Insomnia affects all of us from time to time. Consistent sleeplessness often results in a prescription for sleeping pills, which can have unfortunate side effects. Cannabis is a natural way to treat those restless nights – as long as you’re using the right strain. Learn about the best strains for insomnia and why cannabis is the go-to solution for so many!
How Does Cannabis Affect Sleep?
Studies into how cannabis affects sleep are lacking due to restrictions placed on using marijuana for medical research. However, the research that does exist suggests that the endocannabinoid system within our body – the system that THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids interact with – plays an important role in sleep regulation. Because cannabis successfully interacts with the endocannabinoid system, it’s fair to utilize the plant as a solution to sleeping issues.
Furthermore, additional research has found that cannabis increases Stage 3 sleep and reduces the amount of REM sleep we experience. REM sleep is the light sleep in which we dream, while Stage 3 sleep is the deeper sleep thought to be the most important for those suffering from a sleep deprivation condition.
Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid?
Not all strains of cannabis are created equal, as far as treating one’s symptoms. Indica tends to treat insomnia most effectively due to the strong, physical body high it produces, as well as its less psychoactive effects. Sativa often has the opposite effect with its energetic, uplifting “head” buzz. High-THC strains can also have adverse effects on falling asleep, so finding one with a balance of THC and CBD is ideal.
That being said, there are many hybrid strains ideal for treating insomnia, as well. Below we have compiled some of our favorites.
12 of the Best Strains for Insomnia
Northern Lights
Northern Lights, or “NL” for short, is an iconic indica strain that has earned a legendary status from growers and consumers alike. A product of crossing Afghani and Thai genetics, this strain has inspired renowned hybrids like Shiva Skunk and Super Silver Haze.
Northern Lights captivates with its dense, crystal-coated buds that often feature hues of purple, making it a visually stunning bud. And the inhale? This flower’s flavor profile is a pungent blend of sweet and spicy notes.
When it comes to effects, Northern Lights is a favorite among our budtenders, featured many times in our Staff Picks newsletters. This strain delivers a deeply euphoric high that starts with a wave of mental calm, gradually spreading through the body to relax muscles and quiet the mind. It’s a go-to choice for those battling depression, stress, pain, or insomnia, offering a sense of peace, like you’re gazing at the Aurora Borealis itself.
Look for Northern Lights at MediThrive
Blackberry Kush
Blackberry Kush, also known as”BBK,” is an indica-dominant hybrid crafted from the rich genetics of Afghani and Blackberry. This strain is celebrated for its deeply relaxing effects, making it a top choice for those seeking cannabis for sleep.
Visually, Blackberry Kush boasts dark purple buds laced with orange hairs and a shimmering layer of trichomes. Its flavor profile is equally enticing, blending the earthy richness of hash with a sweet, berry-forward aroma that’s balanced by a subtle jet fuel undertone.
When it comes to insomnia, Blackberry Kush works wonders. The powerful body high it produces gently eases tension in your muscles while calming racing thoughts, helping you drift into a peaceful and restorative sleep.
Shop Blackberry Kush at MediThrive
Purple Punch
Purple Punch is a dreamy indica-dominant strain created from the union of Larry OG and Granddaddy Purple – these two classics are known for their relaxing effects, so you know this is going to be a doozy!
This trichome-rich strain is a favorite among our customers battling sleepless nights, delivering a knockout combination of mental calm and physical relaxation that makes it the perfect nighttime companion.
True to its name, Purple Punch punches you in the face with a dessert-like aroma that’s impossible to resist. Think grape candy, blueberry muffins, and a hint of tart Kool-Aid. This sweet treat is perfect before bed.
Its smooth flavor pairs perfectly with its effects, starting with a euphoric “punch” between the eyes before it works its way through the body, easing tension in the limbs and quieting restless thoughts. For insomniacs, Purple Punch offers more than just sweetness. Its sedating properties help melt away stress, alleviate minor aches, and lull you into a deep, uninterrupted slumber.
Browse Purple Punch Cannabis Products
Wedding Cake
Wedding Cake, sometimes called “Triangle Mints #23,” is an indica-leaning hybrid and the lovechild of Triangle Kush and Animal Mints. It’s earned a bunch of awards over the years and remains a classic strain that is available across many brands.
Some cultivars are more powerful than others, so ask your budtender which one will suit your needs. You may want a budget weed with lower THC levels if you’re sensitive. Always take it slow with any strain you’ve never tried before.
Wedding Cake’s flavor profile is rich and complex, offering a tangy, slightly sweet taste with subtle earthy pepper undertones. It’s the kind of strain that’s enjoyable to smoke while still gently lulling you toward a restful night’s sleep.
When it comes to benefits, Wedding Cake delivers a one-two punch of relaxation and euphoria, calming the mind while easing the body into a tranquil state. It’s a go-to for managing pain, stress, and appetite loss, but it shines brightest as a solution for restless nights. The sedative effects take hold quickly, helping to quiet your mind and prepare you for the deep, restorative shut-eye you’ve been craving.
Find Wedding Cake at MediThrive
Cherry Pie
Cherry Pie is a indica dominant hybrid of Grand Daddy Purple and Duban Poison. Although it is hard to find the authentic version of this particular medical marijuana strain, it definitely will not be hard to believe that this is the best type of strain.
In structural composition, it has dense buds with orange hair all over and displays a slight tint of purple. Inspiring the name of this medical marijuana strain, the aroma is that of cherry pies.
It is most commonly used by patients who are suffering from evident symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, migraines and other stress-oriented syndromes. Although it may cause dry eyes and mouth upon use by the patient, it definitely helps in elevating the level of euphoria, relaxing body and mind, uplifting moods and focusing the conscience.
Search for Cherry Pie strain on our shelves.
Mochi
Mochi by is another strain that leans on the Cookie Fam lineage for flavor, potency, and stability. This phenotypic expression of Sunset Sherbet x Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies is an indica-leaning hybrid with beautiful, dense buds. Mochi’s appearance is a frosty mixture of purple and jade foliage knotted with bright red hairs.
Its effects are very similar to that of its parent strains, offering moderate pain and stress reduction while imbuing the consumer with a calm and creative aura. The Mochi strain is also known by the names Gelato 47 and Mochi Gelato.
Check if we have Mochi in stock.
Grandaddy Purple
Grandaddy Purple is a classic indica strain that smells and tastes of grapes. It produces a powerful cerebral high combined with the sedating effects of a pure indica, and is a favorite among patients whose pain keeps them up at night.
Check if we have Grandaddy Purple in stock.
Bubba Kush
Bubba Kush is a well-balanced indica that is not too high in THC, making it an ideal choice for those who lack sleep. It offers relaxation and ease, not to mention the sweet flavors of rich chocolate and coffee.
Check if we have Bubba Kush in stock.
Girl Scout Cookies
The beloved Girl Scout Cookies hybrid strain offers knockout sedative effects while also treating pain, anxiety, and other conditions that keep you up at night. Try it as an edible to guarantee a peaceful, all-night slumber.
Check if we have Girl Scout Cookies in stock.
Tahoe OG Kush
Tahoe OG Kush is a top nighttime hybrid, as it provides an extremely lazy, heavy body sensation. Due to superb breeding, Tahoe OG embodies all of the typical indica effects with an added euphoric, sativa-like kick.
Check if we have Tahoe OG Kush in stock.
God’s Gift
This indica is not for the cannabis beginner. It produces a heavy body high that instills a deep sense of peace and relaxation. With the lingering smell and taste of berries, you’ll find yourself floating away into sleep.
This is a very old strain that may be difficult to find.
Khalifa Kush
Khalifa Kush, or Wiz Khalifa OG, is a hybrid that was bred specifically for the rap artist Wiz Khalifa, who claims it descended from an OG strain. The effects and aromas are similar to that of OG Kush: sour lemon and pine, with an active cerebral buzz that can nevertheless aid in a restful night’s sleep.
Check if we have Khalifa Kush in stock.
Get the Best Strains for Insomnia Here
Stop by Medithrive today for the best strains for insomnia! Our budtenders are knowledgeable and compassionate, and will help you find the right strain for your sleepless symptoms. You can also order online seven days a week, and delivery is free over $50!
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