Even if you’ve never tried cannabis, you probably still know that THC is the main cannabinoid responsible for the plant’s intoxicating high. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been gaining on the heels of THC’s popularity, though many still don’t appreciate CBD’s more subtle effects or how those effects express themselves within a strain.
We’d like to change that. As the second most popular cannabinoid after THC, CBD is no slouch—despite its lack of a classic euphoric high. A powerful compound in its own right, CBD has held its own and has been (and still is) routinely studied for its reported ability to address chronic pain, anxiety, and other symptoms.
If you’ve been curious about CBD and are looking for an all-natural way to relax, we’re here for you. Find out why CBD has become such a go-to compound for many cannabis consumers, and learn which high-CBD strains are taking over the market today. Ready? Let’s get rolling!
High CBD Cannabis Strains: The Science
If you’ve been following marijuana news, you probably know that CBD is currently having quite the moment. There’s no mystery why: As we hinted above, it’s currently being studied for a surprisingly wide array of symptoms and conditions, ranging from the potential to reduce anxiety and stress, fighting inflammation and pain, and helping us find deeper, more restorative sleep.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t impart a “high.” Many people describe its psychoactivity as an extremely mild cerebral “buzziness,” if that. This quality has proven useful for pediatric use against seizure syndromes such as epilepsy.
Incredibly, that’s not even the end of the list. CBD is currently under investigation for the potential to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. One review of CBD studies found that the cannabinoid can even help people reduce addictive cravings and behaviors. And in a totally separate development, there’s evidence that it could even help support healthier, clearer skin.
So, with all that said: What strain has the highest CBD content? Let’s run the numbers.
Why Choose High CBD Strains?
CBD really is becoming as well known as THC, and there’s no mystery as to why: As we mentioned above, it’s currently being studied for a surprisingly wide array of symptoms and conditions, ranging from the potential to reduce anxiety and stress, fight inflammation and pain, and lead to a deeper, more restorative sleep.
And the list doesn’t stop there. CBD is also being investigated for its potential to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, and one review of CBD studies found that the cannabinoid can even help people reduce addictive cravings and behaviors. In a totally separate development, there’s also been some evidence that it could even help support healthier, clearer skin.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t get you high, and many people would describe its psychoactivity, if they feel any, as an extremely mild cerebral “buzziness.” This makes it especially useful for patients who are sensitive to THC’s intoxicating effects or for those who are underage and are using it for medicinal purposes, such as addressing seizures and symptoms related to epilepsy.
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing High CBD Strains
When choosing the best high CBD, low THC strains for your mind and body, it’s always a good idea to be clear on cannabinoid ratios. The THC to CBD ratio is an important tool for predicting the effects of any given product or strain. Since THC is the cannabinoid that’s most responsible for the noticeable psychoactivity in cannabis, then the more of it that’s present in a product or strain, the more intoxicating that product will be. Conversely, the more CBD there is, the milder the intoxicating effects may be.
There’s an interesting additional consideration when it comes to cannabis’s medicinal benefits. Many researchers believe that THC and CBD work better in tandem, which is why products with cannabinoid ratios—from 1:1 CBD to THC to 20:1 CBD to THC and beyond—are so popular.
There’s also the consideration of where the cannabinoids are sourced. If they were sourced from hemp, you may expect essentially no psychoactivity at all since legal hemp products—such as the ones you’d find at a grocery or local drug store as opposed to a licensed dispensary—contain 0.3% THC or less.
It’s such a minuscule amount that it may never translate to an intoxicating high, so if you’re concerned about intoxication, you can choose hemp-derived CBD with confidence, knowing that many hemp-derived products contain very little THC whatsoever—but it’s always a good practice to read the labels of any hemp product you’re purchasing and review its lab tests for potency and purity.
Explore the Best High CBD Strains
We’ll be the first to admit it: There are no true “best” high CBD strains, just as there are no true “best” THC strains. Why? Each of us is different, and we’ve all got favorites that can affect our body chemistry differently. But, there are a few crowd pleasers that may help guide you on your journey and exploration of high CBD products.
Harlequin
Perhaps the most famous high-CBD strain, Harlequin, typically has a 5:2 CBD:THC ratio. It displays a sativa-dominant uplift and often imparts a very mild euphoric effect. It can be great for daytime activities while providing a mild and relaxing ride.
Sour Diesel
Call it “Sour Diesel,” “Sour Deez” or just “Sour D,” but one thing’s for certain: With an unforgettably fuel-like and piney aroma and dreamy, energizing effects, this strain hasn’t become a global phenomenon by accident. Many in the medical cannabis community depend on it to tame depression, stress, and pain, but really, you can enjoy it anytime you like.
ACDC
Another fan favorite, ACDC, averages around a 20:1 CBD:THC ratio, which typically makes the THC barely perceptible—if at all—and can be a great choice for daily users who want to reduce stress, discomfort, or tension with gentle and sustainable relief.
Stephen Hawking Kush
Named in honor of the path-breaking physicist, this 1:1 CBD:THC powerhouse delivers vivid, fresh-fruit flavors and strong effects. Soothing, relaxing, and able to tamp down on chronic pain and nausea, it’s yet another strain that’s made a name for itself outside the medical cannabis world.
Cannatonic
Averaging around a 2:1 CBD:THC ratio, this hybrid isn’t quite as sedative as the name suggests. It’s often described as an even-keeled strain, delivering medicinal benefits without the anxiousness and paranoia sometimes associated with high amounts of THC.
Remedy
With roughly 13% CBD and 1% THC, this strain is a high-CBD, low-THC superstar. Behind its sweet and floral flavors and aromas lies a mellow relaxation that rolls out with little intoxication. A bracing lemon-and-pine scent is the icing on the cake.
Ringo’s Gift
Named for late activist and cannabis cultivator Lawrence Ringo, this high-CBD strain boasts an average 24:1 CBD:THC ratio. Medical patients often choose this strain for gently relieving discomfort and other stress-related symptoms.
Pennywise
A high-CBD cross between Harlequin and Jack the Ripper, this pepper-scented flower delivers a 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC. Fans love its euphoric, energizing buzz and its potential for helping to relieve discomfort, relieve stress and uplift mood.
Shop Mission and Discover Quality High CBD Strains
Our goal here at Mission is to expand your concept of how cannabis can help support your intentions for your health and wellness. We’ve seen countless lives changed for the better as people discover the power of this all-natural, plant-based medicine.
Check out your local Mission menu from our Illinois or Massachusetts dispensaries and find out which high-CBD, low-THC strains are fresh and in stock—find premium flower, vapes, edibles, and more.
Still have questions about CBD strains, cannabinoid ratios, or any other cannabis-related questions? Stop by any of our locations and ask your friendly budtender for more information. We’re here to help!
Want to deepen your cannabis knowledge even further? Visit our cannabis blog, where you’ll find in-depth articles on all aspects of cannabis culture, from hot new strains to the science behind the plant and much more.
