Best Cannabis Strains for Sleep and Relaxation 

Finding the right cannabis strain for sleep and relaxation can be a game-changer for those seeking a deeper, more restful night's sleep. Cannabis, with its wide range of strains and effects, offers a natural way to calm the mind, ease stress, and drift into a peaceful slumber. In this guide, we'll explore the best strains to choose from, aspects to consider when selecting your ideal match, and insights into how cannabis can assist in achieving a state of tranquility. 

What You'll Learn 

Yes, cannabis can help improve sleep quality for many individuals. A study published in the journal Current Psychiatry Reports found that cannabinoids, particularly CBD and THC, influence sleep by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system. This interaction can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality (Babson, Sottile, & Morabito, 2017). However, knowing that cannabis can help with sleep is half the battle while the other half is knowing what strains and characteristics will help with a better night’s sleep. 

Best Strains to Help with Sleeping and Relaxation 

Choosing the right strain of cannabis can make a significant difference when it comes to achieving a restful night’s sleep and overall relaxation. The following strains are known for their sleep-promoting properties and relaxing effects. 

Cataract Kush 

Lineage: LA Confidential x OG Kush 

Type: Indica 

Effects: Sleepy, Euphoric, Stress Relief 

Flavors: Herbal, Skunky 

Terpenes: B-Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene 

Cherry Malt 

Lineage: Wedding Cake x Kush Mints 

Type: Indica 

Effects: Euphoric, Relaxation, Body High 

Flavors: Earthy, Vanilla, Peppery 

Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Linalool 

Cherry on Top 

Lineage: Grape Pie x GMO 

Type: Indica 

Effects: Relaxing, Soothing, Sleepy 

Flavors: Skunky, Fruity 

Terpenes: Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene 

Cherry Punch 

Lineage: Cherry AK-47 x Purple Punch 

Type: Hybrid 

Effects: Relaxing, Uplifting, Pain Relief 

Flavors: Fruity, Gassy 

Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene 

Chemdawg 91 

Lineage: Chemdog x Skunk 

Type: Hybrid 

Effects: Anxiety Relief, Relaxation, Calming 

Flavors: Diesel, Chem, Skunky 

Terpenes: Limonene, Caryophyllene, Myrcene 

Grape Noir 

Lineage: Grape Pie x GMO 

Type: Indica 

Effects: Deeply relaxing, calming effects 

Flavors: Skunk, Soft sweet notes 

Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene 

Kosher Kush 

Lineage: OG Kush x Unknown 

Type: Indica 

Effects: Soothing, Sedating, Relaxing 

Flavors: Earthy, Fruity, Musky 

Terpenes: Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene 

Wedding Cake 

Lineage: Triangle Kush x Animal Mints 

Type: Indica 

Effects: Calming, Blissful, Euphoric 

Flavors: Citrus, Cinnamon, Cloves 

Terpenes: Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool 

O.R.E.O.Z. 

Lineage: Cookies and Cream x Secret Weapon 

Type: Indica 

Effects: Relaxing, Anxiety Relief, Sleepy 

Flavors: Diesel, Cocoa, Vanilla 

Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Linalool 

Pablo's Revenge 

Lineage: Animal Mints x Sherbet Cake 

Type: Hybrid 

Effects: Relaxed, Sleepy 

Flavors: Floral, Mint, Gassy 

Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene 

What Should You Look for When Choosing Cannabis Strains for Sleep

Cannabis is unique in that each strain can provide different effects and benefits. With some strains providing more relaxing effects and others giving more stimulating effects, it’s important to know a strain’s characteristics to ensure it provides the desired effects. 

Hybrid, Sativa, or Indica? 

When utilizing cannabis for sleep, Indica strains are generally more effective. Indica strains tend to offer body relaxation, sedation, and have higher levels of terpenes like myrcene, which are known for their sedative effects. 

Hybrids with a high Indica content can also be used, but pure Indica strains are often more effective for sleep and relaxation. 

What are the Total Active Cannabinoids? 

When it comes to using cannabis for sleep, various cannabinoids can play a significant role in helping you relax and prepare for a restful night. Below are some of the most notable cannabinoids known for their sleep-promoting effects: 

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) 

THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is well-known for its sedative properties, which can help in falling asleep faster and potentially reducing the time spent in the REM phase of sleep. However, it's important to be cautious with dosage, as higher doses of THC can lead to increased tolerance and even next-day drowsiness (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2017). 

CBD (Cannabidiol) 

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has gained popularity for its calming and relaxing effects. While it may not induce sleep directly, it plays a significant role in alleviating anxiety and stress, which can be major barriers to a good night's sleep. CBD can be particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from anxiety-related sleep disorders (Carlini & Cunha, 1981). 

CBN (Cannabinol) 

CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is often found in aged cannabis. It is known for its strong sedative effects, making it particularly effective for sleep. Some studies suggest that CBN could be as effective as pharmaceutical sedatives, but without the associated side effects (Turner et al., 1980). 

CBC (Cannabichromene) 

CBC is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has shown potential in promoting relaxation and reducing pain, which can indirectly aid in better sleep. Though less researched than THC and CBD, CBC shows promise in contributing to a balanced sleep routine (Russo, 2011q). 

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) 

THCV is a minor cannabinoid that, in lower doses, has been found to have stimulating effects. However, in higher doses, it may act as a sedative, aiding in sleep. Though more research is needed, THCV is another cannabinoid that might help individuals achieve better sleep (Riedel et al., 2009). 

The Strain’s Terpene Profile 

Terpenes are another critical piece of information that can be used to help understand the effects of a particular strain. With different terpenes providing unique effects, consumers should look for strains heavier in the following terpenes: 

Myrcene 

Common in many Indica strains, myrcene has sedative effects and can provide relaxation to consumers using strains heavy in this terpene. 

Linalool 

Linalool is known for its calming and relaxing properties, linalool is a great terpene when looking to relax and rest. 

Caryophyllene 

Caryophyllene has anti-anxiety and stress-relieving properties which can help provide a better night's sleep. 

Want to Try Cannabis to Help with a Better Sleep? 

For those interested in exploring cannabis for sleep, our dispensaries offer a range of top-quality products and expert guidance. Visit a Zen Leaf dispensary near you today, where our Cannabis Advisors can assist you in finding the ideal strains to meet your personal preference and needs.