy it! Some users add kratom powder to shakes, smoothies, and lattes. It’s also a great addition to certain foods, like oatmeal, or as a “power-up” to baked goods.
However, many kratom enthusiasts take powder using a technique known as the “toss ‘n’ wash.” To toss ‘n’ wash kratom, place the powder directly in your mouth and wash it down with your favorite nonalcohol, non-carbonated beverage. But if you’ve never tried kratom before, be prepared for the taste. While we love kratom, we know its raw flavor isn’t for everyone.
In the United States, kratom powder is generally measured in teaspoons. One level teaspoon is approximately 2 to 2.5 grams of kratom, depending on how fine and dense the powder is. To determine how much kratom powder to take, you’ll need a measuring spoon or a food scale for accuracy.
Kratom powder may seem more potent than capsules because the body absorbs it right away. You’ll experience the onset of effects sooner than if you take capsules, although this timing is also affected by whether or not you take the kratom on an empty stomach.
Tips for Accurate Measurement
As we mentioned above, kratom capsules are very easy to measure. Simply determine how much kratom powder is in each capsule (this will usually be listed on the packaging) and take however many capsules you wish to achieve your desired effects. But measuring kratom powder can require a little more nuance and attention to detail.
Measuring with Teaspoons
Measuring your kratom dose with a teaspoon is probably the most convenient method. You probably have a teaspoon in your kitchen already! Even if you don’t, teaspoons are very inexpensive; and some kratom powders come with a teaspoon-sized scoop in the package.
However, using a teaspoon to measure kratom isn’t always the most accurate. The grain size and ambient moisture level of the kratom powder can affect the density of each teaspoon size. If you pack it too tightly, or if you don’t level it off, you may end up consuming a larger dose than intended. On the other hand, you may also end up with a smaller dose if your teaspoon isn’t totally full.
Measuring with a Food Scale
A digital food scale is the most accurate way to measure your kratom dosage. While you may not have a scale in your cabinets, they’re not a hefty investment. Retailers like Amazon and Walmart sell digital food scales ranging from $15 to $50. If you take kratom often enough, it’s worth buying a scale.
Once your scale is properly calibrated, measuring your kratom powder is a cinch. Plus, scales allow greater precision than teaspoons. Let’s say you wish to consume 1.8 grams of kratom. With a teaspoon, it’s hard to size your dose to such a specific amount. But with a food scale, you can adjust your powder until you hit the precise measure you want.
Bonus: Making DIY Capsules
Although kratom capsules are commercially available, you can also make your own! Simply purchase your favorite kratom powder, empty capsules, and a capsule filling machine – which you can find at a local pharmacy or online.
Capsules are generally sold in specific sizing increments. For bigger doses, you can use larger capsules, or vice-versa for smaller doses. Then, simply measure your powder and fill your capsules. Take as many capsules as you need for your desired dose.
Figuring Out How Much Kratom to Take
So now that you understand how to measure kratom, how do you determine how much kratom to take? Here are the steps we recommend for finding your kratom dosage:
- Start Small: Take a microdose or a low dose. We also recommend that you don’t take kratom on an empty stomach, especially if it’s your first time. Mild nausea or upset stomach is a common kratom side effect. You can reduce the likelihood of this side effect by practicing kratom microdosing with food.
- Wait and Listen to Your Body: Before you increase your dose, wait at least one hour. Listen to your body; observe how the kratom is making you feel, both physically and mentally. If you reach the one hour mark and you haven’t achieved your desired effects, take another small amount – but make sure you increase your dose incrementally. Don’t jump from a microdose to a strong dose.
- Write Your Experience: Use a journal or the Notes app on your phone to make notes about your kratom experience. Write down how much you took, which kratom strain you tried, when you took it, what type of food or drink you consumed along with it, and how it made you feel. While this might sound like extra homework, it will enable you to track your progress and adjust future doses with greater accuracy.
Be Consistent: We know you’re probably eager to try all kinds of different kratom products and strains, but there’s no rush! When you’re starting out, stick with the same strain and same form of kratom (i.e. powder instead of capsules) for your first several experiences. This consistency will also help your body “learn” to metabolize the kratom more efficiently.
Kratom Dosing Mistakes to Avoid
As you begin your kratom journey, be intentional. If you follow the guidelines outlined in this article and listen to your body, you’ll have a pleasant kratom experience that enhances your well-being.
But also make sure you avoid the following beginner mistakes:
- Don’t “eyeball” your measurements. Use a scale or spoon.
- Don’t double your serving if you don’t feel anything. Give yourself time to feel the kratom’s effects. If you do decide you’d like to feel more intensely, don’t double your dosage – increase it incrementally instead.
- Don’t mix kratom with alcohol or other substances. Even if you’re an experienced kratom user, it’s potentially harmful to consume kratom alongside alcohol or other substances. Always use kratom responsibly and don’t risk potential drug or alcohol interactions.
Remember that kratom is a supplement that is not approved by the FDA to cure or treat any health conditions. Although kratom offers benefits to many users, it isn’t for everyone. If you experience unwanted side effects, discontinue use and consult your physician.
Keep It Simple
Figuring out how much kratom to take doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience. Have fun and keep it simple. With the right tools, attention to detail, and patience, you can find the perfect amount to take for your needs.
Remember that it’s not the quality of your experience, not the quantity of kratom you consume. More isn’t always better. Start small, track your progress, and adjust as you go. By following these kratom dosage guidelines, you’ll have a smooth experience that leads to better wellness.
For the highest-quality, 100% authentic kratom for your needs, shop Kratom Spot today.