The Ultimate Guide to Kratom Strains

The Kratom tree (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen native to the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia. Within its leaves are powerful alkaloids that offer a range of rejuvenating effects, from energy and motivation to calm and clarity. But are all Kratom strains created equal? Definitely not.

With dozens of strains and colors on the market, figuring out the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created this easy-to-follow guide. Whether you’re new to Kratom or looking to try something different, we’ll help you navigate the world of Kratom strains with confidence. 

What Are Kratom Strains?

Kratom strain names usually follow a simple formula: [Vein Color] + [Region of Origin]. For example, Red Maeng Da or Green Borneo. Each strain is influenced by three main factors:

• Leaf Color (Vein Color): White, green, red, or yellow, each reflects a different stage of the leaf's maturity and alkaloid content.

• Geographic Origin: Kratom from different regions (like Thailand, Indonesia, or Vietnam) may develop unique effects due to soil, climate, and harvesting practices.

• Processing Method: Drying, fermentation, and even sterilization can affect color, potency, and aroma.

Some debate exists over whether these differences are scientifically significant, but in our experience (and thousands of testimonials), strain effects are very real.

Example: We love White Maeng Da (Rockstar Hippo) for a workout boost. But Red Sumatra (Magic Hippo)? That’s more of a Netflix-and-recharge kind of vibe. Same plant, totally different outcome.

Kratom Vein Colors Explained

White Vein Kratom: Focus & Energy

White vein leaves are harvested early in the growth cycle. They typically contain higher levels of stimulating alkaloids, which many users describe as clean, jitter-free energy.

Common Effects: Mental clarity, motivation, energy boost

Top Happy Hippo Picks:

• White Maeng Da (Rockstar Hippo)

• White Malay

• White Vein Borneo

• White Thai

Green Vein Kratom: Balanced & Uplifting

Green vein Kratom is harvested at peak maturity. It strikes a balance between the energy of white strains and the relaxation of reds—perfect for daytime use without being too stimulating or too sedating.

Common Effects: Mood boost, mild energy, calm focus

Top Happy Hippo Picks:

• Green Maeng Da (Hyper Hippo)

• Green Sundanese

• Green Borneo

• Green Malay

Red Vein Kratom: Relief & Relaxation

Red vein leaves are picked late in the growth cycle and are known for their relaxing, soothing properties. These strains are especially popular for nighttime use or discomfort relief.

Common Effects: Calm, relief, restful sleep

Top Happy Hippo Picks:

• Red Sumatra (Magic Hippo)

• Red Bali

• Red Maeng Da

Yellow Vein Kratom: Optimism & Clarity

Yellow Kratom isn’t a naturally occurring vein color. It results from a unique drying or fermentation process that changes the color and slightly alters the effects. Sometimes called “Gold” Kratom, these strains offer a mild, feel-good vibe.

Common Effects: Optimism, gentle energy, clarity

Top Happy Hippo Picks:

• Yellow Maeng Da

• Yellow Bali

• Yellow Sumatra

What Is a Kratom Blend?

Some strains are blends—custom combinations of different vein colors or regional strains. These blends are crafted for specific effects or vibes and are often unique to the vendor.

For example, Tickle Me Pink is a Happy Hippo original: a 50/50 mix of Red Maeng Da and White Maeng Da. Perfect for a smooth burst of energy with underlying chill.

You can even create your own blends at home!

Which Kratom Strain Is Right for You?

Everyone’s body is different. Start with a small amount and explore what works best for your unique brain and body chemistry.

Happy Hippo classifies all strains as Fast, Moderate, or Slow, based on their effects. You can explore our full Kratom Strain Chart to help guide your selection.

Best Kratom Strains for Relief 

One reason Kratom has received mainstream attention in the past decade is that the alkaloids in Mitragyna Speciosa contain various benefits to the consumer. In today’s world, more people are seeking out natural, herbal products than ever before. 

This progressiveness led to an extensive base of consumers learning about Kratom. People in Southeast Asia take Kratom for relief all the time. Several Kratom varieties help with discomfort: they all can, to a certain extent. But the slowest Kratom strains or red vein kratom strains usually work the best. 

Best Kratom Strains for Energy 

Kratom is related to the coffee plant, so it should come as no surprise that kratom produces similar effects on the user. The mitragynine alkaloid found in Kratom reacts with the adrenergic receptors in our brains, which renders a boost of energy afterward. But that animated effect from the Kratom is dependent on the serving size taken by the user. This is where kratom is dissimilar to coffee. The more coffee you drink, the more caffeine stimulates the central nervous system; but with Kratom, stimulation is felt through smaller amounts of mitragynine consumption. 

Mitragynine is the same compound that reacts with the other receptors in your brain to produce different effects, and some of those effects counteract an energized stimulation. Relaxing properties need more mitragynine to accomplish those outcomes from our biochemistry. So the more Kratom you take, the stronger the rest-inducing effects become. 

Still, there are specific fast-acting kratom strains you can purchase that give the user more energy. So when you need to remain active throughout the day, it’s best to use one of them.  

Check out our other blog to see How to Use Kratom in Your Workout Routine!

Best Kratom Strains for Balance 

Some people are very sensitive to trying new things. A strain that has more relaxing effects or strong energy-giving properties may be too much for some users. This is where moderate strains come into play. 

Moderate Kratom strains are best for those who want to feel the milder effects Kratom powder has to offer. They give a good balance between relaxation and energy without being too overpowering. 

Where Does Kratom Come From?

Kratom grows in the humid jungles of Southeast Asia. Here’s a quick look at popular regional strains and their effects:

• Bali: Relaxing, mood-lifting, well-rounded

• Borneo: Enthusiastic energy, great for productivity

• Indo: Classic Kratom feel, go-getter vibes

• Thai: Creative stimulation and mental clarity

• Malay: Warm, social, perfect for connection

• Vietnam: Uplifting, vibrant energy

• Sundanese: Mellow joy and harmony

• Hulu Kapuas: Calming and chill

• Sumatra: Deep relaxation and emotional ease

Unique Kratom Types You Might See

Maeng Da

“Maeng Da” means “pimp grade” in Thai, and it’s used to refer to high-potency Kratom. It’s not a region, but rather a label for powerful strains selected for their strong alkaloid content.

Use it when: You need motivation, focus, or serious support.

Horned Kratom

Named for the jagged, horn-like edges on some Kratom leaves, Horned Kratom is rare and often more mellow in its effects.

Use it when: You want to chill without strong sedation.

Stem and Vein Kratom

This variety includes the stem and vein parts of the leaf, often ground into powder. It's typically milder and is sometimes used to lower Kratom tolerance or for users sensitive to regular powder.

How Much Kratom Should You Take?

Start low and slow—especially if you’re new.

Still, the amount of Kratom needed in a serving is dependent on several factors. 

• A person’s body type.
• The metabolism of the consumer. 
• The strength of the Kratom.
• Other things, such as fatty foods or citrus drinks can interact with the serving size.
• The consumer’s tolerance.

You can find the typical Kratom serving estimates listed on the chart below.

Happy Hippo Kratom is extremely potent, so you’ll likely need much less than you would with gas station or low-quality Kratom. Many of our customers use just 1–3 grams per serving!

Where Should I Buy Kratom?

Local shops might sell Kratom, but quality can be a gamble, especially from smoke shops or convenience stores. Inferior Kratom often means higher doses, lower effectiveness, and inconsistent results.

We recommend buying from a certified Kratom vendor like Happy Hippo.

• American Kratom Association GMP Certified

• Lab-tested, gamma-sterilized, and potent

• Massive variety of strains and products

• Stellar customer support and fast shipping

A Final Note

Kratom isn’t regulated by the FDA, and it’s not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Always do your research and speak to a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

Updated July 2025