Kratom is a tree indigenous to Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand. The leaves of the tree give a pleasant feeling when chewed. They have been used traditionally over centuries for medicinal purposes like reducing pain and effects of opium. Recently they have gained popularity in the world market for providing a pleasant effect on the mind and body of the people and boosting up the mood. However, there are different varieties of Kratom available. Each is common and also different from the other in some aspects or the other.
The basis or the features according to which the strains of Kratom are differentiated are as follows: –
1. Color of the vein – The color of the main vein of the leaf or the vein that runs through the middle may be white, red or green. Each color has a different effect on being used and users have reported different kinds of feelings. White and green cause an increase in the energy levels of the person and leaves with red veins are said to cause sedation.
2. Grading – There are various methods of harvesting the leaves and their alkaloid content. It influences the strength of the leaves. Accordingly the leaves are graded from the weakest to the strongest. The weakest of all is the Commercial grade, followed by Premium grade, Super grade, Enhanced grade while the strongest or most potent among all is ultra-enhanced grade. The grading can be seen on the labels on the products.
3. Strain of leaf – The strain can be known from the names of the leaves. In case of names like Super Green Malay kratom or Premium Red Bali Kratom, the strain refers to the geographical area where the tree has grown. Each strain is different from the other in alkaloid content and so their effects are not the same. The only way to find the best according to your liking is try a few of them and choose the best among them.
The common strains of Kratom
A list of the most common strains of Kratom is Red Bali, Maeng Da, White Borneo, Red Thai, and Malaysian.
Maeng Da
This is one of the strongest strains available in the world. It is known for enhancing the mood and energy levels in people. Its origin is in Thailand and the name roughly translates to “Pimp’s Grade”. People use it for increasing their productivity and fitness.
Malaysian or Malay Kratom
Malay Kratom is usually blended with others to smoothen the effects. It is not very popular for relieving pain or anxiety but it is helpful as a stimulant and in known for improving the power of the brain. It also helps in reducing tension and providing comfort from stress.
Vietnam Kratom:
This particular strain is known for its potency due to 25% more alkaloid content. These alkaloids are 7-hydroxymitragynine, Mitraphyline and Mitragynine. The higher alkaloid content makes it a very popular strain. It enhances the mood, intensifies focus and energy levels.
Therefore, you can get a clear view of the suitable features that help you to understand the usability of the product.
