What Is Kratom

What is Kratom?

Kratom, also known as mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen tree in the same family as the coffee plant. Native to Southeast Asia, Kratom has been used for centuries to relieve chronic pain and boost energy. The characteristics of kratom strains largely depend on environmental factors including the country of origin, the altitude at which it’s grown, and the exposure to elements like moisture, rain, and sunlight. Traditionally, kratom leaves were chewed or brewed in tea, but, in the last half of the 19th century, kratom leaves started to be dried, cured, and ground to produce powder, capsules, extracts, beverages, and edibles.

How Does Kratom Work? 

There are two major active compounds in kratom, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids interact with opioid, dopamine, and serotonin receptors in the brain to produce effects including pain relief, energy, enhanced focus, and increased relaxation. Alkaloids are present in many foods and beverages we consume on a daily basis. For example, caffeine is an alkaloid found in coffee, tea, and chocolate. Similar to how caffeine is a major compound in the coffee plant, mitragynine is a major compound in kratom. While mitragynine is the most prevalent alkaloid in kratom, 7-hydroxymitragynine is more potent as it can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, and other minor alkaloids in kratom work together to produce specific effects for each kratom strain. It is important to note kratom strains work differently for every individual, so your experience with a specific kratom strain may differ from others’ experiences. At CBD Kratom, our knowledgeable associates can help you navigate our kratom menu to find the kratom strains that will work best for your needs, wants, and preferences.   

What Are the Benefits of Kratom?

Preliminary research suggests kratom may provide powerful pain relief for individuals seeking to alleviate chronic pain. A survey by John Hopkins Medicine found 91% of kratom consumers use the herbal supplement to relieve pain, and 67% of participants use kratom to help with symptoms of anxiety. Depending on the strain and serving size, kratom may also elevate mood, decrease stress, produce physical relaxation, and/or provide focus. In smaller servings, kratom may act as an energy booster while in larger servings, kratom may be more of a relaxant. Many customers use both kratom and CBD to help manage pain, relieve stress, and boost mood. Kratom consumers often take CBD to build more long-term benefits. For the specific benefits and effects of each strain, please read the description of the strains below.

Are There Side Effects of Kratom?

The most common side effects of kratom are nausea and constipation, which often result from taking too much kratom. To avoid overconsumption and reduce the risks of experiencing unpleasant effects, kratom should be used in moderation. Less common side effects may include chills, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. According to a survey by John Hopkins Medicine, a third of participants reported mild unpleasant side effects with kratom use, like constipation, lethargy, or upset stomach; most of which were resolved within a day. In a study on the long-term cognitive effects of consuming kratom, researchers found that consistent, high amounts of kratom did not appear to alter memory, motor, attention, and executive function of routine consumers. Kratom may interact with medications. Certain medications may compete with kratom to interact with the receptors in the brain, resulting in neither compounds stimulating the receptors enough to fully feel the effects. When this occurs, individuals may take more of one or both compounds which may lead to drops in blood pressure. Before introducing kratom into your routine, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional.

How Much Kratom Should I Take? 

Finding the right kratom serving size is largely based on an individual’s needs and preferences as well as the reason for kratom use. For beginners, we recommend starting with 2-3g of powder or 4-6 capsules. Powder usually takes effect within 30-45 minutes, and capsules usually take effect within 45 minutes to an hour. The effects typically last between six and eight hours. Kratom extracts, edibles, and beverages are more potent than other kratom products, so they are great for consumers seeking a stronger option. With these products, we recommend starting with the package serving size, usually about 25-75mg of mitragynine, and increasing or decreasing as needed. Extracts and beverages are fast acting and usually take effect within 15-20 minutes. The effects generally last between three to four hours. Edibles, like kratom gummies, usually produce effects within 30 minutes to an hour, and like powder or capsules, these effects typically last between six and eight hours. 

Is Kratom Legal?

Kratom is legal at the federal level, and it is also legal in most of the United States although six states have banned the use of kratom including Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Therefore, CBD Kratom does not ship kratom to these locations. Although there are no current age restrictions from the federal government on kratom products, our company policy states you must be 18 years or older to purchase these products.

How Do I Find the Right Kratom Strain?

Before looking at the 50+ kratom strains, we recommend first gaining a better understanding of the three kratom veins: red, white, and green. Different vein colors are based on the leaf itself and its maturity. Kratom veins also vary in their alkaloid compositions. Different strains, like yellow, mixed, and aged, are based on the processes around harvest including drying, blending, aging, or curing to achieve specific effects. In order to find the right strain for your specific needs, it’s important to understand the features and potential benefits of each strain. Learn more about kratom veins and strains as well as their many potential benefits:

Red Vein Kratom

Red vein kratom strains are kratom leaves harvested from the top of the tree; these leaves are the most mature as they are left on the tree for the longest amount of time and receive the most sunlight. The drying process is also longer for red vein kratom than white or green vein kratom. These strains are popular options for individuals looking to alleviate pain, provide full-body relaxation, and produce physical comfort. Some red vein kratom strains may also provide stress relief and feelings of serenity.

White Vein Kratom

White vein kratom strains are harvested from the middle of the tree as the leaves are midway through the maturing lifecycle. The drying and curing process for white vein kratom is in the middle of the spectrum between red vein with the longest drying time and green vein with shortest drying time. These strains are a great way to start the day due to their balanced energy and mood-boosting properties. White strains provide relaxation, moderate pain relief, and focused energy. This strain is popular amongst individuals who are looking for physical relaxation with clear-minded energy. Depending on the specific strain, white vein kratom strains may also provide energy or aid in sleep.

Green Vein Kratom

Green vein kratom strains are harvested from the middle and bottom of the tree; these leaves are the youngest in terms of maturity and dried for the shortest amount of time. Green strains may provide energy, clear-minded focus, stress relief, and boosts in mood. These strains are often popular amongst individuals experiencing social anxiety or looking for focused energy and enhanced mood throughout the day.  

Mixed Strain Kratom

Mixed kratom strains are some of our most popular strains. These strains are special blends of different kratom strains. Mixed strains are great options for both consumers trying kratom for the first time and routine kratom consumers. 

Yellow Strain Kratom

Yellow kratom strains are either premature red vein or red vein put through a special drying and curing process. These strains may provide mellow physical feelings while also potentially offering clear-minded focus and serenity. Yellow strains are ideal for those looking for mood elevating, relaxing, and tranquil effects. 

Aged Strain Kratom

Aged kratom strains are dried or aged longer to bring out enhanced effects of each strain. These strains include Horned, Chocolate, Dark Green, and Dark Brown Kratom strains which have been dried or aged for a longer period of time to produce different levels of effects. Review the menu below to find the benefits of each individual strain.

Kratom Menu

For further information on the 50+ kratom strains CBD Kratom offers, please review the menu below. 

Disclaimer: The descriptions are based on the most common results, effects, and experiences associated with Kratom. Please know that not everyone reacts the same to Kratom and what might be energetic for one person may be relaxing for another. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If using medication, consult with a medical professional before adding any supplement to your daily routine. 


Red Vein Kratom 

Red Bali 
STARTER - PAIN RELIEF- CLASSIC - FULL BODY RELAXATION

One of the most classic kratom strains known for full body relaxation and pain relief. Red Bali is the perfect strain for those new to kratom.

Red Vietnam
FULL BODY TRANQUILITY - CLASSIC - RELAXATION

Similar to the Red Bali but has a stronger blissful, tranquil, cosy, full body relaxation effect, along with clear mindedness for some.

Red Maeng Da
PAIN RELIEF - CLASSIC - STARTER - FULL BODY SERENITY

This kratom strain is best known for its amazing pain relief. It comes with full body relaxation while still being good for day time use. Great for those starting Kratom.

Red Borneo
PAIN RELIEF - FOCUS - STRESS RELIEF- FULL BODY SERENITY

This relaxing Borneo Kratom strain gives you strong pain relief and the ability to focus without making you too drowsy. Great for day time use and for those with stress triggers.

Red Dampar
FULL BODY TRANQUILITY - PHYSICAL COMFORT - ELEVATION

Red Dampar is very relaxing and gives a tranquil full body sensation, comfort, feeling cosy and elevated. A great tool for those wanting to curb physical discomfort.

Red Dragon
PAIN RELIEF - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY -PHYSICAL COMFORT

Red Dragon is a rich red strain. It provides strong full body relaxation effects and is often taken in less dosages than other red strains. It is a great pain reliever and taken for curbing physical discomfort. Frequently used to chill or relax in the evening.

Red Malay
CLASSIC - STARTER - MILD PAIN RELIEF- RELAXATION

This Malay strain is similar to Red Vietnam as it provides both full body relaxation and mild pain relieving effects.

Red Sumatra
STARTER - FULL BODY RELAXATION-FULL BODY TRANQUILITY

This red strain provides a strong full body comfort, blissful feelings with endless relaxation. Popular for unwinding in the evenings.

Red Gold
SLEEP - FULL BODY RELAXATION - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY

This kratom strain is similar to the Red Bali, but will be more rich since it is dried longer. Best known for helping with restlessness and aiding in relaxation which can lead to sleep.

Red Bantuagie
PHYSICAL COMFORT - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY - ELEVATION

This kratom strain tends to be dried a bit longer than some other red strains and therefore has a stronger full body tranquil effect. This makes it one of the best for curbing physical discomfort and improving overall wellbeing.

Red Indo
MOTIVATION - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY - BALANCE

This kratom is similar to Red Bali and it provides a clean balanced energy experience and ample motivation. A good daytime red.

White Vein Kratom

White Bali 
CLEAR MINDED SERENITY- MILD FOCUS - BALANCE

This kratom strain provides relaxation, some pain relief, and a bit of clear headed energy. White Bali can be seen as a less potent White Borneo.


White Kapuas
BALANCE - FOCUS - STRESS RELIEF - ELEVATION

This kratom strain is mildly relaxing with a level balance of energy. It keeps you focused and feeling blissful.


White Borneo
FOCUS - PAIN RELIEF- BALANCE - STRESS RELIEF -MOTIVATION

This kratom strain is similar to the Green Borneo strain, but gives a stronger pain relieving effect and relaxing effect on top of the ability to focus and improve your mood, motivation and handle stress.

White Bantuagie
PHYSICAL COMFORT - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY- STRESS

Like all the other Bantuagie strains, White Bantuagie is dried longer and therefore has more relaxing effects than other white strains. It can easily be compared to the White Sumatra but not as sedative. Can help with those suffering from physical discomfort or stress.

White Maeng Da
PAIN RELIEF- CLEAR MINDED SERENITY - BALANCE - CLASSIC

This kratom strain has a strong pain reliever effect and it also gives you a strong relaxing feeling. Great for day time pain relief with balanced energy.

White Sumatra
SLEEP - FULL BODY RELAXATION - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY

This specific kratom strain supplies you with endless relaxation and happy feelings. Great to help you unwind in the evening or as a sleep aid.

White Dragon
ELEVATION - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY - STRESS RELIEF 

White Dragon is a strong white strain known for its ability to help you relax at work without making you tired. The perfect balance of energy and relaxation. It provides strong clear minded relaxing effects and is often taken in less amounts than other white strains.

White Gold 
FULL BODY TRANQUILITY- ELEVATION - PAIN RELIEF - STRESS

This kratom strain is similar to the White Bali, but will be slightly stronger since it is dried longer. Used for pain relief and handling stress triggers.

White Dampar
SLEEP - FULL BODY RELAXATION - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY

White Dampar is a very relaxing white strain. Similar to the Red Dampar in tranquility, but more relaxing. Can be used as a sleep aid.

White Indo
PAIN RELIEF - CLEAR MINDED ENERGY - MOOD - MOTIVATION

Similar to White Maeng Da, White Indo is relaxing and provides some pain relief. For some, White Indo is more of a stimulating white strain which makes it a good mood booster.

Green Vein Kratom

Green Cambodian
MOOD BOOST - MOTIVATION - STRESS RELIEF - BALANCE

This kratom strain is one of the most balanced of the green kratom, not being too energetic or too relaxing. Like the Super Indo it is one of the best mood boosters. Best for those who want the mood boost without excessive physical energy.

Green Maeng Da
PAIN RELIEF- ENERGY - ELEVATION- CLASSIC - STARTER

All Maeng Da kratom strains are very effective pain relievers, but the Green Maeng Da also gives you a strong boost of energy and elevation.

Green Indo
ENERGY - ELEVATION - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY

Similar to the Super Indo, this kratom strain gives you an elevating feeling with an even stronger boost of energy.

Green Malay
CLASSIC - FOCUS - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY - ENERGY

This kratom strain heavily increases mind stimulation and gives you a sense of clear minded blissfulness. This is also one of the most popular kratom strains.

Green Vietnam
ENERGY - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY- ELEVATION

Similar to the Green Malay, this kratom strain increases mind stimulation and energy, but also gives a good sense of blissful elevation and mood improvement. 

Green Dampar
FOCUS - ENERGY - ELEVATION - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY

Green Dampar is the perfect balance of energy focus and elevation. Many feel lots of clear minded serenity with this strain.

Green Borneo
FOCUS - PAIN RELIEF - MOTIVATION - ELEVATION

This kratom strain is known mainly for its solid focus properties. It gives you the ability to concentrate and focus while also giving you lots of energy and also pain relief.

Green Sumatra
BALANCE - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY - STRESS RELIEF

This kratom strain provides a sense of balanced energy and tranquility. Some individuals experience level relaxation with this strain as well which makes it good for individuals prone to stress who still want some level of energy.

Green Dragon
ELEVATION - PHYSICAL COMFORT - ENERGY - SERENITY

Green Dragon is a popular green strain. It provides lots of energy, full body serenity, blissful feelings and strong elevating effects. One of the most popular green kratom strains for curbing physical discomfort.

Green Bali
BALANCE - STARTER - STRESS RELIEF

Green Bali is a mild starter strain and has a good balance between energy and relaxation which makes it good for those with stress who also want balanced energy.

Green Kapuas
ELEVATION - BALANCE - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY

Similar to the Green Bali, Green Kapuas is a middle strength green strain. It provides an even balance between energy and blissful elevation.

Green Bantuagie
ENERGY - ELEVATION - SERENITY - PHYSICAL COMFORT

Green Bantuagie is dried for the last few hours to lock in the properties of the plant. This provides a strong energy feeling with endless serenity and elevation. Great for curbing physical discomfort.

Mixed Kratom Strains

Mixed Maeng Da
PAIN RELIEF- STARTER- CLASSIC - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY

This is a mix of all the Maeng Da kratom strains which creates a perfect combination of energy, clear minded relaxation & pain relief. This is one of the best strains to start your kratom experience with.

Mixed Malay
ENERGY - FOCUS - CLASSIC - ELEVATION - MOTIVATION

Mixed Malay is a perfect combination of energy, elevation, focus, clear minded relaxation and offers some pain relief. This is said to be more energetic than the Mixed Maeng Da.

Hulu Kapuas Kalimantan
PAIN RELIEF- ELEVATION - MOTIVATION- BALANCE

Hulu Kapuas Kalimantan acts like a traditional elevating strain, however, it provides a mixed feeling of energy and relaxation, which makes it great for improving mood and motivation.

Super Indo
MOOD BOOST- PAIN RELIEF- MOTIVATION - ELEVATION

Known for its strong mood enhancing and pain relieving effects. In contrast to the Green Cambodian, this kratom strain gives you a strong boost of energy along with an elevated feeling and lots of physical comfort.

Yellow Kratom Strains

Yellow Borneo
FULL BODY TRANQUILITY- FOCUS - MOOD - STRESS RELIEF

Yellow Borneo is a rare strain of kratom obtained from the drier leaves of the Red and White Borneo plant; therefore, it provides blissful happiness, mild focus, a strong clear minded energy feeling and body relaxation components. Great as a mood booster or for anxiety.

Yellow Kapuas
FULL BODY TRANQUILITY - SLEEP - FULL BODY RELAXATION

This strain provides some blissful tranquility and strong relaxation effects. Can be used as a sleep aid for some.

Yellow Gold
FULL BODY TRANQUILITY-MOOD- STRESS RELIEF - ELEVATION

This kratom strain is made with a different, slightly longer drying process and therefore gives off a stronger sense of full body tranquility. Great for stressful days and keeping you elevated and motivated without too much energy. 

Aged Kratom Strains

Chocolate Borneo
FULL BODY TRANQUILITY - PAIN RELIEF- PHYSICAL COMFORT

Similar to Red Borneo, but dried longer, Chocolate Borneo kratom strain gives you pain relief, physical comfort and for some the ability to focus coupled with a strong sense of full body tranquility.

Dark Brown Bantuagie
PHYSICAL COMFORT - FULL BODY TRANQUILITY - ELEVATION

Dark Brown Bantuagie is dried even longer than the Red Bantuagie and is therefore extremely blissful, tranquil, relaxing and elevating. This makes it one of the best for curbing physical discomfort.

Dark Green Borneo
FOCUS - ENERGY - ELEVATION - CLEAR MINDED SERENITY

This kratom strain is dried longer than traditional Green Borneo and therefore provides stronger effects of energy, focus and elevation.

Red Horned Maeng Da
STRONG PAIN RELIEF - CLASSIC - ELEVATION - BALANCE

This Horned kratom strain is an aged Red Maeng Da. It will give you a strong sense of tranquility coupled with even stronger pain relief. It is a good daytime red without being too relaxing.

Green Horned Maeng Da
PAIN RELIEF- ENERGY - ELEVATION - BALANCE - CLASSIC

One of the rarer strains of kratom, Green Horned Maeng Da will give you a strong sense of energy coupled with pain relief. Great taken by itself or mixed with Green Malay for even stronger effects.

White Horned Maeng Da
STRONG PAIN RELIEF- ENERGY - FULL BODY SERENITY

This white kratom strain is more energetic than other strictly relaxing white strains. Best for pain relief, physical comfort and full body serenity. 

Description Key 

Classic—Popular kratom strains that many individuals find agreeable and pleasant. 

Starter—Popular kratom strains for individuals who are new to kratom. 

Balance—Kratom strains known for providing equivalent feelings of energy and relaxation. 

Energy—Strains known for providing a noticeable, physical boost in energy. While all green strains promote energy, those with this listing are most significant. Keep in mind, other veins and mixes may provide energy at varying degrees, and any kratom taken in small amounts may produce energizing effects. 

Pain Relief—While all kratom may help with pain, these strains are best known for their powerful pain relieving effects. 

Full Body Relaxation—Strains known for providing a noticeable, physical feeling of relaxation. 

Full Body Tranquility—The effects of these strains are most often described as blissful body sensations, comfortable and cozy feelings, and/or feelings of tranquility or satisfaction. This label is most commonly used for red and yellow strains. 

Clear-Minded Serenity—This describes the full body sensation kratom is known to provide as it applies to strains with energy-boosting effects. The effects of these strains are most often described as a blissful body sensation, comfortable and cozy feelings, and/or feelings of tranquillity or satisfaction. Clear-minded serenity characterizes kratom strains that combine a boost in energy with a physical sensation of relaxation. Strains with this label may be beneficial for individuals seeking stress relief or clarity and body/nerve relaxation. 

Stress Relief—Stress is different for each person, and it is important to know if you need something to help calm you down, level you out, or uplift your mood. Stress can also manifest as frustration, nervousness, or anger; therefore, a mellow yellow strain or calming red strain may be more effective depending on an individual’s needs. 

Mood Boost—Improved mood, joy, socialization, and happiness beyond the regular, positive effects of kratom. 

Focus—Mental focus is not limited to green strains. Strains that help individuals concentrate, like Borneo, often provide varying degrees of focus depending on the vein or strain. Individuals seeking concentration for late-night studying and focusing on complex issues or details at work may benefit from these strains. 

Motivation—These strains may be beneficial for individuals who struggle with lack of motivation or feelings of indifference and/or melancholy. Motivation strains may provide a boost in mood, outlook, and ambition to pursue goals. 

Physical Comfort/Discomfort—These strains may provide benefits for individuals seeking help with their physical well-being. Strains with this label may help curb or temporarily relieve physical discomfort symptoms, like restlessness and irritation.

Sleep—While not all red or white kratom strains will help provide relaxation to the point of sleep, these are the strains best known to aid in sleep. 

Elevation—This is used to describe the feeling of wellbeing, alertness, satisfaction, and physical comfort associated with green and white strains. 




Back to blog