The Royal Kratom Guide to the Different Kratom Strains

There are a lot of kratom varieties on the market. How do you make sense of all the different types of kratom and find a product that’s perfectly suited to your needs? Unfortunately, there’s no perfect science to choosing the ideal strain, as it ultimately comes down to your own needs. However, when you understand the fundamentals of what distinguishes different kratom varieties, you can make an informed choice and buy kratom online with confidence.

A spoon of kratom powder resting on two kratom leaves

What Distinguishes the Different Kratom Strains?

Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, a tropical evergreen tree that grows in parts of Southeast Asia. Though all kratom is derived from a single species of tree, there are genetic variations that result in different strains. In most cases, strains are named for their country or location of origin. For instance, Bali Kratom originates from the Indonesian island of Bali. Indo Kratom originates from Indonesia. Thai Kratom comes from Thailand. 

There is at least one notable exception to this rule for the different types of kratom, however. Maeng Da (though Thai in origin) is named not for its location of origin but for the kratom strain’s quality. The name “Maeng Da” is a slang term in Thailand meaning “pimp” or “pimp-grade.” It earns this distinction on account of its unique cultivation history (more on that later). 

It’s worth noting that a strain doesn’t have to be grown in its native region. For instance, if Malaysian kratom is grown along the coasts of Indonesia, it’s still Malaysian Kratom. The genetics haven’t changed, only the growing location. Today, the majority of kratom is grown in Indonesia because of the country’s cultivation-friendly laws and climate. However, this trend may be shifting as Thailand recently lifted its longstanding prohibition against kratom cultivation. 

Also, it’s important not to confuse kratom strains with kratom colors when we’re talking about the different kinds of kratom. The vein colors (e.g. red vein kratom, white vein kratom, green vein kratom) are influenced by the age at which the kratom leaves are harvested and are not indicative of a particular strain. The vein color does have an impact on the experience, but the strain is also an indicator of what to expect.

Making Sense of the Different Types of Kratom

There are a lot of strains on the market, but the following are just a few of the most popular varieties you’ll find:

1. Maeng Da Kratom

Maeng Da, the aforementioned “pimp-grade” variety, is arguably the most popular kratom strain in the world. It’s a unique hybrid strain that was carefully cultivated to combine the best kratom genetics from across Southeast Asia. As a result, it’s highly potent and robust, with a rich experience that engulfs the senses. 

If you want the best of the best, you can’t go wrong with Maeng Da. You can easily find Maeng Da Kratom Capsules as well as Maeng Da Kratom Powder online. Royal Kratom even carries Maeng Da Grand Kratom Capsules, which are packed with 1,000mg per cap (double the amount of our standard Maeng Da capsules).

2. Bali Kratom

A kratom strain native to the coastlines of Bali in Indonesia, Bali Kratom offers some of the purest and most authentic kratom aromas. It is, after all, one of the oldest strains, if not the oldest strain on the planet. 

Out of the different types of kratom, Bali is noted for its distinct alkaloid properties. If you want to experience this unique strain, try our Bali Kratom Powder and Bali Kratom Capsules.

3. Indo Kratom

Indo Kratom, or Indonesian Kratom, most commonly grows on the island of Sumatra, though it may be grown anywhere in Indonesia. It’s regarded as a universal kratom strain that appeals to beginners and experienced kratom lovers alike. 

Indo Kratom Powder and Indo Kratom Capsules offer a well-rounded experience. If you’re exploring kratom for the first time, Indo doesn’t disappoint.

4. Thai Kratom

Like Bali Kratom, Thai Kratom tends to be an excellent choice for a well-rounded experience among the different types of kratom. One distinguishing feature of Thai Kratom is that it’s one of the oldest strains around, having been cultivated for thousands of years. 

Find Thai Kratom Powder and Thai Kratom Capsules at Royal Kratom, and discover it for yourself.

5. Vietnam Kratom

Vietnam Kratom is one of the rarer and more elusive kratom strains out there. Users often report that this strain works well at any point of the day. 

Since it has such a uniquely balanced alkaloid profile, your own experience with Vietnam Kratom might vary. Your best bet is to explore our Vietnam Kratom Capsules or Vietnam Kratom Powder and discover what your own experience is like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the form of kratom change its qualities?

Kratom capsules and kratom powders share the same qualities, as capsules are just shells filled with powder for a mess-free way to bring kratom on the go. Kratom extracts are stronger than other forms due to the nature of the extraction process. These possess a more concentrated alkaloid profile and are not recommended for beginners.

What kratom strains should I try first?

If you’re new to kratom, red and green kratom are a good introduction to this ethnobotanical. Bali kratom or Vietnam kratom are commonly chosen by beginners. We recommend starting with either kratom capsules or powder and trying kratom extracts later when you know what qualities you’re looking for.

Choosing the Best Kratom

With so many different types of kratom, how do you choose the strain that’s right for you? Everyone’s preferences are unique, and we encourage you to explore a variety of options to find your personal favorite. 

There are a lot of excellent kratom strains out there. Order kratom online and find your own favorite.