Different Types of Kratom Strains & Effects Comparison Chart

Different Types of Kratom Strains & Effects Comparison Chart

Posted by Staff on Apr 30th 2025

Discovering the different types of kratom strains can be overwhelming for newcomers. The variety of kratom colors and unique effects each strain offers creates a vast landscape to navigate.

Whether you're looking to enhance your workout recovery, boost your energy, or find natural relaxation after intense training, understanding the distinctions between red, white, green, and yellow varieties is essential for finding your perfect match.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the 17 most popular kratom strains, their unique properties, and how they might complement your active lifestyle, helping you make an informed choice for your wellness routine.

What are the different types of kratom?

Before we start our kratom for beginners guide, we're with you... understand the variety of strains available can be overwhelming at first.

Kratom is typically categorized by both color and region of origin, with each combination offering unique effects.

Before diving into specific strains, it's helpful to understand the basic color classifications that form the foundation of kratom varieties.

Different kratom colors

The kratom color is determined by the different veins of kratom leaves and their harvesting and processing methods.

Each color category produces distinct effects, making certain varieties better suited for different needs and times of day. Here's a breakdown of the primary kratom colors available:

  • Red vein: Known for relaxing, sedative, and pain-relieving effects.
  • Green vein: Balanced effects, providing both mild stimulation and pain relief.
  • White vein: Typically more energizing and mood-boosting.
  • Yellow/gold vein: Less common, often a result of special drying or fermentation processes.

Different kratom strains by their origins

The region where kratom is grown significantly influences its alkaloid profile and resulting effects. Each origin produces unique characteristics that experienced users learn to recognize and appreciate:

  • Bali: Commonly associated with relaxation and pain relief, especially Red Bali.
  • Maeng Da (originating from Thailand): Recognized for high potency, often used for energy and pain relief.
  • Borneo: Typically has sedative properties, often used for stress and relaxation.
  • Sumatra: Known for balanced effects that may support mood and relaxation.
  • Malay (Malaysia): Reported to offer mood enhancement and longer-lasting effects.
  • Vietnam: Less widely available; known for balanced effects and a gentle energy boost.

Other kratom varieties

Beyond the standard color and regional classifications, there are specialty forms of kratom that offer unique properties due to distinctive leaf characteristics or special processing methods:

  • Horned Kratom: Named for its distinctive horn-shaped leaves; typically potent with varying effects depending on the vein type.
  • Bentuangie: A fermented red vein strain, commonly associated with strong relaxation.

Comparison of different types of kratom chart

To help you visualize the difference between kratom strains, this comparison chart provides a quick reference guide to the various effects associated with each color and region combination. This difference between kratom strains comparison chart will help you identify which variety might best suit your specific needs:

Region Color Effects
Bali Red Deep relaxation, powerful pain relief, sedative
Yellow Moderate relaxation with mild mood elevation
White Energizing with moderate mood boost
Green Balanced effects with moderate pain relief
Borneo Red Strong sedative effects, stress relief
Yellow Mild relaxation with enhanced focus
White Clean energy without jitters, focus
Green Moderate energy with anxiety relief
Maeng Da (Thailand) Red Powerful pain relief with less sedation
Yellow Balanced energy with mood enhancement
White Strong stimulation, focus, euphoria
Green Potent energy with moderate pain relief
Malay (Malaysia) Red Moderate relaxation with mood boost
Yellow Long-lasting mood enhancement

Kratom types and their effects: A deeper look

Now that we've covered the basics, let's explore the different strains of kratom explained in greater detail. Each variety offers unique benefits for fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers. Understanding the types of kratom and effects associated with them will help you select the ideal strain for your specific needs, whether that's pre-workout energy, post-workout recovery, or sleep support.If you're curious about how kratom compares to other botanicals, check out our comparison of kava vs kratom.

Red Bali Kratom

Red Bali is one of the most popular and widely available kratom strains, known for its potent relaxing properties. This strain is harvested from mature leaves with red veins grown in the Bali region of Indonesia. The distinctive red coloration comes from a specific drying process that typically involves longer indoor drying followed by direct or indirect sunlight exposure.

The effects of Red Bali typically include deep relaxation, significant pain relief, and a sense of calm well-being, making it ideal for post-workout recovery or evening use. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts appreciate this strain for its ability to ease muscle soreness without the side effects of conventional pain medications. The alkaloid profile of Red Bali is rich in 7-hydroxymitragynine, which contributes to its strong analgesic properties.

White Maeng Da Kratom

White Maeng Da is a premium strain originally from Thailand, though now widely cultivated throughout Southeast Asia. "Maeng Da" translates roughly to "pimp grade" in Thai, indicating its high quality and potency. This strain is produced by carefully selecting leaves with optimal alkaloid content and utilizing a specialized drying process that preserves its energizing properties.

The effects of White Maeng Da are predominantly stimulating, providing clean energy, enhanced focus, and mood elevation. Fitness enthusiasts often choose this strain as a pre-workout supplement to boost performance and endurance. The energizing effects typically last 4-6 hours without the crash associated with caffeine or pre-workout supplements. Many athletes explore the potential of kratom performance-enhancing benefits when incorporating strains like White Maeng Da into their training regimen.

Green Malay Kratom

Green Malay originates from Malaysia and is prized for its well-balanced effects and exceptional duration. This strain is harvested when the leaves reach optimal maturity, with farmers carefully selecting leaves displaying prominent green veins. The production involves a specialized drying process that typically begins in the shade and finishes with minimal sunlight exposure, preserving its unique alkaloid profile.

The effects of Green Malay include moderate energy enhancement, sustained focus, and mild pain relief without excessive sedation. Many fitness enthusiasts favor this strain for its long-lasting effects (often 5-7 hours) that provide consistent energy throughout extended training sessions. Green Malay's balanced properties make it versatile for both morning and afternoon use, supporting productivity and exercise performance while also aiding recovery.

Red Borneo Kratom

Red Borneo comes from the lush rainforests of Borneo island and is renowned for its potent relaxation and pain-relieving properties. The production process involves harvesting mature leaves with prominent red veins, followed by an extended indoor drying process that enhances its sedative alkaloid profile. Some producers employ fermentation techniques that further amplify their relaxing effects.

The effects of Red Borneo typically include deep relaxation, significant relief from discomfort, and promotion of restful sleep. This strain is particularly valued among fitness enthusiasts for post-workout recovery and nighttime use to support muscle repair during sleep. Its robust, relaxing properties make it less suitable for pre-workout use but ideal for rest days or evening recovery sessions when the body needs deep relaxation after intense training.

Final points on the different kinds of kratom

Understanding the various kratom strains is essential for finding the perfect match for your fitness and wellness goals. Remember that effects can vary based on individual body chemistry, serving size, and quality of the product. For beginners, starting with green strains often provides a balanced introduction, while more experienced users may prefer to alternate between white strains for pre-workout energy and red strains for recovery.

Quality matters tremendously when selecting kratom products. Look for vendors who provide lab testing results and source their kratom from reputable farms with sustainable harvesting practices. At White Rabbit, we're committed to bringing you premium kratom drinks that harness the power of these remarkable strains in a convenient, great-tasting form that complements your active lifestyle.

Ready to experience the benefits of premium kratom for yourself? Check out White Rabbit's lineup of kratom energy drinks, carefully formulated to help you achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Whether you're looking for an energy boost before hitting the gym or a relaxing recovery aid, we've got the perfect blend for you. Visit our product page now to discover which White Rabbit kratom seltzer is right for your active lifestyle!