By: Stacey Kearney
The utilizing of cannabis and cannabis products in the treatment of health conditions is ever-evolving.
Constant research is being carried out to show the benefits in everything from pain relief to regulating seizures in epilepsy.
The results are impressive and shine a light on it’s many positive uses. Here we take a look at the 8 best cannabis strains for sleep and how they can aid your nighttime routine….
Best cannabis strains for sleep
Sweet and Sour Widow
A gentler indica dominant strain. This one is great for beginners who are thinking of introducing a cannabis aid to their nighttime routine.
It’s make-up is half CBD, half THC making its effect much more mild. It offers a sweet onion aroma and would be a good choice for any user not keen on THC-heavy strains.
Users have found its effect to be relaxing and mild but not overpowering. Good analgesic properties for pain relief and surprisingly can have an aphrodisiac effect!
Right now there is ongoing research to determine its primary terpenes.
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Granddaddy Purple (GDP)
An indica cross of Purple Urkle and Big Bud, this strain is gaining traction and serious popularity, it is known for its purple hue and sweet berry/grape taste.
Selling in most retail outlets it shouldn’t prove too hard to source. It offers up an unmistakable fruity taste and contains all the good terpenes associated with relaxation such as beta-caryophyllene, myrcene and limonene.
Myrcene is known to produce a drowsy, sedative effect. It can be a powerful treatment for insomnia but may prove a little strong for a novice user.
Tahoe OG Kush
Fast acting hybrid strain which leans more on the indica side but delivers the kick of sativa. Produces an almost immediate effect on both mind and muscles.
Users commonly report feeling a heavy body sensation so it is best used at night time. Produces an earthy lemon taste when lit.
Limonene accounts for up to 34% of its terpene profile so expect a strong citrus vibe with hints of pine and wood. It also helps with a restful night’s sleep so when morning time does come you’ll feel totally refreshed.
Northern Lights
A better known indica strain, Northern lights has undergone a lot of changes since its usage began all the way back in the 1980’s.
It has been adapted into a powerful and potent pain reliever and one of the most trusted strains for a satisfying night’s sleep.
There are few people who haven’t heard of its award winning properties by now. Terpinolene vibes are strong here and account for its famed sedative effect.
Produces a spicy and earthy aroma with fruity undertones. Its roots can be traced back to Afghanistan.
9 Pound Hammer
True to its name and nature, 9 pound hammer delivers a hammer-blow to insomnia and ensures even the most restless of sleepers gets what they pay for.
An indica strain heavy in myrene and pinene, it offers up berry and grape aromas but in a milder, not too sweet form.
Users report a relaxing body high that proves more than welcome to a night-time routine. Owing to its potency, this strain is better suited to a seasoned cannabis user.
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Ogre
Sharing a lot of similar properties with 9 pound hammer this strain is also heavy in myrene which gives it its signature zesty citrus vibes.
It is indica dominant and a phenotype of award winning sensi star. Particularly popular with users in the state of Colorado.
Known as a “knock out” strain, it induces a euphoric high which subsides into relaxing waves felt throughout the body. Find a comfy spot on the couch to really appreciate the full effects of the ogre experience.
Remedy
Remedy is perfect for a first-timer or novice user. With virtually no THC and a high CBD content in its makeup, it produces no psychoactive effects.
These properties make it increasingly popular in its usage as a medicinal strain. It is an indica dominant cross between cannatonic and afghani skunk.
It can be used during the day as well as in the evening owing to its mild nature. For people with sleep issues it can aid a racing mind and slow a user’s mood to one of relaxation.
Afghan Kush
Last but certainly not least in terms of performance, it’s the Afghan Kush. Its early roots can be traced back to the Hindi Kush mountain range near the Afghanistan/Pakistan border where it gets its name.
It is powerful in delivering an all-body high that is felt all round. It is an almost 100% indica strain. The initial earthy scent subsides into a pleasantly sweet aftertaste.
It acts as an impressive sedative and also induces a “heavy” sensation within the body which will leave you craving little else but sleep.
Commonly known to stimulate an appetite also. A known ingredient of Afghani hash, Afghan kush should be sampled at least once for any seasoned cannabis user as it delivers an authentic experience.
To conclude, it’s clear from all strains profiled that cannabis is powerful and effective in inducing the relaxation crucially needed for sleep.
The likes of Remedy and Sweet and Sour Widow appeal to the less experienced user looking to indulge in a experience with milder effects whereas those needing a strong body high to enter sleep should look at 9 Pound Hammer or Afghani Kush.
Those out for a less psychoactive experience should lean more on the CBD side and focus on a strain with a high CBD content.
The web is a treasure trove of information right now for users seeking out info and reviews, it is an invaluable tool in deciding which purchase to make.
Obviously location is also a deciding factor in the availability of each strain. It’s important to review trusted sites and arm yourself with reliable information before making your purchase.
When you do find the perfect strain that’s right for you, you’ll understand why cannabis is becoming more revered as an impressive sleep aid.
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Stacey Kearney is a writer who focuses on cannabis culture and lifestyle.