Not all cannabis strains are made equal, and their unique effects are a testament to that. Some strains offer simple relief from chronic pain while others have made their mark in the annals of pop culture for inducing mind-altering experiences and heightened creativity.
Here are some of the most popular cannabis strains around the world and what makes them unique.
Acapulco Gold
Smoking Acapulco Gold is the cannabis equivalent of eating at a restaurant with a 3 Michelin star rating. Popular during the Swinging Sixties, the Acapulco Gold looks like a gold nugget because of its color. Aside from being a staple in countercultures, this strain is famous for its potency and unique appearance.
Laughing Buddha
A cross between sativas that are indigenous to Thailand and Jamaica, the Laughing Buddha is notable for having a dank and citrusy flavor. As the name suggests, this strain will leave smokers giggly and ecstatic, so it’s the perfect choice for those who are looking to have a rollicking good time with friends.
Chocolope
There is a cannabis strain for everyone, including chocoholics. Also known as D-Line, the Chocolope is notable for leaving a smoky, chocolatey taste in the mouth. Aside from its unique flavor, it is also known for its high THC concentration, which makes it very potent.
Harlequin
The Harlequin is an indica strain and one of the rarest strains in the world. It is low in THC (marijuana testing revealed around 7 percent), so it is generally not for smokers who are simply interested in catching a buzz. However, it is high in CBD (test results range between 5 percent and 9 percent), which makes it much sought after for pain relief, meditation, and relaxation purposes.
Purple Haze
Named after a Jimi Hendrix song about a premium-grade LSD, this cannabis strain induces a sort of psychedelic haze and is just mildly potent. Aside from its name and weird effects, it is notable for its berry taste and colors made up of dark green and purple. Purple Haze is also taken by people looking for stress relief.
Sour Tsunami
A good choice for novices, the Sour Tsunami is a well-balanced strain that is notable for its high CBD levels. In fact, it is one of the first strains bred for high CBD content and promoted for medicinal purposes such as treating seizures, sleeplessness, and chronic pain. As the name suggests, the Sour Tsunami has an earthy citrus and tropical flavor.
AK-47
Despite its provocative name, the AK-47 is actually a very mellow strain of cannabis. This Sativa-dominant hybrid features a bright white coloring. After smoking the AK-47, users feel peaceful, relaxed and euphoric. Other testimonies also mention that this strain heightens creativity.
Lamb’s Bread
A sativa-dominant strain, Lamb’s Bread is reportedly a favorite of musical icon Bob Marley. Its origins can be traced back to Jamaica, and it is well-known for inducing states of positive introspection, raised awareness, and euphoria. This strain is so potent that even taking a few hits is enough to leave users medicated for hours.
OG Kush
Also known as the Presidential Kush, this strain has remarkably high THC levels (exceeding 20 percent in some tests), which makes it a potent cure for anxiety, insomnia and migraines. With its sweet and piney flavor and strong sedative effects, OG Kush can instantly soothe the most frazzled politician.
Reminders
While you’re having a great time smoking your favorite joint, don’t forget to check the levels of THC in your body every now and then. Take note of the laws in your state, and smoke marijuana at the allowed areas and in the allowed amounts.
Don’t show up high at work or use marijuana while you’re working. Passing a blood test is crucial especially if you happen to work in a safety-critical environment. Responsible use of marijuana is important to your safety and that of your colleagues.