12 Indica Strains For Sleep, Pain Relief, Appetite And Side Effects
Selecting a indica strains can seem like a daunting task, especially when you’re at a pharmacy that sells dozens of varieties.
To help you, most retailers divide their products into three main categories:
- Indica
- Sativa
- Hybrid
Indica strains come from the indica cannabis plant, which is usually shorter and thicker than its sativa counterpart.
Traditionally, indica strains are associated with a strong body stone that makes you feel relaxed. They are often recommended for people looking for stress relief to help with pain, insomnia, nausea, or loss of appetite.
Although many indica strains can produce this effect, strains are not an exact science.
Things like terpenes, different cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), and even your cannabis use history can affect how you perceive a particular product.
However, the difference between indica and sativa can still be a useful tool to help you find what you’re looking for in a cannabis product.
Effects associated with it
Indica cannabis strains often have the following effects:
- Chill out / Relaxing: People say that indica strains help relax muscles and slow the mind.
- Sedating: Indica strains are thought by many to induce drowsiness, which can be beneficial for people with insomnia.
- Reduce Pain: Indica strains are often recommended for people who want to use cannabis for chronic or acute pain.
- It stimulates appetite: Yes, “eating” isn’t necessarily a bad thing, especially if you have a reduced appetite due to a medical condition or medication.
- Soothing for nausea: Many people believe that indica strains also help with nausea and reduce appetite.
A quick note on It
When reading about strains, remember that the effects are not always permanent. One company’s version can be very different from another company’s version of the same type.
If you find a type that suits you, try to find out its other features. What are the main terpenes in it? What is the ratio of THC to CBD? Does the label mention other cannabinoids such as CBG or CBN?
It should also be noted that everyone’s experience with cannabis is different. This is based on your physiology and past experience.
For example, if you regularly use marijuana, you may develop a higher tolerance to THC. If you are in a familiar environment with friends, your experience may be different than if you are dining alone in a new and unfamiliar place.
How do we select it?
We selected the following strains using the Leafy Strain Explorer and user reviews.
THC and CBD percentage ranges reflect data provided by Leafly, Wikileaf, and AllBud.
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For Relaxation
This type can be a good option if you want to relieve stress.
Granddaddy Purple
Often abbreviated to GDP, it is a popular strain due to its purple buds, sweet red berry aroma, and calming effect.
Observers report a sense of relaxation. Many people have said that they only recommend using it at night to calm down.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 17-27 percent
- CBD: 0-1 percent
Ice cream cake
A cross between Wedding Cake and Gelato #33, this indica is another popular strain.
Over 80 percent of Leafly users report a relaxing effect. Some observers point out that this tension may initially provoke light laughter, which gradually turns into deep relief.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 20-25 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
Purple Punch
Another favorite among consumers looking to unwind late at night, Purple Punch is purple in color and has a caramelized grape flavor.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 19-20 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
For Sleep
Results are still mixed on whether marijuana helps or hurts sleep, but users report that the strain helps them sleep.
Northern lights
A cross between Thai and Afghan strains, this indica is another popular strain, especially for those looking to kick back for a while.
Reviewers say this exercise relaxes your muscles and mind, leading to deep relaxation.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 16-22 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
Bubba Kush
Like many prompts, you may not want to get this if you have a lot to do. Some critics compared the strain to tranquilizer and noted that it melts on the couch. If you’re new to cannabis, double-check the THC content of any product you choose.
Some strains contain 25-27% THC, which is much higher than the 17-20% THC typically found in these strains.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 17-27 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
Mendo in breathing
People love this indica strain for its calming and relaxing effects. The flavor is said to have hints of vanilla and caramel.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 19-20 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
For Pain Relief
If you’re dealing with menstrual cramps or chronic pain, this strain can provide some relief.
Do-Si-Dos
This indica-dominant hybrid is popular with those suffering from chronic or acute pain due to its pungent aroma.
Reviewers find it useful for everything from migraines to nerve pain.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 21-30 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
GMO Cookies
Another THC-rich strain, GMO Cookies (sometimes called Garlic Cookies) is a blend of Chemdawg and GSC.
If the name confuses you, don’t worry. “GMO” stands for garlic, mushrooms, and onions, referring to the variety’s unique flavor.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 20-30 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
L.A. Confidential
Due to its slightly lower THC percentage, this indica strain is often recommended for beginners.
It is known for its sedative and calming effects, accompanied by a slight euphoria.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 17-25 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
For Appetite
This strain is a good starting point if you want to curb your appetite.
Zkittlez
Another low THC strain, Zkittlez, can be a good choice for cannabis beginners.
A Leafy reviewer says it’s one of the few strains that can increase appetite.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 15-23 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
Slurricane
This potent combination of Do-Si-Dos and Purple Punch brings many of the things people love about indica strains: relaxation, increased appetite, and drowsiness, all in one experience.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 20-28 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese can increase your appetite. It’s also popular because it’s not overly sedating, which means you can use it anytime, not just before bed.
THC and CBD Content:
- THC: 17-20 percent
- CBD: <1 percent
Possible Side Effects
Cannabis can relieve various physical and mental health symptoms. But there are still side effects.
Remember: Everyone reacts differently to marijuana / cannabis.
Cannabis / Marijuana use, especially strains high in THC, can cause:
- Feelings of anxiety or paranoia
- Insomnia
- Drowsiness
- Increased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Dry eyes
- Dizziness
- Rapid heart rate
- Slowed reaction time
- Coordination issues
If you’re new to cannabis, consider starting with a low-THC strain until you know how your mind and body react.
The Bottom Line
Indica strains may be more suitable for nighttime use due to their sedative and calming effects.
However, don’t forget that there are other factors that affect how you feel about using cannabis.
If you’re trying cannabis products for the first time, a good rule of thumb is to start small and slow, meaning start small, see how it feels, and hit it big to make it work. From here you can always increase the dose.