Beyond the Buzz – Revealing the Best Weed Strains for Connoisseurs

While there are many weed strains to choose from, some are better than others. In this article, we will be discussing the best weed strains. 

We’ll give you a brief overview of each strain, so you can learn more about what makes each unique. These strains are great for various reasons, including their potency, flavor, and effects. 

Whether you are looking for a relaxing or potent strain, you will find something on this list that suits your needs. By the end of this article, you should know which weed strain is best for you and your needs.

Indicas vs Sativas vs Hybrids

Cannabis strains can be broadly classified into indica, sativa, and hybrid. Indica strains of cannabis are thought to have originated in the Hindu Kush region of the Indian subcontinent. These plants are adapted to grow in colder, harsher climates with shorter growing seasons. 

Sativa strains are thought to have originated in hotter, more tropical climates. These plants tend to have longer growing seasons and produce taller, lankier plants better suited for indoor growing.

Hybrids are a mix of indica and sativa genetics, resulting in a strain that falls somewhere between the two. Hybrid cannabis strains are created by humans to offer a balance of psychoactivity and particular desired traits. They can produce either sativa or indica-dominant buds.

Sativa strains generally produce a more energetic, uplifting effect while indicas produce a more relaxing, euphoric effect. Recent research has shown that the better indicator of a strains effects is it’s cannabinoid and terpene profile.

Cannabinoids vs Terpenes

Cannabinoids and terpenes are the most important compounds in cannabis. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds in the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Cannabis contains more than 100 different cannabinoids, the most important being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)

Terpenes are chemical compounds in the cannabis plant, giving it and its flowers a unique smell and flavor. Some common terpenes in cannabis include myrcene, alpha-pinene, and beta-caryophyllene. 

Terpenes are created in the sticky resin glands of cannabis, which also produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Unlike cannabinoids, terpenes do not interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body.

Best Indica Strains

Indica strains are known for their short, bushy stature and broad leaves. They produce a more relaxed, soothing effect, making them perfect for those who want to wind down at the end of a busy day. However, the effects of various Indica strains can vary based on the terpene profile.

Grape Ape

The Grape Ape strain is a cross between the Skunk #1, Mendocino Purps, and the Afghani strains created by Apothecary Genetics and Barney’s Farm. The Grape Ape strain is an indica strain with THC levels ranging between 17% and 19% and CBD levels around 0%. The most dominant terpenes in the Grape Ape strain are myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene, which gives it its grape-like flavor.

Forbidden Fruit

The Forbidden Fruit strain was created by the breeder Seed Junky Genetics as a cross between the insanely delicious Cherry Pie and Tangie strains. Forbidden Fruit is an indica strain with an average THC percentage of 16% and a negligible CBD of nearly 0%. The dominant terpenes in the strain are myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene.

Northern Lights

The Northern Lights strain, known by some people as “NL,” is a cross between two landrace strains, Thai and Afghani, that is believed to have originated around Seattle, Washington. It is a pure indica strain (95% Indica and 5% Sativa) with THC levels up to 18% and CBD levels around 0%. The dominant terpenes in the strain are myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene, responsible for their pungently sweet and spicy taste.

Purple Punch

The Purple Punch strain was initially created by the seed bank Supernova Gardens by combining two legendry strains, the Granddaddy Purple and the Larry OG strains. The Purple Punch strain is an indica strain with a THC percentage of 18% and a CBD percentage of 0%. The dominant terpenes in the Purple Punch strain are pinene, limonene, and caryophyllene, which gives the buds the grape, berry, and blueberry flavors.

Ice Cream Cake

The Ice Cream Cake strain is a cross between the undisputedly delicious Gelato 33 and Wedding Cake strains originally produced by Seed Junky Genetics. The Ice Cream Cake strain is an Indica-dominant hybrid with high THC levels, usually averaging 22% and 0% CBD. The dominant terpenes in the Ice Cream Cake strain are linalool, limonene, and caryophyllene, giving it a sweet and nutty taste with hints of vanilla and cake.

Best Sativa Strains

Sativa strains are taller, have thinner leaves, and are generally lighter in color than the Indica plant. The effects of smoking sativa are typically very uplifting and energetic; however, the effects may vary slightly based on the respective terpene profiles of individual strains. Sativa is an excellent choice for those looking to boost their energy and creativity.

Jack Herer

The Jack Herer strain, named after the famed cannabis activist and author Jack Herer, is a cross between Haze, Northern Lights #5, and Shiva Skunk, initially bred by Sensi Seeds in the Netherlands. Jack Herer is a Sativa-dominant hybrid marijuana strain with a THC content of 18% and a CBD content of 0%. The spicy floral aroma of this strain results from the dominant terpenes terpinolene, pinene, and caryophyllene.

Green Crack

The Green Crack strain, also known as “Green Crush” and “Mango Crack, was created by the breeder Cecil C. by crossing two legendry strains, African and Skunk #1. This strain is a potent sativa-dominant hybrid with a THC percentage of up to 17% and a very low CBD percentage which is usually 0% in most cases. The dominant terpenes in this strain are pinene, myrcene, and caryophyllene, which are the terpenes behind its fruity flavor.

Sour Diesel

The Sour Diesel strain, also known as “Sour D” and “Sour Deez,” is a popular marijuana strain that was created by a guy known as Asshole Joe “AJ” in New York City by crossing Chemdawg withSuper Skunk strain. The strain is a potent sativa cannabis strain with moderate THC content of around 19% and extremely low CBD of 0%. The dominant terpenes in the Sour Diesel are caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene, thus its savory flavor profile that smells like diesel.

Durban Poison

The Durban Poison strain is a popular South African Landrace variety originating from the South African port city of Durban. The Durban Poison strain is a pure sativa strain known for its high THC content, reaching up to 19%, and low CBD of 0% or less the 0.1, depending on growth conditions and the plant phenotype. Terpinolene, ocimene, and myrcene are the predominant terpenes in this strain, and they are responsible for the strain’s sweet and spicy scent.

Strawberry Cough

The Strawberry Cough is a strain that Kyle Kushman created through a genetic mix between Strawberry Fields and the classic Haze strain. It is a potent sativa strain that can contain high THC levels reaching 19% in most plants but has no CBD, i.e., 0% CBD. Myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene are the terpenes that predominate in this particular strain Giving it an incredibly wonderful and sweet strawberry flavor with a hint of pepper.

Lemon Haze

Green House Seeds successfully bred Lemon Skunk with Silver Haze, which resulted in the creation of the Lemon Haze strain. It is a sativa strain with a THC content of up to 22% and a CBD content of 0.2%. Limonene, caryophyllene, and pinene are the terpenes that predominate in this strain.

Best Hybrid Strains

Hybrid strains are a mix of both indica and sativa. They can exhibit characteristics of both parent strains, or they may lean more towards one or the other depending on the Indica/ Sativa ratio of the strain.

Bruce Banner

The sativa-dominant hybrid Bruce Banner strain is renowned for its potent THC levels and well-balanced effects. It was produced by combining the breeds of Strawberry Diesel and OG Kush. Bruce Banner generally has THC levels averaging 21%, while its CBD content is less than 1%. The strain contains myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene as its most concentrated terpenes and a diesel aroma with sweet undertones. Bruce Banner is a potent hybrid well-liked by seasoned cannabis consumers seeking a well-rounded and pleasurable experience.

Headband

The parent strains of Headband, a hybrid cannabis strain thought to have its roots in California, are the potent duo of OG Kush and Sour Diesel. It is an Indica-dominant hybrid that has grown in popularity over the years since it offers well-balanced effects. Headband typically has a THC content of around 19%, while its CBD levels are usually around 1% or less than 1% for other plants. This strain has a spicy, diesel-like aroma and flavor with hints of citrus.

Biscotti

The cannabis hybrid strain known as Biscotti is thought to have been produced by putting together the Gelato #25 and Sour Florida OG breeds. The THC content of Biscotti generally ranges from 21-28%, while the CBD content usually falls to less than 1%. With notes of citrus, berry, and earthy terpenes, this strain has a sweet, nutty, creamy taste. Biscotti is a well-liked option among weed consumers seeking a potent and pleasurable experience,

Gushers

The Gushers strain, also known as “White Gusherz” and “White Gushers, ” was made through a cross between Triangle Kush and Gelato 41. Gushers is a highly potent strain with a high THC content of around 25% and a CBD content of less than 1%. This strain has a fruity, sweet, and tropical flavor and fragrance with hints of berry, citrus, and earthy coming from Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene terpenes. It is well known for having powerful effects that influence the body and the mind.

Cherry Pie

The Cherry Pie strain is a hybrid that is produced by combining Durban Poison and Granddaddy Purple strains. It is prominent for its well-balanced effects, which combine mental and bodily effects. Cherry Pie generally contains less than 1% CBD while having a moderate THC content of 16%. This strain has a sweet, earthy, and fruity aroma and taste with hints of cherry, berry, and piney undertones. Cherry Pie strain is dominated by Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene terpenes. 

Trainwreck

Trainwreck strain, a nearly pure sativa hybrid cannabis strain (90% sativa and 10% Indica), is believed to have originated in Northern California. Its exact lineage is unclear, but it is thought to be a combination of Mexican and Thai sativa strains, along with Afghani Indica genetics. Trainwreck typically has a moderate THC content of around 17%, while its CBD levels are usually less than 1%. This strain has a pungent, earthy, and citrusy aroma and flavor, with hints of spicy, peppery, and piney taste. 

GMO

GMO, also called Garlic Cookies or garlic mushrooms, is a cannabis hybrid strain created through a cross between the Girl Scout Cookies and Chemdawg strains. While GMO generally has CBD levels of less than 1%, it typically has a high THC content, ranging from 20 to 30% flavor and fragrance of this strain are strong and diesel-like, with undertones of earthy, skunky, and garlic, all bought by Myrcene, Caryophyllene and Pinene terpenes which the most concentrated terpenes. 

Runtz

the Runtz strain, also known as the Runtz OG, originated from crossing the Zkittlez and the popular Gelato strain. Although its exact origins are unknown, it is assumed to have originated in California. While the CBD content of Runtz is typically less than 1%, the THC content is commonly 21%. The flavor and fragrance of this strain are sweet and fruity with undertones of tropical and berry. The dominant terpenes in the Runtz strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene. 

Pineapple Express

The Pineapple Express strain is a Sativa-dominant cannabis strain that combines the Hawaiian and Trainwreck strains. While Pineapple Express generally has less than 1% CBD, its THC content is an average of 20% in almost all plants but can go slightly above 25%. This strain has hints of citrus, pineapple, and mango and a sweet and tropical aroma and taste. Among other terpenes, Pineapple Express contains myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene, some of the most frequently occurring terpenes. 

Grease Monkey

The Grease Monkey strain is an indica dominant hybrid combining three undisputable strains, Cookies and Cream and Gorilla Glue 4. It is a potent strain with high THC levels reaching 22% and very low CBD concentrations, typically below 1%. The Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene terpenes give it a sweet, earthy taste and aroma, offering a seductive flavor with skunk and diesel. 

Mimosa

 Mimosa strain, or Purple Mimosa, is a sativa dominant weed strain developed through a cross between the famous Purple Punch and the Clementine strains in California. THC levels in mimosa generally range from 19 to 27%, while CBD concentrations are typically very low and are usually 0% in most plants. The taste and fragrance of this strain are sweet and citrusy, with hints of mandarin and lemon resulting from Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene terpenes. 

Skywalker OG

The Skywalker OG is an Indica dominant hybrid thought to have been initially created by crossing the Skywalker and OG Kush strains. It is a highly potent strain with THC levels ranging from 20 to 30%, while CBD concentrations are typically lower and are usually less than 1% in most plants. This strain has myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene terpenes and a spicy, earthy aroma and taste. 

Blue Dream

A popular hybrid, the Blue Dream strain, results from a mix between the Blueberry and Haze strains. It was created in California and has since established itself as a standard in the weed trade. THC levels in Blue Dream generally range from 17 to 24 percent, while CBD concentrations hover around 2%. This strain has a sweet, fruity taste and fragrance with pine and blueberry terpenes undertones. Blue Dream is a well-balanced all-around strain that provides both vivacity and relaxation.

Do Si Dos

Do-Si-Dos cannabis strain is thought to have been created by crossing Girl Scout Cookies and Face Off OG. Do-Si-Dos generally have high THC concentrations of 19–30% while having very low CBD concentrations of 0.1-0.3%. This strain has a taste and aroma that is earthy, sweet, and tinged with citrus and mint terpenes. Do-Si-Dos is generally known for its soothing properties and capacity to reduce tension and pain.

Wedding Cake

Wedding Cake, also called Pink Cookies, was originally created by crossing Cherry Pie and Girl Scout Cookie. With a slightly Indica-dominant impact, it is categorized as a hybrid strain with a variable THC content that typically ranges between 15% and 25% depending on the phenotype and a CBD content of about 1%. Wedding Cake’s aroma is sweet and earthy with notes of vanilla and fruit thanks to the terpenes caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool frequently found in this plant. It is a standard option for recreational and medicinal users due to its relaxing, euphoric, and mood-lifting effects.

Girl Scout cookie

Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) was created as a cross between the OG Kush and Durban Poison. With a genetic makeup that is roughly 60% Indica and 40% Sativa, it is a well-balanced hybrid with a high Indica genetic lean. GSC is renowned for having a high THC content (between 18% and 28%) and a negligibly low CBD content (around 0.1%). The terpenes Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Linalool are primarily responsible for the strain’s earthy and sweet aroma characteristics. The strain’s possible therapeutic advantages, such as its anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties, are also a result of these terpenes.

Gelato

The hybrid strain known was developed in California by crossing Thin Mint GSC and Sunset Sherbet. The hybrid strain Gelato is mildly Indica-dominant with a THC content of 20–25% and a CBD content of up to 1%. This strain’s calming and energizing effects are well-known for reducing tension, anxiety, and depression. Its taste profile has berries, sweet citrus, and a tinge of earthiness resulting from the dominant terpenes like Limonene, Caryophyllene, and Myrcene.

Gorilla Glue

This powerful hybrid strain, Gorilla Glue, also referred to as GG#4, was developed in the US. According to Cannaflower, although Gorilla Glue also has some Indica-like effects, it is usually considered a Sativa-dominant hybrid. While the CBD content of this strain is generally less than 1%, the THC percentage can vary from 20 to 25%. Gorilla Glue contains large amounts of caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene terpenes, hence its citrusy, peppery, and earthy flavor. 

Best CBD Strains

ACDC

ACDC is a hybrid strain bred initially by Spain-based Resin Seeds by crossing two unknown cannabis strains. It is sativa-dominant with a high CBD-to-THC ratio of 13 to 1, respectively. ACDC is renowned for relieving tension, anxiety, and pain without having the psychoactive effects frequently connected with high THC strains. Myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene are terpenes in ACDC that add to their earthy, piney, spicy flavor and aroma. Users of medical cannabis who want relief without the intoxicating effects of THC frequently turn to this strain. 

Harlequin

Several landrace strains, including Colombian, Thai, and Swiss, were crossed to produce this hybrid strain known as Harlequin. This strain is popular among medical cannabis users wanting relief from pain, anxiety, and inflammation without feeling high because it has a CBD to THC ratio of 5:2. The complex terpene profile of Harlequin contains significant concentrations of the terpenes myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene, which have sedative, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Cherry Wine

The Wife and Charlotte’s Cherries, two cannabis breeds, were crossed to create the hybrid cannabis strain known as Cherry Wine. It is a Sativa-dominant strain with THC concentrations between 0.3% and 0.5% and CBD concentrations between 12% and 22%. Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene, and Humulene comprise Cherry Wine’s terpene makeup. Thanks to these terpenes, the strain has a sweet, fruity fragrance with undertones of pine and earthiness. Highgradeexplains that because of its high CBD content, Cherry Wine is a well-liked strain among hemp fans because it can treat inflammatory disorders, anxiety, and pain.

Charlotte’s Web

Famous cannabis strain Charlotte’s Web is a hybrid strain with approximately 60% sativa and 40% Indica genetics. It is well known for having a high CBD content of 12% to 20% and a low THC content of less than 0.3%. The strain is renowned for having a diverse terpene profile that contains myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene. The distinctive flavor and aroma profile of Charlotte’s Web results from these terpenes, which may also be involved in the strain’s possible therapeutic benefits.

Harle- Tsu

It is a hybrid strain initially created by crossing the Harlequin and Sour Tsunami breeds. This strain has minimal THC levels and a high CBD content, with THC concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 5% and CBD concentrations ranging from 10 to 20%. The terpenes myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene, which lend Harle-Tsu its sweet, earthy, and spicy aroma, are the most dominant in Harle- Tsu. Its medicinal benefits reduce inflammation, pain, and anxiety without causing a psychoactive high.

Suzy Q

Suzy Q is a hybrid strain with a high CBD content created by crossing two superior strains, Northern Lights and Jack Herer. This strain usually has a CBD-to-THC ratio of about 20:1 and a balanced Indica-Sativa ratio. While the CBD content can be as high as 20%, the THC content is typically very low, varying from 0.2% to 2%. Myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene dominate the terpene profile of Suzy Q, which is the reason for its earthy and sweet aroma and flavor. 

Conclusion

You can’t go wrong with any of the strains on this list. They’re all great for different reasons, so it’s up to you to decide which one you want to enjoy or add to your garden, depending on the effects and the experience you are looking for. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your next smoke with one of these top-rated strains.