Here are 10 of the most popular cannabis strains around. Every year, new cannabis strains with higher THC levels are introduced, but these top 10 cannabis strains are true classics and have stood the test of time and built strong reputations. They are reliable and well-tested.
This article provides profiles for various cannabis strains and links to reliable seed suppliers for those growing their own. Cannabis use is now legal in many US states and several other countries globally. There has been a significant rise in cannabis strains, as many growers aim for higher potency.
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What Is The Strongest Cannabis Strain That You Can Get?
Before answering that question, let’s first talk about what makes a strain of cannabis strong. Different cannabis strains have different levels of THC and CBD. THC is the compound in marijuana that produces a high, whether vaped, smoked, eaten in edibles, or used in skincare. It stimulates the brain and makes you feel high, among a range of other benefits.
Top 10 Cannabis Strains & THC Content
The strongest weed strain can vary between harvests due to differences in light and growing conditions when cultivated at home. Commercial growers have much more control over these factors. Plant nutrition and the precise time of harvest can make a big difference in the amount of THC. It’s not just about THC either; the terpene content can vary hugely.
The strongest cannabis strains have a THC content of around 30%, and this may increase as breeding techniques improve. In 2003, the average THC content of cannabis was about 6%. In 2018, thanks to specialised growing genetics, the average yield was 15%. That is only going to keep getting higher, I am sure.
As a regular user of cannabis, I am definitely interested in trying the highest-THC cannabis strains. You can tell which cannabis strains are strong based on the level of THC compound in their buds. On this list, I have researched and consolidated some stronger cannabis strains, averaging at around 19% to 25%. These cannabis strains are autoflowering, allowing for an average seed-to-harvest time of about 90 days.
Fast growth cycles not only yield quicker results but also reduce the likelihood of bug and pest problems since the plants don’t stay around long enough for pests to invade. Autoflowering strains tend to have slightly lower THC levels than their photoperiod parents, but they are not as dependent on light cycles, and all of these strains are really easy for a beginner to get started with.
I chose them for their specific and desirable effects, not just the highest THC levels. I’ve provided links to a reputable seed supplier that offers international shipping. Since they are seeds, they are legal and classified as novelty items. What’s not to like?
Here are ten different cannabis strains that you can experiment with – either for medicinal use or recreational purposes. All of them are excellent for making skincare products, edibles, or just for smoking or vaping.
Bruce Banner Autoflower
As the alter ego of The Hulk, you might expect Bruce Banner strain to be a bit of a thug. Far from it – this hybrid strain is mostly Sativa (70%) with some Indica (30%), and combines Strawberry Diesel and OG Kush. The aroma is quite simply a floral and diesel combination with earthy, sweet undertones.
The THC level can easily be 21% to 26%, and it gives your head a good, energised buzz with loads of creativity. This alleviates chronic pain throughout your body, making it popular for medical use.
This strain is ideal for relaxation, yet it also elevates your mood to a state of happiness and focus. It has the ability to uplift anyone, leaving them feeling cheerful and joyful. It’s particularly well-suited for evening use after a long day, providing a calming yet uplifting experience.
- Limonene is the dominant terpene for stress relief. It helps reduce stress, boost mood, and promote feelings of happiness.
- Myrcene and Humulene play a key role in alleviating pain.
- Eucalyptol is highly effective in reducing chronic pain.
- Tiredness and fatigue arise from the activation of two types of receptors: CB1 and CB2. These receptors interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, helping the body maintain energy balance, so we can stay energised and productive all day.
White LSD Auto
This is a strong Sativa hybrid of White LSD strain, along with Ruderalis.It’s a perfectly balanced hybrid giving equal Sativa and Indica traits. Less than 1% CBD; the THC level kicks in at about 20% to 24%. Not the highest that we have seen, but boy, does it kick in!
This hybrid strain delivers a strong cerebral high and calming physical relaxation, making it suitable for any time of day. Users value its stimulating mental boost and stress-relief benefits, making it great for recreational and medicinal purposes. Its balanced genetics provide a satisfying high that caters to a variety of preferences.
- Delta-3-Carene and Linalool are effective in reducing arthritis symptoms.
- Alpha-pinene and Beta-Pinene are beneficial for managing arthritis, asthma, and inflammation.
- Myrcene, Terpineol, and a high concentration of Linalool induce a relaxing and sedative state, promoting sleepiness.
- Myrcene and Humulene play a significant role in alleviating pain.
- Eucalyptol is particularly effective for chronic pain relief.
Do-Si-Dos Autoflower
This is another of the autoflowering cannabis strains that can get 18% to 20% THC with just 1% CBD. It’s really easy and quick to grow. It has a triple lineage of Ruderalis, Girl Scout Cookies, and Face Off OG which makes it a wonderful combination to ease what is sometimes called a “tired mind” or to ease your aches and pains.
It’s a nice balance of Indica and Sativa. This provides a balanced experience, combining euphoria with relaxation. It features a subtle cerebral stimulation that enhances mental clarity while also inducing a soothing physical calmness. It’s wonderful for a night in binge-watching TV.
- Tiredness and exhaustion are influenced by the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, helping our bodies maintain balance and feel great throughout the day.
- Myrcene and Humulene play a key role in reducing pain.
- Eucalyptol is particularly effective in alleviating chronic pain.
- Limonene is the dominant terpene for stress relief, known for its ability to reduce stress, enhance mood, and promote happiness.
Hindu Kush Autoflower
This strain is a result of cross-breeding Stardawg with Hindu Kush and Ruderalis. It is strongly indica-dominant, which makes it very calming and, with this strain in particular, an enjoyable tranquillising effect. For me, the sensation is almost like slipping into a warm bath. As the weed kicks in, there is almost an “Aaaahhh” as I feel the Indica body stone envelop me. It also works really well in my foolproof weed brownie recipe.
The THC level averages between 22% and 24%, and it readily takes you to a place of happiness.
- Myrcene, Terpineol, and high concentrations of Linalool promote a deeply relaxing and sedative state, making it beneficial for improving sleep quality.
- Delta-3-Carene and Linalool terpenes are effective in reducing arthritis symptoms.
- Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene provide support for arthritis, asthma, and inflammation.
- Myrcene and Humulene terpenes are known to alleviate pain effectively.
- Eucalyptol is particularly helpful in managing chronic pain due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
OG Kush Autoflower
This is a cannabis strain that is indica-heavy, resulting from a cross between the legendary OG Kush and Ruderalis which gives an easy-to-grow, fast-growing plant. The CBD levels are usually less than 1%, and the THC typically is about 17% to 24% – and she hits hard!
It’s a balanced 50/50 mix of Indica and Sativa, but it mostly provides the calming and relaxing effects typical of Indica strains.
From the first inhale, you get a mellow body high, which melts away stress.This permeates through your body, leading to fast and complete relaxation. No wonder it is a favourite with people who have anxiety and PTSD. You can float around in this wonderful state or, if insomnia is a problem for you, simply go to bed and drift off to sleep.
This strain would beautifully complement Black Spruce Essential Oil or Fragonia™ Essential Oil to be used in this Soothing Balm Formulation.
- Caryophyllene and Linalool are known to help reduce depressive symptoms, promoting a positive and uplifting mood throughout the day.
- Myrcene, Terpineol, and high levels of Linalool can create a calming and sedative effect, encouraging relaxation and sleep.
- Myrcene and Humulene are effective in reducing pain.
- Eucalyptol further enhances relief from chronic pain.
Gorilla Purple Auto
This hybrid is a cross of Gorilla Glue #4 and Purple Punch. It’s a nice 50/50 hybrid with an equal Sativa to Indica ratio. The THC level is between 20% and 24%.
It can quickly improve your mood, enhance creativity, and relieve stress and pain. That is the effect of a well-balanced hybrid strain.
- Delta-3-Carene and Linalool terpenes play a significant role in alleviating arthritis symptoms.
- Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene also contribute to managing arthritis, asthma, and inflammation.
- A combination of Myrcene, Terpineol, and high concentrations of Linalool promotes relaxation and sleepiness. Myrcene is renowned for its sedative properties, effectively promoting faster sleep onset and enabling deeper, more restorative slumber.
- Myrcene and Humulene terpenes are effective in reducing pain.
- Eucalyptol relieves chronic pain and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, and research shows it is helpful for various chronic conditions.
Magnum Auto
Magnum Auto was produced by a Dutch seed bank that did not want to reveal the lineage. It is heavily Sativa, which makes it very uplifting and a great strain for creativity and focus. In social situations, you will be a very engaging chatterbox!
This was the first cannabis strain I ever grew myself. It is really easy to grow and gives a quick harvest. I wanted 2% CBD for inflammation but still wanted to stay functional and not just collapse on the couch. Magnum really does a fantastic job with a bountiful harvest! A THC level of 12% to 14% is low, but it offers great therapeutic benefits and promotes genuine happiness. It reduces pain and relieves stress, making it easier to live your life and sleep better.
- Delta-3-Carene and Linalool terpenes play a significant role in alleviating arthritis symptoms.
- Alpha-pinene and Beta-Pinene are also beneficial for managing arthritis, asthma, and inflammation.
- Myrcene, Terpineol, and a high concentration of Linalool can induce a sedative effect, promoting sleepiness. Myrcene, in particular, is known for its potential sedative properties.
- Myrcene and Humulene are terpenes that contribute to pain reduction.
- Eucalyptol is especially effective for chronic pain relief.
- Research suggests that cannabis-derived terpenes can offer effective pain relief for various conditions, including arthritis and neuropathic pain.
Cookies and Cream Auto
Cookies and Cream Auto is a classic cannabis strain, popular for its balanced blend of Sativa and Indica. A hybrid of Girl Scout Cookies and Starfighter, along with an auto strain, gives you THC levels between 20% and 22%.
It’s very popular in medical marijuana dispensaries as it is deeply relaxing, like a comforting hug. Your mind is gently buzzed, but you still retain mental clarity. It is excellent if you want to create a calm and creative space, or simply relax after a long day. After a full and productive day, it’s easy to drop off to sleep. It’s a good strain to use in these Cannabis Lotion Bars.
- Caryophyllene is the key terpene for alleviating anxiety and depression, promoting a sense of relaxation and calm.
- Fatigue is influenced by the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors, which interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. This interaction helps the body achieve an energy balance, keeping us refreshed and energised throughout the day.
- High levels of Myrcene and Eucalyptol combine with the other terpenes in this strain to help ease migraines
Tropicana Cookies Purple Autoflower
This cannabis strain is a cross between Tropicana Cookie and OG Kush Auto. The THC is mid-range between 18% to 24%.
As a Sativa-dominant strain, it is perfect for daytime use as it is energising and stimulating, but the Indica lineage gives you a relaxing body high. Truly a strain that gives you the best of both worlds.
This is another strain that is good for microdosing during the day, to use as and when you need it. It can lift you out of anxiety and depression during the day and still keep your wits about you. It promotes physical relaxation without being overly sedative.
- Delta-3-Carene and Linalool terpenes are effective in reducing arthritis symptoms.
- Alpha-Pinene and Beta-Pinene provide support for arthritis, asthma, and inflammation.
- Myrcene, Terpineol, and high concentrations of Linalool promote deep relaxation and a sedative effect, making them beneficial for improving sleep quality.
- Myrcene and Humulene terpenes are known to alleviate pain effectively.
- Eucalyptol further enhances relief from chronic pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Pink Runtz Autoflower
This is a perfectly balanced Indica and Sativa strain with a 50/50 ratio. Again, the CBD is less than 1%, but the THC levels are usually 20% to 24%. It’s a Ruderalis cross with Zkittles and Gelato, so expect some very fruity flavours and aromas.
It is frequently used by people who have pain issues such as arthritis and possible nausea from the medication they have been taking. You get an overall great sense of relaxation which feels blissful as the pain melts away. The resulting buzz as your mind is freed can be quite euphoric. It works well for microdosing throughout the day or for an evening of letting go and chilling out.
- Caryophyllene and Linalool play a crucial role in alleviating depressive symptoms, potentially contributing to a more positive day.
- Myrcene, Terpineol, and a high concentration of Linalool can induce a sedative effect, promoting sleepiness and helping with insomnia.
- Myrcene and Humulene are terpenes known to trigger pain reduction.
- Eucalyptol makes it particularly effective for chronic pain relief.
Conclusion
Exploring the world of cannabis strains reveals a diverse range of options, each with unique effects and benefits. High-THC strains provide strong pain relief and enjoyable experiences, but it is essential to consider personal needs and tolerances.
A more balanced THC to CBD ratio may help reduce negative effects for those with severe anxiety or PTSD. Ultimately, seeking expert guidance is crucial in selecting the right strain to achieve the desired therapeutic or recreational outcomes. These ten classic strains are perfect for starting your cannabis journey, whether you seek relaxation, pain relief, or euphoria.
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