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Mitragyna speciosa, better known as kratom, is a versatile plant. Depending on the strain and vein colors, it can deliver pain relief, a mood boost, or sedative effects. But one of the most popular uses is kratom for anxiety. But what is the most relaxing kratom?
In today’s article, we’re going to be going over the most common strains of kratom, so you can determine which vein colors meet your needs. Read on for this quick guide to the world’s best quality kratom and their effects!
Why Are Some Kratom Strains More Relaxing Than Others? One Word: Alkaloids
Like all botanicals, kratom is made up of a complex combination of natural chemical compounds. Of these compounds, some of the most important (and potent!) are known as alkaloids.
The various strains of kratom are actually all the same plant species. What distinguishes them from each other is their unique combination of kratom alkaloids. The unique alkaloid blend found in each of the red, white, and green vein colors determines both the strain’s effects and its color!
The two alkaloids believed to be most responsible for kratom’s effects are known as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
- Mitragynine: Mitragynine is the more versatile of the two primary kratom alkaloids, and the “dosage-dependent” rule (see below) applies more heavily. This compound is highest in young plants, so white vein kratom strains contain the most mitragynine, followed by green vein, then red vein.
- 7-hydroxymitragynine: 7-hydroxymitragynine is also dosage-dependent, but it tends to have more potent analgesic and sedative effects, making high 7-HO strains an ideal kratom for anxiety and relaxation. This compound is highest in mature plants, so red vein kratoms contain the most 7-hydroxymitragynine, followed by green vein, then white vein.
As the kratom plant grows and matures, its mitragynine levels gradually decrease while its 7-hydroxymitragynine levels gradually increase.
But Which is the Most Relaxing Kratom Alkaloid?
Both mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine have the potential to relax users. They can both elicit sedative effects to varying degrees. However, there are some significant differences between kratom strains and their unique alkaloid profiles.
It’s important to keep in mind that kratom’s effects are dose-dependent. According to The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association,
“Low to moderate doses (1-5 g) of the leaves reportedly produce mild stimulant effects that [. . .] stave off fatigue. Moderate to high doses (5-15 g) are reported to have opioid-like effects.”
Regardless of which vein colors you choose to use, this rule will hold true for most users. However, the unique alkaloid profile of each strain allows some to stand out as the most relaxing kratom strains.
Red Vein Kratom: the Most Relaxing Kratom
Red vein kratom is made from the most mature plants, harvested at the last stage of the kratom tree’s life-cycle. Red vein strains are very high in 7-hydroxymitragynine, which makes red vein strains the most relaxing kratom.
However, not all red vein strains are created equal. If you’re looking for the truly most relaxing kratom strain, consider the following:
White Vein Kratom: the Most Uplifting and Energizing Kratom
White vein kratom is harvested from young plants whose 7-hydroxymitragynine levels are very low. Users looking for the most relaxing kratom should look elsewhere, but white vein strains certainly have their uses — and many devoted fans.
White vein strains are more uplifting and energizing, and they are generally considered the most uplifting strains of kratom. Like kratom’s cousin, coffee, green vein strains are great for an energy boost or to help you focus. But if you’re looking for something to relax or a strain of kratom for anxiety, you’d be better served by red vein or green vein strains and stay away from this energizing kratom strain.
Green Vein Kratom: the Middle of the Road
Green vein kratom is harvested in the middle of the kratom tree’s life-cycle, and it boasts a balance of kratom’s two main alkaloids.
The kratom community values green vein kratom strains for their “middle of the road” effects, balancing the energizing properties of white and the relaxing properties of red vein strains.
If you’re looking for the most relaxing kratom experience while also maintaining clear-headed energy, green vein strains may be the perfect option.
The Bottom Line on the Most Relaxing Kratom Strains
Ultimately, red vein kratom will have the most potent relaxing and anti-anxiety effects, but it can make some users feel sedated and lethargic.
If you’re looking for the most relaxing kratom strain that will still keep you feeling energized and focused, green vein strains may be the perfect option for you.
However, remember that all strains of kratom are dosage-dependent. Depending on the size of your kratom dose, you should expect to feel different effects.
Whenever you begin using a new strain of kratom, it’s always best to start small. This is particularly true of strains with higher-than-average alkaloid content, such as Maeng Da kratom.
Don’t be afraid to branch out! With a bit of experimentation, you’re sure to find the most relaxing kratom strain that fits best into your unique lifestyle!