The 6 Best Kratom Strains for Pain (Use, Vein Types & More)
Enso 
Here’s the deal,
Anyone who suffers from pain knows that it can suck the happiness and vitality from your bones.
… and this article was written for those who want a way to fight that pain in a smarter way.
Right now, we’ll jump into finding the right kratom strains, dosages, vein types, and preparation methods to effectively tackle your pain.
Why use Kratom for Pain?
As far into the past as we can see: people in Southeast Asia have used kratom to effectively kill pain.
The best part?
Kratom is free from many of the side effects of other pain medications.
However, the catch is: not all kratom strains provide equal pain relief.
… and this can make finding the best kratom strain for pain trickier for new users.
The good news is that there are some time-tested ways to make this process much easier.
Best Kratom Strains for Pain Relief
For those who are solely interested in finding the best kratom strain for pain relief, here’s your quick cheat sheet.
Top Strains for Pain
… and for those who want to find your own ideal strain, there are two easy questions that you should ask:
- How much pain relief do I need?
- Do I prefer a stimulating, neutral, or sedating strain?
By that alone, you’ll be able to make good choices when it comes to strains.
… and even if you aren’t sure what you would prefer, experiment! That’s the real tried-and-true method.
Below, we’ll dive into the effects of kratom strains and different vein types to help you find your best fit.
Indo, Borneo, and Bali
When looking for pain relief, a great place to begin is with the Sunda Strains (Indonesia, Borneo, Bali, Malaysia, Sumatra, …)
Indo strains (Borneo and Bali included) are some of the best kratom strains for relieving pain.
… but these strains can also be sedating, which may not be for everyone.
Luckily, there are alternatives (which we’ll get into below).
Bali Kratom Effects
For pain relief, the difference between these three strains is relatively small compared to vein type and seasonal potency variations.
However, note that:
Bali, Indo and Borneo all tend to be somewhat sedating, which may not be great for everyone.
The bigger differences between these strains lies in their other effects.
Bali, for instance, tends to be more prone to cause “the wobbles” than either Borneo or Indo, but is one of the most reliably potent strains for pain.
While Borneo and Indo tend to be smoother in effects and are often better for stress and anxiety.
Maeng Da
Maeng Da — the “king” of kratom strains — is one of the most popular due to its powerful pain-relieving and energetic effects.
Maeng Da Effects
However, some find Maeng Da to be too stimulating. As such, using it for pain may not be a great choice for everyone!
Take note that the characteristics of Maeng Da can vary from supplier to supplier, and so it may take some trial and error before finding the ideal variety for you.
Because each individual has different body and brain chemistry, the best way to know if it’s for you is to test it (at a low dose)!
Malaysian Strains
The middle ground of kratom strains. Malaysian kratom is slightly less effective for pain relief, but tends to cause less sedation than Borneo and Bali strains.
Malaysian Effects
Because of this, these strains can be great for anyone who wants a strain that doesn’t interfere with energy levels.
But take note:
Malaysian strains can vary in pain relieving potential. For this reason, you may have to go through some trial and error before finding a reliably potent and pain relieving Malay strain.
Thai
Although Thai is not commonly considered to be among the best pain-relieving strain, it is worth noting that some varieties (particularly red vein Thai) can have pain relieving potential.
Where Thai kratom typically shines is when you’re mostly looking for energy, but not at the expense of too much pain relief.
Finding the Right Vein Type
Choosing the right vein type is absolutely key to getting optimal pain relief.
There are three common vein types to be aware of:
- Red Vein
- Green Vein
- White Vein
Red Vein Effects
In summary:
Red vein kratom tends to be overall better for pain relief than other strains, but also comes with more sedation than the other varieties.
If you’re looking for a pain relieving strain for evenings or don’t mind a little bit of sedation, red veins are likely your best option.
Green Vein Effects
Green vein kratom is another very viable option for pain relief.
Greens tends to be more balanced in effects than reds, cause much less sedation, and tend to last longer overall.
This characteristics can be very helpful when looking for a strain with longer-lasting pain relief without losing alertness.
White Vein Effects
White vein kratom is less effective for pain, but it can provide some pain relief as well as a kick of energy.
… And white veins are incredibly useful for blending with other more sedating and pain relieving strains.
In this way, you can choose your own ideal balance of pain relief and energy.
Preparation Methods for Maximum Effectiveness
Preparation is an important aspect of getting the most pain relief out of your kratom.
Common methods that are effective for pain include:
- Mixtures
- Capsules
- “Toss and Wash”
If you choose to use capsules, we suggest capping them yourself. The price for kratom in capsules is exorbitant compared to the cost of the pain leaf.
For mixtures, many have found stirring or shaking the leaf powder in a juice or in yogurt very effective.
Be Aware:
The “toss and wash” method, while effective, involves taking the powder whole and washing it down with a liquid.
If you choose this route, start with low doses, as it can go painfully (and hilariously) wrong before you get the technique down.
Because of the solubility of alkaloids found within kratom, it is often less effective to make tea out of the leaf if using it for pain relief — that is unless you drink the leaf material as well.
The reason for this is that many fat-soluble alkaloids may not be fully absorbed into the water, reducing its effectiveness.
Dosage
Although dosage can be vary from person to person, there is one key fact to remember:
Always start low!
Typically dosage from pain varies from between 4 to 8 grams, but everyone is a little bit different!
If you’re new to kratom, I suggest taking a teaspoon or less your first time.
After that, you can find out what amount works best for you.
Note that with kratom, less is often more.
… so don’t work your dosage to the 8-10 gram range unless you find it absolutely necessary.
What is the Best Kratom for Pain?
The best kratom for pain is red vein kratom, specifically the strains: Red Indo, Red Bali or Red Borneo. If you’re looking for a strong kratom for pain without any sedation, Red Maeng Da is an ideal option. Green veins strains also work very well for pain, but they are less reliable than red veined varieties.
Kratom and Pain: How does it Work?
One of the most common questions I am asked is why kratom is so effective in this regard. However, to understand the answer, you have to understand how pain works.
When an injury occurs, such as a bruise or burn, affected nerves send a message to the central nervous system, which causes many responses in the brain.
One of these responses is the to produce endorphins and enkephalins which dampen the perception of this pain.
Alkaloids found in these leaves, especially 7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine, function very similarly to the body’s natural pain-killers.[1]
In the brain, these alkaloids increase signaling (agonize) several receptors.
This reduces the perception of pain of almost all varieties, from the sharp sting from a cut to the dull bone-deep ache of lower back pain.
Because of this, when looking for a good kratom strain for pain and anxiety, you will want to find a strain that is high in 7-hydroxymitraginine content.[2]
One of the most amazing things about kratom, is that it is a plant.
This gives us the ability to breed strains for specific qualities and features, which over time can make for an even more effective treatment for pain and potentially help reduce any potential side effects.
Whether you are dealing with back pain, tissue pain, or any other aches, we hope have a better idea of how to start.
[1] https://jaoa.org/article.aspx?articleid=2094342
[2] https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/348/3/383.short
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This is the most informative, thoughtful, and well written kratom info site I have visited. I think the medical disclaimers are very smart, given the real possibility of an FDA crackdown on kratom. The kratom site I visited previous to this was very careless in how they presented kratom information, which is actually counter-productive to its own business and the kratom industry overall. I am more likely to purchase from a vendor who provides information in a balanced and thoughtful manor.
baili and maeng da are the best for pain I have no pain when using either on I take 2teaspoon mix with hot water so it will resolve you’ll know what I mean when u order yours just use a 14 cup and make sure u drink all of the leafy stuff and it last about 4to512hrs seriously it’s crazy I know I wish I knew about this awhile ago oh the best sight it only takes 2days and cheaper and ask for free samples itskretora.com good luck
You share interesting things here. I think that your blog can go viral easily and i know how to do it, just type
in google – mimesis content advices
Thanks for great info on this I am so tired of opiates for pain I really hope this is better for me
looking for what is best for pain management. The above article says red vein kratom is best for pain. Is there just a red vein kratom or does it go buy another name.
Hi John I use Bali,green Malay,and red Kali and I and I have no pain I can’t believe it that it works that good I have herniated disk s and fibromyalgia I know it’s crazy that this stuff works this good and it’s not a narcotic I order my stuff from KRATORA and ask for or the free samples you get 2 10mg of your choice you write it in the special comments box and it takes 2,3, days to get it you have to order before 12noon. Good luck
I found your information very good. It’s hard to know who to trust with so many sites. I will be trying some of the Happy Hippo products. Some one recomended that site to me. Mostly looking for pain relief without to much sedation. Thanks for the info.
Do you sell capsules? Has 5 back surgery’s. what is the strongest strain for extreme pain
I suffer from lower back pain degenerative disks arthritis & have been treated with so many bad meds. I pulled myself off of tramadol went to the hospital again & this time I was told I had serotonin syndrome, that was 3 yrs. ago & I don’t like these pain meds. Or these diabetic meds which I now am taking because in pain management they gave me shots in my back which did no good & cuased my diabities to come come back , after I worked so hard to get better several yrs ago.now with this pain in my feet & legs I’m looking back to kratom. I had felt better on kratom . I had red vien & white vien, kinda funny cause I got that off of amazon.no longer of course. I have left super premium Bali, super green Malay & maeng da thia. I no we all can of course react differently to the different strains.so I’m also posting to see if anyone can have a recommendation as to which might be best. The pain & anxiety have gotten worse because I don’t want to continue on the pain meds , or anxiety meds or those wild crazy anti depression meds , thanks for being here & I wish everyone the best ! I wish I would have stayed with the kratom.
That sucks I have that same stuff wrong with me I tried kratom I couldn’t believe I wasnt in pain any more I wouldn’t believe anyone if they told me a plant can do that let me tell you I haven’t been in pain I swear it’s crazy I know I can do everything in so happy it sucked when I couldn’t do every day shit so I order my stuff through KRATORA and ask for the free sample every time you order and iv e haven’t had any depression and anxiety I get Bali and Thai good luck
I’ve been a chronic pain suffering male on Oxycodone 10 ir, 20 & 30 xr, soma 350mg and a host of 23 other medications.
I purchased the red leaf powder hoping to cut down on the severity of my pain.
someone please guide me though this new found way of treating pain and boosting energy levels
Ibam seriously looking for serious pain relief… 52yrs old and have tried everything from hydrocodone to heroin ..I am swearing off opiates until they are Decriminalized. So until hell freezes over.. what strain works best for pain ??/
I have the same problem I was on 75mg feht. Patches oxys you name it I try them let me tell you IV been using kratom for a month IV been pain free I swear I wouldn’t believe it if someone told me that I’m not using any thing else I use Bali and Kali and the energy ID crazy I’m 51 and wanted to get off of the pills and everything else because you know the older you get the harder it is with the prescription shit it takes a toll on your body i m telling you it works the vender I go through is called KRATORA and ask for the samples every time you order I spend about 200.00a month it’s worth it good luck
Green bali
Maeng da
Thats what u need
From my experience Red Bali
Thanks. I am trying it for pain that has not yet been diagnosed. Hip that runs down to my knees.
Susannah you might want to get X-ray of hips to rule out problems with hip joint.I went for two years with increasing pain and stiffness until an X-ray clearly showed need for hip replacement therapy.Have been using meang-da strain for increase awakeness and concentration with good result.In retrospect think it was helping with pain management from hip joint needing replacement surgery.Just took dose of kratom to see effect on pain.Have been using ibuprofen and norco10/325 for last 4 days with not great effect on pain.Also prefer not to use those meds because of their side effects.i am also getting ready to make blend of turmeric,black pepper,and ginger to help with inflammation and pain.
Sounds like sciatica
Susannah – I have a similar problem. The doc said it’s likely a pinched nerve. There is a hair-like nerve that runs over the front of the hip bone and down the leg. If I stand too long, or work the leg too much – it will start to burn. And it will get worse. And no, the surgeon who gave me a new hip has not been able to help. ‘Don’t work it so hard’ is the most I’ve received. There may be no cure.
I have been having that same pain for 9 yrs. With a few diagnosis as to what it is. Then finally Monday my Dr said it was the Bursa in my thigh that is now bursitis along with some sciatica.
So he done a steroid injection with lidocaine and said it should relieve the pain about 50%. And finally after all those years I found a Dr that was right. My pain has reduced
That is sciatica.
Hi. I have fibromyalgia, RA, neurological damage and pain, brain injury, neuropathy hip displagia. I have severe pain and want to know what do you suggest. I am tired and the pain dos not react to pain meds and i am on so many different meds currently, my stomach hurt all the time now. Can you please help me. Could you email me please. Thank you so much from my heart,i appreciate it.
So far the Red Bali has been the best for my sciatica. I’ve tried Maeng Da and white Thai I believe that was the name.
The extract works wonders. I have neuropathy and took one shot of kratom extract and I swear on everything, it gave me the same pain relief as any opiods except for fentanyl. I seriously recomend it. My only regret is not having found kratom sooner. Its a miracle plant for those seeking pain relief. It also helped me with withdrawls from pills! Which is a blessing in its self. My only regret is having not found this sooner!!!
So where does a person find out which is the best for pain?
Hi! Very new to Kratom but so far…may be able to use for PM! Decades of narcotics-everything from Oxy’s to Morphine…ready to get off this merrry-go-round!!
Rx’d 30mg ms contin-3xday-with 10mg Oxy IR 3x’s day breakthrough!
What I’ve tried of Kratom!
1st. Day.-Red Vein Maeng Da-very sedating at 5grams after 45 mins.
After 1hr.-added 2 gr.-Red Vein Thai-worked on pain but added to sedation-
Nausea & Eyes dilated. Effects enhanced after drinking potentiator(?) (rice)milk & protein shake at 1hr.! Had to lay down & slept 3 hrs(daytime)! Woke & normal again.
10pm-took 4gr.-Red Vein Super Indo…loved it!! Not as sedating,slightly euphoric. Great for pm! Slept great all nite(insomniac)!
2nd day.-tried 4gr.of Red Vein Borneo…30mins slight euphoric/head buzz…overall PM very good!
45 mims-Drank (rice milk & protein) shake but didnt potentate like it did yesterday!
Nice mellow/energetic pain-free buzz!
Really like Red V.Borneo!
I’ll keep playing with red vein varieties!
1st day-was able to cut down to 1 ms contin pill(3 a day) & no breakthrough! 2nd day-no meds yet at 1pm-yayyyy!
Tx OA/DDD,Spinal Stenosis,fibro/cfs,lymes!
i am a 62 year old man and have been on pain meds. for bout 25 years. im retiring from my job and need to get off these meds. for tha last 6 years i have been precribed lortab 10,s. i need a kratom for pain so i can get off these meds. and wondering what the best strain would be, because the withdraw is hell can anybody out there give me some sound advice?
I have incredible pain form bilateral inoperable full rotator cuff tears and lumbar stenosis/herniated discs/degenerative disc disease, etc….My opioid dose got so high, I almost died…i became perpetually anxious/anxiety ridden and started to have pretty bad cognitive dysfunction…so I ripped myself off opiates with Suboxone ( which also was a bitch to get off). Now I’m done with opiates but in daily chronic pain. Currently I find high quality RED BALI, RED MD, AND RED GOLD ( a Lifeforce product) to be best for pain. Some greens can give some moderate pain relief without sedation, but whites and yellows offer virtually no relief for me and are stimulating. Only problem is, its best to rotate strains to reduce tolerance and I need relief everyday. So I try to rotate with different red types and use a green every 3rd day or so to try to keep tolerance at bay. I want to add a Sumatra strain to my regime if i can find one. I wish all struggling with pain the best of luck and relief.
Have severe spinal stenosis & osteoarthritis.. doctor recommended I try Kratom.. I use herbs, make capsules.. Need to know which best for day pain and night pain to help sleep.. Thank you
I have used most kinds…if anxiety is an issue don’t go white or green these have higher caffeine effects…I have chronic pain and that brings on anxiety….so I take about three teaspoons of red Bali… miracle that it works!! Tho at times I feel the uneasiness still but trying some ways to deal with that issue…so that’smy advice….and it works longer than pain meds!!
I find that red vein does tend to help more with pain and can be a little sedative. I have fibromyalgia so I hurt all over especially in the morning. I usually take a green strain in the a.m. that gives a little energy and the red strain in the evening. It works wonders. I usually take days off now and then and alternate strains to avoid tolerance issues. I am so appreciative of kratom because it is so much gentler than pain meds on the body.
The red thai maeng da seems to be the bezt for me it kills the pain and relaxes me for about5 hours. I use my pain killers in between taking kradom. So insyead od taking pain killers 3x a day i take them once and kratom once or twice depending on how my day goes with my pain. Hope this may help. LG
I just spoke to my Son an hour ago and we both suffer chronic pain. He takes 7 roxicodone 15 ml. per da, I take the same but take only 3. He said that one day he ran out and began going to intense withdrawals (restless legs syndrome, diarrhea, high temperature and so forth). A friend introduced him to Kratom. I don’t know what strain it was but he took about 6 capsules, and he was absolutely amazed at the results. All the withdrawal symptoms went away including his pain. So he had bought a bunch that would last him about 3 years. He say’s they work just as well as the opioid and lasted the same amount of time. He is going to send me some to try. But that he also said Legislation is trying to ban this product. That’s why he bought so much before he could no longer buy it. How in the world can this be banned when it could change many from using opioids and going through all the side affects that comes from them? Really Crazy.
I got off of pain meds 3 months ago and switched to Kratom. I take green Malay in the morning and red indo at night. I’m fortunate enough to have a delivery service here in okc. I read about it prior on your blog and I’m glad I did. Thanks you saved me
I have found that for me Red Thai works best for dull nerve pain. And the reason is its long duration..
It is also a really strong leaf but its duration easily exceeds 7hours with most dose sizes(at least for me) which is why I think its an overpowered strain for pain management. Easy to sleep for 12hours pain free, especially if you take an additional dose(~1/2 of the initial dose) an hour before you go to bed.
I tried kratom yesterday for first time been disabled for about eleven years was so jacked up ss didn’t fight me I’ve been on all kinds of strong opioids for years I have degenitive disc 15bad disc’s stenosis screws and plates in my neck and lumbar laminectomy and I am truly impressed
Your site is very informative. Thank you so much.
Pain clinic does not allow it
I like how this website answered everyone’s questions…..
How much kratom should I use for pain per dose,and how often is,acceptable
Love Have been diagnosed with chronic pain Im currently on strong opiates like morphin and oxy. I have been on them for so long my body has become tolerant to them. Can anyone tell me what strain is best for the chronic pain
What’s happening legally? Any news?
This is my go-to site for up to date Kratom info. It’s very informative & well put together. Thank you!