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Premium kratom products available at Cigar and Smoke Shop in Hanover, Maryland
KratomNovember 10, 2025·9 min read

What Is Kratom? A Complete Beginner's Guide

Learn everything about kratom — what it is, the different strains (Red, Green, White Vein), how it's used, and where to find quality kratom in Maryland.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Today, kratom is available in the United States as a dietary supplement in various forms including powder, capsules, and extracts.

Kratom Strains Explained

Kratom strains are categorized by the color of the leaf vein and the region where they're grown. Each strain has distinct characteristics.

Red Vein Kratom

The most popular strain category. Red vein kratom is known for its calming properties. It's the most common choice for evening use and relaxation.

Popular varieties:

  • Red Bali — Balanced and widely available. A great starting point.
  • Red Maeng Da — Stronger than standard red strains
  • Red Borneo — Known for smooth, long-lasting effects

    • Green Vein Kratom

    Green strains offer a balance between the calming effects of red and the energizing effects of white. Many users consider green strains the most versatile.

    Popular varieties:

  • Green Malay — Long-lasting, balanced effects
  • Green Maeng Da — Versatile and popular
  • Green Borneo — Smooth and moderate

    • White Vein Kratom

    White strains are associated with energy and focus. They're the most popular choice for morning or daytime use.

    Popular varieties:

  • White Maeng Da — The most energizing strain
  • White Borneo — Clean energy without jitters
  • White Bali — Milder white strain, good for beginners

    • How Kratom Is Used

  • Powder — The most common form. Mixed into drinks, smoothies, or taken with water.
  • Capsules — Pre-measured doses in gelatin or vegetable capsules. Convenient and tasteless.
  • Extracts — Concentrated forms for experienced users. More potent per dose.

    • Dosage Guidelines for Beginners

    If you're new to kratom, start low:

  • Low dose (1-2 grams): Mild effects, good for gauging sensitivity
  • Moderate dose (2-4 grams): Standard range for most users
  • Higher dose (4-6 grams): Stronger effects, recommended only after experience

    • Always start with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually.

    What to Look for in Quality Kratom

  • Third-party lab testing — Ensures purity and absence of contaminants
  • Reputable vendor — Buy from established shops, not gas stations
  • Fresh stock — Kratom potency can degrade over time
  • Proper packaging — Sealed, labeled, with batch information

    • Kratom at Cigar and Smoke Shop

    At our Hanover, Maryland location inside Arundel Mills Mall, we carry a carefully curated selection of premium kratom from reputable vendors. Our staff can help you choose the right strain and form for your needs.

    We stock:

  • Multiple strains of powder and capsules
  • Red, Green, and White vein varieties
  • Maeng Da, Bali, Borneo, and Malay origins
  • Both single-strain and blended options

    • Visit us at Arundel Mills Mall or call 443-755-5141 for questions about our kratom selection.

    Visit Cigar and Smoke Shop

    Arundel Mills Mall, Suite 334, Hanover, MD 21076

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