Top 6 Indica Strains to Smoke Right Now
Published on 12/12/20
With so many different cannabis strains on the market, it's easy to get lost in it all. People are often unsure of which strain will be best for them and may even be confused with what sativa vs indica means. Cannabis can aid in so many different things with the help of the right strain, once you sift through all the information. We're going to dive further into the best strains of weed in the indica family, perfect for that body relaxation that you've been looking for.
Indica vs. Sativa: What's the Difference?
Before diving into the indica world, let's take a step back and define the difference between the two main types of strains, as well as a brief look into what hybrid weed is as well. As we know, research within the cannabis community is still limited, but there are a few main attributes that each type of strain possesses. The sativa plant is typically tall and thin, and often has pretty low doses of CBD compared to THC. Commonly, sativa is used for a heady high, with an energetic effect that makes one productive and creative. On the flip side, indica plants are generally shorter and have leaves that grow broad and wide. Indica strains quite often have high levels of CBD and less THC and are typically used for the intensely calming effects. Indica can help mitigate pain and nausea, while also increasing appetite.
Hybrids are created by cannabis growers to produce new and unique strains from combinations of different parent plants. Producers are usually looking for a very specific effect, and are usually created to increase the THC percentage, which is where all the psychoactive feelings come from. Effects from hybrids range from reducing stress to aiding ailments such as epilepsy. Some of the best hybrid strains include Purple Trainwreck and Pineapple Express.
Best Indica Strains
Northern Lights
To kick off the list of strains, this indica has a sweet honeysuckle taste paired with an aroma of a musky pine forest. There's a comfortable laziness and a mellow feeling that comes along with smoking Northern Lights and it's one of the most popular strains in the indica family. High in myrcene, caryophyllene and limonene, this strain is sure to slam into the body with an overwhelming desire to sit on the couch. With little to no CBD content and a high THC content, this is one of the best strains of all time and is often used at night, especially to combat insomnia.
Blue Cheese
This indica strain has sweet and savory smells of berry combined with blue cheese. Some find the strain leaving a musty, hash-like aftertaste that can tend to linger. This creates a unique, creamy flavor that has an average THC composition of around 15% to 20%, with no CBD content. This strain is considered to be a slow burn, where the feelings creep in slowly - rather than all at once. There is a gradual sense of relaxation and Blue Cheese doesn't give you an intense couchlock feeling, either. Expect a terpene profile high in limonene and myrcene.
Grape Ape
Compared to different strains of weed, Grape Ape is sure to pack a distinct berry and grape-like smell while also giving off a slightly skunky musk. With a typical THC content of 20% and no CBD, this strain proves that a little can go a long way. Expect a high that unfolds slowly, leading to a heavy sensation in the head and limbs. It may leave one feeling a little clumsy, as it is a totally body high. This is one that is great for inducing sleep and soothing nagging pain and is high in terpenes such as myrcene and pinene.
Hindu Kush
Hindu Kush is a pure indica strain that finds itself among the best weed strains for being heavily sedative, with almost narcotic properties. Having a THC composition around 20% and no CBD content, it contains a subtle sweetness and earthy aroma, such as sandalwood, spice and wet earth. High in limonene, pinene and caryophyllene, this strain will give you the intense couchlock effect you might need after a long day. There have also been some reports of psychedelic effects such as strange sensations and visual distortions reported as well.
Pennywise
This indica, a cross between Jack the Ripper and Harlequin, is among the cannabis strains high in CBD. Pennywise contains some notes of coffee and pepper while also having a few hints of lemon and bubblegum as well. Being high in CBD, it is extremely effective in treating the likes of epilepsy, arthritis, PTSD and cancer symptoms. There is a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC so there aren't extreme psychoactive effects from this strain. Don't expect a huge head buzz from this strain- instead, you'll find waves of relaxation throughout the body. Pennywise has terpenes in abundance, most notably myrcene, pinene and terpinolene.
Remedy
This is another one of the best cannabis strains that is high in CBD, producing little to no psychoactive effects on the user. Generally producing a lemony-pine scent, Remedy also contains floral notes and a woody, natural smell that gives off a sense of expansive relaxation. With little to no THC and about 15% CBD, this strain is high in caryophyllene and myrcene. Medical treatment is the primary use for Remedy and it treats condition-specific pains, while also bringing a reducing effect to stress.
Do you have a top indica strain that is a must-try? Tell us below.