The Key Difference Between Kratom Strains

Regardless of the name, all kratom comes from one source: the Mitragyna speciosa tree. 

A member of the coffee family, the Mitragyna speciosa is a tropical evergreen tree that’s native to Southeast Asia. In places like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, native people discovered that ingesting the leaves of this tree induced pleasant feelings, enhanced stamina, and helped stave off exhaustion. Over time, locals also found that the kratom leaves offered more specific effects based upon the color of the stems and veins.

Think of kratom like tea. White tea, green tea, and black tea originate from the Camellia sinensis plant. As the tea leaves age, they gain more chlorophyll and other biocompounds that influence their flavor and strength. Kratom leaves mature in a similar fashion. As they age, the veiny part of the leaves change color.

But kratom strains are also named for their place of origin. In this respect, kratom is similar to wine. The soil, humidity, and other growing conditions of different locations can affect the quality and potency of kratom. For example, Bali Red Vein is a red variety sourced from the island of Bali, which is known to be smoother and more soothing than other strains.

Because kratom comes from Southeast Asia, you’ll see that most origin-specific varieties are from Bali, Indonesia (Indo Kratom), Malaysia (Malay Kratom), or other countries in this region.

The “Big Three” Kratom Strains

Red, white, and green kratom are the most common varieties. Sometimes, you’ll also see these strains written out as “red vein”, “white vein”, and “green vein” kratom. However, “red kratom” and “red vein kratom” are the same product.

Speaking of red vein kratom, did you know that this strain is one of the most popular varieties on the market? Red vein kratom is made from the most mature Mitragyna speciosa leaves. As they age, the veins and stems change from pale green to a reddish-brown color. This color shift also indicates subtle yet distinct changes in kratom’s chemical composition.

Red kratom strains are known for their grounding effects. If you’re looking to unwind at the end of a long day or turn the volume down on noisy thoughts, you’ll love red kratom. 

But what about white vein and green vein kratom? Well, white vein kratom lies at the opposite end of the spectrum. In general, white vein kratom products offer a much more uplifting experience. They are known for inspiring motivation and get-up-and-go vibes. Green vein kratom falls somewhere between red and white vein kratom strains. It acts as a middle-ground between these two strains.

However, it’s important to note that different kratom strains may affect users differently. Your experience can be influenced by many factors, such as:

• Body weight
• Kratom tolerance
• Whether you’re hydrated
• Whether you’ve eaten

In other words, it’s possible for one kratom user to have a completely different experience than the next, even if both take the same strain.

Red Vein vs. White Vein Kratom

What’s the difference between red vein vs. white vein kratom? Their basic effects lie at the opposite ends of the spectrum. Red vein kratom is known for its chill vibes and grounding effects. It’s frequently enjoyed in the evening. But white vein kratom helps enhance focus and motivation. Most users prefer white vein kratom in the daytime.

Red Vein vs. Green Vein Kratom

When discussing red vein vs. green vein kratom, the differences are much less pronounced than red vein vs. white vein kratom. However, green vein kratom is generally preferred by daily kratom users. Why? The “hybrid” effects of green vein kratom allow users to remain active throughout the day while also experiencing some of red vein kratom’s characteristic serenity. In essence, green vein strains offer a balance between red and white.

White Vein vs. Green Vein Kratom

So how do white vein and green vein compare? As we said when discussing red vein vs. green vein kratom, green kratom is considered a balanced “middle” strain. The differences between green kratom and white kratom aren’t as pronounced as the differences between red and white or red and green. However, most users will notice that green vein strains feel more mellow or smooth than white vein kratom.

Regional Kratom Strains

Now that we’ve covered the differences between the “Big Three,” what are the unique benefits and effects of regional strains? First, let’s introduce the most popular regional varieties:

• Bali Kratom
• Indo Kratom
• Maeng Da Kratom

It’s important to note that regional variations of kratom do, in fact, affect the kratom experience you’ll come to enjoy. However, regional differences have less of an impact than vein color. Always check product descriptions when purchasing regional kratom varieties to ensure that you’re getting the different kratom strains that work best for your wellness regimen.

Other Forms of Kratom

Kratom Extracts

Extracts are significantly more potent than traditional kratom powder or capsules, as they’re highly concentrated. Extracts are made by boiling down significant amounts of plant material, leaving only a resin that contains significant amounts of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (the alkaloids that create kratom’s effects).

Because extracts are so powerful, it’s important that you adjust your dose accordingly. Always take a much smaller dose of extracts than you would powder or capsules. You can also blend extracts with traditional kratom for stronger effects. At Kratom Spot, we offer pre-made enhanced powders that include extract for your convenience.

Gold/Yellow/Bentuangie

From time to time, you may see types of kratom classified as gold, yellow, or Bentuangie. This doesn’t refer to the actual vein color, but the curing process.

• Gold Kratom is red vein kratom that has been dried in the sun. The effects are usually between red and green. 
• Yellow Kratom is also sun-dried, but it’s usually made from white or green kratom, producing effects between a green and white.
• Bentuangie Kratom can be made from any vein color. It refers to a process of fermentation that produces unique effects. Bentuangie varieties are generally best reserved for more experienced enthusiasts, as the effects can vary widely.

Stem and Vein

As the name implies, stem and vein kratom is the plant matter that is left over after harvesting the kratom tree’s leaves. Stem and vein contain the same alkaloids as the leaves, albeit in smaller quantities. Stem and vein can be used to potentiate standard types of kratom, brewed into a tea, or used to reduce tolerance in-between doses.

Finding the Perfect Kratom Strains for You

Just to recap what we’ve learned:

• Red vein kratom is known for a grounding feeling
• White vein kratom is known for increased stamina and focus
• Green vein kratom offers hybrid effects that balance red and white vein kratom

It’s important to understand the differences between different kratom strains in order to get the most from your health and wellness regimen. If you’re not sure what’s best for your routine, fear not! At Kratom Spot, we offer a variety of kratom sample packs that let you try different vein colors. Let us help you find the best strains of kratom for you. Shop now.