Kratom is a plant, a tree, that naturally grows in the rainforests of Borneo. Officially known as Mitragyna speciosa, Kratom is sometimes also referred to as “ketum” in Indonesia. Historically, Kratom was used by manual laborers to give them energy, relieve fatigue, and thus increase productivity while working in the tropical heat. It was also used to treat ailments, provide relief from pain, and evoke a feeling of vigor and euphoria. Traditionally, the fresh or dried Kratom leaves were chewed, smoked, or brewed into tea.

In recent years, Kratom is becoming more and more popular in Western countries. Kratom is a rather versatile plant that claims to (seemingly counterintuitively) both give you an energy boost and provide relaxation, depending on the strain. Although there are lots of different strains, there are three main types of Kratom: Red, Green, and White. The difference lies both in the color of the veins of the leaves and the process for which the leaves are dried. Besides that, these different colored strains also have different effects. Red Kratom is said to be relaxing and have an analgesic effect. Green Kratom, on the other hand, is said to boost energy levels and improve vitality. Lastly, White Kratom is said to give cognitive boosts, meaning improved focus, mood, and feelings of euphoria.