Kratom is an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asian rainforests that comes in various strains. The types of kratom strains differ in their composition, effects, color, uses, and potency. Kratom has many different varieties, strains and doses, and each plays a part in the type of effect the user gets. That multi-use factor is why so many people around the world love kratom—there is a kratom strain for everyone!

In this article, you will learn:

• What are the different types of kratom strains?
• Which is the best kratom strain?
• What do different kratom colors mean?
• What are the effects of different kratom strains?
• Which kratom strain should you go for?

Types of kratom strains

Kratom strains are a reflection of the different types of effects produced by the strain as well as where the kratom was initially picked. With so many strains, choosing one can feel overwhelming or confusing. These are the most popular types of kratom strains.

White Vein Kratom

White Vein Kratom is a potent strain that is harvested from young kratom trees. The strain has a mild stimulant effect when taken in lower doses and is reported to increase energy and focus. Due to its potency, this strain is not recommended for beginners.

Red Vein Kratom

On the other hand, red vein kratom is known for soothing aches and discomfort caused by injuries. Although the red strain is harvested from mature kratom trees, it is less potent and, therefore, more mellow. Because of its lower potency, this strain is excellent for those who are new to kratom.

Green Vein Kratom

For a more balanced type of kratom, opt for green vein kratom. This strain is harvested in the middle stage of the kratom tree’s life cycle and is known to have both stimulant and relaxing effects, depending on the dose. If the green vein is taken in small amounts, it’s reported to boost energy and mood. When green vein is taken in higher doses, it promotes calmness and clarity.

Yellow Vein Kratom

Yellow Vein Kratom is a strain characterized by its unique potency. It is slightly fermented, which has different effects than traditional white, red and green veins. It is said to be highly potent and have long-lasting effects. It is often used to boost energy and improve mood and mental clarity.

Comparing different kratom strains

Comparison by color

Green Maeng Da vs. White Maeng Da

Both strains are highly potent. However, they are dried using different techniques. How Green Maeng Da kratom is dried means it contains slightly more 7-hydroxymitragynine, so it tends to last longer than White Maeng Da kratom.

Red vs. green kratom

Red and red kratom have similar mood-elevating effects. However, the red vein offers a more relation and soothing effect, whereas the green vein kratom has more substantial discomfort-relief effects. Green veins can also provide an energy boost.

Red Maeng Da vs. Green Maeng Da

Red Maeng Da and Green Maeng Da kratom are known for effects that last a similar amount of time and provide immediate pain relief due to the strain’s potential. Red Maeng Da is more balanced and relaxing, whereas Green Maeng Da is better for energy and productivity.

Comparison by origin

Bali vs. Maeng Da

The significant difference between Bali Kratom and Maeng Da Kratom is where they’re grown: Bali Kratom originates in Borneo, and Maeng Da comes from Malaysia and Thailand. Second, Bali Kratom is reported to have relaxing effects, whereas Maeng Da Kratom is both stimulating and relaxing. Maeng Da Kratom is much more potent than Bali Kratom. Both strains’ effects are said to last the same amount of time.

Green Malay vs. Maeng Da

Green Malay and Maeng Da share highly concentrated alkaloid profiles and potent effects. Although they are grown in different regions—Green Malay originates in Malaysia, and Maeng Da is grown in Indonesia—their effects are similar, offering mild pain relief, increased energy, and mood-boosting qualities.

Comparison by effect

These strains listed below are known for stimulant effects, including energy, mood-boosting qualities, and focus:

• White Malay
• White Maeng Da
• White Vietnam
• White Borneo
• Green Malay
• Red/White/Green Bali
• Red/White/Green Maeng Da

These strains listed below are known for relaxing, soothing and discomfort-eradicating effects, including helping with anxiety:

• Red Bali
• Red Borneo
• Green Vietnam
• White Indo
• Red Thai
• Green Bali
• Red/Green Maeng Da

Comparison by form

Extract vs. powder

Kratom powder is the product of dried and crushed kratom leaves that are ground so finely that it turns into a powdered form. On the other hand, kratom extract is made by boiling the kratom powder and then straining it, which extracts the alkaloids. The final product is a highly potent liquid.

You can consume kratom powder by mixing it into smoothies and food or by itself if you don’t mind that bitter taste. You can also mix kratom extract into drinks or food. Due to its potency, you don’t need to do as much of an extract as you do of the powder, but it also means it is more expensive.

Kratom tea vs. capsules

Kratom capsules consist of powdered kratom wrapped up in a small, easy-to-swallow capsule. Tea is brewed using kratom leaves and is a common way to enjoy kratom.

Kratom capsules are convenient as there is no taste, and the product is already measured out in doses. Although capsules are the most costly way to consume kratom – they are also the most convenient!

In comparison, kratom tea takes a long time to brew, so it is not the quickest and most convenient way of consuming kratom. Some people also find it has a bitter taste.

Kratom leaves vs. powder

Kratom leaves are usually crushed, whereas kratom powder is ground into a fine texture. They are both traditional ways of consuming it. The difference between powder and leaves is their texture and the way they are consumed. While the powder is often consumed raw or mixed with drinks and food, kratom leaves are brewed into tea.

Which is the best kratom strain?

There is no ultimate kratom strain, as the best kratom strain is different for everyone and depends on individual needs. If you’re unsure what your needs are and which strain will work best for you, Maeng Da strains are an excellent place to start.