Best Indica Strain for Sleep | Best Weed Strains for Insomnia Review

As a regular marijuana user, finding the right strain for the right experience can be challenging. Some strains will provide you with an intense euphoria that will make you want to run around and socialize for hours on end, while others will leave you completely calm and relaxed.

The best part about cannabis is its versatility and its ability to help people with ailments of all sorts. Indica strains are often used by people that struggle with insomnia or those seeking to relax and wind down at the end of the day. Learn about the best Indica strains for sleep by reading this updated list of strains.

How does weed help you sleep?

With less anxiety and a decrease in adrenaline, you will get to sleep faster. Many people use cannabis as a stress reliever and a sleep aid due to the sedation effects caused by THC. Here are some more specific things to know about marijuana and sleep.

For some people, pot and sleep make a great pair because it helps them feel calmer. If you have trouble falling asleep, marijuana may make you feel drowsy, making it easier to fall asleep quickly.

Often, marijuana consumers look for strains that aren’t going to knock them out. Cannabis enthusiasts are more likely to use Sativa strains to stay up during the day or perform while high. Indica strains tend to have a sedative effect that promotes sleep.

Relaxation is a big part of getting a good night’s rest. Consuming cannabis is one of the most relaxing in its simplicity. It works by activating the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps our bodies regulate essential functions such as sleep.

The best Indica strains for sleep are usually described as a very mellow and relaxing smoke. Over time indica’s have made a name for themselves as a great medicine to aid sleep problems at night. Multiple studies have even shown that they are far better than prescription sleeping pills for dealing with insomnia.

What are the best strains for insomnia

If you’re a cannabis user, the chances are that at some point in your life, you’ve struggled to sleep. Whether it’s due to constant thoughts racing through your mind, the bright light of phone screens keeping you up, or an inability to switch off once you’ve laid down — insomnia can be a nightmare.

The NHS estimates that 40% of people in the UK have had insomnia in the last year alone. And while there are many things we can do naturally to help us sleep better, like cutting out caffeine or getting more exercise — sometimes it just doesn’t work.

The little-known truth about cannabis is that there are several different types. Most studies have focused on high THC, low-CBD “sativas” that make users feel euphoric and energized. It isn’t easy to understand how CBD affects sleep patterns. If you find that these Sativa strains tend to keep you awake longer than you’d like, consider trying some indicas instead.

Indica strains are ideal because they promote relaxation and drowsiness. However, there are also Sativa strains that can provide a good night’s rest. And of course, there are hybrid strains that can trigger a dreamy state of restfulness and provide pain relief without making you feel overly sleepy during the day.

While indica strains promote sleepiness, they also have soothing qualities that can make it difficult to wake up in the morning. Indica cannabis strains are usually associated with more potent physical effects, like a heavy body stone and sedative feeling.

Sativa strains have a more stimulating, uplifting, and energizing effect. This makes sense since Sativa strains contain higher THC concentrations, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, than Indica strains. To get the best night’s rest, choose a strain with a lower THC content. Haze, for example, is a Sativa-dominant strain that has been shown to relieve pain, promote appetite, and induce sleep.

01.

Grandaddy Purple

An Indica-dominant hybrid that induces heavy sedation, Granddaddy Purple is a cherished strain for its ability to leave users quickly and comfortably tuckered out. Originating in Northern California from a cross of Purple Urkle and Big Bud, this hefty herb boasts a sweet flavor with notes of grape, fuel, and spicy pine undertones—quite similar to the aroma known colloquially as “The Grape Popsicle”.

This Indica strain is named after the famous rapper and produces an initial moderate head high that spreads over the entire body. The relaxation is comprehensive and can often lead to couch-lock and a subsequent peaceful state of mind. As a result, it is ideal for pain relief and those who suffer from insomnia or anxiety.

Grandaddy Purple is a potent Indica stunner with a full-body stone that’s super smooth and balanced. Enjoy this nighttime smoke as the colors around you appear more vivid and bright. Patients suffering from stress, pain, anxiety, headaches, muscle spasms, insomnia, anorexia, and acne frequently seek Grandaddy Purple which is why it is known to be one of the best indica strains for sleep.

02.

Gorilla Glue

Are you looking for heavy Indica to enjoy before bed? Gorilla Glue fits the bill. With heavy sedation and a mind-melting high, Gorilla Glue is an indica legend. This strain flows through your body to relax the senses and pull you peacefully into dreamland. Its THC content of up to 32 percent makes it one of the most potent on the market and one of the best indica strains for sleep and relaxation.

The Gorilla Glue is a cross between the Chemdawg 4 and Chocolate Diesel varieties. This quick-acting hybrid displays several of the characteristics of both parents, such as a sweet diesel aroma and powerful body-focused effects.

You’ll enjoy the Indica high of this strain because it’s euphoric and relaxing. It hits you right away. You feel relieved and unwound. However, once the relaxation kicks in, mental clarity can be challenging to achieve. It’s difficult to keep a train of thought going; it’s easier to relax and be in the moment.

03.

Harlequin

Although not an indica dominant strain we had to make an exception for Harlequin because it is known to be one of the best strains for insomnia . Harlequin is a blissful cross that combines the qualities of four Sativa-dominant strains to produce an explosive combination of cerebral and physical effects. Harlequin is a cross between Swiss Sativa, Thai Sativa, and Columbian Gold Sativa, as well as Nepali indica. Harlequin will make you happy, social, and creative.

With Harlequin, you can sleep soundly. This unique hybrid contains nearly equal amounts of CBD and THC, unlike other high-CBD strains. The well-balanced blend will relax your body while calming your mind. Its approachable, mellow high makes it an excellent choice for first-time users.

Harlequin is an excellent remedy for insomnia, pain, nausea, and anxiety. The name comes from the multi-colored hairs found on each bud. Harlequin’s effects are not only potent but also long-lasting, thanks to a THC content ranging between 10% and 15%. Consumers can expect to feel the full effects 10 to 15 minutes after smoking.

04.

Northern Lights

Northern Lights just had to get spot on our list of the best indica strains for sleep, this strain is sure to do the trick whether you’re looking to kick back and relax by yourself or get a good night’s sleep.

Northern Lights is a 90% indica dominant hybrid that provides powerful full-body relaxation, making it an excellent choice for both first time smokers and cannabis connoisseurs. Northern Lights’ indica dominance will have you melting into your comfy mattress in no time.

This insanely popular indica is a revered strain that has earned a permanent place in cannabis history. Northern Lights, known for its delicious taste and ability to numb your body with a cozy, powerful buzz, provides the ideal irresistible combination of pain relief and relaxation.

Many people use Northern Lights for medicinal purposes, particularly those suffering from aches and pains such as arthritis or injuries. Its buds are dense and fat, giving users a smooth experience when smoking it in a joint or bong. This strain crosses Afghani and Thai parent strains, with an average THC level ranging from 12 to 18 percent.

05.

Bubba Kush

Bubba Kush is a heavy Indica strain that soothes both body and mind with its potent effects. A cross between a rare New Orleans landrace indica and an equally elusive Kush variety, Bubba Kush has blessed the cannabis community with its relief-inducing properties for well over a decade. Bubba Kush’s sweet, earthy flavor has become legendary among cannabis fans, as has its ability to induce long-lasting full-body relaxation.

Bubba Kush is a well rounded strain, its indica dominance makes it a great weed strain for sleep and tends to deliver a full-body experience. Its high THC levels have been known to reach 22%. Users describe the high as being very strong, and some say it can even knock them out. You’ll feel relaxed both mentally and physically.

As well as being sleep inducing, Bubba Kush is excellent at eliminating muscle tension, pain, and other unpleasant sensations. Some users may also find this strain helpful in reducing nausea and stimulating the appetite.

06.

Girl Scout Cookies

Girl Scout Cookies is a legendary strain that was first created in California. It is an indica dominant hybrid cross of the well-known OG Kush and Durban Poison.

Named after its strong pine and fuel aroma, Girl Scout Cookies’ vaporized form produces an intensely powerful body high that will leave users heavily medicated and ready to crash into a peaceful slumber. With all of these advantages, it’s no surprise that many users believe Girl Scout is one of the best indica strains for sleep.

This best Indica strain for sleep mixes the explosive smells and flavors of creamy vanilla, minty freshness, and sweet cherry! The high THC content in this strain makes it ideal for treating medical ailments, including pain, anxiety, and depression.

After a few puffs, you’ll feel relaxed and focused. You’ll be giggling uncontrollably around your friends, but not in a way that they’d judge you. Smoking this strain can also make you creative and friendly.

You start off feeling euphoric and happy. Gradually you sink into a deep, full-body relaxation that soaks into your core. This strain won’t knock you out, but it will give you the most restful sleep you’ve ever had.

07.

The Doctor

This strain’s perfect combination of rock-hard buds, flavor, and Indica high will have you coming back for more. The beautiful fragrance that wafts through the air is the first thing you notice after breaking open her buds.

It has a piney scent that reminds you of balsam and juniper and helps relax your body before bedtime. The effects of this strain are incredibly potent, so use with caution. If a novice is not paying close attention, these flowers can easily knock them out in minutes. While great for sleep, it can also help those with pain or nausea and stimulate appetite.

The Doctor is a classic sleep aid. Its genetics come from Super Skunk, South Indian, and Great White Shark, meaning you get a potent Indica that will help you drift off peacefully. With a THC content as high as 18%, it packs a pretty big punch making it one of the best weed strains for insomnia treatment.

08.

Gelato

Gelato seeds grow a strain that is loved by both old school and new generation marijuana fans. The 20% THC Indica dominant hybrid is indica heavy and will quickly get you in the mood for a nap!

This strain is a super-high-yielding, sticky hybrid with a big medicinal kick and very potent effects. It is a mix of Sunset sherbet & Thin Mint GSC genetics from the Bay Area.

Gelato produces a powerful Indica high with a subtle yet relaxing euphoria. Its power will knock you off your feet! You’ll feel energized almost immediately, followed by a dreamy state of calm. Gelato is one of the best strains for insomnia and other physical aches and pains, providing an overall relaxed body sensation, this strain will send you to bed floating.

This strain can deliver powerful effects that may leave you marooned on the couch. While you may experience dry eyes and mouth, this is pretty common among the most vigorous strains of cannabis. Simply ensure you stay hydrated by keeping a bottle of water nearby.

09.

Hindu Kush

The Hindu Kush is widely regarded as one of the world’s most well-known Indicas. It is a beloved worldwide favorite due to its robust, heavy sedative effects. The grower carefully chose this variety for its distinct characteristics and flavor. Its deep green leaves emit a sweet, earthy aroma with spicy undertones that complement the soothing effects.

Hindu Kush is a pure Indica strain bred by growers in South Asia. It is named after the mountain range where it originated. The THC content levels are high at 21%, so be prepared for an intense high. It can deeply relax the body and mind, helping you fall asleep quickly. Many people claim that Hindu Kush is all round the best strain for sleep, after sampling some myself its easy to see why.

This strain is one of the densest and relaxing strains available. It has a heavy, long-lasting “stoned” feeling which is great for getting to sleep at night. The effects immediately give a boost of relaxation, easing strain and stress, particularly in the evening. This high effect strain is suitable for social occasions, but it’s not recommended for daytime use.

10.

Skywalker OG

OG strains are typically known for their powerful pain-relieving properties, and this strain is no different. This is a cross between two classic strains, Skywalker and OG Kush. The effects of this strain are stunning. It has an incredibly calming and soothing effect that makes it one of the best strains for insomnia sufferers.

Skywalker OG stands out among the most popular cannabis strains for good reason. With an 80% Indica heritage, she provides a profound body high that’s great for unwinding in the evening and calming before sleep.

Skywalker OG ranks as one of the best high THC strains on the market today, with percentages reaching up to 26%. She won’t knock you out but instead allows you to enjoy a wonderfully euphoric state.

Typically, this strain does not produce short-term memory loss or anxiety during use. Some patients report uplifting effects as well, making it potentially helpful for depression. Skywalker OG might also reduce muscle spasms.

11.

Purple Kush

It’s a Southern California original with heavy Indica qualities and nearly 22% THC. Purple Kush is an excellent choice if a heavy sleep is what you are after. This Indica dominant hybrid offers a comfortable body stone that will help to put you right to sleep. The classic purple Indica aroma and flavor will surely assist in quickening the onset of your relaxing high.

Purple Kush has a smooth earthy-pine flavor with a sweet berry aftertaste and produces heavy hits with a pleasant spicy scent. This strain carries the same ancestry as OG Kush, which also comes from Afghani and Hindu Kush strains.

Whether you’re looking a strain that assists sleep, pain management, or relief from nausea, Purple Kush delivers it all. It’s also good for stress and depression. This strain produces powerful physical effects that can be sedating almost to the point of couch lock if you overdo it.

After sampling some high grade Purple Kush and feeling heavy full body stone effect, its hard to argue that it is one of the best indica strains for sleep.

12.

Blueberry

Blueberry is a unique strain created in the early 1980s and has since won first place in numerous cannabis competitions. Blueberries, of course, are well-known for their flavor, but who would have guessed that their THC would be the same? This award-winning strain produces a euphoric high that will make you believe your day has ended—even though it has only just begun.

It is sweet and savory, with a flavor similar to black currants, according to users. Blueberry has well-balanced effects, providing a relaxing body high that won’t leave you immobile. It was bred from an Indica dominant parent, but the Sativa influence is still present. Thai Sativa and Purple Thai Sativa have blended beautifully with Afghani indica to create the award-winning Blueberry strains.

Blueberry may also alleviate headaches, stress, and nausea. Patients will fall in love with this strain’s therapeutic properties faster than you can say berry, thanks to its mellow indica high.

13.

Cherry Pie

“Cherry pie” is a sweet-smelling Indica-dominant marijuana strain that produces a soothing and relaxing effect. This strain is a cross between Grand Daddy Purple and Durban Poison. The resulting hybrid boasts a fruity aroma and palate alongside an unmistakable high that eases stress, pain, and anxiety.

Cherry Pie is an Indica-dominant hybrid that will hit you with a wave of euphoric, brain-focused relaxation. This strain provides potent pain relief and offers strong protection against muscle spasms and nerve pain. It also has a delightful cherry pie flavor on the inhale, with intense blueberry and berry notes on the exhale.

Your mind will open up to a sense of awareness that makes it easy to forget your everyday worries and troubles. These effects are perfect for creating heady, deep sleep that’s nearly narcotic. The THC count of this strain reaches as high as 23%. That means you’ll enjoy a noticeable degree of relief from your symptoms even as you find yourself getting sleepy.

14.

OG Kush

OG Kush has an incredibly relaxing, sedative effect, making it one of the best Indica strains for sleep. Its genetics are pure Kush, and it was created with the highest quality strain in mind. It is known to make people instantly relaxed, so if you need to unwind at the end of a hard day – this strain is for you!

Even though its origins are unknown, people believe it originated from California, Bay Area.The Bay Area Kush family has consistently out-performed the competition, and this strain is no exception. Heavy resin production and a potent high create a large yield that is best used for insomnia, pain relief, and appetite stimulation.

The buzz is intense, with THC levels ranging from 19 to 25%. Because of its potency is one of the best strains for insomnia or people suffering from chronic pain. This strain, known as “Lavender,” appeared in The Fast and the Furious and on Celebrity Apprentice while Snoop Dog was on it.

15.

Aurora Indica

Aurora Indica is a hybrid strain that offers a solid indica high. Though high in THC, this strain has elevated CBD levels too, which softens the blow of the indica-heavy effect. Its THC levels have been measured at up to 18 percent, while its CBD sits at 0.36 percent. The result of all these compounds is a heavy, narcotic headstone that kicks in quickly and lasts for hours making this one of the best indica strains for sleep.

It is a cross of the cannabis classic, Northern Lights, and an Afghani strain. Aurora Indica is a strain that should be high on any list of the best indicas for sleep. Not only is it ideal for treating insomnia, but it can also combat nausea, pain, inflammation, and stress.

Aurora Indica delivers a pleasant combination of effects that have been described as both relaxing and Stoney. Although sometimes these words seem to contradict themselves, the best part of this strain is the deep sleep it produces.

How to grow the best indica strains for sleep

Nobody knows exactly what it is in cannabis that makes you sleepy, although, it is thought that the combination of THC, CBD and all of the other cannabinoids consumed together have this effect.

Generally the best indica strains for sleep are high in THC or CBD or a combination of the two, which usually creates a relaxing effect on the mind and body. There are a few things you can do whilst growing that will encourage potency and increase THC and CBD levels.

Cannabis plants that are stressed in anyway generally produce lower THC levels and smaller yields. This is because instead of the plant focusing its energy on growing big buds and lots of THC rich trichomes, it will instead be in survival mode trying to fight against whatever stresses are imposed upon it.

Therefore the easiest way to produce highly potent plants is to make sure they are healthy and happy in their environment. It may sound easier than it is, but here’s a few tips that if followed should help you to grow some high grade bud that will have you sleeping like a log.

Improve the climate

Cannabis plants naturally grow in warm climates, the ideal temperatures are 25°C during the daytime and 17-20°C (62-68°F) at night time. Try to get as close to these temps as possible. Any extreme hot or cold temperatures can stress cannabis plants, so keep a thermometer in your grow room and have a read of our article on the perfect grow room climate.

Avoid silly mistakes

For your marijuana plants to produce potent buds, you need a healthy and strong plant with plenty of bud sites getting good light during the flowering stage. To achieve this you need to avoid the common mistakes most growers make that stress their plants.

Avoid these mistakes:

Learn precisely how much water to give your plants to avoid over or under watering them, this can cause stress that will slow growth and development of buds.
Many growers focus so much on the plant itself they often forget about what’s under the soil. The roots are like the veins of a plant, if their health is poor then the plant will not thrive. A simple way to avoid many root problems is to use the right pots to grow in. Smart pots are made of a breathable material that allow air to flow through the soil and water to drain out. By using smart pots you will avoid over watering and many poor root health problems.
Light is like food for your cannabis plants, you need to ensure that your plants are getting plenty of good quality light and plenty of rest. Using a good quality grow tent prevents light leaking in or out. Once your lights are turned off cannabis plants stop producing food and use all of the energy they have stored throughout the day to grow.
Cannabis plants require nutrients to grow, but used incorrectly and nutrients can also damage a plant. Be careful when you administer nutrients and learn to spot any signs that your plant is unhappy. If you see leaves start to yellow, curl up or any other noticeable signs of stress, ease off on the nutrients until you have figured the problem.
Check your pH! I cannot stress this point enough but without the correct pH your plants will not absorb nutrients as easily.

Harvest at the right time

During the final weeks of lowering cannabis plants have a 3-4 week window when the bud is at its most potent. Learn how to asses your cannabis plants buds to time your harvests to perfection.

Grow with the right genetics

The last and probably most important point is to grow with the right genetics. Growing just any old weed isn’t going to cure your sleepless nights, so choose a plant that is known to be one of the best strains for insomnia from our list above. And lastly choose a trusted seedbank!

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