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Kratom Strains Explained: What Expert Researchers’ Lab Tests Reveal About Red, Green & White

Boffa et al. • Published 2018 in Natural Product Communications

Study Summary

This lab-based study analyzed five kratom strains — Red Bali, Red Thai, Red Malay, Green Malay, and White Borneo — for their alkaloid content and in-vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The researchers quantified 11 different alkaloids using liquid chromatography and tested anti-inflammatory effects in mice using a formalin-induced paw edema model. The goal was to assess whether differences in kratom color and strain type correspond to measurable chemical or biological activity.

Key Insights

  • 11 alkaloids quantified, including mitragynine, speciociliatine, paynantheine, and corynoxine.
  • Strain-dependent variation in alkaloid profiles was observed — especially for mitragynine and speciociliatine content.
  • Red strains showed the most potent anti-inflammatory activity in mice (Red Malay > Red Thai > Red Bali).
  • Green Malay showed moderate alkaloid content and activity, while White Borneo was lowest in both.
  • Higher mitragynine content was not always correlated with higher bioactivity — other alkaloids likely play synergistic roles.
Alkaloid composition by kratom strain (Boffa et al., 2018)

Our Take

This study supports the idea that kratom strains differ in their alkaloid composition — and that these differences can influence physiological effects. While not a human trial, it provides a strong chemical and biological basis for treating red, green, and white strains as distinct products. Importantly, it suggests that alkaloid synergy — not just mitragynine content — may underlie effects like pain relief or sedation.

Scoring Snapshot

Study Type:
Lab + Animal Study
Sample Size:
5 strains tested
Strength of Evidence:
Moderate (preclinical)
Risk of Bias:
Low (controlled design)

Why It Matters

This study is one of the first to link specific kratom strains with measurable biological activity in a controlled setting — providing a biochemical foundation for strain-based effects often reported by users.
Medically Reviewed by J. Lott, PharmD, MPP
Dr. Lott is a pharmacist and public policy expert working at the intersection of harm reduction and clinical research. Read full bio →

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