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Looking for a mellow smoke without the intense high? We’ve got you covered with our top picks for high-CBD, low-THC strains.
These strains offer all the benefits of cannabis—like pain relief and relaxation—without the overwhelming psychoactive effects.
Whether you’re a seasoned user needing a tolerance break or just someone who prefers a more controlled experience, low-THC cannabis is a reasonable option.
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Low THC cannabis typically refers to hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC, a limit established by the 2018 Farm Bill for legal sale.
But, low THC products can also mean THC is present in lower concentrations.
These products are rich in CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid known for its potential therapeutic benefits without inducing a mental high. This makes low-THC cannabis an ideal choice for those seeking the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Hemp growers have developed strains that maximize CBD content while keeping THC levels minimal.
Hemp is classified as having less than 0.3% THC, which is also considered a low-THC flower. But low-THC cannabis can also mean that the THC levels are below 10%. These lower THC strains typically give a milder psychoactive experience where the user still feels high, but not as much as a high-THC strain would make them feel.
Low THC strains usually have higher levels of CBD, often maintaining a 2:1 or 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC, which can help balance and mitigate the intoxicating effects of THC.
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Here are some main reasons as to why it’s gaining popularity:
Low THC strains, with less than 0.3% THC, offer therapeutic benefits without the intense high or side effects that some high-THC strains can bring. This makes them perfect for those seeking relief without the buzz.
Low-THC cannabis is often rich in other cannabinoids like CBD. Research into CBD-rich cannabis is promising, with potential therapeutic effects for symptoms of:
Heavy cannabis users can switch to low THC strains during tolerance breaks. Consuming a lot of THC frequently over time can lead to increased tolerance, where you have to consume more THC to feel the effects you once felt with a small amount. Low-THC weed can still give a mild high while helping you reset your sensitivity to THC.
In regions where recreational cannabis is illegal, low-THC cannabis offers a legal alternative, allowing consumers to enjoy some effects without breaking the law.
With these benefits, low-THC cannabis appeals to both recreational and medical users looking for a gentler, more controlled cannabis experience.
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Charlotte’s Web is a renowned high-CBD strain, boasting around 13% CBD and less than 1% THC, with a 30:1 CBD to THC ratio. Named after Charlotte Figi, who successfully managed her seizures with its aid, this strain features a sweet, delicate, and citrusy flavor profile. It also contains terpenes like myrcene, alpha-pinene, and beta-caryophyllene.
Harle-Tsu, a hybrid cross between Harlequin and Sour Tsunami, typically boasts 20-24% CBD and around 1% THC, resulting in a 20:1 CBD to THC ratio. This means you’re not likely going to get high, but you’ll enjoy its benefits for reducing chronic pain and inflammation. Users often describe its effects as focused, happy, and calm. Expect earthy notes with hints of pepper and pine, plus a subtly sweet taste.
In The Pines is a hybrid of Pineapple Thai, Master Kush, and Pineapple genetics. With a THC content of 5-7% and CBD levels of 10-15%, this strain provides a bright, creative buzz and an electric body high that’s easy to manage. It’s known for relieving anxiety and pain without overwhelming effects.
Expect frosty green buds with a crisp, piney aroma and citrusy tropical notes. The exhale is earthy with a hint of citrus, keeping it light and refreshing.
Suzy Q features about 10% CBD and less than 1% THC, offering a piney flavor. Known for its relaxing and uplifting effects, this hybrid strain can help relieve chronic pain, nausea, arthritis, muscle spasms, and anxiety without any intoxicating effects.
THC levels in this indica strain maintain around 6-10% and typically come in a 2:1 CBD ratio. Many users of Blue Dynamite express that it helps calm anxiety, soothe aches, and provide mild euphoria.
Look for dense, resinous buds with a dank, botanical aroma and a sweet, earthy taste. Blue Dynamite’s primary terpene is myrcene, with sharp notes of limonene and pinene lingering on the exhale.
Harlequin features a balanced profile with around 8% CBD and 7% THC, offering a 5:2 CBD to THC ratio. This sativa strain is popular for managing pain and anxiety without causing drowsiness, providing an alert, clear-headed experience with a touch of mild euphoria.
Users often describe it as uplifting, energizing, and mood-enhancing. Harlequin possesses terpenes like myrcene, alpha-pinene, and beta-caryophyllene, with an aroma and flavor that range from woody and musky to sweet and mango-like. It’s a great choice for a daytime, functional high.
Despite its name, this strain definitely won’t leave you catatonic; instead, it offers a balanced 10% CBD and 5% THC profile and provides uplifting and relaxing effects.
It’s renowned as a top medical hybrid strain, often used to treat migraines, chronic pain, and anxiety. Users describe it as delivering an effortless broad-body buzz, with pain melting away within 10 minutes. With terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene, expect an earthy, citrusy, and peppery taste.
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