Everything you Need to Know About Kratom Strains

Kratom is made from the dried, ground up and processed leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, an evergreen native to Southeast Asia. 

What you may have learned, however, is that not all kratom is the same. In fact, kratom is typically classified into three distinctive ‘strains’ or ‘veins’ noted by color. Although the leaves of the tree are the same color, the same cannot be said of it’s stems and veins.

If you inspect each leaf closely, you would notice that the veins have distinctive colors. It is from these stems and veins that each strain of kratom derives its name, as well as the powder’s final color. 

Throughout each stage of the leaves’ lifecycle, these veins change in color from red (immature) to a whiter appearance as it matures, and finally to a greenish hue at the end of it’s cycle.

The chemical composition and concentration of alkaloids vary throughout the lifecycle of the leaves, with those harvested at differing stages offering a complex, nuanced, and differing effect on those to ingest it. Be sure to check out the information we have on kratom capsules to buy to learn more.

The Three Main Strains of Kratom 

The Strains and Their Purported Effects

DISCLAIMER: Keep in mind that research on kratom is ongoing. The information on its various effects is for educational purposes only and not intended as advice or guidance on taking the supplement. Always speak with your healthcare provider prior to beginning any new supplement regimen.

As mentioned, the strain’s color is the leading indicator of it’s type. Although variations of these strains exist, the most common are: Red Kratom, White Kratom, and Green Kratom.

Other variables include where the tree was grown and cultivated, weather conditions, and how the leaves were dried and processed.

Red Vein Kratom

Red Vein Kratom ranks among the most popular ‘veins’ of this plant. Leaves used to make red vein kratom come from trees of significant maturity, with the leaves harvested during the early stage of their lifecycle. The result is a powder rich in the alkaloid 7-hydroxymitragynine.

Features

• Processing involves the use of natural sunlight or UV lamps to thoroughly dry the hand-pocked leaves
• Some farmers opt to ferment the leaves to create Bentuangie Kratom

Potency

• Red Strain kratom is known for its potency
• Not overly stimulatory and can be sedating
• Often ideal for beginners or for those looking to relax
• Users often report effects lasting for around 5 hours

Effects

• Thought to elicit a mild sedating effect on the user
• May promote a mild to moderate sense of calm 
• User reports claim it is the best for pain relief but this has not been scientifically or clinically established

White Vein Kratom

On the opposite side of the spectrum is White Vein Kratom. This powder is made from leaves that are harvested from younger Mitragyna Speciosa trees. White vein kratom is known for its reported energizing effects.

Features

• Harvested from the leaves of younger trees
• Leaves are hand-picked when the veins and stems turn a white-ish hue
• Once harvested, the leaves go through an indoor-only drying process free from any UV light

Potency

• Moderate potency
• Highest concentration of Mitragynine content (second only to Maeng Da)
• Effects have been reported to last between 4-5 hours by users 

Effects

• Lower and moderate doses are purported to have a stimulatory and uplifting effect with notable energy and alertness 
• Users often report improved relaxation
• Users report pain-reducing effects

Green Vein Kratom

Harvested throughout the tree’s mid life cycle, green kratom offers an interesting middle ground for those who feel that red kratom is too sedating and white kratom is too energizing.

Features

• Hand-picked leaves are usually dried in two stages: indoors in a controlled dry cool climate, and then outdoors to complete the process under natural UV light

Potency

• Considered by many to have a subtler effect than white kratom
• Typically more stimulatory than red kratom, offering a moderate energy boost
• Effects have been reported to last for up to 6 hours in some cases

Effects

• Purported to increase mental clarity and focus by users
• Purported to be mood uplifting by users
• May boost perceived energy levels or endurance
• Some users report a reduction in pain levels

What’s The Best Kratom Strain?

Those who choose to use kratom often do so to improve their quality of life. From enhancing mood, to relaxation or feeling more comfortable, the possibilities are endless.

Although research is ongoing, some clinical evidence has been found to substantiate many of the benefits that millions of kratom users report. 

As for which strain is right for you? Only you and your doctor can make that call. For many, testing the waters with what are considered milder strains may be a good starting point.