Dancing in the Strainstorm: How to Get Your Best High with Our Cannabis Strain Guide

• Let our cannabis strain guide help you navigate all the different effects, aromas, and flavors of our favorite flower. 
• Whether you want to try cannabis for anxiety, sleep, creativity, focus, relaxation, pain, or just a good laugh, there’s a strain for that! 
• Learn how you can tailor your cannabis experience to your specific needs. 

13-minute read

KUSHES AND OGS AND COOKIES, OH MY!

We get it. The wide world of cannabis strains can sometimes feel like an overwhelming maze of choices with nonsensical names. But knowing some bits of information about some of your favorite strains can enhance every sesh by complementing the mood you’re going for. You’ll probably prefer a different strain for a late night out than you would for a chill afternoon in the park. Don’t know where to begin? No worries—we’ve got you covered. We created this cannabis strain guide to share all the ins and outs of cannabis varieties.

Cannabis Strains and their effects

Our cannabis strain guide is here to help you explore everything that cannabis has to offer. While everyone’s response to each strain can vary, we’ve focused on their most common effects. That includes the strain’s typical potency and whether it has more of a bodily buzz or a cerebral feel. We’ve also paid special attention to terpene profiles. So, we’ll help you find not only the cannabinoid combo you prefer but also the terpene profile that works best for you. Whether you’re looking to relax, spark some creativity, or just have a good time with friends, this guide will help you tell your Jilly Bean from your Killer Queen.

AK-47

AK-47 is a complex Sativa/Indica hybrid that comes from crossing Colombian, Mexican, Thai, and Afghani plants. Its THC percentages tend to be in the high teens. It also has a healthy dose of the terpene caryophyllene. Studies show that this terpene seems to beneficially activate our cannabinoid receptors all on its own, even without cannabinoids. AK-47 is one of those cannabis strains known for making you feel mellow, peaceful, and euphoric. In keeping with its military namesake, this plant is an olive green color with vibrant red and orange pistils.

BLUE DREAM—ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR IN OUR CANNABIS STRAIN GUIDE

Blue Dream has a delicious, sweet berry aroma. It’s a popular hybrid created by crossing Blueberry and Haze strains. This strain averages about 18% to 24% THC with a low CBD percentage. The dominant terpene in Blue Dream is myrcene, which means this strain might help you with bodily relaxation and pain relief. It also might help boost your mood. But contrary to what you might think, Blue Dream doesn’t look like its name. This flower typically has sage green buds with orange and yellow pistils.

BC ROADKILL

BC Roadkill is a hybrid strain known for its energizing and euphoric high. This cannabis strain has anywhere from 12-25% THC. But don’t let its name freak you out. This uplifting strain is great for a day out. While it’s known to have a skunky aroma, its effects are anything but stinky. In fact, fans of this trippy strain love its tendency to induce giggly, social vibes. With its vivid forest green hue, BC Roadkill looks like a Christmas tree. Some of its leaves are long and curly, and its coloring can include orange, blue, and, sometimes, purple.

BLUE CHEESE—A Cannabis STrain we Love for relaxation

Blue Cheese is an Indica-dominant cultivar with a terpene profile that includes myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene. This is one of those cannabis strains that’s best known for its potentially relaxing and calming effects. That laid-back vibe could partially be due to the limonene. While you might not guess from its name, Blue Cheese actually smells sweet—like a unique combo of berries and blue cheese. In our opinion, it’s one of the best cannabis strains to induce relaxation without making you too sleepy. We love Blue Cheese for movie night! Its THC percentages tend to be in the upper teens. You’ll know it by its emerald-ish color with highlights of blue and purple.

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BUBBA KUSH

Bubba Kush is an Indica-dominant cannabis strain known for its sweetness and unique nutty scent, with hints of coffee and chocolate. Its terpene profile includes limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene. This strain is known for its potentially soothing effects. It’s famed for a dreamy vibe that combines mind-blanketing euphoria with deep muscle relaxation. So, we suggest consuming Bubba Kush during downtime or as you’re ending your night. The THC is around 23% with very low CBD. You’ll recognize this strain by its purple and blue buds with small pistils ranging from yellow to orange.

ChemDawg

ChemDawg is one of those cannabis strains that’s great for relaxation and freeing your mind from negative or racing thoughts. Look out, though, because ChemDawg has a strong, distinctive smell. You can smell it before you see it! The terpenes found in Chemdawg include caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene. ChemDawg normally has healthy percentages of THC in the high teens with low CBD. ChemDawg has a different look than most cannabis strains because it has long leaves and medium-sized buds. Throughout the plant, you’ll see various colors of green and a hint of silver.

Death Bubba

Despite the name, Death Bubba is actually a very calming strain. This Indica-dominant cultivar turns relaxation into an art form with its symphony of terpenes. Myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene all contribute to the heavy, sedative effect that most users report. These terpenes also contribute to its mesmerizing aroma full of earthy and citrus notes. With its high THC content—percentages in the high 20’s—Death Bubba is perfect for unwinding right before bed after a long day or landing that deep sleep after a few nights of insomnia. You can identify Death Bubba by its deep green and purple hues, coated in gorgeous, icy white trichomes.

GELATO—ONE OF THE BEST FOR CREATIVITY IN OUR CANNABIS STRAIN GUIDE

Gelato is one of our favorite hybrid strains to use when we want to get in a creative mood. It tends to hit you immediately with sweet notes of citrus, lavender, and a touch of strawberry. This Indica-dominant hybrid is known for psychedelic effects like sound sensitivity and time dilation. It’s also famed for its potential to induce a mellow, balanced high that could put you in a social mood. You can also try it out for a stress break. Its dominant terpenes are limonene and myrcene. Gelato is also quite strong, with THC percentages in the mid to upper 20s and low percentages of CBD. Gelato has a rich plum color with beautiful orange pistils and white frost. Also, note that this strain has an especially strong scent.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIES (GSC)

Girl Scout cookies (aka GSC) is an Indica-dominant hybrid bred by crossing OG Kush and Durban Poison. GSC is known for its euphoric high and bodily relaxation. So, this strain might help you with chronic pain and stress. It also tends to give us the munchies. That means it could be great for your appetite, too. If you give it a try, you might want to have something yummy on deck. The main terpenes in GSC are caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool. They give it a sweet, dessert-like aroma. As cannabis strains go, this one tends to be quite strong. It has THC percentages in the upper 20s and low percentages of CBD and CBG. So, start low and go slow with it until you find the right dosage. GSC has long purple leaves, with touches of green and orange pistils.

Head Cheese—The Best in Our Cannabis Strain Guide for a Daytime Adventure

This vibrant and bouncy Sativa-dominant strain is the embodiment of sunshine. Thanks to its blend of limonene, pinene, and terpinolene, Head Cheese smells nothing like its namesake. Instead, it boasts a delightful mix of citrus and pine. With THC levels typically dancing in the teens, it’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a daytime adventure. Head Cheese is also a great option when you’re in need of a burst of creativity. Its lime-green buds may have an orange tinge and are often exceptionally sticky.

HONEY BANANA

Honey Banana is a hybrid strain known for being sweet. But it’s still got some sting! It’s a great cannabis strain to try out if you’re a beginner. The flower, itself, can be sticky to the touch, like honey, too. That’s from the resins that make the cannabinoids. Some people report that this hybrid also smells distinctly of banana. Honey Banana is known for a full-body invigorating buzz and feelings of cerebral euphoria. The main terpene in this strain is myrcene, and its THC percentages tend to range from 18-22% with low CBD. Honey Banana has a fall vibe with its honey glow and orange-green pistils.

JACK HERER—Try this cannabis strain for uplifting energy

Jack Herer—enthusiasts claim that this infamous Sativa-dominant hybrid can be better than a cup of coffee. It’s meant to induce a balanced mental and physical high that’s heavy on bliss and creativity. Jack Herer is the rare strain that’s rich in terpinolene, which gives it notes of spice and pine. Its THC ranges from percentages in the high teens into the 20s with very little CBD. This plant has a woodsy color. It’s deep forest green with strands of orange.

Jilly Bean

Jilly Bean is one of our go-to hybrids for relieving anxiety. It’s a cannabis strain that doesn’t tend toward the panic or paranoia that other Sativas can cause in some people. Jilly Bean might be ideal for bringing out the social butterfly in quieter types. Just take a couple puffs while you’re getting gussied up. Then, let your true personality shine through without a hint of that pesky anxiety getting in your way. The dominant terpene in this strain is myrcene. In addition to an earthy sweetness, myrcene also has a reputation for bringing the happy. This hybrid has moderate THC levels in the high teens, with low CBD. At its best, Jilly Bean is covered in frosty trichomes with tones of green and orange throughout.

KILLER QUEEN

Killer Queen is a hybrid cannabis strain that most people find energizing and uplifting. It tends toward a heady high more than any bodily effects. Its dominant terpene is caryophyllene, which research suggests might positively interact with the immune system and inflammation. So, it has a tropical flavor and earthy, herbal notes. This strain is normally moderate potency, with THC percentages ranging from the high teens to the low 20s. Killer Queen might also have the potential to alleviate stress, depression, headaches, and nausea. Plus, it might help with increasing your ability to focus.

King Kong Kush—The Most Versatile in Our Cannabis Strain Guide

Meet King Kong Kush. With an effect as hulking as its name, this hybrid strain is ideal for a cerebral high that combats stress and anxiety. Its effects may be attributed to its heavy-caryophyllene terpene profile. In addition to caryophyllene, King Kong’s other terpenes include myrcene and limonene, which contribute to its sweet but skunky pungency.  So, for moments when life’s demands feel overwhelming, King Kong offers a much needed break. With THC levels in the low 20s, this strain offers a balanced mix of relaxation and gentle euphoria.

LA Confidential

LA Confidential is a rich, Indica-dominant strain that elicits tranquility. Its terpene profile blends myrcene, caryophyllene, and humulene, which may contribute to the deep, sedative effects it’s reported to have. LA Confidential’s aroma evokes earthy notes with a touch of spiciness, and its rich, velvety green buds will absolutely mesmerize you. Also, this strain happens to be ideal for boosting your appetite. So, it can be a great choice before you head out to dinner with friends. But with THC levels hanging in the mid-20s, be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll end up asleep before your Uber shows up.

LAMB’S BREAD 

Lamb’s bread is a Sativa variety with its roots in Jamaica. In fact, it was Bob Marley’s favorite. This strain is known for its energetic and uplifting effects. Lamb’s Bread is one of the most popular cannabis strains with medical patients because it might help with chronic stress and depression. Try its long-lasting heady high to see if it can keep you feeling uplifted and energetic all day. The main terpene in Lamb’s Bread is caryophyllene, making it a bit spicy and sage-like. Research suggests that carylophyllene could help reduce inflammation. While this strain’s THC levels tend to be in the higher teens, it’s low in CBD. Lamb’s Bread has bright earthy green buds and changes to different shades of green.

LEMON LIME—ONE OF THE BEST IN THE CANNABIS STRAIN GUIDE IF YOU’RE NEW TO THE PLANT

Lemon Lime bursts with a fresh, citrusy flavor. Like many other cannabis strains, Lemon Lime may induce some lovely heady euphoria and the relaxation that comes with it. As you might guess, this strain’s dominant terpene is limonene—the citrusy aroma widely hailed for its uplifting properties. This Sativa-dominant strain was bred from a cross of Lemon and Key Lime Haze. With levels of THC in the low teens and a little bit of CBD, this is one of those cannabis strains that can be perfect for newbies and people with less tolerance. It’s also a good candidate for microdosing. You’ll recognize the Lemon Lime plant by its light and dark shades of green with hints of orange.

Mango Kush

Mango Kush is an Indica-dominant hybrid strain. As its name suggests, this is one of those cannabis strains that tastes like mango (with a little hint of banana). The terpenes that contribute to its tropical scent include myrcene, and pinene. If you’re looking for an immediate kick, Mango Kush could be the way to go. This strain is famed for the kind of euphoric high that can make you a social butterfly. It can also be one of those munchie strains. So, you might look to it to calm nausea and jumpstart your appetite. Its THC percentage ranges from the high teens to 20s with a little CBD. Mango Kush is covered with orange pistils.

MENDO BREATH

Have you had a long, stressful day and want something to combat any anxiety before bed? Mendo Breath, an Indica-dominant hybrid, could be your ticket to pain relief. But you might want to save this strain for bedtime because it can induce a heavy, trancelike, sleepy buzz. The dominant terpenes are camphene and caryophyllene. We need more research, of course, but camphene has potential as an antibacterial agent. Its THC percentages are in the high teens to low 20s with notable CBD and CBN, too. Mendo Breath has a sweet, vanilla-and-caramel taste and frosty appearance.

Northern Lights—an award-winning cannabis strain

Northern Lights is one of the strains in our cannabis strain guide that might be able to save your night with its relaxing, sedative effects and fruity smell. Its terpene profile includes myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene. It might be the ideal strain for a nightcap. Devotees of Northern Lights cite mind-easing euphoria and the alleviation of muscle pain. If you’re dealing with depression, stress, or insomnia this could be a strain for you. This award-winning Indica has a very high THC level ranging from the high 20s to 30s and a little CBD. You’ll know Northern Lights by its olive green buds with hints of purple, blue, and orange.

OG Kush

OG Kush (aka Premium OG Kush) is a Sativa-dominant hybrid strain. This cannabis strain is known for its balanced head and body high. OG Kush could be a great strain to ease into your evening because of its reputation for inducing a de-stressing cerebral euphoria. It also has high levels of myrcene, with its many therapeutic potentials, and uplifting limonene. An early cultivar, OG Kush has THC percentages ranging from the low to mid-20s and very little CBD. The plant features yellow and green leaves with orange and green pistils.

Orange Cream

If you’re a lover of OG or Cookies cannabis strains, you’ll likely love Orange Cream (aka Orange Cream #26), too. This plant is a cross of these 2 strains and purports to deliver the best of both. This Indica-dominant cultivar has a citrus sweet taste almost like a dessert. Counter-intuitive to that sweetness, its dominant terpene is caryophyllene. Orange Cream has the potential to deliver a fast-acting high that’s chill, tingly, and mentally hazy. Since it tends to dissolve into drowsy sedation, save this one for nights or when you want to nap. This strain might also stimulate your appetite—so have snacks on hand! Its THC levels range from about 15-20% with a small amount of CBD. This strain is known for its rainbow of colors featuring green, orange, red, and even a tad of purple.

PEACHES AND CREAM

We think Peaches and Cream is fantastic for an energizing pick-me-up anytime. The dominant terpene in this strain is myrcene, and might help increase your focus and creativity by leading to some deep thoughts. Or it could just make doing the laundry more fun. Peaches and Cream’s THC percentages are in the low teens and it also includes CBD. But, if you deal with paranoia or anxiety, this strain might not be for you. This cultivar has a sweet peach aroma, and it looks like a pinecone with densely packed leaves. You’ll know the Peaches and Cream plant by its mixture of dark and light green with orange pistils.

PINEAPPLE EXPRESS—A cannabis strain everyone’s heard of

Pineapple Express is one of the most renowned cannabis strains. This hybrid is said to produce a lovely amalgam of physical and cerebral effects. It’s meant to relax you without putting you to sleep. So, you could try taking a hit when you’re feeling stressed. Its benefits are also touted for sore muscles and joints—or if it’s that time of the month on top of everything else. This strain has notes of fresh apple as well as its namesake, fresh pineapple. Its main terpenes are myrcene and caryophyllene with THC percentages in the high teens and a little CBD. The strain has long leaves with hints of orange and red.

Platinum Kush

In the battle against pain and anxiety, Platinum Kush can be your strongest ally. With THC levels in the high teens and a lot of CBD, this Indica-dominant strain is perfect for some gentle relaxation with both a cerebral and bodily high. Its fruity, piney aroma is likely due to the combination of myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene in its terpene blend. This combination not only delights the senses but also adds depth to the overall experience. You might notice that its pale green leaves have patches of dark purple that are sometimes coated in dense silvery trichomes. So, whether you’re seeking a little break from the throes of pain or the grip of anxiety, Platinum Kush might be the gold standard.

Purple Kush—The Most Indulgent in Our Cannabis Strain Guide

Purple Kush is a luscious Indica-dominant strain most often sought after for its reported effects for sleep, pain, and hunger. Its peppery and earthy scent are attributed to a terpene profile comprised of myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene. With THC percentages typically hovering in the mid-20s, Purple Kush could gently ease you into dreamland, alleviate aches, and battle nausea. Like its name suggests, you can often distinguish Purple Kush by its deep purple and bright green buds. So, light up and lay back.

Romulan

Romulan is an Indica-leaning strain that’s known for its balanced body/mind high. If you’re looking for relief from pain or muscle spasms, this might be the strain for you. Even though its THC percentages tend to be only in the teens, this is one of those cannabis strains that’s renowned for its potent, narcotic-like effects. So be careful about your dosage even if you’re an experienced consumer. Romulan’s terpene profile is dominated by calming myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene. Romulan features bright green leaves that are typically frosty with cannabinoid-laden resin and coppery pistils.

WEDDING CAKE

For good reason, Wedding Cake (aka Triangle Mints #23) has become a very popular cannabis strain. This Indica-dominant hybrid is lauded as providing euphoric effects that calm both the mind and the body. Wedding Cake’s terpene profile includes caryophyllene, humulene, which has the potential to combat inflammation, limonene, with its uplifting effects, and terpinolene. Its THC percentages are in the mid-to-high 20s with a low percentage of CBD. Wedding Cake has a similar appearance to an actual vanilla wedding cake with frosting throughout over hints of pink and purple. 

White Widow

White Widow is one of many cannabis strains we’ve found that’s geared towards uplifting energy. So, it could be a great hybrid for socializing and creativity. White Widow is also cited as producing fast-acting cerebral effects that can make you more aware of your surroundings. However you choose to consume it, we find that White Widow gives us a euphoric feeling of contentment. This is another strain that’s high in myrcene. Myrcene is an earthy terpene that seems to have calming properties. The THC in this strain is typically 17%-20% and very low in CBD. Like its name, White Widow is typically frosty, with a crystal-like appearance in the light.