There are three main types of kratom: white vein kratom, green vein kratom, and red vein kratom, with many different strains within those categories. Recently, gold vein and yellow vein kratom have appeared on the market, but they tend to be less abundant than the three major types of kratom.
You may be wondering, what do the different colors of kratom mean? We’ll go over that in this article.
Kratom Colors Explained
The difference between kratom strains’ colors and effects has to do with the age of the plant. Sometimes, the way kratom leaves are dried and/or processed impacts the color or strain, but the major distinction lies in the age of the leaves when harvested. White vein kratom is the young plant, green vein kratom is the plant as it’s maturing, and red vein kratom is the fully mature plant. As a kratom plant matures, different levels of alkaloids build within the leaves. The different alkaloids determine what effect the kratom will have and also give the veins their unique properties.
As we said, how kratom leaves are harvested and dried can also impact how the final product turns out. More or less exposure to light is just one of the things that can impact the final color and alkaloid content of kratom leaves, thereby changing their effect.
As with all farmed plants, genetics play a very important role in the outcome of crops. Kratom plants can be bred to display the traits of one vein throughout their entire life cycle. For example, you can breed kratom to act like a red vein even as a young plant.
Effects of the Different Strains of Kratom
Now that you know how kratom strains get their color, let’s look at what different colors of kratom mean.
Red vs. Green vs. White Kratom
White vein kratom tends to be energizing, uplifting, and focusing while green vein kratom is euphoric, bringing positivity and chattiness. On the other hand, red vein kratom tends to be mildly sedating, relaxing, and pleasant.
Within each kratom vein, there are many different strains available.
Here are some examples of white kratom strains:
- White Sumatra
- White Thai
- White Borneo
- and White Maeng Da
As you can see, the difference between kratom types relates to where the plant is from. White Sumatra would be a white vein grown in Sumatra, whereas White Thai would be a white vein grown in Thailand. This is true for many strains of white, green, and red vein kratom.
What is Maeng Da?
Maeng Da is one of the most popular types of kratom, and you can find Red Maeng Da, Green Maeng Da, or White Maeng Da. This type of kratom was originally from Thailand, but nowadays you can find it from a variety of places.
Essentially, ‘Maeng Da’ is a term that refers to quality. In Thai, the term translates literally to ‘pimp grade’, denoting high quality. As kratom has spread outside of Southeast Asia, the term is still used to refer to kratom types with a high alkaloid content.
So, to recap, the major differences between kratom veins are-
White Veins- Energy, focus, determination
Green Veins- Happiness, joy, euphoria
Red Veins- Relaxation, contentment, relief
And Yellow Veins tend to sit in between the effects of White Veins and Green Veins, bringing mild energy and euphoria boosts with neither effect being overwhelming.
What to Look for When Buying Kratom
Each singular strain tends to have its own distinct attributes, but these can vary slightly between harvests and growers. Regardless of which kratom types you’re looking at, check to see if the company you’re purchasing from has descriptions of each of their strains. That being said, you won’t know for sure how a strain of kratom will make you feel until you try it out for yourself.
At GRH Kratom, we provide written descriptions for each of the different strains of kratom we sell. We also guide our consumers as to the difference between kratom strains. Also, we have been as accurate as possible when describing the effects we’ve experienced from each strain such as white, green, and red kratom strains. We hope our experiences hold true for you.
We hope this kratom comparison helped you to have a better understanding of the various kratom types
87 Comments
Im looking for a kratom for pain relief and sleep. What do you recommend?
If u can find one please let me know. I have been in pain and could not sleep for days.
Red Hulu
I know this is kind of late to response, but I’ve been taking kratom for about two years now and it’s not just the type/color you buy, but also the brand. I’ve tried multiple types and brands. The ones I’ve like so far is the brand Earth Kratom. The two I like most from it is the red Hulu Kapuas and red Maeng Da. The Kapuas gives me a relaxed feeling and the Maeng Da does also, but a bit more potent in my opinion.
I’ve also tried white and green, but I didn’t really feel anything from them or not sure what I’m supposed to expect from them either. I currently have Super Speciosa: White Thai and White Maeng Da. The reds I’ve listed above are the only ones that I’ve experienced the most p**n relief from. Everyone is different, so the best option is to try them and see which works best for you.
Thanks for leaving such a detailed response! Unfortunately, I had to edit a few words in order to comply with FDA regulations- we aren’t allowed to make medical claims on our site. Apologies! Thanks again for commenting, The GRH Team
Hi there I was wondering what the dosage would be?
I usually have 2-3g in the morning after the gym. It’s like a mild cup of coffee plus some extra relief from soreness. If I am having a hard time falling asleep or want to have a euphoric time, 4-6g should do the trick (I’m 180lbs for reference).
o I’ve been taking green magna for over a year. Obviously it has created a addictive culture in my life. I’m trying to wean myself off slowly, but it does seem to be a very difficult process. Thus far I recently tried to mix red with the green that it didn’t work it just didn’t give me the energy that I needed to complete a day nor take my p**n away I found the Strand crawl train wreck and I have no idea what it is it involved with and I can’t tell if it is doing anything. I still feel like I need green in my life a.k.a. the green machine any advice would be helpful and thank you in advance.
Hi there, thanks for commenting!
Unfortunately I had to edit your comment slightly in order to avoid going against FDA regulations. Thank you again for responding!
Best,
GRH Team
Sure thing understand
My go to strain is white maeng da by earth kratom, just don’t take it really late in the day. All the maeng da strains to me are the more potent, but green malay is in my opinion closer to a white and both help me get loose in the morning and alert. And red hulu is ok but the red maeng da at night is good for me. I just recently got a gold or yellow Bali strain that’s suppose to be between the white and green but I have yet to use them.
All those are great strains, Ryan! I’ll chime in that anyone shopping with us for the first time can use code WELCOME10 to take 10% off their order, and I think our green malay is superb!
Best,
GRH Team
Please don’t listen to those who say “take Red ” because red is objectively weaker than whites and greens.
— take White Maeng Da, Green Maeng Da, or really ANY of the whites and greens are better than Red….
Don’t waste your time with Red….
Take it from me, a Kratom user since 2018….
Good luck ☺️
Agreed the red does nothing for me the green is the best for pain and just feeling great, the white is best for mornings when u want a boost of energy, helps with pain well to
Can u tell me anything about platinum. Just bought it newly in my favorite store.
I have several illnesses that give me a load of p**n. Red is the only one that works. I take white mixed half with red during the day because it lifts my mood and relieves my p**n. I cannot take green or red alone because it gives me nervous anxiety and adds to my p**n rather than easing it. Red is BY FAR the best for true mind and body p**n.
Hi there, thanks for replying! Unfortunately I had to make a few edits in order to ensure we meet FDA regulations, as we aren’t allowed to make medical claims on our site. Thanks again for commenting!
The GRH Team
I’m curious dosage you use or frequency throughout the day
I like the green Maeng Da for energy. Although, when I take too much, it increases my anxiety. I’ve recently tried the red Maeng Da and it seemed to give me energy without the anxiety. Now I’m trying the green vein Thai Kradom. I haven’t tried it yet. I will let y’all know how it is after I try it.
White vein kratom
If u live in Texas it very easy to get
IMO, the White Strain is awesome for pain. I started taking it 2 years ago and haven’t touched a Loritab or Percocet since👍
Red vein kratom works
The Red Kratom is good for pain and causes a relaxing feeling.
The cheaper at 10 dollars a bottle are not as good as the 2 capsules that are 20 dollars although pricy does help pain.i think there is a daytime.and nighttime pack I like the daytime.
I think red Borneo or red Bali would be good
I am a long experienced Kratom user I would try the K shot in the blue bottle…I believe it says chill on the bottle…
We’re about to launch our own kratom shot… stay tuned! We think it tops the ones on the market now! – The GRH Team
Hi Kristin,
Our King K liquid kratom shots are on the market & gaining popularity quickly- let me know if you’d be interested in trying King K by emailing me at media@grassrootsharvest.com!
Green is me too yet I do like red also meang da on both red is best for p**n
Hi there! Thanks for leaving a comment, I’ve had to make a quick edit as we aren’t allowed to make medical claims on our site.
Thanks again for responding,
– The GRH Team
Red or White I buy the super red, depending on weight—I’m fat—-😂 I take 6 capsules. It’s is pure amazing how much it soothes my arthritis p**n. My doctor had me on o*****s for my severe osteoarthritis. The kratom also kept me from having any negative symptoms when coming off of the o*****s. Red SuperX is what I take. Red calms you, helps you relax. I definitely take before bed. White helps and is also good to help focus, which I need since I work as well. Hope this info helps.
Hi there, thanks so much for leaving a response! I’ve had to make a few edits, unfortunately, in order to ensure our site complies with FDA regulations- we aren’t allowed to make medical claims. Apologies for that and again thanks for commenting!
The GRH Team
Kratom in general relieves p**n. But if you’re looking for instant p**n relief try the OPMS Kratom shots . They come in gold and black. If you’re new to the shots I would start with the gold and only take half of it . Works everytime for me . Been taking it for 3-4 years now. Never fails . Just like a h*******e.
Hi there! Thanks for leaving a comment. Unfortunately I’ve had to make some edits to avoid going against FDA regulations, as we aren’t allowed to make medical claims on our site.
Also! We offer King K liquid kratom shots that we manufacture in Silver and Gold strengths, they’re super potent and have been preferred when taste-tested compared to other brands. You can get $3 off your first bottle of King K w/ code: TRYKINGK
Thanks again for commenting!
The GRH Team
Opms Kratom shots. Gold or black will do the trick
Hey Matthew! Kratom shots are a great option, we released King K liquid kratom shots with black pepper extract, they’re quickly becoming one of our most popular products. Let me know if you’d be interested in trying one on us! Email media@grassrootsharvest.com
Green Maeng Dae….”Whole Herbs”
Back, shoulder, neck pain. Have tried many brands and strains.
Just have to see what works for you.
I was lucky enough to find a shop with the same product I was using on the East coast.
Makes life bearable. A real Godsend.
I have lower back p**n from ruptured disc and 2 failed surgeries. Red maeng da and reb bali do pretty well controlling p**n.
Hi Erik, thank you for leaving a response! I had to make a few edits to your comment in order to ensure our site remains FDA compliant, as we can’t host any medical claims. Again, thank you for commenting!
The GRH Team
Green Vein Mang Da is the best for p**n and sleep. I use it for my fibromyalgia and insomnia, it works like a charm.
Hi there, thanks for commenting! I had to make a slight edit in order to ensure our site remains FDA compliant, we aren’t allowed to make any medical claims. Thanks again for your response and apologies for any inconvenience,
The GRH Team
Lucky 13 Horn Kratom is THE BEST for p**n I have spinal Cord injury and it is a life saver
Hey Marshall, thanks so much for responding- I had to make a slight edit to your comment to make sure our site avoids making medical claims, as that goes against FDA regulations. Also, I have a feeling you’d love our Green Horn, I’d love to send you a coupon so you can try some on us- send me an email to media@grassrootsharvest.com if you’d be interested! – The GRH Team
White vein mang da
That’s the one. Natural pain relief at its best.
I’m looking for the most potent strand for opiate withdrawal symptoms, as well as pain relief and relaxation.
I’d go with green or red vein Bali. From a good vendor is has positive pain relief and helps you sleep. Maybe switch between that and Red Bornee, so you don’t build up at tolerance. Eventually you can switch to another kinds like White Maeng or stat with those depending on what effects you want. Good luck in kicking it. This will help you.
Please don’t listen to those who say “take Red ” because red is objectively weaker than whites and greens.
— take White Maeng Da, Green Maeng Da, or really ANY of the whites and greens are better than Red….
Don’t waste your time with Red….
Take it from me, a Kratom user since 2018….
Good luck ☺️
I would also say some kind of Bali should get you through.
I’ve been using kratom for s******e withdrawls I’m on week 3 now no symptoms at all. My tolerance to kratom has grown but 15 grams usually gets me through day no problem 7.5 in morning 7.5g at night. I prefer red vein so far just got some red Maeng da today about to drop 8grams
Hi Miguel,
thanks for leaving a response, I’ve had to remove some words to ensure this comment doesn’t count as a ‘medical claim’, as that could land us in trouble with the FDA. My apologies, and again thank you for commenting!
Best, The GRH Team
That was great and very kind of you to explain uour actions.I have been reading about Kratom for about a year. But due to serious med issues, I have waited until tonight but the guy I spoke with where I got it knew less than nothing. I have learned everything from the descriptions here and tbe comments left. Thank you or I would be stuck. I think the ndxt purchase will be online.
Hi Todd, sorry to hear you’ve had a hard time finding information when purchasing kratom from other vendors in the past- we try our best to provide as much information as we can, without overstepping what we’re allowed to say. If you have further questions please feel free to reach out by chat or to info@grassrootsharvest.com !
Hi Miguel which kind of withdrawal I’m about to start tomorrow coming off oxy which one are you using and how much are you taking do you still get any painful withdrawals
Is one capsule 1 gram?
This depends on where your kratom is purchased, our capsules hold half a gram (.5 gram) each!
Maeng da green helped me with m*****e withdrawals
Hi there! Thanks for leaving a comment, I had to make a quick edit as we aren’t allowed to make medical claims on our site. Apologies for the inconvenience, and again thank you for responding!
– The GRH Team
Super Red 8 capsules 3 -4 times daily. For 2 weeks. Then use the next 2 weeks to taper down. If you want to continue to take it—I do, for my osteoarthritis—- test different amounts to see what works for you.
Opms Kratom shots. Gold or black. It won’t fail you
Hey there! Just want to chime in and say our King K liquid kratom shots have been outperforming other brands when tested, and you can get $3 off your first King K shot on our site w/ code: TRYKINGK!
I’m looking for the most potent strand for opiate withdrawal symptoms, as well as pain relief and relaxation.
Red vein maeng-da
I like trainwreck! I’ve been clean from drugs for 5 years and have been taking the trainwreck kratom!
Aren’t you addicted to kratom now though?
Better addicted to Keaton than addicted to heroin, meth, or alcohol
My bad. I had a typo in my last comment. I meant *Kratom*
I used K for o****e withdrawals over two years ago. That was my lifesaver. I used Red Maeng Da at night and Green Maeng Da during the day. There were very few withdrawal symptoms. I still take it when my pain is high or I am having an insomniac night but I don’t take it all the time. I have never gone through K withdrawals, but I have heard from many that they are no worse than withdrawing from coffee. I have always been careful not to take the same strain constantly to avoid building a tolerance to it. I hope this helps answer your question
Hi there! Thanks for leaving a comment, unfortunately I had to make an edit in order to make sure our site is FDA compliant. We aren’t allowed to make medical claims. Thanks again for commenting!
The GRH Team
Congratulations! You are a strong person!
I don’t know you, but I am proud of you!!!!
Ok so I have a lower back injury but I load trucks. It’s good pay for my area but the people suck so I’m always miserable there so I was told to try this. I also have ptsd and take medication daily. What do u recommend me trying and pointing me in the right direction because I just bought 6 different strains to try out.
You probably want to try white during the day and red or green at night. Just remember to start small, you can always take more but if you take too much you might feel like throwing up. Definitely try different strains and see what you like! There are so many it can be a lot to figure out but most places offer sample packs.
Everyone is different though like I used to get really good energizing effects from a certain Red Vein Thai strain years ago that I haven’t really been able to find again.
Good Luck!
A lot of people swear by white but it made me too jittery (like too much coffee would) I think yellow was middle ground for me giving me a little energy. I have to tell you (are you sitting down?) I have CRPS, RA, CFS, Chronic Migraines, lumbar and cervical spondylisis, spinal stenosis, Sjogrens and Raynaud’s. I know pain in many forms. I have learned what works for me through trial and error. The saying in the K communities is “less is more”, meaning start at a low dose, wait 30 minutes and if you don’t find relief then try a little more and so forth. You don’t want to take too much or you’ll feel like crap. Find your “sweet spot”, what dose and strain works best for you, everyone is different. I feel like I could write a book but I’ll stop here… I hope you are doing well sweetie
Female, 50yo, stage 1 uterine cancer. I underwent surgery 9 months ago and had pain pills, but was certain that I’d be addicted (it’s a personality trait) so I stuck with Advil. However I was in so much pain and with that came depression, and isolation, and also anger for having the surgery in the first place. So 3 weeks post op, I did a search for all natural – relief and Kraton powder was one of the results. When I researched the pros and cons, I thought how can one knock-it without trying it. I thought I’d try the Maeng Da red, green, and white. I found that a flat 1/2 tsp of each with orange juice avocado banana and spinach worked wonders! I’ve been having it about every other day fir the last 5 months and I’m glad it’s a “natural” plant based relief. I really like this combination as it brought my old self back. Now am I addicted to it – probably but it’s as addicting as needing to drink water when you’re thirsty or eat food when you need energy. Alkalines are good for your body and I find that of my own opinion and my own research into nutrition and it’s affects- all natural products have some kind of affect. Those who have banned this product are probably taking a form of supplements and just because this all natural plant based products feels good doesn’t mean it should be banned. What about alcohol or cigarettes- no one is banning those! And just because I don’t drink or smoke doesn’t mean it should be banned either. So for anyone needing relief from -, -, -, or not suffering at all and just want some energy to get thru a long work day, this is better than taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen or any other man made medication. I understand some people need prescriptions for other such diseases, illnesses, and replacement, however, why are we NOT studying more about this which I personally feel could help millions of our soldiers, millions with – and – and – and improve their overall quality of life. (But it definitely does not need to be regulated or turned into a pharmacological nightmare). I’m going to go make my smoothie now! Thanks for reading!
Hi Jenni,
Thank you so much for leaving this comment! Despite wishing to keep it whole, I have had to remove a few words that could potentially land us in trouble for making ‘medical claims’. If you are willing, please leave the unedited version of this comment as a google review! As long as it does not appear directly on our site, we cannot be penalized for it. Again, thank you so much for sharing your experience, we’re truly thrilled to hear kratom is working well for you!
All the best,
The GRH Team
Hi they are banning it because the big pharma companies are making them, think about it the big pharma companies make billions each year from – – do you think they they want something that could potentially help people stop taking those – legalized?, I think not because then they would loose millions in profit. It’s a big sick scheme
Hi there! Thank you for leaving this comment, unfortunately I’ve had to remove a few words as they could potentially get us in trouble with the FDA. Again, thank you for commenting! – the GRH Team
Exactly!!!
I wholeheartedly agree with EVERYTHING you said! And I’m sending Prayers, Good Vibes, & Positive thoughts your way! 😊
Hi I am looking for – relief from my back and is now going down to my leg and can barely walk it hurts so bad, I can’t take – as I am on – for addiction since 2013, 1 st off can I take it for the -? If so, what is recommended. I would like to get some energy as well. Also, can I use to get off the – since I am now stuck on that for ever…….any comments are appreciated.
Hi Karen,
Thank you very much for asking this question on our blog- unfortunately, I’ve had to remove some words that could potentially land us in trouble for making ‘medical claims’. Again, thank you so much for sharing your experience, and I do wish we were able to share your full question without fear of repercussion.
Best,
The GRH Team
Hi Karen, My husband has undergone 2 back surgeries, so we know all about the severe – and hardly able to walk! He takes green vein Maeng da in the morning, and then again in the early afternoon, after lunch. Completely replaced his need for – – meds, which In turn (I think) has helped his kidney function improve, and his liver is functioning better! I hope you find the combination that works for you-all the best!
Hi, thank you so much for leaving this thoughtful response! Unfortunately, I’ve had to remove a few words that could potentially get us in trouble for making ‘medical claims’. Again, thank you for commenting!
Best,
The GRH Team
In my experience, you have the White and Green strains’ descriptions mixed up. Green has been more of a high energy, focus oriented effect while white is less structured general peppiness and euphoria. I would recommend green with coffee before work and white on the weekends. Either could be a pre-workout. Just my experience, ymmv.
Hey there, thanks for commenting with your experience! Because kratom is a raw, natural plant, it is definitely possible for certain strains/veins to cause different effects in different people- our experience has led us to believe white veins tend to be more energizing, but it could be that green veins are the best for energy for you! Best, The GRH Team
Green Maeng Dae….”Whole Herbs”
Back, shoulder, neck pain. Have tried many brands and strains.
Just have to see what works for you.
I was lucky enough to find a shop with the same product I was using on the East coast.
Makes life bearable. A real Godsend.