As a big cannabis fan, I’ve noticed that strains with high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) are becoming more popular due to their therapeutic advantages. CBD strains offer several benefits such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory properties, without causing intense psychoactive effects commonly linked to high THC strains. CBD-rich strains often provide a more balanced and nuanced experience, attracting users who prefer a milder and more grounded effect.
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Each strain of cannabis has its own combination of terpenes (aromatic compounds that affect the scent and flavour), as well as the overall effects through the entourage effect. This synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes can influence the therapeutic outcomes. To choose a CBD strain that suits your health needs and desired effects, it’s important to know the specific terpenes in each strain.
This blog will show you ten cannabis strains with high CBD content. It will highlight the main terpenes in each strain to give you an idea of what to expect when using them. Having a clear understanding helps when dealing with the complex aspects of cannabis. It allows for making informed decisions, whether you’re looking for pain relief or interested in the relationship between CBD and terpenes in different strains.
What Is CBD and Its Importance in Cannabis
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Unlike its well-known counterpart, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t produce the ‘high’ commonly associated with cannabis use.
One of the key elements of CBD’s significance is its potential medical benefits. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties, and research shows its effectiveness in managing pain and anxiety.
The presence of CBD in cannabis strains is also crucial because of the entourage effect. This is the synergistic interaction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis, which can potentially enhance therapeutic outcomes. For instance, when CBD is combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes, it can moderate the trippy effects of THC while contributing to the medicinal profile of the strain.
CBD’s importance extends to its interaction with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate various physiological processes, and CBD’s action within this system could explain some of its health benefits.
You may be surprised to read that technically, CBD Is Psychoactive. The blog goes on to ex[plain more.
Overview of Terpenes in Cannabis
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, but in cannabis, they’re responsible for a wide array of scents and flavours. These compounds not only influence my sensitivity to the unique fragrance of each strain, but they can also modify the effects of cannabinoids like CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) through a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
Here, I’ll outline the primary terpenes found in CBD-rich strains:
- Myrcene: This is typically the most abundant terpene in cannabis and is characterised by an earthy, musky scent somewhat similar to cloves. It is commonly found in other plants such as hops, thyme and mangoes. Myrcene has sedative and relaxing effects which help with insomnia, as well as recognised anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects with osteoarthritis.
- Pinene: Pinene is known for its sharp, sweet pine aroma and helps to enhance alertness and memory retention. It’s one of the most common terpenes in nature and gives feelings of serenity and tranquillity.
- Caryophyllene: This terpene has a spicy, peppery aroma, much like cinnamon and black pepper. Caryophyllene is unique for its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system by binding to the CB2 receptors. This contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties which help to relieve chronic pain and anxiety and even boost your immune system.
- Limonene: Limonene has a citrusy smell and is most found in citrus fruit rinds. It’s a great terpene to boost energy levels and improve your mood, which contributes to overall stress relief. This gives a reduction in cortisol levels which means a boost in your immune response as well as antianxiety and antidepressant effects. It’s another of the terpenes that has a good anti-inflammatory effect as well as being an antioxidant.
Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress, which in turn reduces inflammation. It helps other cannabinoids to be better absorbed through the skin as well as the gut, which can improve digestion. It helps to moderate the trippy effects of THC which reduces anxiety levels when using full spectrum cannabis products. - Humulene: Known for its herbal, hop aroma, Humulene has good anti-inflammatory properties which are effective in conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases, especially when combined with CBD. It’s a good antibacterial terpene that helps with pain management and relaxation, and also has appetite suppressant properties.
- Linalool: This terpene has a very floral, lavender scent, and it will be no surprise to learn that it has calming and antianxiety effects. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system of the body and contributes to the entourage effect whereby the effects of other terpenes and cannabinoids are enhanced when it is present. It can reduce pain signalling in the brain, leading to pain-relieving and sedative effects. This is especially effective for post-surgical surgery where the normal protocol would be to use opioid pain relievers.
- Terpinolene: Because of its fresh, floral aroma with a twist of pine, this terpene is often used in perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics, as well as a food flavouring agent. From my point of view, it is slightly sedative and helps me get in a relaxed state of mind which helps with my anxiety and difficulty sleeping.
It’s an interesting terpene because it normally appears in sativa-dominat strains which are generally uplifting and energising and this is definitely what you find if the strain has a lot of THC as well. However, when the strain has more CBD, the terpinolene lends a much more relaxing experience that is very calming. It is also a good antibacterial and antifungal terpene with a good antioxidant effect which reduces inflammation.
Each strain of cannabis has a distinct terpene profile that results in its unique scent and flavour. These profiles can influence not only the sensory experience of using cannabis but could also play a significant role in the effects each strain has on my body.
If you want to know how to infuse your High CBD strains into Olive oil to use for edibles, or to use as a topical body oil, read this blog post here.
Considerations for Choosing High CBD Cannabis Strains
When I select a cannabis strain high in CBD, I consider several factors to meet my specific needs. Understanding the cannabinoid profile is crucial. I ensure the strain offers a significant CBD to THC ratio, aiming for higher CBD for its non-intoxicating effects. This means that the strain can be used throughout the day without wiping me out. I will still be able to function well and think clearly. It’s also a good way of microdosing.
Terpene content also plays a crucial role. Terpenes such as Myrcene, Limonene, and Pinene contribute to the strain’s therapeutic potential and influence aroma and flavour. For example, myrcene is known for its relaxing properties, while limonene has a mood-elevating effect.
Here’s a simple checklist to assist in choosing the right CBD-rich strain:
- Potency: Check lab reports for CBD levels.
- Terpenes: Look for desired terpenes that enhance the therapeutic effect.
- Legal status: Ensure the strain is compliant with local cannabis regulations.
- Grow information: Consider if the strain can be cultivated at home or if it’s only available through dispensaries.
I also examine the intended use; whether I’m seeking relief from anxiety, pain, or inflammation helps narrow down my choices. I read reviews and study experiences of others to understand the potential effects and benefits.
Lastly, trial and error is often necessary. My body chemistry is unique, and what works for others may not work for me. I start with a low dose to monitor how I respond to a particular strain before making it a regular part of my regimen.
Harlequin
Harlequin is a sativa-dominant hybrid known for its high CBD to THC ratio, typically around 5:2, making it a popular choice for those seeking therapeutic benefits without intense trippy effects. It gives you a mellow feeling of relaxation without feeling sedated, and you will feel very clear-headed.
This strain is particularly effective for pain and anxiety relief because the CBD levels counteract any high or potential paranoia from the THC. It’s important to note though, that the THC levels contribute to the overall efficacy of the CBD. The primary terpenes in Harlequin are Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene, and Limonene.
Ringo’s Gift
Ringo’s Gift is a CBD-dominant strain named in honour of cannabis activist, Lawrence Ringo. It is known for its unique CBD to THC ratio, which can go as high as 24:1, making it a popular choice for people who want to feel calm and a little uplifted, without strong THC effects. The primary terpenes in Ringo’s Gift are Linalool, Myrcene, Pinene, and Caryophyllene.
ACDC
ACDC is a CBD-dominant strain known for its high CBD content and low THC levels, making it non-psychoactive. It is valued for its beneficial properties, offering both mental and physical relaxation without intoxicating effects. It is especially effective for chronic muscle spasms. The primary terpenes are Myrcene, Limonene, and Pinene.
Charlotte’s Web
Charlotte’s Web is recognised for its high CBD content and low THC levels, making it particularly sought after for those looking to avoid getting high. It makes me feel calm yet energised at the same time. It’s a very happy and relaxed feeling. The primary terpenes found are Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Humulene.
Cannatonic
Cannatonic is renowned for its high CBD content, but the effects do not last a long time, This could be useful for getting relaxed in bed to sleep better. It is very good for relief of muscular spasms, and is great for lifting your mood. This hybrid strain typically possesses a CBD-to-THC ratio of around 2:1, making it a popular choice amongst medical users. The primary terpenes are Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Linalool.
Sour Tsunami
Sour Tsunami is renowned for its high CBD content and is often chosen by those seeking relief without feeling in any way stoned. It has a very fast onset and relaxes muscular spasms quickly. This is popular amongst people who suffer with arthritis and fibromyalgia. It gives a very clear-headed effect without any anxiety. The primary terpenes are Myrcene, Terpinolene, and Pinene.
CBD Critical Mass
This is a hybrid cannabis strain renowned for its high CBD content and therapeutic benefits. The strain typically offers a balanced ratio of CBD to THC, leaning slightly in favour of CBD dominance, and carries a robust profile of terpenes that contribute to its distinctive aroma and therapeutic effects. It is a good choice for sleeping at night, although it can still be used during the day as well if you want a relaxed, happy and soft focus day. The primary terpenes are Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Linalool.
Valentine X
Valentine X is a CBD-rich strain with a CBD-to-THC ratio of around 25:1, making it an excellent choice for medical patients and those looking to reap the benefits of CBD without the potent psychoactive effects of high THC levels in many other strains. This strain is very good for easing joint pain and muscle spasms. The primary terpenes are Myrcene, Pinene, and Caryophyllene.
Suzy Q
Suzy Q is a top-tier cannabis strain well-known for its high CBD content and minimal THC levels, giving you a very relaxed and euphoric state of mind. It is very good for numbing both physical and emotional pain – sometimes it is nice to have a “day off” from how you normally feel.The primary terpenes are Myrcene, Pinene, and Caryophyllene.
Remedy
I am going to highlight ‘Remedy’, a cannabis strain that is highly sought after for its CBD richness. It’s well-known for its euphoric qualities, significantly due to its robust cannabinoid profile that delivers relief without getting high. It’s a very clear-headed feeling that is extremely calming. It can help to calm an upset digestive system, and also stimulate your appetite. The primary terpenes are Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Humulene.
Conclusion
I’ve explored a variety of cannabis strains renowned for their high CBD content, which can offer a range of therapeutic benefits without the intense psychoactive effects typically associated with THC. Understanding the specific terpenes in each strain is crucial, as these contribute not only to the aromatic profile but also to the overall therapeutic outcome. If your country allows legal marijuana, take the opportunity to consult with a budtender for more specific information.
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