What is the difference between kratom strains?

So many varieties of kratom, so little time! At first glance, it might seem a little overwhelming, so where do you start when it comes to finding that perfect strain for you? Well, help is at hand as we explore the differences between kratom varieties so you can get paired with a strain that offers everything you want it to.

Smartshop

Visit the Zamnesia Smartshop for everything from natural psychedelics like salvia, to herbs, energisers, and aphrodisiacs.

View category

What is kratom?

Otherwise known as Mitragyna speciosa, kratom belongs to the same family as coffee—Rubiaceae—and much like coffee, kratom has the potential to offer stimulating effects (more on this below).

Native to Southeast Asia, all subspecies of kratom appear as fairly unremarkable-looking evergreen trees. However, it's in the leaves where the magic of this plant lies. These leaves are consumed in a variety of ways—chewed, brewed into tea, dried, or even smoked—to experience the plant’s unique effects.

Jetpackkratom Ceylon Tea

(6)

(6)

Jetpackkratom Ceylon Tea

View

What are the effects of kratom?

The effects of kratom are greatly influenced by the dose taken. As a rule of thumb, lower doses of around 2–6 grams of dried powder often have a stimulating effect similar to that of coffee and can boost both physical and mental energy. However, at higher doses of about 6–12 grams, kratom exhibits more soothing and relaxing sensations that can result in sleep-inducing effects.

The effects of kratom are diverse, and the potency of the strain, a person's tolerance, and method of consumption can all play a pivotal role in the overall experience.

What is the difference between kratom strains?

As mentioned, all kratom is native to Southeast Asia; however, depending on the specific region in which it grows, each kratom variety can exhibit slight differences from one another. Without further ado, below are the most common strains of kratom you can get your hands on.

Bali kratom

Although named after the famed province in Indonesia, Bali kratom actually originates from Borneo and only goes through the ports of Bali for shipping purposes. Available in green, gold, red, and white vein variants, Bali kratom can often be purchased in capsule, extract, and powdered forms, making it accessible and versatile. Bali kratom is typically known for providing sensations of tranquillity as well as energetic and uplifting moments. Users report taking one dose of around 3–5 grams to feel these effects for up to 5 hours. Bali kratom makes for an excellent choice for beginners as well as those well-versed in all things kratom.

Kratom Bali 15x Extract

(48)

(48)

Kratom Bali 15x Extract

View

Maeng da kratom

Maeng da kratom is thought in many circles to be the purest form available. However, this is disputed as, technically, maeng da is a hybrid of different varieties. The word “maeng da” actually means "pimp", so it's referred to as “pimp grade” kratom as a slang term. The leaves of the maeng da kratom tree are dried longer than less-potent strains. It's thought that the extra time taken gives the leaves greater potency with increased levels of alkaloids. Available in green, white, and red variations and in capsule, powder, and extract forms, effects range from stimulating in lower doses to soothing and relaxing in higher doses.

Borneo kratom

Arguably the most popular strain, the Borneo variety comes from its namesake island, where it's known to be grown in abundance thanks to the perfect mix of humidity, weather, and rich soil. Available in red, white, and green variations, each signifying the plant's different maturity points, there's plenty to love about this strain. In fact, for an extended period, the indigenous people of Borneo would utilise this variety as a means of fighting drowsiness. More recently, the kratom industry has provided economic opportunities for the local communities of Borneo, thanks to the high demand for this particular strain. Similar to the other strains mentioned, smaller doses of Borneo kratom are energising, while larger amounts soothe and relax.

Sumatra kratom

Hailing from the sixth-largest island in the world, Sumatra kratom is a highly popular variety. The warm and humid conditions of the island allow this plant to thrive with ease. Available in three main strains—red, green, and white—Sumatra kratom showcases a wide variety of effects that can be experienced through many different consumption methods. Similar to the aforementioned Borneo strain, this variety has long been enjoyed by the locals of Sumatra, recreationally and holistically, and still has a place in the wider kratom community to this day. Users can anticipate energetic and relaxing moments.

Thai kratom

Another highly revered variety, Thai kratom is known to offer superb quality, effects, and potency. Native to Thailand, although it's also grown throughout Indonesia, Thai kratom is celebrated for its unique alkaloid profile that's thought to be directly influenced by the soil and climate of Thailand. Offering several colours, such as white, green, red, and yellow, there's a form of Thai kratom for all to enjoy. Like other varieties, Thai kratom's effects start off as stimulating but become more soothing as the dose increases.

Kratom 10x Thai Resin

(58)

(58)

Kratom 10x Thai Resin

View

Malay kratom

Common in both Malaysia and Borneo, the Malay variety of kratom has been used in these areas for hundreds of years in traditional practices, but is also firmly on the radar of kratom users in the modern world, too. This is a vibrant and colourful strain that is teeming with active alkaloids. While the taste can be bitter for some, there are plenty of consumption methods available, such as capsules, powders, and extracts, so users can forego the acquired flavour if they prefer. The effects of Malay kratom are known to be pretty balanced, leaning on both uplifting and soothing sensations.

Vietnam kratom

As a particularly powerful strain, Vietnam kratom hails from its namesake Southeast Asian country and typically grows in the An Giang province and the Mekong River. The mineral content of the soil in these areas gives Vietnam kratom a unique alkaloid profile that helps it to stand out from other varieties. With red, green, and white varieties readily available, kratom users get their pick of desired effects, depending on the dose. Although Vietnam kratom leaf is typically chewed or brewed into a tea, it can also be taken in powdered extract and capsule forms.

Bentuangie kratom

Grown almost exclusively in the damp jungles of Indonesia, Bentuangie kratom is a variety that's rich in alkaloids, providing a much more intense experience than many other kratom strains. However, like the other varieties mentioned, Bentuangie kratom is available with red, green, or white veins and showcases a wide range of effects. Bentuangie kratom is thought to be most suited to more experienced users, as complete beginners may find the stimulating and energetic effects to be too intense and overwhelming. Available in a wide variety of consumption methods, Bentuangie kratom is versatile and easy to use.

Choosing the right kratom strain for you

As you can see, there are numerous strains of kratom out there to consider. Arguably, the main factor is deciding on the correct dose, as this will greatly influence the effects. Also, if you're looking to forego any bitter flavours, taking kratom capsules might be the best option.

Simply put, kratom is versatile and accessible no matter your level of experience, and here at Zamnesia we want to make the choice as easy as possible for you. Now that you're familiar with the different strains on offer, head over to the Zamnesia store and get your pick of the finest kratom varieties around!

Adam Parsons

Professional cannabis journalist, copywriter, and author Adam Parsons is a long-time staff member of Zamnesia. Tasked with covering a wide range of topics from CBD to psychedelics and everything in between, Adam creates blog posts, guides, and explores an ever-growing range of products.

Read full bio