With legalization all but one day old, we’ve compiled a short list for cannabis newbies looking for guidance on where to start. These marijuana strains are ideal for beginners or those with a low tolerance—their mellow highs and relatively low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content are ideal for kicking back, lighting up and beginning a new chapter in California cannabis history.
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1. Jack Herer
Reported Effects
- Mellow
- Creative
- Focused
- Happy
We’re kicking off this list with an easy-to-find cannabis classic: Jack Herer was named after the late, great marijuana activist of the same name. Herer, the man, was the author of The Emperor Wears No Clothes, a book that often serves as an introduction to cannabis decriminalization politics. With its blissful mental and physical properties, Jack Herer is an easy and accessible option for those new to cannabis—fitting for a strain named in honor of a man who was so passionate about marijuana education.
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2. Harlequin
Reported Effects
- Relaxed
- Focused
- Happy
- Energetic
This cannabis strain’s high CBD content has made it a favorite among those in the medical marijuana community, but it’s upbeat, yet relaxing qualities are also a good fit for recreational newbies. Harlequin’s 5:2 CBD to THC ratio can leave you mellow and content with little to no psychoactivity. If you’re wary of anxiety attacks or the heart palpitations that some strains can produce, Harlequin is a good fit for you—an ideal way to test the waters.
3. Blue Dream
Reported Effects
- Sociable
- Relaxed
- Happy
- Cerebral
Blue Dream is a well-rounded, widely available crowd-pleaser. This cannabis strain’s pleasant combination of sativa and indica effects impart feelings of euphoria coupled with a pleasant body high. Overall, it’s easy to see why Blue Dream is a number one seller in Colorado and Oregon—its balanced effects are suitable for a variety of daytime activities, from socializing with friends to relaxing at home. Some varieties of Blue Dream can have a THC content of up to 25%, so be sure to ask your budtender for a newbie-appropriate recommendation.
4. Mango Kush
Reported Effects
- Talkative
- Relaxed
- Happy
- Sleepy
Mango was a popular indica strain in the hippie heyday of the 1960s. Hindu Kush is an indigenous marijuana strain often used to make hashish. Cross them with each other and you get Mango Kush—an affable cannabis strain with a low THC content that’s a good match for beginners. Users report an initial rush of euphoria, laughter and sociability that can make you a hit at parties. These effects then give way to more sedative effects, making Mango Kush a good option to consume before dinner or after dessert.
5. Cannatonic
Reported Effects
- Relaxed
- Happy
- Focused
- Tingly
Don’t be dissuaded by this strain’s name—Cannatonic won’t make you feel catatonic. One of the easiest CBD-rich strains to find, Cannatonic is popular in the medical marijuana community for its ratio, which usually hovers around 1:1 CBD to THC. Users report warm, tingly sensations that wash over the body and gentle cerebral stimulation—the higher the THC content, the more likely you are to experience this marijuana strain’s subtle euphoric effects. Pro tip: This is a great strain for acquainting yourself with THC and for those looking to build tolerance.
Main photo credit: Brian Shamblen
If you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it’s easy, private and 100% online.
