Kratom

Welcome to the Express Highs Kratom hub — your go-to resource for honest, well-researched information about one of the most talked-about botanicals on the market today. Whether you’re entirely new to kratom or a seasoned enthusiast looking to deepen your knowledge, this is the place to start. We cover strains, effects, dosing guides, product comparisons, legal updates, and the latest science — all written with the European consumer in mind.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom is the popular name for Mitragyna speciosa, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia — particularly Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. It belongs to the same botanical family as the coffee plant, and its leaves have been used for centuries by local communities as a traditional remedy for fatigue, pain, and low mood. Workers in the region would chew the raw leaves to get through long, physically demanding days in the heat.
Today, kratom is consumed in a far wider variety of forms: fine powders, capsules, extracts, resins, and teas. Its two primary active compounds — mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine — interact with receptors in the brain, producing effects that vary significantly depending on the dose. At lower doses, users commonly report increased alertness, a lift in energy, and improved focus. At higher doses, the experience shifts toward relaxation, a sense of calm, and mild sedation. This dual character is one of the reasons kratom has attracted such a diverse audience across Europe and beyond.
The Different Strains Explained
One of the first things you’ll notice when exploring kratom is the variety of strains available, typically categorised by the colour of the leaf vein at harvest: white, green, and red.
White vein kratom is generally associated with energy and mental clarity, making it a popular choice for daytime use or as a morning routine supplement. Red vein kratom tends to be the most sedating and is frequently chosen for relaxation and evening use. Green vein kratom sits somewhere in between — a balanced option that many users find versatile throughout the day.
On top of vein colour, you’ll encounter regional names like Maeng Da, Bali, Borneo, Malay, and Thai — each with a distinct alkaloid profile and reputation among the kratom community. Our articles break down each strain in plain language so you can make an informed choice.
Kratom and the Law in Europe
If you’re based in the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe, understanding the legal landscape is essential before you buy. The short answer: kratom is legal in the Netherlands. It is not listed under the Dutch Opium Act (Opiumwet) as a controlled substance, and it is freely sold in smartshops and online. The Netherlands is widely considered one of the most accessible and transparent kratom markets in Europe.
However, the legal picture varies considerably across EU member states. Countries including Belgium, France, Italy, Sweden, and the United Kingdom have banned kratom outright or placed significant restrictions on it. Others, like Austria, Spain, Hungary, and Malta, currently allow it without specific restrictions. The EU has no unified regulation on kratom, which means you absolutely need to check the laws of your own country — and any country you’re travelling to — before purchasing or transporting it.
We keep a close eye on legislative developments across Europe and regularly publish updates in this category, so you always have the most current information available.
What to Look for When Buying Kratom
Not all kratom is created equal. The quality of kratom products can vary enormously depending on the supplier, country of origin, processing methods, and storage conditions. When shopping, you should always look for:

Lab-tested products with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) verifying alkaloid content and the absence of contaminants
Transparent sourcing — reputable vendors will tell you where their kratom comes from
Proper packaging that protects the powder from moisture and degradation
Clear strain labelling so you know exactly what you’re getting

Our blog covers product guides and what to watch out for, helping you navigate the market with confidence.
A Note on Responsible Use
As with any botanical supplement, kratom deserves respect and a thoughtful approach. We always recommend starting with a low dose, understanding how your body responds, and never combining kratom with alcohol or other substances. Kratom is intended for adults only and is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication, consult a healthcare professional before use.
The articles in this category are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice.

Browse the articles below to explore everything from beginner’s guides and strain comparisons to legal news and product reviews — all the kratom content you need, in one place.