Different Types of Kratom: A Real Kratom Strain Guide

Different Types of Kratom: A Real Kratom Strain Guide

Posted by David Abramovitz on

 With so many types available, choosing the right Kratom can feel overwhelming. Each Kratom strain has unique properties, influenced by its origin and color. Luckily, this guide is here to break down the different types, making it easy to understand their benefits and uses. 

By the end of this Real Botanicals kratom type exploration, you’ll have a clear idea of which kratom strain best suits your needs! We'll tackle some of the common questions and points of interest surrounding the classification of kratom types:

  • What are the different types of kratom?

  • What do the venation colors mean for kratom powder?

  • Why are there different kratom strains?

  • What's the best kratom strain available for me to use?

  • How can I pick a good kratom strain?

  • And so much more!

Understanding Different Types of Kratom Strains

Even experienced kratom users may stumble over the different types of kratom, simply because there are so many. To avoid any confusion when you're shopping for kratom, it's best to know a little about the strains, uses, and effects. 

What Are the Different Types of Kratom?

We all know how kratom can help us be more comfortable, feel good, and soar through stressful days with ease. But each kratom product says something different on the label. How do we know we're using the right one? And what does all of it mean?

Kratom comes in several color varieties depending on the hue of the central leaf veins. Each type has unique properties, making them suitable for different needs.

  • Red Vein Kratom: Red vein kratom strains are known for their calming and soothing effects. Red kratom is a popular choice for relaxation, stress relief, and promoting better sleep. Many people use it to manage discomfort and unwind after a long day.

  • White Vein Kratom: White kratom has the most stimulating properties. White kratom is a popular choice for a boost in focus, jitter-free energy levels, more motivation, and improved mental clarity. Often used as a coffee replacement or alternative.  

  • Green Vein Kratom: Green kratom strikes a balance between red and white kratom,    offering mild energy and enhancing mood. Because it's not too overly stimulating or sedating, green kratom appeals for everyday use. 

Other color variations of kratom, like yellow kratom or gold kratom, are usually blends of the three main types of kratom: red, green, and white.

How Kratom Strains Are Classified

Besides color venation, kratom strains are also classified by their region of origin or given an industry name. Processing and drying methods are also important in kratom typing.

  • Vein Color: The three main types (red, green, and white vein kratom) are distinguished by the color of the central vein in the leaves. This color reflects differences in alkaloid composition.

  • Region of Origin: Kratom strains like  Malay, Borneo, Sumatra, and Thai Kratom often denote where they were cultivated. Different climates and soil conditions contribute to the variations in potency and effects.

  • Processing Methods: After harvesting, kratom leaves undergo different drying and fermentation processes to further refine a strain's properties. Some strains, like Maeng Da or enhanced kratom varieties, are specially processed to increase potency.

The Three Main Kratom Vein Colors

It's essential to fully understand the differences between the three primary color categories of kratom powders. This way, you can easily identify and know how to use them at the right times for the right effects. Let's take a closer look at the effects of kratom by strain color and what they mean for your best kratom experience.

Red Vein Kratom: Effects and Uses

Red vein kratom is one of the most popular and widely used strains of kratom. It is known for its relaxing and soothing effects. Harvested from mature kratom leaves, it undergoes a longer drying process, which enhances its potency. 

The high concentration of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) alkaloids gives red kratom strains their powerful properties.

Effects and Benefits

  • Discomfort Relief: Red kratom is commonly chosen by people who suffer from chronic discomfort or lingering everyday pain. This is due to the more sedating and relieving properties this type of kratom may impart.

  • Relaxation & Stress Reduction: Many users turn to red kratom for its calming effects, which may ease their stress and promote emotional balance.

  • Better Sleep: Due to its sedative properties, red kratom is often used in the evening to improve sleep quality.

  • Alternative to Alcohol: Many people want alcohol-free options to feel calmer. Red kratom is a plant-based option without the hangovers.

Green Vein Kratom: Effects and Uses

Green Vein Kratom is known for its balanced effects, offering a mix of energy, focus, and mild relaxation. It is harvested from leaves that are not fully matured and undergoes minimal processing. Therefore, it has a moderate alkaloid profile that sits between the sedating red strains and the stimulating white strains.

Effects and Benefits

  • Increased Focus & Productivity: Green kratom is often used to boost mental clarity and concentration, making it popular among college students, professionals, and creatives.

  • Mild Energy Boost: Unlike white kratom, which can be overstimulating for some people, green strains may provide a gentle lift in energy without causing jitters.

  • Social Confidence & Mood Enhancement: Many users find green kratom helpful for reducing social anxiety, improving mood, and promoting a sense of well-being, making it a good option for social settings.

  • Balanced Relaxation: While not as sedating as red strains, green kratom can offer mild relaxation, helping users feel at ease without feeling overly drowsy.

White Vein Kratom: Effects and Uses

White Vein Kratom is known for its stimulating and energizing properties, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural boost in alertness, motivation, and focus. White kratom may provide effects similar to caffeine or energy drinks without all the sugar and chemicals those may contain. White vein kratom leaves are harvested early in their growth cycle and processed immediately, preserving their stimulating qualities.

Effects and Benefits

  • Increased Energy & Stamina: White kratom is often used as a morning or midday pick-me-up, similar to coffee, without the jittery side effects.

  • Enhanced Focus & Cognitive Function: Many professionals, students, and individuals requiring sustained concentration turn to white kratom for its ability to sharpen mental clarity and improve productivity.

  • Mood Elevation & Euphoria: Some users report improved mood and a sense of well-being, making white kratom a natural way to combat fatigue and low motivation.

  • Alternative to Caffeine: White vein kratom provides a smooth energy boost without the crashes associated with coffee or energy shots, making it an appealing alternative.

 

Popular Kratom Strains and Their Effects

Now, let's explore some of the most popular kratom strains—ones you are likely to see for sale online or on the shelves at your local health food store or smoke shop.

Maeng Da Kratom: Benefits and Uses

Maeng Da Kratom is a kratom name given to kratom strains or blends with a high natural alkaloid potency and strong effects. Because of their strength, Maeng Da varieties are one of the most popular types of kratom, especially for experienced users. 

  • Red Maeng Da: Prized for intense calming and soothing effects. Often used for relaxation and well-being.

  • Green Maeng Da: Offers a balanced mix of energy and relaxation. Versatile option for focus and mild relief.

  • White Maeng Da: Most stimulating. Long-lasting boost in energy and motivation.

Bali Kratom: What It Does

Bali Kratom is a popular and widely available strain, offered in red, green, and white varieties.

  • Red Bali Kratom: Favored for relaxing and soothing properties. Versatile option for beginners seeking relief from discomfort and stress.

  • Green Bali Kratom: Beginner-friendly, balanced mix of relaxation and mild stimulation.

  • White Bali Kratom: Valued for its energizing and uplifting effects. Ideal for morning or daytime use. 

Malay Kratom: Green vs. Red vs. White

Malay Kratom, sourced from Malaysia, is valued for its long-lasting and balanced effects across different strains.

  • Green Malay: A well-rounded strain known for its smooth, moderate well-being benefits.

  • White Malay: Less common but highly regarded for its uplifting effects, providing a natural boost in well-being.

Effects of Different Types of Kratom

Now that we know the different color venations and popular strains can produce different effects, let's take a deeper look.

What Do the Different Types of Kratom Do?

When you go to buy kratom, keep in mind the different effects of kratom colors and regional distinctions. Then, select the type of kratom in that strain. This may include kratom powders, kratom capsules, or some other form of kratom.

Comparing Kratom Strains for Energy, Relaxation, and Relief

 Take a look at some of the effects and compare them between the strains.


Kratom Strain 

Energy Boost

Relaxation 

Pain Relief

White Vein Kratom 

Most Potent 

Mild

Mild

Green Vein Kratom 

Strong 

Strong 

Moderate

Red Vein Kratom 

Mild 

Most Potent 

Most Potent

Maeng Da Kratom 

Very Strong 

Moderate

Very Strong 

Bali Kratom 

Moderate

Very Strong 

Strong

Thai Kratom 

Very Strong 

Mild 

Moderate

Borneo Kratom 

Moderate

Very Strong 

Strong

Malay Kratom

Strong 

Strong 

Moderate


Note that each individual may respond differently to the various strains of kratom. What works best for you may be different than what works best for another kratom user!

What’s the Difference Between Different Types of Kratom?

What makes each kratom strain unique is its distinct alkaloid makeup. When exploring different types of kratom, remember that each kratom strain has an alkaloid profile that is particular to the strain:

  • Alkaloid content: This may include a variety of alkaloids like mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, speciogynine, paynantheine, etc. Learn more about kratom alkaloids.

  • Flavonoids & other non-active compounds: Flavonoids, triterpenoids, polyphenols, and other compounds give each kratom strain a unique flavor and aroma.

 

Choosing the Right Kratom Strain for Your Needs

Let's take a look at the selection process and how you can choose the best kratom for your needs.

How to Select the Best Kratom Strain

  • Identify Your Goals: Determine what you’re looking to achieve. Is it discomfort relief or relaxation? You may want to try red kratom. Need an energy boost? Go for whites. Not sure which? Green may be perfect for a balanced effect.

  • Start with Low Potency: If you’re new to kratom, opt for a mild strain or a lower dose before gradually increasing it to assess your body’s reaction.

  • Choose High-Quality Kratom: Buy from reputable vendors who offer lab-tested products to ensure purity and safety.

  • Experiment and Adjust: Sample packs can help you test different strains to find the best one for your needs.

Different Types of Kratom Chart 

There are many different types of kratom charts available these days to explore the comparative effects of the different strains. But there is another way to approach kratom use.

Focus in on the alkaloids that create the various kratom benefits and effects. Thanks to our ChromaPure technology, we can extract and concentrate the molecules that give kratom its beneficial effects. No mixing or fussing and no complicated web searches for "what is the best strain of kratom?"

Take a look at how our Kratom Kava Shots, Kratom Capsules, and 7-Hydroxymitragynine products compare in strength and use.

Real Botanicals Kratom Types Chart

Kratom Type

Kratom Shots

Kratom Capsules

Kratom Extracts

Product

Kratom + Kava Shots 

Super Kratom

7-Hydro Shots, 7-Hydro Tablets

Strengths Available

Regular & MAX

75mg, 150mg, & MAX 220mg 

10mg, 20mg, 30mg

Benefits

Easy to use, convenient, concentrated, includes the sociability support of kava

Super convenient, no bitterness, easy pre-measured kratom powders

Concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine boost

Uses

Relief + calm motivation, feel-good mood-enhancing effects

High-powered relief, mild energy, moderate to high calm & mood-enhancing capabilities

Bust through kratom plateaus, very powerful relief, calm, and long-lasting feel-good effects

Learn more about kava and kratom.

Kratom and 7 Hydroxymitragynine: What’s the Real Difference? 

Kratom contains two primary alkaloids: mitragynine (MIT) and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). Both interact with the brain’s opioid receptors. 

  • Mitragynine is the most abundant alkaloid in kratom and is responsible for its stimulant and mood-enhancing effects at lower doses. It may provide mild discomfort relief but is not as potent as 7-OH.

  • 7-Hydroxymitragynine is much stronger in its interaction with opioid receptors and is primarily responsible for kratom’s pain-relieving and sedative properties.

Final Thoughts on Kratom Strains

Choosing the best kratom strain depends on your individual needs and desired effects. Each strain color (red, white, green) offers unique effects. Tolerance, kratom dosage, and personal response also play a role in determining the most suitable strain for you.

Another option for kratom use is to take advantage of non-strain-specific kratom extracts, specifically those of 7-hydroxymitragynine for high-powered relief. Be sure to check out our 7-hydroxymitragynine tablets and 7-hydroxymitragynine shots

Remember that for any type of kratom you use, it's important to begin with smaller doses and adjust based on your needs. Always adhere to dosing suggestions and buy high-quality, Real Botanical products for the best experience!

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