Manage Insomnia with the 11 Best Indica Strains for Sleep
Green Mind Physicians
Insomnia is a symptom of many chronic health conditions, and when it isn’t managed properly, it can negatively affect your daily life. Medical marijuana can help with both the physical pain and mental health symptoms that make it difficult to sleep.
Many people find indica strains particularly beneficial for sleep. Indica is known for its relaxing effects and creates a mellow body high that can help you drift off.
Let’s take a look at why medical marijuana is so helpful for insomnia, as well as some of the best indica strains for sleep. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, or simply looking for a natural sleep aid, exploring these indica varieties can be a step toward achieving better sleep quality and overall health.
Can Marijuana Help with Sleep?
Many people who struggle to fall asleep find that medical marijuana is an effective sleep aid. The best marijuana for sleep helps patients feel physically relaxed and manage pain. In appropriate doses, marijuana can also assist you in reducing stress and calming down mentally at the end of the day. Strains containing CBD are particularly effective for managing stress levels and anxiety.
Scientific research on the link between cannabis and sleep is still in its early stages. However, some studies have indicated that medical cannabis products can help treat insomnia and other sleep disorders, particularly with support from a physician to determine the correct dose and timing. If you’re struggling to establish a consistent sleep routine, consulting with a medical marijuana provider could be advantageous.
More research is needed to determine whether marijuana can treat insomnia on its own. However, it appears to be beneficial for managing some of the underlying causes of insomnia, such as chronic pain and stress. When paired with a consistent bedtime and other healthy habits, marijuana could help you drift off more quickly and enjoy a deeper sleep.
11 Best Indica Strains for Sleep
There are two overarching strains of cannabis plants: indica and sativa. Many patients find that the best weed strains for sleep are indica-based, as it creates a very relaxing body high. Sativa strains can be very stimulating and increase creativity levels, which means they aren’t ideal for sleep in most cases.
Given the vast array of indica strains available on the market, identifying the most suitable one for individual sleep needs can be tricky. We’ve rounded up some of the best indica strains for sleep to help you get started.
1. Northern Lights
THC content: 16-21%
If you’re searching for the best THC for sleep, Northern Lights is an excellent choice. It is one of the most well-known indica strains available, and for good reason. Its ultra-relaxing effects make it one of the strains you’ll find. It’s also very potent, so you’ll only need a small amount to feel its effects.
Northern Lights is made by crossing the Afghani and Thai marijuana strains. Many users find that this strain helps with muscle relaxation and can produce a calming sensation. It’s a tried and true indica favorite that can make your nighttime routine a little more pleasant.
2. Granddaddy Purple
THC content: 15-19%
Granddaddy Purple is another one of the best strains for insomnia on the market. This strain is recognized for its unique appearance and odor. It produces purple leaves and is known for its fruity, grape-like scent.
This strain is physically and mentally relaxing, so it can help you wind down after a tough day. Some people also find it effective for minimizing the aches and pains that could keep you up at night.
3. Bubba Kush
THC content: 14-27%
If your mind and body struggle to wind down for the night, Bubba Kush is a strain that can help. Many patients describe this strain as “tranquilizing,” so it can help you relax when insomnia strikes.
The THC content in Bubba Kush products can vary, so you’ll want to look for an option that makes sense for you. If you’re new to marijuana, you may want to start with a product with a lower THC content. If you’re looking for something more intense, there are Bubba Kush products available with a THC content as high as 27%.
4. Skywalker OG
THC content: 20-30%
If you’re on the hunt for the best strain for sleep, it’s hard to go wrong with Skywalker OG. While this is technically a hybrid cannabis strain, it’s indica-dominant, so you’ll still enjoy plenty of relaxing and sleep-inducing effects. It’s known for its powerful stress-reducing properties as well as a spicy, herbal flavor.
Skywalker OG is particularly potent, so you’ll experience very strong effects with a small dose. Because this strain has such a high THC content, timing is key when taking it before bedtime. If you struggle with symptoms of depression or anxiety at night, this strain can help you mellow out and manage your moods so you can sleep comfortably.
5. Mendo Breath
THC content: 19-20%
Mendo Breath is some of the best indica for sleep that you’ll find on the market. It gives the user a laid-back yet euphoric feeling that will help you unwind and get some shut-eye.
Mendo Breath is a cross between two strains: OG Kush Breath and Mendo Montage, which is a rare type of marijuana known for its strong tranquilizing effects. It has an appealing, sweet flavor reminiscent of vanilla and caramel. Like many of the other strains on this list, Mendo Breath is quite potent, which makes it ideal for nighttime use.
6. Blueberry
THC content: 15-24%
This potent strain is one of the most popular choices on the market, and it also happens to be some of the best cannabis for sleep. As the name suggests, it has an appealing fruity flavor and smell.
Enjoying this strain before bedtime will help you relax and enjoy a pleasant high before drifting off to sleep. Blueberry is also effective for dulling physical pain and assisting users in coping with stress. Since this strain is so popular, you’ll find options with many different THC levels available so you can pick the potency that works best for you.
7. Ice Cream Cake
THC content: 20-25%
As the name implies, Ice Cream Cake is an ultra-sweet strain that can offer therapeutic benefits. It is recognized for the euphoric and tranquil experience many users experience, making it a great aid for relaxation and sleep. Since this strain is quite potent, it’s best to start small.
As the high sets in, you’ll feel a deep sense of relaxation thanks to this strain’s high indica content. Some users also find that this strain helps with symptoms of depression or anxiety that are keeping them up at night.
8. 9 Pound Hammer
THC content: 14-23%
Many consider this strain some of the best weed for sleep out there due to its intensely relaxing effects. You’ll likely find yourself feeling sleepy soon after consuming this potent strain, making it a popular choice for those with insomnia.
In addition to helping you sleep, 9 Pound Hammer can give you a pleasant mood boost. It can also help you manage nausea and increase your appetite. This makes it a well-rounded option for those seeking relief in various health-related areas.
9. Girl Scout Cookies
THC content: 25-28%
We’ve already mentioned many potent strains of marijuana, but Girl Scout Cookies tops them all with its high THC content. This ultra-relaxing strain makes it ideal for experienced users who struggle to unwind before bedtime. While this strain is technically a hybrid, it’s indica-dominant and is easy to find at many medical marijuana dispensaries.
It can also help keep chronic pain in check. Many users express that this strain contributes to a sense of well-being and uplifted mood, aligning with its therapeutic uses.
10. Hindu Kush
THC content: 15-20%
Hindu Kush is a classic strain that originated in the mountains of Pakistan and Afghanistan. This strain is much milder than many other options on this list, making it an excellent choice for those who don’t want their high to be too intense. There are many variations of Hindu Kush on the market, so be sure to consider all your options to see what makes the most sense for your needs.
Hindu Kush’s relaxing effects can help you feel calm and soothed before bed. It creates a light body high that can help manage aches and pains, making your transition into sleep even easier.
11. Pink Kush
THC content: 19-22%
Pink Kush is another reliable strain to help you relax and fall asleep at the end of the day. While it is a hybrid, it is very indica-dominant. Pink Kush creates a relaxing body high that will help you release any muscle tension and let go of anxiety. This mellow strain is potent without being overwhelming, so it’s a good middle-of-the-road option for insomnia.
Get Better Sleep with a Medical Marijuana Card
If you’ve been struggling with insomnia, these “sleepy weed” strains can help improve your sleep cycle. By reducing stress levels, minimizing pain, and promoting relaxation, marijuana can assist you in unwinding and falling asleep comfortably at the end of a long day. Ensuring adequate sleep each night will make you feel more alert and productive during the day, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The first step to getting an indica prescription is obtaining a medical marijuana card. At Green Mind Physicians, we help our clients get medical marijuana cards online in as little as 15 minutes. Schedule your consultation today to get certified in your state and on your way to a better night’s sleep.
