What are the Effects of Kratom?
Within the world of natural botanicals lives a unique plant called Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa). Native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, kratom belongs to the same plant family as coffee. And like coffee, it’s valued for the way it can support both the mind and body.
For centuries, kratom leaves have been traditionally harvested, dried, and prepared for everyday use. Nowadays, many people are searching for a more holistic approach to their overall well-being, so Kratom will continue to gain popularity as the years pass.
Kratom can be found in Powders, Capsules, or Extract form through select vendors online and in-store. With so many strains and options available, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed.
This guide breaks down kratom effects, explains what causes them, and shares practical tips and tricks to help you choose the right kratom for your needs and optimize your experience.
What Causes the Effects of Kratom?
The effects of Kratom come from the biologically active compounds in the leaves called Alkaloids. Kratom contains more than 40 distinct alkaloids, but the two most abundant are called Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine.
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Mitragynine: the most abundant alkaloid, commonly associated with energy, focus, mood, and balance
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7-Hydroxymitragynine: present in smaller amounts, often associated with deeper relaxation and discomfort relief
These primary alkaloids are what give Kratom its unique effects. The types of effects can vary depending on various factors such as serving size, empty belly, full belly, body weight, etc.
Common Kratom Effects & Benefits
Kratom can feel stimulating or relaxing, depending on the strain and serving size. Many users appreciate its versatility.
Here is a list of Kratom’s prime benefits:
- Clean Energy
May provide energy that is motivating and exhilarating, but without any over-stimulation (aka Jitterbugs).
- Focus
May help you concentrate and completely engage your mind to its fullest extent.
- Joyful Spirit
May create a surge of happiness and excitement that boosts your overall mood and mindset.
- Pro-Social
May provide charismatic sensations that spark enthusiasm and a keen sense of social awareness. Lots of self-confidence!
- Discomfort Relief
May help ease minor physical discomforts by relaxing the entire body.
- Relaxed Body
Deeply relaxes your body, but also helps you feel calm and content. May be great for helping you achieve a restful sleep.
Understanding Kratom “Speeds”
Kratom strains are often classified by vein color (red, green, white) or region of origin. While these categories can be helpful, Happy Hippo believes there’s an even clearer way to understand kratom effects: Kratom Speeds.
What Are Kratom Speeds?
Kratom Speeds describe how fast or slow a strain tends to feel:
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Fast – Energizing & stimulating
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Moderate – Balanced & steady
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Slow – Relaxing & calming
Fun Fact
Happy Hippo pioneered the Kratom Speeds classification system, and we’re one of the only vendors that clearly associate speed with effects.
This system helps both beginners and experienced users choose strains based on how they want to feel, without overthinking vein colors or origins.
Fast Speed Kratom
Fast = Energy
Fast Speed Kratom supports a productive lifestyle by sparking energy, motivation, and mental efficiency (focus). Some Fast strains are much more physically energizing, while others provide better mental stimulation.
For example, White Maeng Da (Rockstar Hippo) gives ample physical energy and it’s a great strain to take before the gym. On the other hand, Green Sunda (Jolly Green Hippo) is all about mental energy. It greases your brain gears and brings focus/concentration. However, both strains provide an excellent mood boost that leaves you feeling refreshed and animated!
All in all, if you’re looking for a boost in mental/physical energy, Fast strains will certainly be your cup of tea!
Moderate Speed Kratom
Moderate = Balance
Moderate Speed Kratom provides ultimate tranquility! Moderate strains are the harmony between Fast and Slow strains. Their resonance is very stable and gives a good balance of energy and relaxation.
Kratom effects can vary from person to person. For some individuals, Fast strains may be too intense and can cause over-stimulation. It’s that yucky, fidgety feeling - similar to when you’ve had way too much coffee. We refer to this unpleasant feeling as the “Jitterbugs”. Retrospectively, Slow strains can also be too calming and make you feel like a lazy couch potato.
This is precisely why Moderate strains come in handy! If Fast strains are too fast and Slow strains too slow, it’s worth a try to see what Moderate strains can do for your needs.
Slow Speed Kratom
- Slow = Relaxation
Slow Speed Kratom supports a happy and relaxed mentality while also giving warm relief from physical discomforts. Some Slow strains may even help encourage restful sleep, which can be a real lifesaver on those nights when you’re tossing and turning in bed for hours.
We recommend Slow strains for individuals who experience frequent discomfort and "uncomfy" feelings on a daily basis. Or, for anyone who wants to experience longer, more restful sleep.
Tips & Tricks to Optimize Your Kratom Experience
- Start low and increase slowly to find your personal sweet spot
- Rotate strains to avoid tolerance buildup
- Stay hydrated! Kratom works best when your body is well-hydrated
- Match the speed to your goal (Fast for energy, Moderate for balance, Slow for relaxation)
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Take breaks when needed to maintain effectiveness
Final Thoughts
Understanding kratom effects doesn’t have to be complicated.
By learning how alkaloids, strain speeds, and personal factors work together, you can confidently choose kratom that supports your goals, whether that’s energy, balance, or relaxation.
At Happy Hippo, we’re always happy to help you find your perfect match.
Disclaimer: Kratom is not regulated by the FDA. This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Kratom is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have a medical condition or take medications.
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