By: Shelby Cokeley
Looking for the best weed for pain? By 2020, 33 states have legalized medical cannabis usage, 11 of which have also legalized recreational use.
And, these stats may continue to rise as more citizens across the United States are accepting the idea of legalizing cannabis, especially for its medicinal properties.
In fact, according to a 2019 Pew Research Center survey, just over two-thirds of Americans say cannabis usage should be legal, reflecting a steady increase over the last decade.
RELATED: How I Used Cannabis To Treat My MS, Chronic Pain, and Depression
As the wear and tear of our fast-paced, ‘the grind never stops’ lifestyles continue to take their toll, people are looking for ways to combat their pain in new ways.
Many are left searching for a solution to screen-time induced headaches, their desk-job back pains and their mental health hang-ups. Luckily, cannabis can sometimes provide just that: a solution.
Below is a breakdown of some of the most popular and most loved strains of cannabis known to help ease pain. This list was curated from a combination of dispensary suggestions, strain analyses and user testimonials.
Best weed strains for pain
| Strain Name | Type of Strain | THC % | Best For | Effects |
| OG Shark | Hybrid | 25% | Headaches, chronic pain | Sleepy, relaxed, creative |
| White Widow | Sativa | 20% | Malaise, migraines | Relaxed, euphoric, creative |
| Jack Herer | Sativa | 15-24% | Chronic aches and pains | Energetic, creative, euphoric |
| Lemon Sour Diesal | Indica | 16% | Fatigue, restlessness | Social, relaxed, happy |
| Pink Kush | Indica | 20% | Body pains and nausea | Euphoric, relaxed |
STRAIN #1
OG Shark for pain
Hybrid
OG Shark acts as a 50/50 hybrid, thought to be the popular byproduct of a cross between Diesel and Blueberry strains. The relatively new strain has origins to Canada and definitely packs a punch among new cannabis smokers at 25% THC.
Strain effects & feelings
Though it’s an even split hybrid, OG Shark has strong cerebral effects. It often makes people feel joyful, inspired and helps them zone in on specific tasks at hand. However, this is accompanied by a calming body high that helps relax muscles and relieve tension in the body.
Typical effects according to Wikileaf
- Relaxed
- Happy
- Euphoric
- Creative
- Sleepy
Good strain for pain – headaches & chronic pain
The strain is coveted by those with insomnia or high levels of stress. Issues with chronic migraines, dizziness and especially headaches can also be combated with OG Shark.
In a 2018 study by the Journal of Headache and Pain, out of 42 different preferred treatment strains reported by patients, OG Shark was “the most preferred strain in both the positive ID Migraine™ and headache as primary symptom groups,” and ranked number one amongst those with chronic pain as primary illness.
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STRAIN #2
White Widow for pain
Sativa
White Widow is a sativa dominant strain — 60% — well known as a cross between Brazilian indica and South Indian sativa landraces. As a product of the 1990s, the strain has had time to establish itself in the cannabis market and travel far beyond its Dutch origins. It often floats around 20% THC, with some sporting just slightly larger percentages and therefore more intense highs.
Strain effects & feelings
This strain is known for its very cerebral high as well, enabling users to remain acutely aware of their surroundings and keep up with social interactions without missing a beat. In fact, it may even bring out the chattier, creative side of people in certain instances.
Typical effects according to Wikileaf
- Euphoric
- Creative
- Energetic
- Relaxed
- Cotton Mouth
Good strain for pain – malaise & migraines
Because of its joyful and uplifting effects on the mind, White Widow is also known to curb overall fatigue and malaise. Some users cite the strain as extremely efficient in relieving migraines as well.
STRAIN #3
Jack Herer for pain:
Sativa
Jack Herer serves as another just slightly sativa dominant strain — 55% — named after an American cannabis rights activist and author of “The Emperor Wears No Clothes”, often referred to as the “Emperor of Hemp.”
The strain was created in Amsterdam, some time between the 1980s and 90s and serves as a nice entry strain for new smokers as well as experienced due to its THC range — usually between 15-24%, as measured by Analytical 360’s Cannabis Laboratory.
Strain effects & feelings
The Dutch-originated favorite is notorious for providing users with creative energy, assistance in brainstorming / visualization and smooth sailing conversation facilitation.
Users are left feeling in complete control of their body, but with a mellow stimulation — think of it as a nice cup of herbal tea, sure it will provide energy, but in a balanced and soothing way.
Typical effects according to Wikileaf
- Euphoric
- Energetic
- Creative
- Cotton Mouth
- Focused
Good strain for pain – chronic aches & pains
This strain acts fast, giving users a nice tingly rush from head to toe. Although, it’s not recommended for bedtime use because of its creative, thought-stimulating effects. Jack Herer can serve as a real daytime treat for those suffering from chronic aches and pains as well as migraines.
RELATED: How Cannabis Helps Me Be A Better Mom Despite My Chronic Pain & Illness
STRAIN #4
Lemon Sour Diesel for pain:
Indica
Lemon Sour Diesel is an indica dominant strain — 55% — and byproduct of two popular others; California Sour and Lost Coast OG. This citrusy, skunky strain offers users moderate levels of THC, averaging around 16%.
However, the strain does pack a large body-high punch that acts almost immediately and brings with it immense relaxation.
Strain effects & feelings
Lemon Sour Diesel is like the yin to Jack Herer’s yang; it provides an immediate body high, radiating from the mind, out toward the limbs. Though it does provide a quick burst of energy for some, most users cite a happier and easy-going feeling. And, the strain’s come-down may result in a nice afternoon nap on the couch.
Typical effects according to Wikileaf
- Euphoric
- Happy
- Relaxed
- Focused
- Social
Good strain for pain – fatigue & restlessness
With its slightly higher indica properties, Lemon Sour Diesel can provide the perfect shut-off switch for those suffering from pain close to bedtime is used heavily.
It’s known to curb issues involving mental and physical strain as well as erratic, uneasy sleep, allowing users to drift off away from their daily stressors.
STRAIN #5
Pink Kush for pain:
Indica
Pink Kush is a no-nonsense indica strain — 90% — and believed to be a descendant of OG Kush. Popular in Canada and the PNW, the pleasing strain averages levels out around 20% THC and brings with it a combination of relaxation and jubilation.
Strain effects & feelings
This strain may be a perfect match for those with an already giggly, spritely personality, as it only intensifies these feelings of overall joy.
It’s sweet, berry-like flavor doesn’t leave a bad taste in anyone’s mouth, nor a negative thought in their head. But, it is known to cause the munchies — so beware!
Typical effects according to Wikileaf
- Relaxed
- Sedated
- Euphoric
- Creative
- Cotton Mouth
Good strain for pain – body pains & nausea
Pink Kush is widely recognized for successfully combating aches, pains and physical uneasiness. It also does a great deal in calming nerves and, in larger doses, provides restful sleep.
In that same 2018 study by the Journal of Headache and Pain, Pink Kush ranked just below front-runner OG Shark amongst those with chronic pain, tied for second alongside CBD House Blend.
To sum it up
So, which strain of cannabis for pain is best for me?
Ultimately, no one strain is the perfect fit for everyone, nor every pain and ailment — that’s why there’s so many different types.
Cannabis use, for any reason, is a process of trial and error in finding the best fit for yourself, your individual needs and your preferred high.
While the challenge of finding what works best for you can seem daunting, with the proper research and a trusted dispensary it can also prove to be an exciting adventure.
So light up, lean back and let cannabis do its job — melt away your pain with your new favorite strain.
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