11 Life Changing Weed Strains For Sleep And Insomnia

weed strains for sleep

Cannabis Strains For Sleep - Everything you need to know

Identifying the best weed strains for sleep is a common debate among cannabis users.

And even if you’ve never taken cannabis before, but you find sleeping a struggle, then this article is for you too.

The cannabis plant remained illegal in the United States for a long time until detailed research was carried out to understand the medicinal benefits.  

Scientists are confident that marijuana can help in relieving the symptoms of chronic Insomnia and other sleep-related issues.  

It can improve the quality of sleep and help in reducing the detrimental effects of long sleepless nights

Weed For Sleep And Health Problems

People suffering from certain health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, muscle spasms, and rheumatoid arthritis may use powerful weed strains for sleep, to drop off faster, and have a restful sleep

Recent studies have also shown that using weed strains for sleep has a positive effect on calming restless leg syndrome.

Sleep-wake cycle is usually disturbed by pain, anxiety, and insomnia.  

Cannabis can significantly help in reducing the symptoms of chronic Insomnia and blocks the pain signals as well.  

However, we know that Cannabis also has anxiolytic properties, which can add to the symptoms of anxiety.

How Does Weed Work As a Sleep Aid?

Researchers believe that the sleep promoting effect of marijuana is due to the interaction between cannabinoids of marijuana and the cannabinoid receptors present in our brain.  

Cannabinoids are the main active components of marijuana. Of which, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are the most significant.  

THC is sedative and also causes psychoactive effects by altering the state of mind.

Whereas CBD is known to promote alertness when used in lower doses and sedative effects, if higher doses are consumed. 

The ECS Receptors And Sleep

Most of the effect produced by the THC and CBD is dependent on the timing and dosages.  

These cannabinoids can directly or indirectly bind to the receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) present in our brain and central nervous system.  

The endocannabinoid system is responsible for carrying out numerous physiological functions that are essential for our existence.  

Cannabinoid receptors usually interact with the endogenous cannabinoids produced by the human body itself.

7 Functions Of The ECS Receptors

The receptors carry out important functions, like;

  1. Learning
  2. Memory
  3. Reproduction
  4. Metabolism
  5. Growth
  6. Development
  7. Eating

Interaction of THC with CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system can help in increasing the sleep promoting adenosine level.  

It eventually suppresses the arousal system of the brain, and makes you feel sleepy and sedated.

Best Type of Weed for Sleep

There are two different types of marijuana strains known around the world – Sativa strains and Indica strains.

Indica dominant strains are known to produce calming effects and promote the feeling of sleepiness and relaxation. 

Potent Indica strains are generally used for a good night’s sleep, relaxation, and pain management.

On the other hand, the Sativa strain is known for its stimulating effects which can produce the feelings of euphoria.  

It is known to be an energy booster, and usually used by people who want to be more focused and attentive.

Strains of Cannabis with high levels of THC are considered more useful for sleep.

Cannabinoids are the main active components of marijuana. Of which, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are the most significant.  

However, they can also increase unpleasant side effects, which can be reduced by using strains that also contain significant quantities of CBD. 

CBD and other cannabinoids such as CBG, CBC, CBN and CBDv can help in reducing the euphoric effects of THC.

11 Powerful Weed Strains for Sleep

So, here are the 11 best strains of weed for sleep

1. Granddaddy Purple

It is one of the high-THC strains with a great terpene profile including Pinene, Caryophyllene, and Myrcene that are also known to produce relaxing effects. 

This strain is easy to find, and commonly available at marijuana dispensaries. 

Granddaddy purple offers a strong grape, and berry flavour with a subtle touch of sweetness.

2. God's Gift

God’s gift is another THC dominant best cannabis strain that can be quite helpful for patients suffering from insomnia.  

It is a great stress reliever, and promotes relaxation. 

Primary terpenes like Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene produce enough sleep so you can let yourself couch locked and doze off for a while.

3. Sweet and Sour Widow

This potent strain is equipped with a balanced level of THC and CBD.  

It is perfect for people who are anxious about the side effects and don’t want a purely high level of THC in their strain.  

The euphoria and paranoia generally associated with the THC is significantly reduced by CBD.

Good quantity of sweet and sour widow right before bed can significantly help in having a restful sleep throughout the night.

4. Northern Lights

Northern light is a popular indica-dominant strain, which is used for pain relief and insomnia. 

It became popular in the early 1980s. Northern lights is undoubtedly the most popular Cannabis strain known by almost everyone.  

It is a dominant hybrid strain created by a cross of Afghani Indica and Thai sativa. 

Even though it only contains 18 % THC, it has strong relaxing properties with fewer psychoactive effects. 

The smoothness of the smoke will leave you delighted and content by reducing anxiety, and discomfort.

5. Tahoe OG Kush

Tahoe OG is a great strain! It is popular for its analgesic effect, which can help in reducing chronic pain caused by different medical conditions

Tahoe OG Kush is a pure Indica hybrid strain that is a cross of OG Kush and SFV OG Kush.  

It has a minimum quantity of CBD, and THC content may reach up to 25% of the total cannabinoid content.

This strain is one of the strongest members of the family, and offers an extremely relaxing effect. 

Make sure to be wrapped in a warm blanket before puffing this strain.   It also offers a great end to a rough day by lifting your spirits. 

Have a delicious meal and sink into your bed with a warm blanket because you’ll be sure to have enough sleep

6. Purple Kush

Purple Kush is one of the greatest options among the Kush family. It is a cross between Hindu Kush and purple Afghani. 

The sweet taste of this strain makes it even more appealing.  It contains less than 0.1% CBD and THC content about 22%.  

It possesses strong sedative effects which can help in reducing discomfort and chronic pain, which are the main reasons behind a disturbed sleep wake cycle

Chronic pain can keep you awake throughout the night, but having a few drops of Purple Kush right before going to bed can help in having a deep sleep.  

It produces strong sedating, fuzzy, and warm feelings that can overcome the pain signals.

7. Critical Kush

Critical Kush is another Indica dominant strain, which is a result of a cross between critical Mass and OG Kush

The Kush family of weed strains is equipped with the perfect combination of compounds helpful for sleep related issues.  

It contains about 25% of THC and 1% CBD, so you know that it can knock you off with just a few puffs. 

It is recommended that this great strain should be used when you are close to your bedtime, because it hits really hard with fast-acting effects

The effect begins with an ecstatic feeling, but it quickly fades away as you would just want to sleep, and not feel anything else in a few minutes.  

Giggling and talking too much can be experienced in the first few minutes depending on the dosage and delivery system used to intake the dose.

8. Ogre

As we know, dominant THC strains are particularly helpful for sleep related problems

Ogre is also rich in THC, and offers a sweet citrus flavour that produces happy feelings and restful sleep.  

Sedative effects of THC kick in as soon as you take a few puffs. 

Make sure to be around your bed, and avoid using this strain in the day when you have errands to run and duties to perform.

9. Gorilla Glue

People suffering from chronic insomnia and sleep deprivation can also opt for gorilla glue strain, which also helps in reducing severe pain and spasms.  

It is also known to be one of the best natural antidepressants that can help you lift your spirit.  Gorilla glue has about 18 to 25% of THC content which may sometimes rise to 32% THC.  

With so much THC in the strain, you will surely end up sleeping like a baby. 

Make sure to be in a comfortable place before starting the session because you’ll certainly end up in a deep sleep afterwards.

10. Nine Pound Hammer

With 17 to 21% of THC, Nine pound hammer is a great combination of jack the ripper, Gonerby and Hells OG.  

It is much stronger than any average THC rich cannabis strain and also contains terpenes like Myrcene, Caryophyllene and Pinene.  

This mild fruity flavours and THC are a great combination to have a good night’s sleep.

11. Remedy

If you are looking for a high CBD strain, which can help you with your sleep issues, then Remedy is the right strain option. 

It will not leave you stoned and produces mild euphoric effects only. 

It also possesses incredible pain, and stress-relieving properties so you can go to your bed and have a good night’s rest.

Hungry For More?

Enjoyed Weed Strains For Sleep?

If you have, and the cannabis enthusiasts amongst you want more articles on the best marijuana strains or CBD products then head over to our dedicated pages on CBD and Cannabis.

Herbal Tea is also a remarkable natural sleep aid.