For patients seeking natural remedies for pain relief, medical marijuana provides relief without unpleasant side effects like those associated with opiates or other drugs. One of the most common reasons medical marijuana patients use cannabis is to relieve pain associated with a qualifying condition (step 1 in getting your medical marijuana card), such as arthritis, severe chronic back or neck pain, and/or fibromyalgia, among many other pain conditions. And while most patients seem to prefer indica strains for pain relief (indicas promote full-body relaxation) the way a patient medicates and doses can vary from person to person, which means strain preferences also vary. Trying to decide what strain, out of the hundreds available, can feel like a big task. We want to make it easy for our patients to navigate around the sometimes overwhelming world of MMJ, so below is the low down on the top 5 strains for pain relief, as well as what they’re used for and the THC/CBD ratios.
Strain 1: Sour Diesel (sativa)
Conceived from Chemdawg 91 and Super Skunk, the widely popular “Sour D” is a fast-acting strain named for its diesel-like aroma. It delivers long-lasting cerebral (head high) effects that help relieve stress, pain, and depression. Read more about the legendary Sour Diesel strain on Leafly.
THC 19-25%
CBD 0.1-0.3%
Strain 2: GG4 (hybrid)
The artist formerly known as Gorilla Glue #4, GG4 has been a cool kid on the block for a while as it’s won multiple awards as a widely-recognized-stick-you-to-the-couch-favorite. This indica-heavy hybrid promotes euphoric effects and relaxation and is especially helpful for those dealing with stress, depression, and pain. GG4’s parent strains are Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel. Check out the GG4 strain highlights on Leafly.
THC 18-32%
CBD .05-0.1%
Strain 3: Skywalker OG (hybrid)
Skywalker OG is an indica-dominant hybrid, grown from parents Skywalker and OG Kush. This strain implies that it has descended from the light side, and it shows, as this strain brings major relaxation and many patients report positive body effects such as mild tingling and numbness, making it perfect for easing intense chronic pain. More Skywalker OG strain highlights on Leafly.
THC 18-30%
CBD .06-0.2%
Strain 4: Granddaddy Purple (indica)
Granddaddy Purple (aka GDP) is a well-known indica as a cross between Purple Urkle and Big Bud. GDP’s psychoactive high will deliver a mesh of cerebral euphoria and physical relaxation and may even give you the munchies. Like most indica dominant strains, Granddaddy Purp is effective for treating pain, stress, insomnia, appetite loss, and muscle spasms. Granddaddy Purple strain highlights on Leafly.
THC 17-23%
CBD 0.1%
Strain 5: Dr. Who (hybrid)
A newer strain on the block trying to fit in with the cool crowd, Dr. Who is a potent indica heavy hybrid that owes its lineage to Mad Scientist and Timewreck. This 60/40 indica strain acts fast to relieve pain and stress, stimulate appetite, and help treat symptoms of conditions like multiple sclerosis, ADHD, mood disorders, and nausea without making patients feel lethargic or sedated, so it’s a good for any time of day. Read more of the Dr. Who strain highlights on Leafly.
THC 20-30%
CBD .04%
Luckily, these five strains are in Swell’s rotating inventory, so if you’re on the hunt for a new go-to, see if we have one of these in stock at one of our four Valley locations. Of course, flower inventory changes periodically. If we don’t have the strain you’re looking for, no stress! With hundreds of known strains in the world, our super knowledgeable budtenders can recommend something that will ease your pain and feeling swell again. Contact us for more info, or stop by and chat with one of our awesome budtenders today.
Sour Diesel is really a rockstar when it comes to pain relief. At first, I was really turned off with the diesel-like scent and flavor. Got used to it now! It relieves my arthritic pain. Thanks for the info! Got to try other strains too!