When you look back at the colorful history of cannabis, people used cannabis for a lot of reasons. However, some of the most common uses for cannabis over the past 5,000 years have been related to targeting some kind of pain. From the common toothache to pain associated with major illness, today, more people have access to the best strains for pain relief thanks to legal dispensaries.
The thing to know about using cannabis for pain is not every strain is going to yield the same effects for someone dealing with discomfort. Certain strains top the list for analgesic efficacy among users, even though formal research has not yet been established. Take a look at some of the best strains for pain relief available from growers and dispensaries today.
The Best Cannabis Strains for Pain Relief
When first-time cannabis dispensary customers decide to skip questionable prescription painkillers and visit a dispensary instead, they may be surprised to see so many options. Most dispensaries are well-stocked with a variety of cannabis strains, each with its own cannabinoid and terpene profile. Therefore, each strain can deliver a different level of effects. Here is a look at some of the strains for pain relief to consider, why, and even what types of pain the specific strain may be best for.
1. 9 Pound Hammer
Best for: Severe or acute pain
Primary effect: Relaxing, sedating
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Nine Pound Hammer, also labeled as 9# Hammer or simply 9#, is a modestly high-THC strain that is commonly used for pain. This particular strain is more Indica-leaning, and its dominant terpene is myrcene, which is often touted for its sedating effects. Nine Pound Hammer is not generally a strain to use for pain that is hindering you from getting on with your day. Instead, this specific strain is better for people who are dealing with severe pain that want to overcome their discomfort and get some rest.
2. Grape Octane
Best for: Inflammatory pain
Primary effect: Relaxed, sleepy
Dominant terpene: beta-Caryophyllene
This strain is sometimes called Grape Octane OG, but people who use cannabis know it as one of the best strains for pain relief. Grape Octane is exceptionally high in THC (around 24%), but it also contains a nice amount of cannabigerol (CBG), which can be good for inflammation. For this reason, this particular strain of cannabis can work out well for people that have pain stemming from inflammation in the body.
3. Candyland Kush
Best for: Chronic pain
Primary effect: Energetic, euphoric
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Candyland Kush delivers a telltale sweetness thanks to terpinolene, but this strain is also a Sativa-leaning variety. Therefore, it is a little more balanced where cannabinoid content is concerned and can give you energy. For this reason, Candyland Kush is a good choice for people dealing with pain that need to get on with their day. While the strain can target pain, it can also help keep you active instead of making you feel ready for bed.
4. We Not Me
Best for: Neurological pain
Primary effect: Calming, numbing
Dominant terpene: Limonene
We Not Me is a relatively modern strain; its lineage includes Animal Cookies, Cherry Pie, and Mainline OG, even though you can find a few different varieties of the same strain. One of the most noteworthy effects of We Not me is its ability to deliver this incredible sense of calm and physical numbness. For this reason, this particular strain is a go-to for people who deal with pain that is more neurologic in nature.
Why Does Cannabis Help with Pain?
Cannabis helps with pain, but how does that happen? In truth, the reason could be multifaceted because the mechanisms of action vary depending on the cannabinoid, the terpenes, and the combination of different cannabinoids and terpenes.
THC has long been touted as the primary reason cannabis helps with pain, but other components found in cannabis may also contribute to pain relief. For example, other cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) and CBG show anti-inflammatory properties and even change how pain is perceived by the brain. Some terpenes, such as limonene, help induce a state of calm, which in itself can be helpful when you are in pain.
The human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) processes different cannabinoids in different ways. CBD seems to have an indirect ability to stabilize the body-made cannabinoids already present, which may have an effect on inflammation. THC binds to certain cannabinoid receptors in the ECS, which may block nerve impulses responsible for allowing a person to actually feel pain.
Find Premium Cannabis Strains for Pain
As time passes and more states embrace cannabis as medicine, the more we all get to learn about just how therapeutic the plant can be. Thankfully, skilled botanists have worked hard to deliver a long list of good strains that can be fitting for different types of pain. Be sure to check out our wholesale cannabis menu at Core Gardens to get access to some of the top strains for pain.
