The 15 Best Marijuana Strains for Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is one of the most common health issues throughout the US, affecting more people than cancer, cardiac disease, and diabetes combined. With over 20% of adults experiencing chronic pain, the search for safe remedies has become increasingly important.
One of those remedies is medical marijuana. New studies and user reports all point to the effective pain-relieving properties of this natural supplement. So today, we will introduce you to 15 of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain.
How Does Marijuana Reduce Chronic Pain?
Different types of cannabis products affect your body by interacting with your endocannabinoid system (ECS). This signaling system has receptors throughout your body that are affected by various compounds in some of the best cannabis strains for chronic pain.
CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a component of medical marijuana that reduces pain and inflammation by affecting your body’s opioid receptors. CBD relieves pain by interacting with these receptors and inhibiting pro-inflammatory molecules.
THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is another component of marijuana with psychoactive effects. This cannabinoid reduces pain by binding to cannabinoid receptors in your nervous system.
Terpenes
There are components other than cannabinoids that contribute to the painkilling effects of cannabis. Terpenes such as beta-caryophyllene, limonene, myrcene, and pinene are some of them.
15 of the Best Marijuana Strains for Chronic Pain
The most effective cannabis strains for pain relief are indicas, with a high degree of THC. However, any combination of cannabinoids and terpenes can help manage pain. Here are the 15 best strains cannabis lovers use for chronic pain relief.
1. ACDC
With up to 5% THC and 12% CBD, ACDC is one of the best cannabis strains for chronic pain. This balanced hybrid of Cannatonic and Ruderalis exudes cherry scents with diesel undertones.
It’s rich in some of the best terpenes for pain, including myrcene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene. ACDC is the perfect pain reliever for daytime use when you want to maintain your focus, as its rich CBD profile keeps you grounded.
2. Afghan Kush
With about 17% THC and 6% CBD, this indica cultivar is among the best marijuana strains for chronic pain. Afghan Kush has a mild earthy scent with hints of pine that is perfect for beginners.
The many cannabinoids in this strain give users the full entourage effect as they relive the underlying pain. Afghan Kush is especially effective in reducing neuropathic pain. Try it in the evening to relax your mind and body.
3. Blueberry
Another excellent strain for chronic pain is the indica-dominant Blueberry. This cultivar, with around 16% THC and 0.26% CBD, is a cross between Thai and Purple Thai. It emanates a fresh blueberry aroma that tickles the senses.
Blueberry has been around for over 50 years, relieving pain in users with a slight psychoactive effect. So it’s not the best marijuana strain for reducing chronic pain during the day.
4. Bubba Diesel
One of the best cannabis strains for chronic pain is Bubba Diesel, with an average of 17% THC and 0.8% CBD. This cross between Bubba Kush and Sour Diesel is the ideal balance of indica and sativa, giving off sweet, skunky scents.
Bubba Diesel is famous throughout the US for its head-to-toe tranquilizing effects. It’s an effective natural supplement for pain relief and relaxation. So it may not be the best option for those looking for an energizing effect.
5. Cannatonic
If you’re looking for pain relief without sedation, Cannatonic is your cultivar. This balanced cross between NYC Diesel and Reina Madre is among the best marijuana strains for chronic pain.
It has 7% THC, 14% CBD, and a spicy lemon flavor. Cannatonic is also rich in pain-reducing terpenes such as myrcene and caryophyllene, providing relief while improving focus.
6. Fire OG
One of the other best cannabis strains for chronic pain is the indica-dominant hybrid of OG Kush and San Fernando Valley OG Kush. Fire OG is one of the most potent strains, with 0.47% CBD and THC levels that can reach as high as 25%.
With spicy, earthy aromas, Fire OG gives consumers a cerebral experience. It relaxes the mind and body with long-lasting effects that subdue into a more calming state.
7. Green Crack Punch
With 18% THC and almost no CBD, Green Crack Punch is one of the best sativa-dominant marijuana strains for chronic pain. It’s a cross between Green Crack and Purple Punch, producing acidic aromas with hints of grape.
Green Crack Punch has soothing properties that reduce various types of pain, including chronic and temporary aches. It’s also great for daytime use as it keeps you upbeat and motivated.
8. Harlequin
Harlequin is a hybrid sativa with 7% THC and 10% CBD. This unique combination of Gold, Swiss, and Thai sativas is one of the best cannabis strains for chronic pain.
It has an impressive terpene profile with compounds like myrcene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene. These terpenes give users a heady feeling while reducing pain and anxiety with their musky, tropical scents.
9. Northern Lights
Northern Lights is one of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain, with a citrusy, spicy aroma. This indica-dominant cross between Afghani and Thai varieties contains 16% to 21% THC with around 0.1% CBD.
What you can expect from this award-winning strain is a relaxing effect on your mind and muscles. The painkilling properties will also make you sleepy. So it’s best to use Northern Lights in the evening to prepare for a peaceful night.
10. OG Kush
OG Kush is a descendant of popular cultivars such as Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and Old World Paki Kush. With 20% THC and less than 0.5% CBD, it’s an indica-dominant strain producing earthy lemon aromas.
The heavy-hitting effects of OG Kush make it one of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain. It also creates a whole-body relaxation that helps you wind down for sleep. So the evening is the time of day you want to reach for OG Kush.
11. Pineapple Diesel
Pineapple Diesel is one of the best cannabis strains for chronic pain relief. This sativa-dominant cross between Hybrid Pineapple and Sativa Sour Diesel contains 17% to 27% THC with less than 0.1% CBD.
The citrusy, tropical aromas of Pineapple Diesel promise a pain-free effect that lasts a long time while giving you an energized buzz. You can also use this uplifting strain to battle depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
12. Purple Queen
If you’re looking for a more potent option, Purple Queen is your go-to cultivar. This indica royalty cross between Hindu Kush and Purple Afghani is among the best marijuana strains for chronic pain.
With up to 22% THC and less than 1% CBD, Purple Queen gives you a euphoric high while immediately extinguishing pain. No worries! You can use different strategies to sober up when feeling too high from the fruity Purple Queen.
13. Royal Jack
Those looking for a clear-headed high with pain-killing potential can rely on Royal Jack. This mostly sativa strain is an automatic version of the Jack Herer cultivar with 16% THC and 1% CBD.
It has a complex peppery flavor that gives users a blissful sensation. Royal Jack is not only one of the best cannabis strains for chronic pain but also one with an inspiring effect. Try this pleasant strain to stay pain-free and positive.
14. Sour Diesel
With up to 27% THC and 2% CBD, Sour Diesel is one of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain. It’s also one of the top 30 strongest marijuana strains, with a citrusy aroma coming from its limonene and myrcene terpenes.
This 90% sativa, with its diesel-like smell, gives users a burst of energy and creativity. The dreamy effects of Sour Diesel are perfect for those looking to feel the euphoric high of cannabis while managing their lingering pain.
15. White Widow
Are you looking for a high-THC strain to alleviate your pain quickly? White Widow is for you! This indica-dominant cross between a Brazilian Sativa and a South Indian Indica contains up to 25% THC and 0.5% to 1% CBD.
With earthy, citrusy aromas, White Widow is one of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain, promising users a cognitive, pain-free high. You can even extend the stimulating effects of this strain by learning how to stay high longer.
Try the Best Cannabis Strains for Chronic Pain With Ozark MMJ Cards
All evidence is in favor of medical marijuana for relieving chronic pain. The benefits of this natural supplement win against synthetic medications and opioids without damaging side effects. So it’s safe to give it a try.
While not all of these 15 strains might work for you, we bet some of them will. If you’re excited to try some of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain relief, Ozark MMJ Cards can help!
With our fast and affordable certification and renewal services in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, you can get your medical marijuana card in no time and enjoy the pain-relieving effects of cannabis. Contact us today to begin your certification. If you enjoyed this article, visit our cannabis blog for more fun reads!