What is Kratom?

Kratom (pronounced KRAY-tem) comes from Mitragyna speciosa, a tree commonly found in Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. M. speciosa leaves can be chewed whole, made into a liquid extract or turned into powder, capsules or tablets. Many users brew tea with kratom, and there's even kratom gum. Among other names, kratom may also be sold as biak, kakuam, ketum, thang (ithang) and thom.

The main active ingredients in kratom are a pair of compounds called mitragynine and 7-?-hydroxymitragynine, which influence the same parts of the brain as opioids. Once ingested, kratom typically takes a few minutes to kick in, and may continue working for up to five hours.

In small amounts, kratom stimulates the central nervous system and can increase energy levels. For this reason, kratom is sometimes used recreationally - for pleasure or outward experiences - and is known to make the rounds at music festivals.

Owing to its effects, people use it to treat health problems such as muscle pain, panic attacks, diarrhea, menstrual cramps and PTSD. Kratom is also said to reduce cravings and is advertised as an appetite suppressant. Many have reported taking it to wean themselves off of opioids or alcohol, as well.

While there’s no way to offer a list of every possible strain of Kratom and their differences, these are some of the most popular varieties.

• Red Vein – Often harvested from the tallest leaves on the tree that gets the most sunlight in densely packed jungles, Red Vein Kratom varieties lean towards a stronger, more robust aroma. 
  • Red Bali – The classic starting point for newer Kratom users. This popular strain comes from Bali and Indonesia.
  • Red Thai – Similar to the Red Bali strain, this strain comes from Thailand.
  • Red Indo – This strain is from Indonesia and is known for its invigorating aroma.
  • Red Maeng Da – Maeng Da is one of the most powerful varieties available, with a very stimulating aroma.
  • Red Malay – Noted for its more relaxing aroma, this strain is from Malaysia.

• Green Vein – These leaves from low on the trees are favored for their more relaxing aromas. 
  • Green Bali – Grown and harvested on the island of Bali; this strain is known for its relaxing aroma.
  • Green Thai – From Thailand, this strain offers a milder aroma.
  • Green Indo – This strain is from Indonesia and offers a more soothing aroma.
  • Green Maeng Da – Maeng Da strains are popular, and the Green variety is no exception. This strain is known to have more of an energizing aroma but is not overly strong.
  • Green Malay – This strain is from Malaysia and has a more stimulating aroma.

• White Vein – These leaves are from the middle of the tree. 
  • White Bali – From the island of Bali, the White Bali strain offers a milder aroma.
  • White Thai – This strain is from Thailand and is similar to the White Bali strain.
  • White Indo – From Western Indonesia, this strain offers a more stimulating aroma than White Bali and White Thai.
  • White Maeng Da – From the jungles of Indonesia, this strain offers a very stimulating aroma.
  • White Malay – Another strain that offers a more relaxing, soothing aroma. This strain is harvested from Malaysia. 

DISCLAIMER: These products have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your physician. Testimonials and product reviews reflect individual people’s unique experiences and opinions and should not be viewed as professional advice. Individual results may vary.