Growing in popularity among Western nations, kratom has long been a botanical staple among Southeastern regions of the world. Made from the processed leaves of the Mitragyna Speciosa tree, a member of the Rubiaceae plant family (from which coffee also comes), kratom has traditionally been used as an opioid-like analgesic, sedative and stimulant for day laborers.
Over the last decade, use in the United States has seen a particular interest among consumers, with users estimated into the millions, consuming the plant for its purported medicinal, health and recreational benefits.
With that many users, it was only a matter of time before consumers had questions about what kratom strain contains the strongest kratom extract.
While some users prefer a milder experience, others require a more potent dose to suit their needs. For those, we’ve compiled this guide on the kratom strain(s) containing the strongest extract.
Translated from native Thai to ‘Pimp Grade’, the name is legendary for its notable potency and strength. Whether taken as a powder, capsule, or extract, the Maeng Da kratom strain, and subsequently its varieties within that strain are among the most potent.
When seeking out the strongest kratom extracts, having an understanding of what influences potency can help you eliminate products that are less likely to meet your expectorations.
According to the journal of Scientific Reports, the following represent factors that contribute to the difference in alkaloid content and concentration, the variations of which would be expected to have differing effects on the body’s opioid receptors.
The conditions in which the tree is grown can have a significant impact on the potency of the final product. Temperature, humidity, elevation, rainfall, sunlight and more can all influence the production of kratom’s alkaloids by Mitragyna Speciosa tree.
Similar to other botanicals such as cannabis, the methods used to cultivate and process the plant impact the concentration and type of alkaloids in the final product. Maeng Da leaves go through a lengthier drying process, enhancing alkaloid content and concentration.
The number one factor impacting the strength of the kratom is the vein from which it comes. Kratom strains are often referred to as ‘veins’, a nomenclature that is indicative of the color of ‘veins’ and maturity level of the leaves that are harvested to make kratom powder. More on this below.
Within each vein, there are often multiple varieties with similar potencies and subtle differences that make each product unique. Similar to the veins of kratom, varieties within a particular vein have unique combinations and concentrations of the alkaloids responsible for its effects when consumed.
To date, more than 40 alkaloids have been identified in Kratom. Two of the most prevalent and potent of these are Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. It just so happens that these two alkaloids are found in high concentrations in Maeng Da strains, making this among the strongest kratom extracts.
According to the FDA, a computational model developed by scientists at the FDA concluded that these compounds share structural similarities most similar to opioid analgesics, including morphine and its derivatives. When looking at potential biological targets of these alkaloids, they were able to confirm that 2/5 of the most common compounds in kratom act on opioid receptors.
Grown with care under the watchful eyes of generational Indonesian farmers, Red Maeng Da is the most potent of Maeng Da kratom veins. The leaves for this vein are harvested once they mature and the veins turn a darker reddish color, indicative of a potent concentration of alkaloids. This vein is known for its potent analgesic, relaxing, and sedative effects combined with a healthy dose of euphoria.
Check out our Red Maeng Da powder for sale.
Potent and uplifting, White Maeng Da is favored for its energizing and stimulating effects. Often lighter in color, white vein Maeng Da is harvested from leaves earlier in the maturation cycle, creating a blend with a unique combination and concentration of alkaloids. White varieties are commonly used for those who desire an energizing boost, focus, or drive/motivation to get through a tough day at work. In fact, one of kratom’s earliest uses was by laborers who needed sustained energy to make it through laborious days working in the field.
Potent in its own right, Green Maeng Da offers a balanced approach to red’s calming effects and the uplifting and energizing effects of white vein powder. Ideal for those who need to relax but also focus and handle their daily to-do list. Consumers often note green’s ability to improve mood, focus, creativity, and socialization.
Shop for Green Maeng Da capsules here.
Similar to how green is a balance between Red and White veins, Yellow Maeng Da is a balance between Red and Green vein kratom. Coming direct from Indonesian farmers, Yellow Maeng Da is prized for its mildly energizing and mellow effects.
Not recommended for beginners, Maeng Da is known amongst the kratom community as a strain notable for its potency and strength. Translated from the Thai language to ‘Pimp Grade’, the name is indicative of its authority and power, this strain contains a highly concentrated combination of alkaloids that those seeking a stronger experience enjoy.