Yes, I am a daily kratomer, so I go plain leaf. But if you're just dabbling, a few times per week say, then you shouldn't have to worry about addiction and can go for the extracts. I don't think kratom grabs you until you use daily for a period (at least a week id think).
Those prices you quoted nearly made me pass out!, I think you'll find cheaper at Speciosa (if they're accepting new customers).
I generally have 1 tea in the evening, $2 worth at the most. Can get away with less even. So shop around, prices can vary widely!