Plants have a long history of being used as a source of medicine to man. These plants come in different strains and variety, which differ base on their chemical contents and appearance. Although every plant on the surface of the earth has a concentration of chemicals, only a few plants have been widely studied for their potential therapeutic benefits on human lives. One such plant that has gained popularity over the years is Kratom. It has been utilized as a traditional remedy for a vast array of conditions, including depression. In this article, we shall take a look at its identity, and the commonly encountered strains of the Kratom plant.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tree found predominantly in Southeast Asia. It is scientifically known as Mitragyna speciose. Kratom possesses leaves that are rich in compounds capable of eliciting mind-altering or psychotropic effects. Despite this activity, it will interest you to note that the use of Kratom is not illegal as you can order it on the internet. In most cases, it is sold as a green powder in packets labelled as “not for human consumption.” There are also cases where it is marketed as a gum or extracts.
Depending on location, Kratom is also known as Thom, Ketum, Kakuam, Ithang and Biak. The most common benefits of Kratom have been utilized as painkillers, energizing and stimulatory effects.
What are the different strains of Kratom?
Just like any other plant on earth, the Kratom plant is sub-divided into types strains based on their effect on the body, physical appearance and location. The common practice is to name each strain based on its origin. Each kratom strain exhibits a slightly different effect on users. For the purpose of this article, here is a list of the commonly encountered strains of Kratom, their possible description and effect on users.
- Borneo
Just as the name implies, this strain originated from Borneo and featured white, green and red vein varieties. Contrary to what is obtainable with other strains, Borneo is considered to possess a more sedating effect. It comes in handy in providing relief from stress and anxiety.
- Bali/red vein
All Bali strains come from Indonesia. The red vein features a reddish color which is believed to provide relief from pain. Most users have attested to the opioid-like effects of this kratom strain. It has been used to provide relief for people suffering from chronic pain and depression.
Just like the Bali strains, indo strains also originated from Indonesia. The veins can be red, white or green in color. It is believed to possess a less stimulating activity than other strains of Kratom even though some strains have a more energizing effect on users. This strain comes in handy in relieving pain, increasing relaxation and promoting feelings of well-being. There is growing body interest in how it can help with anxiety.
- Green Malay
This dark green kratom strain comes from Malaysia. It is believed to provide effects capable of relieving pain, promoting focus and providing energy when used at low doses. High doses of this strain tend to offer a more sedative effect on users. Some users believe it can also help with anxiety.
Thai strains originate from Thailand. They appear as white, green or red veins and are available with effects varying based on the color. While Green and white veins are known to create a euphoric high and provide stimulation, the red veins are said to provide relief from pain.
- Maeng da
This is used to describe Kratom strains purposefully used for their strong and long-lasting effects. They predominantly come from Thailand but are also found in Malaysia and Indonesia. The strains can be white, red or green in color. They come in handy as stimulants and possess some energy increasing properties capable of inducing feelings of well-being and pain reduction. There are cases of people reporting to feeling more talkative after taking maeng da.
Malaysian kratom strains come in white, red and green varieties. They are widely utilized for the provision of balance between sedative and stimulating effects. Ardent users of this strain report mood lifts, increased energy, focus and pain relief.
Some other kratom strains you should take into cognizance include but are not limited to the following;
- White vein Thai
- White vein kali
- Ultra enhanced Indo
- The natural enhanced true Thai: these strains are made from taking 90% pure alkaloid extraction of the Thai strains and reapplying it to a Green vein Thai leaf.
- Super Green Malaysian
- Red vein Thai
- Red vein Kali
- Red Indo
- Natural Enhanced White Sumatra: These strains are created by taking 90% pure alkaloid extraction from white vein kratom and mixing it with White vein leaf.
- ISOL-8 Extract: this is an outlier and produces a caffeine-like stimulation on users
- Green vein Kalli
- Green Indo
- Gold reserve Extract: This is a powerful extract made by applying highly concentrated kratom alkaloids back to natural kratom leaf.
Bottom line
Most users prefer to take their Kratom as extracts, pills or capsules. There are also cases where people brew the dried or powdered leaves as tea or chew the kratom leaves directly. In some cases, the leaves can be smoked or added to food.
It is pertinent to note that Kratom produces effects similar to what is obtained in opioids and stimulants. The Kratom leaves contain two important compounds 7-α-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine that can interact with opioid receptors in the brain thus, leading to sedation, pleasure, and decreased pain. The best effect of Kratom increases with dosage. Taking Kratom in small quantities may lead to alertness, sociability, and increased energy rather than sedation.
Don’t forget to contact us if you have questions on the use of Kratom, its strains and the possible benefits it has on the body. Our team of experts will love to hear from you soon.
