Making tea is one of the oldest ways to prepare kratom leaf, and it remains popular with people who dislike the texture of plain powder. The method is simple: steep the powder or crushed leaf in hot water, strain out the plant material and drink the liquid. This guide covers the equipment, a basic step-by-step method, how to handle the bitter taste, and how to store tea you do not drink straight away.
A note before you start: use the amount of kratom recommended on your product’s label. This guide is about preparation, not serving size.
What you need
- Kratom leaf powder (extracts are not suited to brewing)
- A saucepan or kettle
- A fine strainer, paper coffee filter or reusable tea bag
- A heat-safe mug or jug
- Optional: lemon juice, honey or another sweetener, ginger or a flavored tea bag
Step-by-step method
- Heat the water. Bring water to just below a boil. Very hard boiling is not necessary, and many people prefer to let it settle for a minute after boiling.
- Add an acid (optional). A splash of lemon juice is a traditional addition. Many brewers add it for flavor and believe it helps the brew; either way it does no harm.
- Add the kratom. Stir the powder into the water, or place it in a tea bag or infuser first to make straining easier.
- Simmer or steep. Keep the pot on a low simmer, or steep off the heat with a lid on, for around 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain. Pour the liquid through a fine strainer or coffee filter. Let it drip rather than pressing the sediment, which pushes fine particles through.
- Flavor and serve. Add honey, sweetener or a flavored tea bag to taste. Drink warm, or chill it for iced tea.
Dealing with the bitterness
Kratom tea is bitter, and no method removes that completely. What helps:
- Honey, agave or a sugar-free sweetener.
- Steeping a bag of ginger, chamomile or black tea alongside the kratom.
- Serving it cold with lemon and ice, which mutes bitterness.
- Mixing the finished tea with juice.
If taste is the main obstacle, kratom capsules avoid it entirely; kratom powder vs capsules compares the two.
Making a batch ahead
Some people brew a larger pot and keep it in the fridge. Let it cool, pour it into a clean, sealed glass container and refrigerate. Use it within a few days and shake before pouring, since fine sediment settles. Label the container clearly and keep it out of reach of children.
Other ways to prepare kratom
Tea is just one option. You can stir powder into juice or a smoothie, mix it into coffee (see our kratom and coffee guide) or skip preparation altogether with capsules. Ready-to-drink kratom shots are a separate, concentrated product and should not be treated as a substitute for tea made from leaf.
Storing the powder you brew with
Fresh-tasting tea starts with well-stored powder. Keep bags sealed, cool, dry and out of the light — our kratom storage guide has the details.
Kratom is sold to adults 21 and older where it is legal. Talk with a healthcare professional before using kratom if you take medication or have a medical condition.