Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali: Differences, Uses, Dosage & Effects

Comparing Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali can be rather difficult, as both strains are very similar. Well, there is! In this short read, I’ll compare the two strains so that you can decide which one is best for you.

Strain	Sedation	Relaxation	Energy	Euphoria	Physical Discomfort
Red Maeng Da	0	4	4	4	5
Red Bali	5	4	2	1	5

Red Bali vs Red Maeng Da Key Differences

Although both strains are categorized as red, they actually differ quite a bit, especially with regards to the effects they produce.

That’s because Red Maeng Da is not your typical red strain. Unlike most red strains, Red Maeng Da is more of an upper than a downer.

I’ll go over each effect individually, but for now, let’s begin with their origins.

Origin

Red Bali kratom is native to the island of Bali, while Red Maeng Da comes from Malaysia and Thailand.

Where the kratom plant (AKA Mitragyna Speciosa) is grown and harvested can have a significant impact in the level of alkaloid substances and harmful agents.

Hence, it’s a great idea to always check for 3rd party lab results.

Effects

Relaxation: Red Bali and Red Maeng Da tend to produce soothing and relaxing effects (both mental and physical), which is why red strains are commonly known as opioid-like kratom strains.

It’s great for treating stress wether it’s chronic or acute.

Energy: However, Red Maeng Da’s effects are somewhat of a cross between red kratom strains and white kratom strains, meaning it’s both stimulating and relaxing at the same time. Hence, I recommend taking it during the day.

The energy boost is great for getting through the work day, especially if it requires long strenuous work, like a pick me up.

Physical discomfort relief: Both strains produce very potent physical soothing effects, which can be used to treat physical distress.

Sleep: Red Borneo is an excellent sedater. Take it at least an hour before going to sleep as it takes a while for the sedation to kick in. However, avoid Red Maeng Da as it can have the opposite effect.

Potency

When it comes to potency and strength, I have to give this one to Red Maeng Da kratom because of its slightly higher alkaloid concentration.

The more alkaloids in the leaves, the stronger the effects.

Smells

A common question many interested users have asked in the past is, “What does kratom smell like?” The straight answer is, an earthy smell. Sometimes, it can be likened to green tea or macha.

The smell of your kratom depends on the quality and the strain. It is said that kratom smells more like matcha if it is Red Dragon Kratom.

On the other hand, Red Maeng Da Kratom has been said to have an herbal smell that’s more earthy than red strains.

Red Vein Maeng Da vs Red Bali Uses

There are different reasons why people choose to take Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali. As I noted before, the effects they produce make them suitable for various uses.

Red Bali Kratom is best for:

Those who want to experience more soothing effects
For relaxing and unwinding after work or in the evenings
Those who are just getting into kratom and don’t want something overpowering
Have trouble sleeping at night because of physical discomfort

Red Maeng Da kratom is best for:

Morning and daytime use
Those who need a pick-me-up that provides steady energy
For boosting focus and concentration
Those who want something more stimulating.

Red Maeng Da Kratom vs Red Bali Similarities

Red Maeng Da and Red Bali share a few similar effects, such as enhancing ones mood, eradicating mental stress, and relieving physical discomfort.

Additionally, both strains provide benefits that last roughly the same amount of time, ranging from 2-5 hours.

They can be consumed in the same ways, including

teas
toss and wash
capsules
Last but not least, they both come from Southeast Asia, as does all kratom.

Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali Side Effects

Red Maeng Da Kratom vs Red Bali Side Effects — Red Maeng Da Powder

Both strains have the potential to produce the same side effects. However, you can easily avoid the side effects if you start with a small dose and gradually increase over time.

The most common side effects include nausea combined with a headache and in some extreme cases, vomiting.

I have experienced both, and I’m happy to admit that neither of the two side effects are life threatening. It may take an hour or two for the symptoms to die down, but once they do, you’ll be fine.

Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali Dosage

Dosing is the same for both strains (all strains for that matter). However, there are a few factors which will affect how much Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali you need to take, such as:

Weight
Tolerance
Food in your system
Gender

Many blogs recommend universal doses. However, that can easily trigger negative side effects. The best way to find your dose is to start small and slowly increase it.

Below is the step by step process on how to find a dose that works for YOU.

Start with 2 grams of powder or 3 capsules (each capsule contains 0.7 grams of powder)

If you didn’t feel any effects, wait until the next day and add another gram or capsule.

Repeat this process until you feel the effects

Can I overdose on Red Maeng Da or Red Bali Kratom?

Yes, of course. It is not impossible to overdose on kratom, even if you have been taking it for years. This usually happens when users take a large dose of kratom along with other drugs.

When comparing Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali, both contain the same risk of overdosing.

While kratom can usually be used recreationally, it can become a dangerous drug if you are reckless about its usage. Do not take it on a daily basis as well to maximize its effects. Best take it only 2 to 3 times per week to avoid overdosing.

Reddit Users Regarding Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali

Most of the Reddit community notices the same thing when comparing Red Maeng Da vs Red Bali. They’ve noticed that Red Maeng Da is typically a lot more stimulating than Bali.

Here are some reviews to look over that I managed to obtain from kratom forums on Reddit:

“Maeng Da is nice and “uppity”. I use it for work. Bali is more of a sedating strain IMO [in my opinion].” -KaribouLouDied

“Found this to be true! I tried a diff maeng da today, and it’s very energetic. Bali put me to bed…which was great because I haven’t been sleeping so hot. Got some rad zzz’s last night!” -ciphersec

“the maeng da is stronger. some people think it is energizing while the bali is relaxing. I don’t notice a difference, other than one has more of an effect.” -PugetPower