Essential Overview of Kratom Strains with a Chart for Quick Reference
For different reasons, interest in alternative medicine has grown over the years and continues to grow despite the prevalence of modern-day medicine in modernized countries and societies like the United States of America.
This growth has caused the powerful plant known as Kratom to gain a ton of popularity among Americans as a herbal supplement used to ease pain and anxiety, depending on how much it is consumed.
The current thought process with Kratom is when you consume it in low doses, you get a stimulant effect similar to what you feel when you drink coffee; however, if you consume it in a high dose, you’re likely targeting sedation and relief from pain.
The effects and dangers of Kratom are not fully established but, in this blog post, we’ll give you all the deets that have come about regarding what Kratom is, the forms it comes in, and how you can safely consume it.
We’ll be looking into the potential benefits of Kratom as well, the different strains and their unique effects, besides a Kratom Strain Comparison Chart that will help you make an informed decision when you choose to incorporate Kratom into your wellness regimen.
Introduction to Kratom Strains
Kratom originates from Southeast Asia (particularly Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia) and it has been used for centuries for various medicinal issues bordering on stimulation and relief from pain.
Kratom, which is found in the Mitragyna Speciosa tree in Southeast Asia, naturally comes in leaves that contain compounds called alkaloids, the most notable of which are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
What the alkaloids do is interact with our brain receptors and produce the stimulating or pain-relieving effects we desire.
These alkaloids are contained in Kratom strains which come in different types.
Types of Kratom Strains
As mentioned, there are different types of Kratom strains that have their particular properties and are used because of their unique effects.
There are three types vein color of Kratom strains / Kratom veins generally – red, green, and white – and they are each easily identified by the color of the center vein of the Kratom leaves.
Red Vein Kratom Strains
Red Vein Kratom or Red Kratom or Red Strain, is harvested from mature red-veined leaves and it is the most popular Kratom strain among Kratom users.
Getting Red Vein Kratom involves a long drying process that results in a dark color indicating a higher concentration of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) alkaloids, the active ingredients that interact with our brain or opioid receptors for the varied effects of kratom use.
Red Vein Kratom is a versatile Kratom strain that can only be used depending on the required dosage and tolerance of the individual. It is usually used for managing low energy and pain issues and is also a popular choice for dealing with migraines, arthritis, and chronic pain due to its powerful and quick-acting properties.
Because Red Vein Kratom has such a powerful sedative effect when consumed, people usually take it at night time before falling asleep, and they are also advised to start with a low dose to minimize the risk of side effects.
Red Strain also comes in different types such as Red Maeng Da, Red Borneo, Red Thai, and Red Bali. Red Maeng Da is the most potent type of Red Kratom as its effects can easily be compared to those of opioids.
Green Vein Kratom Strains
Unlike Red Kratom, Green Vein Kratom goes through little processing and the leaves are harvested before they even fully mature. What this means is that because of the minimal processing, the alkaloids in the plant will not be fully developed or powerful, so when you consume them, you get a balanced profile of energizing and relaxing effects, nothing overwhelming.
Based on this, Green Kratom strains are often used as a balanced homeopathic supplement, placing its user in between sedation and stimulation.
Usually, when people consume Green Kratom, they make tea from the different types of Green Vein Kratom which include Green Malay which is known for its lasting effects, Green Borneo which helps you manage stress during demanding situations, and Green Maeng Da which is used by people who need increased focus and energy without any jitteriness.
So, Green Kratom is a more mild and moderate strain that will help you relax, reduce your pain levels, boost your mood and energy levels without giving you the “couch potato” effect.
White Vein Kratom Strains
The Kratom Plant belongs to the coffee family in agricultural science and the strain that represents this fact the most is the White Vein Kratom Strain.
The White Vein Kratom is the strain that particularly gives you the stimulating effects you’d get if you drank a cup of coffee. The reason behind this lies in the processing steps for this Kratom strain.
White Vein Kratom naturally contains a unique mix of compounds not found in red and green kratom, and the grinding of white kratom leaves only starts after the leaves begin to germinate.
Because of the uniqueness of White Vein Kratom and its closeness to coffee effects which everyone needs, the white kratom strain is the next popular strain after red and yellow kratom too. People use White kratom as a morning or daytime energy boost because it gives energy and increases your alertness just like coffee.
The different types of White Kratom you can come across include White Borneo, White Thai, and White Maeng Da which is the most potent type, significant because of its strong energy boost and long-lasting effects.
Regional Kratom Strains
| Kratom Strain | Color | Primary Effects | Best for | Potency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maeng Da | Green, Red, White | Energy, focus, pain relief, relaxation (varies by color) | Daytime productivity (Green/White), Pain relief (Red) | High | 4-8 hours |
| Bali | Red, Green | Pain relief, relaxation, mild euphoria | Chronic pain, stress relief | Moderate to High | 4-6 hours |
| Thai | Green, White, Red | Energy (White/Green), pain relief (Red) | Focus and mood enhancement | Moderate | 4-6 hours |
| Borneo | Red, Green, White | Relaxation, pain relief, sedation | Evening relaxation, anxiety relief | High | 5-8 hours |
| Malay | Green, Red, White | Energy, focus, mild relaxation | Long-lasting energy boost | Moderate | 6-8 hours |
| Indo | Red, White, Green | Pain relief, calmness, energy (White) | Anxiety and pain relief | Moderate | 4-7 hours |
| Sumatra | Red, White, Green | Relaxation (Red), energy (White) | Stress relief or energy boost | Moderate | 5-8 hours |
| Bentuangie | Red | Strong relaxation, pain relief, sedation | Sleep aid, chronic pain | High | 6-10 hours |
| Horned | Green, Red, White | Balanced effects (varies by color) | Versatile use | High | 4-8 hours |
Besides categorizing different overview of Kratom strains with a chart based on vein color, Kratom strains are also categorized based on the region where they are grown. Some of these categories based on this criterion include the following:
Bali Kratom
The Bali Kratom is one of the most well-known and widely available Kratom strains. It is usually available in red, white, and green strains discussed previously. The Green Bali kratom is particularly known for its increase of sharp, steady mental performance.
Maeng Da Kratom
Maeng Da is regarded by many as one of the strongest kratom strains available due to its high alkaloid content and strong effects.
It is usually recommended only for experienced kratom users and it also comes in red, yellow vein green, and white strains.
Borneo Kratom
This Kratom strain is named after the island of Borneo which is one of the largest kratom-producing regions. This strain is well-regarded for its well-rounded effects including both stimulation and relaxation so they are recommended for both new and experienced kratom users.
Malay Kratom
Malay Kratom or Malaysian Kratom is also another popular regional strain that’s highly regarded for its typically long-lasting effects. This strain, however, is only available in green and white strains, not red strains.
Thai Kratom
As the name implies, Thai Kratom comes from Thailand and it is well-known for its stimulating and mood-enhancing effects. It is available only in white and green strains.
Unique Kratom Strains
Besides the above, there is also a wide variety of unique Kratom strains out there, with each bringing their different characteristics and effects to the table.
For instance, we have other strains like Yellow Vein Kratom strain, Bentuangie Kratom, and Horned Leaf Kratom that are particularly notable for their specialized effects and processing methods:
Yellow Vein Kratom
The Yellow Vein Strain goes through a drying process that alters its alkaloid profile making it have a more balanced or milder effect.
Bentiangie Kratom
Bentiangie Kratom, on the other hand, is fermented and because of that, it has smooth, long-lasting properties and effects.
Horned Leaf Kratom
Horned Lead Kratom is named according to the structure of its leaves but it comes with a higher alkaloid concentration so it is considered more potent than the common red, green vein, and white vein kratoms.
So, there are several other unique kratom strains like Indo Kratom (from Indonesia) and the rest that we may not be able to cover in this post but exploring these different strains can be an excellent option for anyone looking to try something different from the standard varieties we’ve already discussed.
Whether it’s a more gradual onset, longer-lasting effects, or a balance between stimulation and relaxation that you’re looking for, these lesser-known Kratom strains are capable of helping you out. However, because each different strain comes with its own set of benefits, it will be important for you to research their properties and see if your individual tolerance level works well with them.
Choosing the Right Kratom Strain
Now that you know about the various high-quality kratom strains out there, the next question is how do you make sure you pick the perfect kratom strain that works best for you? The answer’s pretty easy:
Know What You Want to Achieve
The first step is identifying your needs. This will involve you figuring out what it is you want exactly by using Kratom. Do you want increased energy and stamina levels, relief from pain, mere relaxation, or help with insomnia?
Doing your Research
Once you’ve figured out what you want to achieve, you then take your phone or computer and look up the Kratom strains that will handle your needs. For example, Red Maeng Da kratom is known for its potent sedative effects while Red Bali Kratom is usually for pain relief.
Starting Slow
As part of your search, you’ll narrow your choice down to Kratom strains with a lesser potency if you’re new to Kratom. If you find that impossible to achieve with the Kratom strain you need, you’ll be advised to start your consumption on a low dose which you can gradually increase as needed. It’s always advisable to start small if you’re new to Kratom use.
Seeking Help Where You Need It
If you find that you still need help deciding which strain to choose, you can always read online reviews and testimonials about the strains you’re interested in and the vendors they were gotten from.
Another strategy you can use involves talking to Kratom users on social media or online forums and communities. These people can always give you the valuable advice and insight you need to make the best choice according to your needs.
Buying only from the Right Sources
Now that you know the strain you need to buy, make sure you only buy your traditional kratom powder, kratom plant, kratom capsules, or kratom tea from reputable vendors that give lab-tested, kratom products to make sure you get a high-quality, uncontaminated product.
By following these steps, you won’t have any problems choosing the right Kratom strain for your needs.
Kratom Strain Chart
A Kratom Strain Chart / Kratom Strain Comparison Chart is simply a tool you can use to understand the different kinds of strains and their effects. The purpose of the Kratom Strain Chart is to help you comfortably assess the effects of each kratom strain and know which one works best for you.
There are different variations of the Kratom Strain Chart all over the internet so feel free to check them anytime. For instance, in the picture below, we have one such Kratom Strain Chart that explains the different effects that come with each Kratom strain:
Dosage Recommendations
When it comes to the best kratom dose recommendations for beginners using Kratom for the first time, the golden rule is to start low and slow.
This means that if you’re new to Kratom, you should begin with a small dose, typically around 2-3 grams of kratom powder, kratom capsules, or kratom tea as this will allow you to gauge how your body responds to the plant’s effects without feeling overwhelmed.
Factors like your body weight, metabolism, and allergies can affect how Kratom affects you, so starting with a lower dose will help minimize the risk of unwanted side effects like nausea or dizziness.
So, after taking your initial kratom dose, it’s always proper to wait at least an hour before considering any adjustments. After an hour, you would have definitely fully experienced the full kratom effects and then you’d know if you should take more or not.
Doing that will be important because Kratom should never be taken in excessively high doses or more frequently than recommended. People who do that often report experiencing dependence or other negative side effects and besides that, it’s easy to develop tolerance when you consistently take large amounts of a particular strain. This tolerance will reduce its effectiveness in your body over time, making it harder for you to achieve the needed benefits.
So to maintain a balanced experience, users are often advised to stick to moderate dosing and avoid daily use if possible. Additionally, staying hydrated and taking occasional breaks from Kratom are good techniques that will help prevent potential side effects and ensure you have a more sustainable and positive experience.
Managing Kratom Tolerance
| Experience Level | Kratom Strain | Color | Primary Effects | Best Use | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Bali | Red or Green | Relaxation, mild pain relief, euphoria | Stress relief, relaxation | Start with low doses to assess effects |
| Green Malay | Green | Energy, mild mood boost, focus | Productivity, long-lasting energy | Gentle and balanced effects | |
| Indo | Red or Green | Calmness, mild energy, pain relief | Day-to-evening relaxation | A good introduction to kratom | |
| Intermediate | Maeng Da | Green or White | Energy, focus, pain relief | Daytime productivity, mild euphoria | High potency; adjust dosage carefully |
| Thai | White or Green | Energy, mood enhancement | Uplifting mood, focus | Slightly more stimulating effects | |
| Borneo | Red | Relaxation, strong pain relief | Evening relaxation, sleep aid | Stronger for those with some tolerance | |
| Advanced | Bentuangie | Red | Deep relaxation, sedation, pain relief | Chronic pain, sleep aid | For experienced users needing strong relief |
| Horned Kratom | Green or White | Balanced effects, energy, mild calmness | Versatile use | High potency and nuanced effects | |
| Maeng Da | Red | Strong pain relief, relaxation | Severe pain, evening use | Intense effects for advanced users |
As mentioned, Kratom tolerance happens when your body adjusts to the substance – kratom powder for instance – because you’ve been consuming it frequently or you’ve been taking the same dose for a long time.
When this happens, you’ll notice you don’t feel the same kratom effects you did when you first took the substance. To deal with this, people usually increase their dosage, turn to other substances that they feel have the same effects as Kratom, or even go on a break where they try to abstain from the substance to lower their tolerance levels.
These techniques are neither 100% flawless nor 100% flawed – they could work for you but let’s look at the process in detail. How can you manage Kratom tolerance?
Doing it will require a strategic approach, and one of the best approaches is by regularly rotating strains. Different Kratom strains contain different alkaloid profiles, meaning they each interact with your body in different ways.
So by switching between the strains you consume, you prevent your system from becoming too accustomed to a particular alkaloid combination, which will help maintain each strain’s effectiveness and reduce the likelihood of you having to take higher doses just to feel the same effect.
This is why you’re advised to not depend on one Kratom strain alone for your needs, get multiples so you can rotate between or among them and keep tolerance at bay. Matter of fact, many Kratom users recommend rotating between red vein, green, and white vein strains or experimenting with different regional strains.
Also, besides strain rotation, another very good technique a lot of people use is taking breaks from kratom use to allow their bodies to rest. This will involve you determining a rest period where you know you’re going to give your body time to recalibrate; it could be two days to a week, whatever you choose, pay attention to how your body feels and adjust these rest periods accordingly.
Additionally, generally maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper hydration, nutrition, and exercise is a good way to support your overall well-being and enhance the effects of Kratom in your system when you consume it moderately.
Precautions and Safety
| Category | Potential Side Effects | Cause/Trigger |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Side Effects | – Nausea and vomiting | Common in beginners or due to high doses |
| – Dizziness or lightheadedness | Overstimulation or improper hydration | |
| – Constipation | Regular use without proper fiber intake | |
| – Dry mouth | Dehydration, often from prolonged use | |
| – Loss of appetite | Occasional side effect, particularly with higher doses | |
| Cognitive Side Effects | – Sedation or fatigue | Common with red strains or high doses |
| – Insomnia or restlessness | Overuse of white strains or late dosing | |
| – Difficulty concentrating | High doses leading to cognitive fog | |
| Emotional Side Effects | – Irritability | Sudden cessation or excessive use |
| – Mood swings | Inconsistent dosages or strain switching | |
| Dependency Risks | – Tolerance development | Long-term or frequent use without breaks |
| – Dependence or withdrawal symptoms | Abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use | |
| Rare Side Effects | – Skin discoloration (yellowish tint) | Rarely associated with heavy and chronic use |
| – Increased heart rate or palpitations | Overstimulation, especially with white or green strains | |
| – Hallucinations or confusion (extremely rare) | Overdose or mixing with other substances |
As with everything else, Kratom has its pros and cons. We’ve already looked at some of them including tolerance and dependence. So, there is a need to be careful and safe when using Kratom Strains. How do you do that? Let’s take a look.
Addiction or Dependence
Being careful while using Kratom requires you to know the potential side effects in detail, and a potential side effect of Kratom is addiction or dependence due to its interaction with opioid receptors in the brain.
Some users use Kratom for stimulation or pain relief but with prolonged or frequent use, you could easily suffer dependence and similar opioid withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, fatigue, irritability, and cravings.
So, if you have a history of substance use disorder, you should be aware of the risk of dependency while considering Kratom and your potential need to see a medical professional who will determine the appropriate Kratom dosage for you.
Inconsistent Product Quality
Also, you should be concerned about the inconsistency in product quality and purity out there. Kratom is not strictly regulated in many regions yet, meaning that the products available for purchase could vary significantly in potency, and some have already been found to contain harmful contaminants like heavy metals, bacteria, or synthetic adulterants.
These impurities can pose serious health risks to people who consume them, so it will be important for you to purchase your kratom strains or kratom Tablets only from reputable sources that conduct third-party lab testing to ensure safety and authenticity.
Combining Kratom with other Substances
Combining Kratom with other substances like alcohol, opioids, or sedatives is highly frowned upon because doing that can lead to dangerous and potentially life-threatening complications.
The effects of Kratom strains on the central nervous system get intensified when mixed with these substances, increasing the risk of respiratory depression, overdose, or severe sedation.
So, before you consume other substances while you know you’re on Kratom, it would be best to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have an underlying health condition or you’re taking prescription drugs.
FAQs
What are the main types of kratom strains?
Kratom is typically categorized into three main types based on vein color: red, green, and white. Each strain offers unique effects, ranging from relaxation to energy and focus.
How do I choose the best kratom strain for my needs?
To choose the right strain, consider your goals:
- For relaxation or pain relief: Red vein strains.
- For energy and focus: White vein strains.
- For balanced effects: Green vein strains.
What is the difference between red, green, and white kratom strains?
- Red Vein: Known for calming and pain-relieving properties.
- Green Vein: Offers balanced effects, enhancing mood and focus.
- White Vein: Energizing and uplifting, ideal for daytime use.
Which kratom strain is best for energy and focus?
White vein strains, like White Maeng Da or White Borneo, are excellent for boosting energy and improving focus.
Which kratom strain is ideal for relaxation and pain relief?
Red vein strains, such as Red Bali or Red Thai, are known for their sedative and pain-relieving properties.
Are there kratom strains that help with mood enhancement?
Yes, green vein strains like Green Malay or Green Indo are popular for improving mood and promoting a sense of well-being.
How do dosage levels affect kratom strain effects?
- Low doses: More stimulating and energizing.
- High doses: Relaxation and sedation. Always start with a low dose to gauge your response.
Can I mix different kratom strains for better results?
Yes, mixing strains can provide tailored effects. For example, combining red and white strains can balance energy and relaxation.
How long do the effects of kratom strains last?
The effects generally last 4–6 hours, depending on the dosage, strain type, and individual metabolism.
Are there any side effects associated with different kratom strains?
Side effects may include nausea, dizziness, or dry mouth, especially with higher doses. Always use responsibly and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
