Red Kratom vs Green: Which One Is Right For You?

Let’s get started. 

Kratom, also known as Mitragynine Speciosa, originates from the regions of Southeast Asia, in countries like Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, with the latter being responsible for 95% of all kratom exports worldwide.

The tropical climate and nitrogen-rich soil make Southeastern Asian countries the perfect setting for cultivating kratom.

However, not all kratom colors are created in the same manner. The factors listed below all come into play.

• Maturity stage
• Drying Processes (AKA Curing)
• Fermentation

Most colors are derived from red strains, but they are harvested at different stages in the trees’ maturity, dried for different time periods, and/or put through different fermentation processes. The results are a change in the alkaloid makeup of each strain and thus, a different color.  

Many people have called us in the past complaining about their red strain looking more like a green strain. Howevever, that is absolutely normal. Every batch will vary.

For the most part, however, red strains will be a darker shade of red that looks almost brown, while green strains actually look like a type of green.

Also, when making tea, red powders tend to be more difficult to filter, as the consistency is slightly different than green strains.

Interestingly, green strains produce a stronger scent and bitter taste than red strains. I believe this to be the reason because of the cultivation process, which I'll explain below. 

The dosage for green and red strains is the same.

If you’ve never used kratom, check out the table below for suggested starting doses. Just keep in mind to never take kratom twice on the same day if you’re new to the plant, as doing so will significantly increase the odds of experiencing side effects. 

Both green and red strains have the potential to produce side effects if misused or abused.

The most common side effects include:

• Dry Mouth
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomit

Dry mouth and constipation are caused by failing to drink a sufficient amount of water while using kratom.

Nausea and vomiting are induced by using more kratom than your body can handle. As you consistently use either red or green strains, your tolerance will continue to increase.

When you’re new to kratom, the chances of experiencing side effects are significantly higher, which is why earlier I suggested taking kratom only once a day, at least until you become a more experienced user.