Why are there so kratom many types, varieties, and strains? Are all of them the same? Which type should I use? What does the color mean? If you are new to kratom you’ve probably asked yourself some or all of these questions. In fact, one of the most common problems that new kratom users find is the lack of information that kratom vendors provide. But this lack of information has a reason. Due to the current kratom legal status, vendors are not able to provide detailed information on how to use their products, or what to use them for. So, sometimes choosing the right kratom type might seem hard, and overwhelming.
In this article, we are going to tell you all you need to know about the three main kratom types. So, keep reading below to find the kratom strains explained.
What is Kratom?
If you are a kratom connoisseur you probably know that is scientific name is Mitragyna speciosa, and that it belongs to the coffee family. For this reason, kratom and coffee share some common properties, such as stimulation and energy.
Kratom grows naturally in many places of South East Asia, and most of the kratom that we can find in the US market comes from Indonesia. The leaves of the plant have been traditionally used in those areas for a variety of reasons, i.e.: to increase energy, achieve anxiety and relaxation and to treat mild cough.
In the Western countries, kratom is praised for its analgesic, anxiolytic and energizing properties. Additionally, it is favored by those looking for natural ways to fight opiate withdrawal symptoms.
But, are is all kratom the same? The answer is yes and no. Although there are only one kratom tree species, the harvesting, drying, and processing will result in three main kratom colors: white, red and green. Each of these has a different and unique set of effects. Let’s see below these kratom strains explained.
Kratom Strains Explained: Red Vein Kratom
Red vein kratom is one of the most popular varieties in the market. It is the most relaxing of all three varieties, and it’s the strain of choice for those who seek pain relief and anxiety relief.
Some of the most popular red kratom varieties include Red Thai, Borneo Red, Red Malay, and Red Bali, although there are many more.
Red Vein Kratom Properties and Effects
Like any other kratom type, the effects of kratom will largely depend on the dosage. But, in general, red vein kratom is used for the following purposes:
- Analgesic and pain relieving
- Muscle relaxation
- Antianxiety and relaxation
- Sedative (this is the variety used to ease insomnia)
- Opiate withdrawal
How to Use Red Vein Kratom
As we said, the dosage plays an important role in the effects of any kratom type. Typically, to feel its analgesic and pain-relieving effects, you’ll need moderate doses. And to feel its sedative effects and to achieve better sleep, a high dosage will be needed.
As a general rule of thumb, moderate dosages are 4-5 grams, and high doses are 6-8 grams. However, it is strongly recommended to always start on a lower dose and increase it until you feel the sought effects.
Kratom Strains Explained: White Vein Kratom
Contrary to the red vein, white vein kratom is the most energizing and stimulating variety. For this reason, it should be avoided by those seeking relaxation and anxiety relief.
Some of the most popular white vein kratom varieties include White Vein Sumatra, Borneo White, and White Vein Maeng Da.
White Vein Kratom Properties and Effects
White vein is the most popular variety among people looking to get more energy for the day. In fact, it is the strain that most people use to get a boost of stamina in the morning. The main properties of white vein kratom are:
- Stimulating
- Energizing
- Mood elevation
- Focus and motivation
But, remember that the dosage will have a great impact on the effects. So, let’s see below how to use white vein kratom.
How to Use White Vein Kratom
Since white vein kratom is mainly used for its energizing, stimulating and euphoric effects, the doses should be kept low. Although the dosage will also depend on the variety, a general rule for a low dose would be about 2-3 grams.
However, like the red vein, you should always start on the lower dosage possible (even less than 2 grams) to avoid developing tolerance. So, if a 1-gram dose works for you, go for it.
Kratom Strains Explained: Green Vein Kratom
Finally, green kratom is a middle ground between the other two varieties and is usually mixed with one of the others to achieve a more balanced and well-rounded effect.
The most popular green vein types include Green Maeng Da, Green Malay, and Green Thai.
Green Vein Kratom Properties and Effects
Although green vein kratom is not as popular as its red and white varieties, many users favor it for its more balanced effects. Some of the most important properties of the green vein strains are:
- Pain relief
- Energizing
- Helps ease social anxiety
- Mental stimulation
One of the advantages of green vein kratom is that it doesn’t cause the drowsiness of its red cousins.
How to Use Green Vein Kratom
Like any other type, green vein kratom effects will depend on the dosage. Whilst lower doses will give you more stimulating and energizing effects, higher doses are more relaxing. On the other hand, moderate doses will be used to achieve mild analgesic effects.
But remember, whatever effect you are looking for, always start at the lowest possible level. You can then increase it until you find your desired effects.
