Pain relief is one of the common reasons many people turn to marijuana. It could be in edibles, topical applications, or simply smokable buds.
Cannabis is thought to alleviate pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system to block pain signals.
When you’re looking for the best weed strain for pain relief, you have to consider its cannabinoid ratio, genetics, and even terpene profile.
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To make the search easier, we’ve ranked five of the best marijuana that are known for easing pain and providing relief.
Our list begins with the Indica-dominant hybrid Ice Cream Cake, followed by four other equally potent options for pain alleviation.
Best Marijuana For Pain: First Look
Ice Cream Cake — Best Overall Pick on Marijuana For Pain
Green Crack — Enegerzing, Pain Relief, Sleepier After-effect
Northern Lights #10 — High THC Strain for Pain Alleviation
OG Kush — Best for Tensed Muscles and Painful Joints
Sour Diesel — Daytime Mood Boost To Relief Pain and Get Things Done
As you continue reading, you will learn about these strains’ genetics, potency, flavor, aroma, and growing requirements. .
Key Factors To Consider in a Weed Strain for Pain
There has been evidence that shows how consuming certain types of marijuana can ease different body pains.
However, before you pick just any cannabis for this purpose, pay attention to some key factors like the level of THC and CBD content and terpenes profile
THC vs CBD content
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the active compound in cannabis that causes the psychoactive high. But it also works by bliding directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, reducing pain perception.
This is why weed strains that are known to alleviate chronic pain and muscle spasms are usually high in THC levels.
Meanwhile, CBD (Cannabidiol) compound in cannabis doesn’t necessarily cause a high, but when consumed, this compound modulates the body’s ECS receptors indirectly, reducing inflammation and altering pain perception.
Terpene Profile
Terpenes are the natural oils in cannabis that give it its unique smell and flavor. They’re also believed to help improve how well cannabis relieves pain.
Some of the best terpenes for pain relief include Limonene, Beta-Caryophyllene, Myrcene, and Pinene.
In 2021, researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences found that terpenes might work together with other compounds in cannabis to make it more effective for healing.
This “entourage effect” could enhance the benefits without making you feel more high from THC.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid
Many pain-relieving cannabis strains are Indica-dominant hybrids. This is because Indica produces a sedative, is body high, and is often preferred for nighttime use to help with muscle relaxation and reduce discomfort.
However, some specific Sativa-dominant strains help alleviate pain while promoting alertness, as you will find in the next section. Sativas generally produce an uplifting and energizing head high.
Hybrids can lean towards indica, sativa, or balance both, depending on the parent strains.
H/T: breakingac.com