Kratom Strains: Red, White, Green and Gold

Walk up to any kratom menu and the first thing you're asked is a color. Red, white, green or gold? If you've never ordered before, that's not much to go on. Here's what the colors mean and how to pick one.

Where the colors come from

Kratom is sold under color names that refer to the leaf and how it's dried and processed after harvest. The names are industry convention rather than precise science, and two products with the same color can differ. Think of the colors as a useful starting point, the way "light roast" and "dark roast" are for coffee.

The four on our menu

White: for lift

White is commonly described as the most uplifting of the three main colors, and it's often chosen earlier in the day.

Green: for balance

Green sits in the middle. If you're not sure where to begin, it's a sensible first pick.

Red: for ease

Red is commonly described as the most relaxing of the three, and it's often chosen in the evening.

Gold: the blend

Gold is our mixed blend. It's a good option once you've tried the others and want something in between.

How to choose your first strain

• Tell us about your day. Heading somewhere after, or settling in for the night? That's usually enough for us to suggest a color.
• Start with a 12 oz House Brew. It's brewed kratom tea and nothing else, so you can tell what the strain is like.
• Give it 15 minutes. Sip slowly and see how you feel before ordering more.
• Try one color per visit. It's the easiest way to learn what you like.

Beyond the House Brew

Every kratom drink on our menu can be made with the strain you choose:

• House Brew: your choice of strain, hot or iced.
• Citrus Iced: lemon, lime and fresh mint.
• Ginger & Honey: served warm, good on a cold night.
• Kratom & Tonic: over ice with tonic and lime.

Keep it sensible

Whatever the color, the same rules apply. Kratom is for guests 21 and over. It can be habit-forming with frequent use. Don't combine it with alcohol, sedatives or other medication, and don't use it during pregnancy. The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use. Our guide to kratom tea covers the risks and Colorado law in more detail.

Come try one

BulaBula brews kratom tea at 195 S Union Blvd in Lakewood, just west of Denver, from 11am to midnight every day. Learn more on our kratom page or plan your visit.