Kratom is taking the world by storm. More people are flocking to this natural herbal supplement as a means of regaining some control over their lives. In today’s fast paced world, almost everyone is constantly under pressure due to the demands of work and life. In southeast Asia, kratom has been used by the local communities to boost their energy and help a wide variety of ailments such as pain and fever. With more beginners interested in kratom, this article delves into the differences between red, green, and white kratom.
Explaining Kratom Colors
Kratom can be broadly categorized into three main types: red vein kratom, green vein kratom, and white vein kratom. In these three categories, there are many different strains available. In the past few years, yellow vein kratom and gold vein kratom are also available. However, both are rarer and hard to come by.
Kratom products are made from dried and crushed leaves of the kratom tree also known as Mitragyna speciosa. While some believe that different types of kratom comes from different trees, that is not the case. The different kratom colors are due to the maturity of the leaves and the drying or fermentation process that ensues.
White vein kratom is made from the youngest leaves, green vein kratom from semi-mature leaves, and red vein kratom from fully mature leaves. The different maturity levels of the leaves result in varying alkaloid concentration levels which in turn, determines the effects it offers. Alkaloids are chemicals that are naturally present in plants such as coffee and kratom.
The harvesting, drying, and fermentation process can also play an important role in the final product. White vein kratom is generally dried in an air-conditioned room without any light while red vein kratom is dried under the sun. Genetics and plant care are also crucial factors in the outcome of the product.
Kratom trees thrive in a tropical environment where there is hot and humid weather and rich fertile soil. In southeast Asia, the local kratom farmers cultivate the kratom trees using traditional methods handed down by their ancestors. The combination of leaf maturity along with the location the kratom tree is nurtured in gives rise to the unique strains of kratom.
Kratom Effects
The various types of kratom can offer a different experience.
Red Vein Kratom
Although all red vein kratom have similar effects, each individual lineage is unique in its own way. The effects of red vein kratom include:
- Pain Relief
One of the main effects often sought after by kratom users is its ability to offer pain relief. Alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are known as opioid receptor agonists. They act on opioid receptors to produce opioid-like effects such as pain relief. This is why many individuals with chronic pain ranging from mild to severe turn to red vein kratom, so they do not have to rely on prescription pain medicine. Combined with the other effects of red vein kratom, it can help significantly improve the quality of life for many patients.
- Relaxation and Sleep Aid
Red vein kratom is well known for its ability to offer relaxation. As most of us join the rat race in today’s world, life can be very hectic and stressful. Although small amounts of stress can boost productivity, long-term stress can be detrimental to health. When one is constantly under pressure, it becomes hard to relax even on days off. Red vein kratom is beneficial as it can promote a sense of calmness and relaxation. This effect can benefit those with pain as well as it relaxes tense muscles and can reduce pain levels. At higher doses, red vein kratom can also help promote sleep and ensure better rest. This makes it ideal for users who have anxiety, stress, and insomnia.
- Mood Elevation
Euphoria is a well-known effect in red vein kratom. The alkaloids in red vein kraaom works on the dopamine receptors in the brain to keep users happy and optimistic. This benefit makes it a great choice for users experiencing depression, pain, or have a stressful lifestyle. By uplifting their moods, it keeps them motivated and want to experience life again.
Green Vein Kratom
The effects of green vein kratom include:
- Relaxation
Green vein kratom provides a relaxing and blissful sensation to soothe and calm the user. It is recommended for users who are looking for calm while maintaining their productivity level as green vein kratom does not have as much of a sedative impact as red vein kratom. It is also beneficial for users who are looking to loosen up during stressful or social events as it decreases inhibitions and puts the user at ease.
- Focus and Energy Boost
A popular caffeine alternative, green vein kratom is often the go-to for many users who have an active lifestyle. Its main advantage is that it does not cause the jittery feeling that is often felt with coffee. For this reason, it is often at the start of the day or pre-workout sessions as it offers a mild energy boost without causing users to feel antsy. Users have also reported improved concentration and focus levels that have helped to increase productivity levels. This helps them to complete complex tasks in a shorter timeframe.
- Pain Relief
Since green vein kratom offers a balance of red and white vein kratom, it also helps with pain relief albeit at a milder rate. It is recommended for users who experience mild to moderate pain. With green kratom, the analgesic effect has a less sedative impact compared to red vein kratom and allows users to be productive and have an active lifestyle.
- Mood Elevation
Like red vein kratom, green vein kratom also has the ability to elevate moods through its euphoric effects. However, this effect is milder compared to red vein kratom. Combined with its other effects, green vein kratom is the best strain for kratom beginners as it offers the best of both white and red vein kratom.
White Vein Kratom
The effects of white vein kratom include:
- Energy Boost
One of the main attributes of white vein kratom is its energy boosting capabilities. It is the best caffeine alternative and some kratom users even take their white vein kratom doses with coffee as it boosts energy and increases alertness. For this reason, white vein kratom is best taken during the start of the day as it can interfere with your sleep schedule. This is why in local communities in southeast Asia, kratom is often taken to help boost their energy during long and hard workdays.
- Focus and Concentration
Another great reason to take white vein kratom is its ability to enhance focus and concentration making it the perfect supplement for those facing important exams or when long complex tasks are underway. White vein kratom offers the focus required for arduous projects and can be a lifesaver when there is a need to meet the deadline. Combined with its energy boosting effect, it can greatly increase productivity levels.
- Mood Elevation
Although not one of the main attributes for white vein kratom, it can still help improve the user’s mood. Used at the start of the day, it makes the user feel more optimistic and motivated to get through their day. White vein kratom has less of a euphoric effect compared to red vein kratom. Instead, users report feeling supported and lifted, a great way to start the day.
- Relaxation
While white vein kratom may not offer as much relaxation as red vein kratom, it can still help users to feel more relaxed. Surprisingly, it works well with the energy boosting and improved focus effects. Users are often astounded at how much more they can get accomplished when they are relaxed instead of being tense. Taking a dose of white vein kratom helps users to feel more at ease. This effect can be especially beneficial in important events such as during an important meeting or work interview.
Different Kratom Strains
These are some examples of different kratom strains. This list is not exhaustive and only represents a small fraction of kratom available:
Red Vein Kratom
| Kratom Strain | Thought to Originate From | Effects |
| Red Sumatra | Sumatra, Indonesia | This is a potent strain that can help to promote better sleep and reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. |
| Red Thai | Thailand | One of the milder strains of red vein kratom, red Thai is popular among kratomites who seek pain relief and a sleep aid. |
| Red Bali | Bali, Indonesia | This versatile strain is best used for pain relief, relaxation, and opiate withdrawal. It is one of the best kratom strains for pain. |
| Red Horn | Borneo | Known for its potency, this kratom strain promotes mental well-being by soothing tired minds and bodies. |
Green Vein Kratom
| Kratom Strain | Thought to Originate From | Effects |
| Green Maeng Da | Thailand | One of the most potent kratom lineages available, green maeng da offers a boost of energy and helps to relieve pain effectively. |
| Green Malay | Malaysia | This kratom strain is known to help with relaxation and focus. It is recommended for users who have brain fog as it helps to bring mental clarity. |
| Green Indo | Indonesia | A kratom strain often used for relaxation, green Indo can help users who are highly stressed or have anxiety issues by bringing optimism. This strain also boosts energy and productivity levels. |
| Green Bali | Bali | Users have reported that green Bali helps to improve moods and brings optimism and motivation. It can help improve focus, concentration, and boost energy levels. |
White Vein Kratom
| Kratom Strain | Thought to Originate From | Effects |
| White Borneo | Borneo | A well-known stimulating strain, it offers mental clarity, pain relief, and at higher doses helps users to feel relaxed and calm. |
| White Thai | Thailand | White Thai improves moods and can be used for medicinal or recreational purposes as it elevates moods and helps users to feel motivated. |
| White Sumatra | Indonesia | White Sumatra is an effective strain at providing stimulation and energy. It is a great strain to add to morning routines. |
| White Bali | Bali, Indonesia | Milder than Thai kratom, white Bali offers a balanced experience of pain relief and an energy boost. It is known for its ability to increase attention spans, focus, and improves mood. |
Red vs Green vs White Kratom: How to Choose?
There is no right or wrong when it comes to choosing the type of kratom strains. It all depends on the user’s situation and personal preferences. Generally, users who are looking for pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria should first try red vein kratom. Meanwhile, those who are looking for a stimulating strain that provides an energy boost and better focus should go for white vein kratom. Beginners or those who are unsure of which kratom strain is best can start out with green vein kratom as it offers a more balanced experience. After choosing the type of kratom that is most suitable, users can delve in further by experimenting with the different kratom lineages in each category.
Dosages
The dosages for kratom differs depending on the different kratom strains, form of kratom product used, age, health status, metabolic rate, and more. There is no one set dosage available. The most important piece of advice when it comes to kratom dosage is to find the optimal dose. This requires experimentation on the user’s part and should be repeated for every new strain tried. For this reason, users are often recommended to keep a journal record that details the different types of kratom strain used, dosages tried, and effects achieved.
Generally, the recommended dosage for beginners ranges from 0.5 to 3 grams. Beginners should start with 1 to 2 grams. Those of smaller stature can even try a lower dose of 0.5 grams. After 60 to 90 minutes after kratom has reached its peak effects, users can take an additional dose only if the first dose is not sufficient. Users gradually increase their dose based on the effects they experience. Average users take about 3 to 5 grams of kratom and a heavy dose ranges from 6 to 8 grams.
Side Effects
A natural herbal supplement, the likelihood of side effects for kratom is minimal especially if used accordingly. These side effects are mostly seen in beginners and users who have taken larger than recommended doses. Some of the experiences include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Irritability
Best Ways to Take Kratom
The best ways to take kratom depend on the product type available. Kratom powder is the bread and butter of the kratom world and is accessible and affordable. For kratom powder, most kratom veterans prefer the toss-and-wash method where kratom powder is measured out, placed on the tongue, and washed down with any beverage. This method is cost effective and convenient as the effects are faster and last longer.
Some users who dislike the smell and taste of kratom may attempt to mask it by adding kratom powder to food and drinks. Kratom powder can also be added to smoothies and shots. It can also be made into kratom tea by adding hot water to kratom powder. Let the mixture steep for 5 to 10 minutes before straining it. The tea can be consumed plain or with added flavors such as honey, ginger, and lemon.
For beginners, kratom capsules may be the way to go as the doses are already measured. The capsules also hide the smell and taste of kratom well. It is also more convenient especially during travel.
Where to Buy Kratom
When it comes to buying kratom, it is crucial to buy from a reputable kratom vendor as this guarantees a better user experience and safety. Reputable kratom vendors are more trustworthy as they have supporting customer reviews. With their reputation at stake, they also test their kratom products regularly for purity and contaminants. Most of these brands also adhere to Fair Trade policies which helps to protect future generations of kratom farmers.
Nova Kratom
One of the best kratom vendors in the industry, Nova Kratom has been voted as the best on Reddit. They broke into the kratom industry and became popular in a remarkably short amount of time due to their high quality kratom with the lowest prices on the market. They also offer an additional 20% discount off all orders and free shipping for orders above $40. Backed by a 30-day money back guarantee, kratom lovers flocked to try the products offered which has led to hundreds of stellar customer reviews. Nova also has an excellent customer support team that addresses any customer issues and even go as far as helping prospective clients determine which kratom strain is best suited for them. Like most trusted kratom vendors, Nova regularly tests their kratom products for purity and contaminants.
Kraken Kratom
Kraken Kratom (KK) is a kratom vendor recognized by the American kratom Association for their Good Manufacturing practices. Established in 2014, this company made its mark by becoming one of the first kratom vendors to offer a reward system that enables users to redeem points for discounts. Sourcing their products from southeast Asia, they regularly test their products and offer a 30-day refund policy for unopened products. Although their prices are steeper compared to Nova, they have bulk pricing available.
Organic Kratom USA
Known for their commitment to organic kratom, Organic Kratom USA (OK) is a brand that provides clients with good quality kratom products and other botanicals at reasonable prices. They test their products regularly and offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Although their prices are steeper compared to Nova, they offer bulk pricing for orders above 10 kilos. They are known as users are able to create their own kratom blend.
Kratom FAQs
- Is Kratom Legal?
Yes, kratom is legal in most US states. It is also legal on the federal level. However, there are states where kratom is legal, but the local counties consider it to be illegal. This is due to the local ordinances. Examples include San Diego, California and Sarasota County, Florida. If in doubt, users can always reach out to customer support to help determine if kratom is legal in their area.
- Is Kratom Suitable For Vegans?
Yes, all kratom products are vegan friendly. The only thing to look out for are capsule that are made from gelatin as these are no longer vegan-friendly.
- Does Kratom Contain Caffeine?
No, kratom does not contain caffeine. However, it produces effects that are similar as the alkaloids in kratom have similar properties to caffeine. For this reason, kratom is often used as a caffeine alternative.
- Are All Kratom Products Tested Before They Are Sold?
Testing of kratom products is entirely dependent on the kratom vendor. Although most kratom vendors test their products before it is sold, this is not mandatory. Nova Kratom is one of the brands that tests all their products regularly.
- Can Users Mix Different Kratom Strains?
Mixing of different kratom strains are generally not recommended as it can lead to tolerance and have a negative impact on user experience. Instead of mixing kratom strains, it is better to switch between using different strains to decrease the likelihood of tolerance.
Conclusion: Red vs Green vs White Kratom
All the different types of kratom have its own pros and cons. Choosing a kratom strain ultimately depends on what the user wants to use kratom for. The general principle is that red vein kratom is best for pain relief, mood elevation, and relaxation while white kratom is recommended for those who are looking for a stimulating experience. White vein kratom is best used as an energy booster as it helps to increase productivity by improving focus and concentration. Green vein kratom is recommended for beginners or users who want it all as it offers a balance of effects offered by both red and white vein kratom.
