Cannabis strains become incredibly popular if they have specific qualities that make them unique from other marijuana strains on the market. Often, one of those qualities is the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content found in a strain—typically, the higher the THC content, the more popular the cannabis strain. Most of the five most popular marijuana strains we have selected are sativa strains. Sativas are known to provide an uplifting and energetic quality as compared to indica strains, which tend to be more calming and sedative.
The most popular marijuana strains are widely produced and sold in various states where cannabis consumption is legal. All of these marijuana strains are used for their medicinal properties, but are also used recreationally as well. We consider these classic marijuana strains, which are often recognized by name even by non-cannabis consumers.
The five most popular marijuana strains are Blue Dream, Jack Herer, Cannatonic, Sour Diesel and OG Kush.
Popular Marijuana Strain #1: Blue Dream
Blue Dream is arguably the most popular strain of marijuana in the country. Blue Dream, which originated in California, is a sativa-dominant hybrid that’s a cross between the indica Blueberry and Haze, which is a sativa. Blue Dream is known for its high levels of THC, with percentages ranging from 17–24% and small levels of both cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG).
Blue Dream is known to cause full-body relaxation, while also being mentally invigorating. This marijuana strain is known to produce a gentle and calm high without heavily sedative effects. Blue Dream is very popular with medical marijuana patients for daytime relief of pain, depression and nausea. And it’s also praised for not producing a sense of anxiety, which to many makes it a clear winner.
Popular Marijuana Strain #2: Jack Herer
Jack Herer is another sativa-dominant hybrid that’s a cross of Haze, Northern Lights #5 and Shiva Skunk. It originally comes from the Netherlands, where it was hailed for its medicinal properties. Jack Herer has several different phenotypes that each have unique effects. It’s known to produce happy and clear-headed effects that promote creativity.
All of the Jack Herer phenotypes are known for their quality, potency and high levels of THC. THC levels can range from 18–23%. This popular marijuana strain also has low levels of CBD and CBG. Jack Herer presents high levels of limonene, which is a terpene known to fight depression. It’s a great medical strain for stress, depression, pain, fatigue and headaches.
Popular Marijuana Strain #3: Cannatonic
Cannatonic is known as one of the most premier medical marijuana strains. It’s also known for its relatively low THC content, below 6%, and a high CBD content of about 6–17%. Cannatonic is a hybrid strain that comes from a cross of MK Ultra and G13 Haze. It’s known for its mellow effects, which don’t produce a strong high, but rather a very relaxing effect. Cannatonic has great pain-relieving qualities, and it works to reduce inflammation, muscle spasms, anxiety and migraines.
Cannatonic produces happy and uplifting feelings without high levels of psychoactivity. It’s considered a borderline marijuana strain because it usually doesn’t produce psychoactive effects due to its higher levels of CBD. However, it still may impart a high if a patient is particularly sensitive. Its balance of THC and CBD make it a popular choice for people seeking strong pain relief without a prominent high.
Popular Marijuana Strain #4: Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel is a sativa strain that’s known for its energizing and intense cerebral effects. It’s also known to provide long-lasting relief for people who experience stress and pain. Sour Diesel contains high levels of THC, which range from 19–25%. This popular cannabis strain provides uplifting and happy effects known to fight off stress and fatigue thereby allowing people to power through their day. This marijuana strain is a favorite among medical marijuana patients because of its steady and long-lasting effects.
Popular Marijuana Strain #5: OG Kush
OG Kush is one of the most well-known marijuana strains on the market. It’s known for its high levels of THC, which can reach up to 26%. OG Kush is also known to produce extreme happiness and euphoria, as well as relaxed and calming effects. This sought-after marijuana strain has fairly high levels of psychoactivity, and it also has great medical benefits.
Medicinal marijuana patients have found OG Kush to be very helpful with migraines and stress-related problems. It’s also been helpful in easing with pain and insomnia. This cannabis strain has fairly high levels of limonene and linalool, which are both terpenes that help fight against depression.
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.
