Best High CBD Strains

One of the most popular uses for medical cannabis are high CBD strains that have a greater concentration of cannabidiol. We now know that the health benefits can be attributed to the 144 cannabinoids and other terpenes in the cannabis plant. Cannabidiol (CBD) was discovered in the 1940’s and is showing increasing evidence of its health advantages. It is being used by people all over the world to manage mild to chronic health conditions.

Each marijuana strain contains different amounts of these cannabinoids and terpenes, giving them each their own unique medicinal qualities. Hemp varieties of the plant have little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but usually contain high amounts of CBD. Alternatively, there are strains from the Indica and Sativa species that contain high amounts of the cannabinoid with low to moderate amounts of THC.

These strains are great for people who wish to reap the potential benefits of cannabidiol without experiencing any extreme psychoactive effects. Cannabis strains high in cannabidiol can be smoked, vaporized, or processed with extraction techniques to create a number of products that will allow you to utilize the cannabidiol.

These high CBD strains are great for anyone who wants to add cannabidiol to their daily routine but prefer smoking as their go-to ingestion method. They are also useful for anyone looking to cultivate their own CBD products at home, like homemade oil extracts or edibles.

Quick Links

• Importance of the CBD-to-THC Ratio
• Why High CBD Strains Are Popular
• List of High CBD Indica Strains
• List of High CBD Sativa Strains
• List of High CBD Hybrid Strains

Importance of the CBD-to-THC Ratio

The CBD-to-THC ratio refers to the amount of cannabidiol compared to the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol in cannabis-derived products. It is important to pay close attention to this ratio when choosing a product because the two have different effects on the body.

THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects related to marijuana. While there is evidence regarding its potential medicinal benefits, many people prefer to avoid these effects, typically referred to as a “high” feeling. In some cases, the psychoactive effects may be useful, but they are not necessary to reap the medicinal benefits of cannabis.

Cannabis products are available in a range of different ratios, and understanding these ratios and what they mean is the first step to choosing the best product for you. The ratio will help determine if a product is considered THC heavy, CBD heavy, or balanced.

A marijuana product with a 0:1 ratio is THC heavy. Another THC heavy option is 1:3, which still includes the psychoactive effects but uses cannabidiol to level out some of the undesirable side effects, like anxiety or paranoia.

CBD heavy strains may have ratios like 2:1 or 3:1 and cause very light psychoactive effects. However, higher ratios like 1:0 or 25:1 are often sought out for their many potential benefits without psychoactive effects.

When choosing a cannabis product you should always consult your doctor. He or she will be able to help you decide which type of product is right for you and walk you through the potential risks and benefits of different CBD-to-THC ratios. It’s important to mention that small amounts of THC tend to further enhance the effects of cannabidiol.

The Benefits of High CBD Strains

Cannabidiol offers a range of potential benefits that aren’t present (or are less abundant) in THC. The unearthing of these benefits has pushed many people to consider CBD, including those who would have never considered marijuana before. While there is still much more research to be done, many studies have concluded that it may be helpful for managing many conditions ranging from mild to severe. There are too many potential benefits to list them all, but some of the most popular uses include:

• Reducing Pain and Inflammation: Cannabidiol is widely known for its use managing pain and inflammation, especially related to inflammatory conditions like arthritis. According to several studies, cannabidiol works to reduce inflammation in the body, whether due to existing health conditions or injury. Some research even suggests that cannabidiol is an alternative to opioids for treating chronic pain, which could help put an end to the widespread opioid epidemic.
• Treating Anxiety and Depression: Some studies have looked at the potential to help anxiety, depression, and other mood-related disorders. Several of these studies have concluded that cannabidiol is able to bind with specific receptors in the brain which has a number of effects on how the brain functions. One study shows that CBD changes blood flow to certain areas of the brain that are responsible for creating anxious feelings. Other research has been done to conclude that it has similar effects to antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.
• Managing Insomnia: CBD is frequently regarded as a potential treatment for managing insomnia, but it isn’t necessarily a sleep aid. Instead, it may help reduce insomnia by regulating sleep and wake cycles. Cannabidiol is known to potentially improve mental focus and alertness during the day, and when combined with its possible anti-anxiety effects creates a cycle that may make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep at night.
• Easing Cancer Medication Side Effects: Cannabidiol has a range of potential benefits that may counteract some of the undesirable side effects related to popular cancer treatments. Many studies have concluded that it may help reduce nausea and fatigue and increase appetite in cancer patients. Other research shows its potential to reduce the size of cancer cells and the progression of some types of cancer.

Whether you’re a hobby grower, or if you grow medical cannabis for yourself or a loved one, we recommend buying seeds from a reputable company like Quebec Cannabis Seeds. They offer stealth shipping across North America for only $10.

High CBD Strains List

Best High CBD Indica Strains

Indica dominant strains come from the plant Cannabis Indica, which is known for its short stature and fat leaves. The flower harvested from this plant is often linked to feelings of euphoria and relaxation that ease anxiety and stress. Indicas are also frequently considered useful for stimulating appetite and inducing tiredness or sleep. High-CBD indica strains are favored by those looking for additional help in relaxing and treating pain symptoms.

Afghani CBD
5% Sativa/95% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) This cannabis strain contains CBD levels up to 7% and THC levels between 6-8%.
Effects: Most people report feeling relaxed and sleepy.
Health Symptoms: Many people use Afghani for insomnia or chronic pain.
Taste: Slightly sweet with earthy undertones
Additional considerations: This cannabis strain may be useful before bed or to unwind at the end of the day, but is not recommended for use before physical activity.

CBD Critical Mass
20% Sativa/80% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) Expect a CBD and THC content between 6 and 8%
Effects: Users generally report feeling relaxed and sleepy.
Health Symptoms: Users find that Critical Mass may help with eating disorders and sleep disorders.
Taste: Lemons with earthy undertones
Other considerations: This high CBD strain is perfect for unwinding, but not helpful for mental focus before important activities. It also stimulates appetite, so it may be best to use before a meal instead of after.

CBD Shark
20% Sativa/80% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) CBD Shark can contain CBD and THC contents up to 10%.
Effects: Smoking this cannabis strain usually results in users feeling relaxed, sleepy, and happy.
Health Symptoms: Many patients opt for this strain to treat pain, anxiety, and inflammation.
Taste: Citrus with earthy undertones
Additional considerations: This strain often leaves users feeling tired, so it is best used at the end of the day or when you have time to relax.

Devil Fruit
30% Sativa/70% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) Devil Fruit has a CBD and THC content around 6%.
Effects: Devil fruit makes users feel relaxed, happy, and uplifted.
Health Symptoms: Many users report that Devil Fruit helps them with muscles spasms and related pain.
Taste: Lemony and sweet
Other considerations: Many users report feeling happy and talkative, so this strain may be better used with a friend.

Digweed
35% Sativa/ 65% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) Digweed generally has CBD and THC contents around 7%.
Effects: Most users report feeling relaxed and happy.
Health Symptoms: Users find that this strain may help to manage chronic pain and muscle spasms. Some report that it helps to reduce stress.
Taste: Sweet, earthy, and skunky
Additional considerations: This strain has a bold, skunky flavor that may not be favorable to some people.

Pennywise
30% Sativa/70% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) Pennywise has around 6-7% CBD and THC on average.
Effects: Many users report feeling relaxed, uplifted, focused, and creative.
Health Symptoms: Pennywise is often used to manage neurological disorders, arthritis, and some cancer-related symptoms.
Taste: Sweet coffee and spice
Other considerations: Some users report experiencing dry mouth after using this high CBD strain.

Remedy
25% Sativa/75% Indica with a 28:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (28:1) Remedy has a very high CBD content around 15% with an almost untraceable THC content at less than 1%.
Effects: Users frequently report feeling relaxed and talkative.
Health Symptoms: Remedy may help manage pain and muscle spasms, and reduce stress.
Taste: Earthy with citrus undertones
Additional considerations: This strain has almost no THC content, so you should not expect to experience any psychoactive effects.

Sweet and Sour Widow
30% Sativa/70% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) Expect CBD and THC levels around 11%
Effects: Many users report feeling relaxed, uplifted, tingly, and aroused.
Health Symptoms: Many users choose this strain for managing stress, depression, and mild to moderate pain.
Taste: Earthy with spicy undertones
Other considerations: This strain has a bold flavor that some people may be sensitive to. Some users also report dry mouth and dry eyes.

Best High CBD Sativa Strains

Sativa strains are harvested from the Cannabis Sativa plant which is taller with thin leaves and generally has effects opposite to Indica strains. Sativa is known as an energizer, creating an uplifting feeling that improves mental focus and increases energy. This makes sativa high CBD strains a natural choice for those looking to reap cannabidiol’s benefits without risking feeling drowsy.

CBD Mango Haze
80% Sativa/20% Indica with a 2:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (2:1) CBD Mango Haze has a THC and CBD content somewhere between 6 and 8%.
Effects: Many people report feeling energetic and euphoric.
Health Symptoms: CBD Mango Haze is potentially useful for treating muscle cramps and inflammation, as well as related pain.
Taste: Citrus and mangoes
Additional considerations: This high CBD strain is often an energy booster so it may not be best to use before bed.

Dance World
75% Sativa/25% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) Dance World has around 9-12% CBD with almost equal levels of THC.
Effects: Many users report feeling happy, energetic, uplifted, and euphoric.
Health Symptoms: It may help relieve headaches and muscle spasms and reduce stress.
Taste: Citrus with earthy undertones
Other considerations: Some users report headaches and dry mouth after using this strain. Dance world has a bold flavor that may not be suitable for some people.

Harlequin
75% Sativa/25% Indica with a 5:2 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (5:2) This strain typically has around 8-16% CBD and only 4-6% THC.
Effects: Most people report feeling relaxed, focused and uplifted.
Health Symptoms: Many users have reported that this cannabis strain is potentially useful for managing depression and stress as well as moderate to severe pain.
Taste: Sweet and earthy
Additional considerations: Some people have reported feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and dry mouth and eyes.

Johnny’s Tonic
70% Sativa/30% Indica with a 2:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (2:1) Expect a CBD content of 12% and a THC content around 6%.
Effects: Many people felt happy, relaxed, euphoric, and giggly after using this strain.
Health Symptoms: It is potentially useful for controlling fatigue, stress, and pain due to inflammation.
Taste: Bold and earthy
Other considerations: Some patients reported experiencing both dry eyes and dry mouth.

MediHaze
80% Sativa/20%Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) MediHaze will have CBD and THC levels around 9%.
Effects: This cannabis strain generally makes users feel relaxed, focused, and energetic.
Health Symptoms: This one may be useful for symptoms of pain and inflammation and controlling muscle spasms.
Taste: Sweet pine
Additional considerations: A few patients reported headaches and feelings of anxiety and paranoia.

Rafael
80% Sativa/20% Indica with a 1:18 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:18) It has a CBD content up to 18% with low THC levels around 1%.
Effects: Many people report feeling relaxed, focused, and euphoric.
Health Symptoms: Many users report that it may be useful for managing sleep disorders and digestive issues.
Taste: Peaches
Other considerations: This strain commonly causes dry eyes and dry mouth.

Best High CBD Hybrid Strains

Hybrids are a blend of Sativa and Indica plants. These strains often create a mellow effect, balancing the relaxing effects of Indica and the energizing effects of Sativa.

Dancehall
60% Sativa/40% Indica with a 16:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (16-20:1) Expect CBD levels around 16% with only trace amounts of THC.
Effects: Many people report feeling happy, uplifted, energetic, and creative.
Health Symptoms: Many people seek out this strain for help managing stress, depression, fatigue, pain, and inflammation.
Taste: Floral and earthy
Additional considerations: Dancehall contains virtually no THC, so you shouldn’t expect any psychoactive effects.

ACDC
50% Sativa/50% Indica with a 20:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (20:1) Expect CBD levels as high as 20% with only trace amounts of THC.
Effects: Many people report feeling relaxed, focused, and uplifted.
Health Symptoms: ACDC may be generally helpful for all forms of anxiety, pain, stress, inflammation, and headaches.
Taste: Pine with woody undertones
Other considerations: Some people experience dry mouth, dry eyes, anxiety, and paranoia when using this strain.

Charlotte’s Web
60% Sativa/40% Indica with a 30:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (30:1) This strain has a CBD content of 15-20% and contains only trace amounts of THC, around 0.3%.
Effects: Many users report feeling relaxed, uplifted, creative, and focused.
Health Symptoms: It may help manage stress and neurological disorders like epilepsy.
Taste: Sweet lemonade
Other considerations: Some folks report feeling anxious, paranoid, or dizzy after using this stain.

Hawaiian Dream
50% Sativa/50% Indica with a 2:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (2:1) Expect CBD levels between 6-12% and THC levels around 3-6%.
Effects: Many people report feeling relaxed, uplifted, happy, and focused.
Health Symptoms: Many people reported that it may be useful for managing pain and inflammation and reducing stress.
Taste: Sweet pineapple
Additional considerations: Patients have experienced dry mouth and dry eyes when using this strain. Even though this is technically a 50/50 strain, it is usually classified as a Sativa and many users report Sativa-like effects.

Jamaican Lion
50% Sativa/50% Indica with a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (1:1) Jamaican Lion may have CBD and THC levels ranging from 13-18%
Effects: Most users report feeling uplifted, relaxed, and focused.
Health Symptoms: Users have reported a reduction in fatigue, stress, and depression.
Taste: Tropical fruit
Other considerations: Some users have reported dry mouth. This cannabis strain has high THC levels and will result in strong psychoactive effects. It has a 50/50 ratio, but is most frequently considered to have Sativa-like effects.

Suzy Q
50% Sativa/50% Indica with a 25:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (25:1) Expect CBD levels as high as 25% and almost nonexistent THC levels.
Effects: Many people report feeling relaxed, uplifted, sleepy, and focused.
Health Symptoms: Many users seek out this cannabis strain to help with inflammation, headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
Taste: Pine with sweet and earthy undertones
Additional considerations: This high-CBD strain typically results in feeling tired, so it may not be best during the day. Some users report headaches or dry mouth when using Suzy Q.

Ringo’s Gift
60% Sativa/40% Indica with a 15:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (15:1) Ringo’s gift has CBD levels around 15% with almost no THC.
Effects: Many users report feeling uplifted, relaxed, happy, and euphoric.
Health Symptoms: This cannabis strain may help reduce the effects of pain, stress, inflammation, headaches, anxiety, and paranoia.
Taste: Woody, earthy, with nutty undertones
Other considerations: Some people report headaches and dry mouth after using it.

Sour Tsunami
60% Sativa/40% Indica with a 10:1 CBD-to-THC ratio

CBD:THC: (10:1) Sour tsunami generally contains 10-12% CBD with only trace amounts of THC.
Effects: Many people report feeling relaxed, happy, and sleepy.
Health Symptoms: Many users report that this strain is helpful for managing stress, pain, headaches, inflammation, and anxiety.
Taste: Bold and earthy with citrus undertones.
Additional considerations: This strain has a bold flavor that is not suitable for every user.

There are many options available to help you experience the potential benefits of CBD. If you aren’t sure where to start, try testing multiple strains from our list above to see how each works for you. We recommend keeping a journal of your experience each time to give you an overview of how you react to different CBD:THC ratios.

Kat Austin

Kat Austin is an experienced content writer and author. Driven by her appreciation for cannabis’ positive impact on her family’s health, she takes pride in creating content that promotes cannabis re-education and legalization. As a Content Manager and Author for Save On Cannabis, she works to spread truth and diminish the unfair stigma placed on the cannabis plant. By doing so, she hopes to lead more people to the age-old path of natural healing.