The Best Cannabis Strains for Sleep
The Best Cannabis Strains for Sleep
Of all the medicinal benefits derived from Cannabis use, improved sleep is the most popular. 65% of California cannabis users say they have used cannabis as a sleep aid. Using cannabis for sleep is also one of the most significant entry points for adults who have never tried cannabis. Many say they use cannabis to break away from prescription sleep aids, with overwhelmingly positive results.
According to the Sleep Foundation, a coalition of doctors focused on sleep research, the science of cannabis-induced sleepiness has a lot to do with cannabinoids, the compound within cannabis which induces its effects. When these cannabinoids bind to the cannabinoid receptors in your brain, "they send messages to increase levels of sleep-promoting adenosine levels and suppress the brain's arousal system."
The Sleep Foundation also reports that short-term cannabis use extends your time in the "deep sleep" phase of sleeping, the stage known to refresh the mind, but less time in the REM phase, where dreaming and processing occur. The decrease in REM sleep time has been proven beneficial for those who deal with frequent nightmares.
However, not all cannabis strains are created equal. There are generalizations about the differences between Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid strains and their effect on relaxation.
Indica cannabis strains are commonly referred to as "Inda-Couch" for their relaxing, body-high feeling. According to Healthline, Sativa strains tend to have less CBD and more THC and are more stimulating than their counterparts. Indica typically has higher CBD than Sativa but no less THC. Hybrid strains are a unique combination of Sativa and Indica and can have different effects and percentages depending on which is dominant in the strain. Most of the strains we recommend for sleep are of the Indica variety.
When you break it down on a strain-by-strain level, specific terpenes in each cannabis strain can alter the plant's smell and taste. For example, a strain that smells particularly peppery or spicy probably has the terpene Caryophyllene, whereas Limonene may produce a more citrusy scent. Terpenes recommended by Healthline for sleep are Terpinolene, Myrcene, and Caryophyllene. But which strains are the best for promoting that good night's sleep, and what are they like?
Based on a combination of publicly available research survey data about the sleep effects of various cannabis strains, here are the best cannabis strains for sleep
GG4 - originally referred to as Gorilla Glue, but changed based on copyright infringement, is an ultra-relaxing hybrid guaranteed to "stick" you to your nearest comfortable seat. Three of the dominant terpenes found in GG4 are Caryophyllene, giving you a peppery spice, Myrcene, enhancing the herbal flavor; and Limonene, adding a bright citrus element for a flavor profile that also produces a comfortable, sleepy high. GG4 is a prevalent recreational strain, winning awards in multiple cannabis competitions.
NORTHERN LIGHTS -Named for the awe-inspiring nighttime shows of Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights strain is another natural wonder many people have come to love. Among the most famous Indica strains of all time, Northern Lights' beautiful purple buds are known to help those dealing with insomnia, pain, and stress. Containing the same terpene flavors as GG4, Northern Lights has similar effects but with a more dominant amount of Myrcene. This strain generally contains less THC than GG4, decreasing psychoactive effects. Northern Lights may be perfect if a good night's rest is your main goal.
OG KUSH - This Hybrid also known as Premium OG Kush hails from cultivations in Florida in the 90s, and is supposedly a cross of some more great cannabis strains from Northern California and Amsterdam. With dominant terpene notes of Myrcene and other notes of limonene and caryophyllene, OG Kush is known to smell citrusy, skunky, and even spicy. With a high THC content, the potent OG Kush is often used to ease stress when winding down, making it perfect for someone who wants to hop into bed and maybe watch an episode of their favorite tv show. This happy, sleepy strain is ideal for the soon-to-be dreamer.
If you know your optimal dosage, then proceed accordingly, but take your time. If you are unsure, start with a small amount and then slowly increase your dosage until you find a level that opens the mind. Research shows that lower doses produce more consistent results salient creative thinking. Cannabis for creativity is meant to enhance the experience, not be the experience...
HINDU KUSH - Hindu Kush, aka "Hindi Kush," is a potent Indica best for moderate to experienced consumers. This strain originated in the mountain range its namesake comes from, stretching for hundreds of miles between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Because of the mountainous growing conditions, Hindu Kush is uniquely coated in a layer of crystals for its protection and your enjoyment. Its earthy, sweet aroma is from terpenes Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene, and Humulene, known to evoke a deep sense of calm.
GRANDDADDY PURPLE - A gorgeous purple Indica with a grapey flavor profile you'd expect. Higher in potency, the Myrcene dominant strain "GDP" induces euphoric relaxation. Other nicknames for this strain include "Grandaddy Purps," and "Grandaddy Purple Kush." Any purple granddad is probably this strain. This strain is a California cannabis staple, seen in many dispensaries state-wide. The strong body high from indulging in some of this purple will leave you on the couch while your mind travels and floats along with dreamy thoughts. This common stress reliever is great for sleep.
ACDC - The strain, not the band, is a Sativa dominant Hybrid known for a high CBD to THC ratio, proving you don't need a high THC percentage to be good for sleep. In fact, this strain is MOSTLY CBD, so it's perfect for beginners or those with low tolerance. Terpenes like Caryophyllene, Myrcene, and Pinene give this strain a citrusy and floral scent. With little to no intoxicating effects, you won't be "high" from a few puffs of this strain, but you'll probably be pretty sleepy… or at least calm. Many medical patients choose this strain for its pain-fighting advantages and low psychoactive effects.
PINK KUSH - A broad mix of terpenes come together to create the sweet and flowery Indica-dominant Hybrid. The most significant terpenes in Pink Kush are Carene, Myrcene, Geraniol, and Phellandrene. The "OG Kush" relative is covered in crystals, making the effects of this strain incredibly potent. Even small doses of this strain have been known to relax users and induce hunger.
GSC - also known as GIRL SCOUT COOKIES, this Indica-dominant Hybrid has a sweet and earthy smell. Two dominant terpenes find in this cult classic are Linalool and Limonene. This strain is also known to induce hunger, as well as to be uplifting and stress relieving. As a more THC-potent strain, GSC is more geared towards those who can handle more substantial psychoactive effects and those looking for quick relief from symptoms.
GELATO - Continuing with our dessert-themed strains, the sweet and fruity "Gelato strain is another Indica-dominant Hybrid. The primary terpenes responsible for the sweet aroma are Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Linalool. Gelato has been known to ease the pain of physical ailments and boost mental stimulation. As a more THC potent strain, less experienced users may want to take it one puff at a time. If you're looking to dull some achy muscles and relax into a good night's sleep, many cannabis users believe Gelato will do the trick.
WEDDING CAKE, Also known as "Triangle Mints #23," this highly potent Hybrid has a strong sweet and earthy taste created by terpenes Caryophyllene, Myrcene, and Humulene. These terpenes reportedly relax and calm the body and mind, lulling you into a comfortable state of being in preparation for sleep or relaxation. The flavor profile is unique - peppery, spicy, sour, and sweet. Wedding Cake is also a very potent strain; those with a lower tolerance should take it a bit slower when using.
See our other articles on the best cannabis strains for creativity:
Creative Imagination deals mostly with divergent thinking by removing barriers and judgment for more free-flowing and effective brainstorming.
Creative Awareness, which sees an increase in pattern recognition, allows for a newfound sensitivity to the aesthetic of the world around you.
Creative Reflection involves looking inwards for self-discovery or memory recollections, which can result in deeper connections of empathy.
Creative Focus helps make ‘out of the box’ connections possible while rumination on a specific, complex problem.
