Kratom represents a lot of things to a lot of people. For some, it’s an alternative to opioids. For others, it’s a natural wellness supplement that boosts focus and cerebral energy. No matter what you’d like to use it for, to fully enjoy the benefits of kratom, you’ll need to be sure that you choose a product and strain type that suits your needs. So, what are the different strains of kratom, and how do they compare? Below, we’ll break down the answers to these questions and take a look at our kratom strain chart to help you find the right fit.
First, Let’s Review: What is Kratom?
Kratom, also known by its scientific name mitragyna speciosa, is a plant in the coffee family that’s native to many parts of Southeast Asia. Hailing from countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, kratom is a powerful substance full of alkaloids that can affect the human body.
For centuries, humans have relied on kratom for recreational and medicinal purposes alike. In years past, kratom’s pain-relieving and wellness-boosting properties helped users treat injuries, work longer, and prolong physical energy. Today, kratom has become a popular supplement due to its ability to bind to promote focus, motivation, mood enhancement, and more.
While locals historically consumed kratom by chewing on its raw leaves, modern consumers have a lot more variety to choose from. Kratom powders, capsules, teas, and other product types make it simple to reap the benefits of this potent plant in a way that fits your lifestyle.
Different doses of kratom lead to different effects. Low doses of about 1 to 5 grams tend to have a stimulating effect that increases mental focus and energy levels. Higher doses, however, tend to have the opposite effect; they’re generally more sedating and deliver intense pain relief.
Another factor that can affect your experience with kratom is strain type.
What Are the Different Strains of Kratom?
There are dozens of kratom strains out there, but they’re grouped according to two key properties:
- Country or region of origin: this is where the plant was harvested
- Leaf vein coloring, which may be red, white, or green
Mix these two elements together, and you’ll get the names of many unique strains from around the world. In other cases, kratom strains might take on special names, like Trainwreck.
From options like Red Bali to White Maeng Da kratom and more, there’s no shortage of strains to experiment with! All of those strains prompt an important question, though: is there an actual difference in the effects they create? Does being harvested in a different country or bred to fit in with specific vein color types actually affect the chemical makeup of kratom?
Researchers aren’t entirely sure what the answers to those questions are, but they can make an educated guess. A recent survey of kratom users revealed that, while users did report experiencing distinct effects from each kratom strain color, there was no significant difference in the chemical makeup (alkaloid content) of those strains.
But that doesn’t mean that the placebo effect is the only reason different kratom colors seem to produce different effects. Researchers also note that additional factors, like terpenes and minor alkaloid profiles, might be enough to influence the way certain strains make us feel. This is also true of cannabis strains.
No matter how they manage to work their magic, though, different strains of kratom seem to create unique experiences for those who use them. As a result, it’s a good idea to figure out which strain types make the most sense for your needs. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Red Strain Kratom
As its name implies, red kratom is known for its deep, rich red veins. Most red strains also have a longer drying time or go through fermentation before they hit store shelves, meaning that many of them have an enhanced alkaloid profile that tends to produce intense effects.
Red kratom generally produces sedating and relaxing effects, though some strain types can be more energizing or uplifting. Still, if you’re looking for something that’s soothing, calming, and slow-paced, red vein kratom is a great choice. Enjoy it in the evening or nighttime to really take advantage of its pain-relieving and sleep-enhancing effects.
White Strain Kratom
You can think of white kratom strains as the sort of opposite of red strains; they’re known for being energizing, stimulating, and motivating, much like your morning cup of joe.
White kratom is great at boosting focus and alertness, and it’s even believed to help activate the immune system. That means that it’s a fantastic go-to for morning and daytime, especially if you’re about to embark on something creative or mentally stimulating.
Some white kratom strains have additional ground stems added to their plant material to bump up the amount of stimulating alkaloids that make this strain type unique.
Green Strain Kratom
Think of green kratom as a sort of “hybrid” between red and white – it can deliver stimulating and relaxing effects, but it’s generally not as intense in either direction.
Known for its pain-relieving and mood-enhancing benefits, green vein kratom is a classic pick for just about any time of day. If you want something balanced that you can adapt to your lifestyle, green kratom might be for you.
Yellow Strain Kratom
Unlike other kratom strains, yellow kratom is not named for its vein color. Instead, yellow kratom is believed to be a blend of red, white, and green strains that get mixed together during harvesting. Some yellow vein kratom may also be white kratom that’s been put through a special drying process to give it a yellowish tint.
No matter what its history looks like, though, yellow kratom is considered a “moderate” strain type. It’s balanced, much like green vein kratom, and can deliver both energizing and calming effects.
The best of the best of yellow vein kratom is also known as “gold” kratom, which typically refers to strains that have been carefully bred to be top-quality.
Learn More With Our Kratom Strain Chart
Not all kratom strains are made equal. Fortunately, you can figure out which is right for you with our helpful kratom strains chart.
While any kind of kratom can deliver unique effects at different dosages, some tend to lean in one direction more than others.
Kratom Strain Comparison Chart: Choose Your Favorites
Still not sure which strain is the best choice? Let’s compare and contrast different strains of kratom to see where their benefits overlap (and where they don’t).
Of course, it’s always possible that you’ll find a strain that fits into one of these categories but causes effects that don’t quite align with these generalizations. That’s okay! It’s also true that each person’s body can react to different strains of kratom differently, so trial and error is often the best way to find what really works for you.
What is the Best Kratom Strain for My Needs?
Even once you’ve decided which color of kratom seems best aligned with your goals, it can be tricky to find an individual strain you love. Let’s preview some of the best kratom strains (according to our experience) and their effects to help you get started:
Best Kratom Strain for Pain: Red Maeng Da
We rate Red Maeng Da as the best kratom strain for pain due to its potent analgesic effects and sedating nature, which makes it a classic red vein strain.
Best Kratom Strain for Anxiety: Red Indo
When it comes to relaxation and relief from anxiety, nothing does it quite like Red Indo. This strain is likely to make you feel so calm that you may become a bit sleepy, but it’s perfect for a night on the couch or taking a load off after a long day.
Best Kratom Strain for Energy: White Maeng Da
Known for its intensely energizing properties, White Maeng Da is great for motivation, mood enhancement, reducing stress, and boosting your focus levels.
Best Kratom Strain for Mood Enhancement: Green Malay
The balanced Green Malay strain has been recognized time and time again for its mood-enhancing effects, which are sure to leave your day feeling a little brighter. You can also expect benefits like increased focus, euphoria, and stress relief.
Final Thoughts
The effects of kratom strains may vary, but that just makes experimenting with kratom all the more interesting! Keep this kratom strain chart handy to make it simple to keep track of all the details as you shop.
Good news: you can find everything you need to dabble in the kratom products that appeal to you here at Gold Dragon Kratom! Shop our products by vein color to get started:
Not totally sold on a vein color yet? No problem. Shop all kratom to explore different product types and strains. Feel free to contact us at any time for a free consultation or to learn more about how kratom can support your needs.
