“Kratom isn’t about getting high—it’s about finding balance. When used responsibly and in its natural form, it has the power to quiet the noise, restore clarity, and help people feel like themselves again.”
– Christopher Deaney
In an age where more people are turning to natural remedies for wellness and recovery, few plants have sparked as much interest—and controversy—as Kratom. Often misunderstood and misrepresented, Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia that has been used for centuries to support energy, focus, and pain relief. In this powerful and eye-opening interview, we sit down with Christopher Deaney, founder of Christopher’s Organic Botanicals, to break down the truth about Kratom, its benefits, misconceptions, and the science that supports its use. With nearly a decade of hands-on experience and a deep commitment to educating the public, Christopher offers a rare, transparent look at what makes this plant both powerful and misunderstood.
Through our conversation, Christopher sheds light on everything from the different vein colors and fermentation processes to the critical role of alkaloids and the importance of lab testing for quality and safety. We explore how Kratom can potentially support individuals navigating pain, stress, and even addiction recovery—backed by personal success stories that are as moving as they are compelling. Whether you’re Kratom-curious or already using it, this interview is packed with essential insights and actionable knowledge that could change the way you think about plant-based wellness.
Thank you so much for joining us, Christopher! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?
Thank you for having me! My journey with Kratom started in 2015 when I was searching for something more natural to support my health and energy. I stumbled across Kratom almost by accident, and once I experienced the benefits firsthand, I knew there was something special about this plant. I became fascinated—dove into research, explored its history in Southeast Asia, and connected with growers. Eventually, I launched Christopher’s Organic Botanicals to help others learn about Kratom and access safe, high-quality products. It’s been a mission of education, transparency, and empowerment ever since.
What exactly is Kratom, and where does it come from?
Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia—primarily Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. The leaves of the Kratom tree have traditionally been used for energy and relief, often chewed or brewed into a tea by local farmers and laborers. The trees themselves can grow as large as oaks or pines, and in countries like Indonesia, they thrive in the rainforest environment. What’s amazing is how the natural properties of the leaves can support balance, focus, and relaxation—depending on how they’re prepared and consumed.
You mentioned the leaves are green, but people often talk about red, green, and white Kratom. Can you explain the difference?
Absolutely. One of the biggest misconceptions is that the leaf color changes. In reality, the leaves are always green. What differs is the color of the vein running through the leaf—red, white, or green—and that determines how it’s classified. The drying process also plays a huge role. For example, a red strain may appear darker due to fermentation, while white Kratom is usually lighter. These distinctions, along with how mature the leaves are, influence the final product’s effect on the body.
So the colors are tied to the vein and the processing method?
Exactly. It’s the vein color and the way the leaf is dried that determines the “strain” people see in stores. When we talk about red, green, or white Kratom, we’re really describing the internal vein and how that leaf has been processed. Each of those color categories tends to produce different effects when consumed. White vein Kratom is typically uplifting and energizing, green is more balanced, and red is known for its calming, relaxing properties.
Are these considered different strains like with cannabis?
That’s a really common comparison. Unlike cannabis, where you have distinct genetic strains like indica and sativa, Kratom doesn’t work the same way genetically. The differences aren’t based on genetic variation but rather on how and where it’s grown, the soil quality, and the processing method. The science is still developing. Researchers are beginning to explore the genotype of Kratom, but for now, most of what we know comes from regional and environmental differences.
What kind of conditions does Kratom need to grow well?
Kratom thrives in hot, humid, and tropical environments—think rainforest-level conditions. That’s why it grows so well in Indonesia, where it’s warm year-round. There are a couple of Kratom farms in the U.S.—one in Hawaii and one in Florida—but even those locations can struggle due to cooler temperatures during certain months. The plant really prefers that consistent 80–100 degree weather and plenty of moisture.
Does the age of the leaf impact its effects?
Absolutely. The age of the leaf plays a big role in its alkaloid profile. Mature leaves tend to have a more balanced and potent mix of alkaloids, while younger leaves may be milder. It’s kind of like people—the older, more seasoned leaves bring more to the table. That’s why mature leaves are typically preferred when aiming for consistency and effectiveness. They just tend to offer a richer, more complete experience.
What’s the deal with fermented Kratom? How does that affect its impact?
Fermentation changes the chemistry of the leaf slightly. Fermented Kratom is usually more relaxing because it has lower mitragynine levels—the primary alkaloid in Kratom. The process involves wrapping the leaves and letting them ferment for a few days before drying. People often find fermented red Kratom to be great for nighttime use or relaxation. But it’s not always more potent—it’s just different in how it affects the body.
What are alkaloids, and why are they important in Kratom?
Alkaloids are naturally occurring compounds found in plants. In Kratom, mitragynine is the primary alkaloid, similar to how caffeine is the main alkaloid in coffee. Kratom has over 50 different alkaloids, each contributing to its unique effects. For example, mature leaves may have higher levels of an alkaloid called peonanthine, which seems to offer a more calming, grounding effect. The combination and balance of these alkaloids are what make Kratom special—it’s not just one compound doing all the work.
How do the different alkaloids interact with the body?
Each alkaloid has its own role. Younger leaves tend to have more speciociliatine and speciogynine, while mature leaves contain more paynantheine. The differences aren’t dramatic on paper, but when you take them, you can feel it. A full-spectrum Kratom product, which includes all the natural alkaloids in the right balance, tends to provide the most consistent and beneficial results. It’s like a symphony—every compound plays its part in harmony.
Why is lab testing so important for Kratom products?
Lab testing ensures you’re getting a clean, safe, and effective product. With Kratom, purity matters. Testing confirms alkaloid content and screens for contaminants like heavy metals or bacteria. It also gives customers confidence that the batch they’re taking is consistent. That’s why at Christopher’s Organic Botanicals, we lab-test every batch and include that information for transparency. It’s part of our commitment to quality and safety.
What kind of Kratom should someone choose based on their needs?
It really depends on what you’re hoping to achieve. If you’re looking for energy and focus, go with a white or green strain with higher mitragynine content. If you’re looking to relax or wind down, a red strain with lower mitragynine is usually best. It’s not about more being better—it’s about finding the right balance for your body and your goals.
Let’s talk about dosing. How should someone new to Kratom approach it?
Start small. Our recommended serving size is two grams, which is about a level teaspoon. That’s a good starting point to see how your body responds. If you don’t feel much, try three grams next time. The key is to build up slowly. Taking too much your first time can lead to nausea or discomfort, and it may turn you off before you really understand what the plant has to offer. Educating yourself and listening to your body are the best ways to find your sweet spot.
How long has Kratom been used in the U.S., and why are we just hearing about it now?
Kratom has been used in Southeast Asia for centuries, but it started gaining attention in the U.S. in the late 1990s and early 2000s. I personally discovered it in 2015, but even then it felt underground. People didn’t talk about it much because they feared it would be banned if it became too popular. And that fear wasn’t unfounded—there have been efforts to ban or regulate it in various states. But the momentum for education and responsible use is growing, and that’s encouraging.
Is Kratom being studied for therapeutic use, especially for addiction recovery?
Yes, and it’s really promising. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has dedicated over $100 million toward Kratom research. Right now, they’re studying its potential in treating opioid and alcohol dependence. I’ve heard so many personal stories of people using Kratom to step away from dangerous substances and reclaim their lives. Some holistic treatment centers are even exploring it as an alternative to traditional medications. While we can’t make medical claims, the future looks bright in terms of what science is starting to support.
Can you share a story that really moved you about Kratom’s impact?
Sure—one of the most touching stories involves a woman who was cut off from her pain medication and turned to street drugs. She was days away from going down a dangerous path when she discovered Kratom. She made a cup of Kratom tea, and next thing she knew, six hours had passed. She had cleaned her house, cooked a meal, and hadn’t thought once about calling her dealer. That’s powerful. That’s a life saved.
You even mentioned giving Kratom to your dog—how did that work?
Yes, believe it or not, my 13-year-old pit bull has been taking Kratom for about eight years. He was born with bad knees and had trouble walking or climbing stairs. We started giving him two capsules in the morning and two at night, mixed with his food. Today, he can go up the stairs and run around with our younger dog. It’s amazing to see his quality of life improve so much, even as he’s gotten older.
There’s a lot of misinformation out there. What’s something you wish more people understood about Kratom?
That it’s not about getting high. Kratom is not a recreational drug—it’s a natural plant that can support wellness when used properly. The 50 alkaloids it contains work together to create balance. When you isolate one compound or artificially increase it, you disrupt that balance. It’s like trying to play a symphony with only one instrument turned up to max volume—it doesn’t work. Nature got it right. We just have to respect that.
Where can our readers find you and follow your work online?
The best place to start is our website: www.christophersorganicbotanicals.com. There, you’ll find blog articles, lab reports, and educational resources to guide you through your Kratom journey. We also provide phone support—you can call or text us at 609-202-6880 or 856-581-1265 if you have questions or need help choosing the right product. We’re active on social media as well, where we regularly share insights, updates, and news. Whether you’re just getting started with Kratom or you’re looking to deepen your understanding, we’re here to provide honest, helpful information every step of the way.
Christopher, thank you so much for joining us and for sharing such thoughtful, insightful information about this incredible plant.
Thank you, Lisa. I really enjoyed the conversation. I appreciate the opportunity to share what I’ve learned—it’s conversations like this that help more people explore wellness in a safe, informed way.
