Sometimes, it's just hard to slow down and relax — the mind keeps racing, and the body refuses to unwind. For a lot of people, cannabis offers a way to take the edge off and find a bit of calm. It can be a welcome escape on tough days, helping to ease anxiety and melt away built-up tension.
But with dispensary shelves packed full of options, it's not always easy to know which strains are best for truly relaxing. That's where a little guidance can go a long way.
What does "relaxed" mean?
Feeling relaxed isn't the same as feeling sleepy, and if you're new to cannabis, that's an important distinction. Otherwise, you might be looking for something to help you unwind and reflect, but end up with a strain that puts you to sleep instead.
That said, falling asleep could be your way to relax — relaxing looks different for everyone.
Will a budtender know how to guide me to a relaxing strain?
If you walk into any dispensary and ask for something “relaxing,” the first thing a good budtender will do is clarify what you actually mean.
Do you want to melt into the couch and drift off to sleep, or just ease tension while staying awake and engaged? Those are two totally different experiences.
Many budtenders recommend Glue or Kush genetics for folks who want to stay alert but feel more at ease. These cultivars are known for their body-soothing, mood-softening effects. If you're looking for something to help you wind down and head straight for bed, they might steer you toward heavier options like GMO or Chemdog.
It all comes down to your definition of “relaxed.” Sleepiness is a one-way ticket to dreamland. Relaxation can be a lighter touch, anything from easing post-work stress to settling into a cozy night without completely shutting down.
7 weed strains that can help you relax
GG4
GG4, also known as Original Glue, was originally named after the couchlock sensation that leaves you glued to the sofa. Since then, it's gained a reputation as being powerfully relaxing.
If you need something to transition you from the stresses of the day to the silence of the evening, the vehicle is GG4.
Bubba Kush
Right after the Glue strains come the Kush strains. Kush strains are responsible for that stoned euphoria that many consumers seek from cannabis. That includes Bubba Kush, an Afghani, Kush, and Northern Lights descendant.
This strain produces a heavy, cerebral high that eventually kicks down into your body, weighing you down physically while lifting you up mentally.
It has a hashy, earthy taste as flower, and a sweet, floral flavor as a concentrate, so pick according to your preferences.
Grape Ape
Grape Ape is an indica-dominant cultivar created by crossing Mendocino Purps, Skunk, and Afghani. It was originally developed by breeders at Apothecary Genetics and Barney's Farm.
True to its name, Grape Ape carries a sweet, grape-like aroma layered with earthy undertones. Known for delivering a deeply calming, full-body effect, it's often chosen by those looking to unwind or ease tension.
Cookies & Cream
Cookies & Cream (aka Cookies N Cream/Cookies and Cream) is a balanced hybrid from Exotic Genetix, who crossed Starfighter with a mystery GSC cut to bring you this sweet and creamy dessert flower.
The effects are right in the middle: clear enough for daytime and relaxing enough for nighttime, with many consumers using it to relieve stress, anxiety, or a low mood.
Zkittlez
If you came here wanting to skip the effects and instead seek out the terps, this one's for you.
Zkittlez is a fruity cross of Grapefruit and Grape Ape that people hold as one of the more flavorful strains out there. It gives off a super sweet, berry, and fruity smell that transfers directly to the smoke when inhaled. Beyond the flavor, the effects are potent and relaxing.
Harlequin
There are 1:1 balanced and CBD-dominant cannabis strains that can help you settle down — Harlequin is one of the more well-known options. It comes from a complex mix of several landrace strains, which results in a pretty underwhelming flat sour citrus flavor.
The effects are what put it on this list. No one can definitively say a strain can treat anxiety, but Harlequin comes highly recommended from those seeking mental and spiritual healing.
Remedy
Remedy is a CBD-dominant cannabis strain that many choose when feeling melancholy. It has a reputation for being more relaxing and heavier than other CBD strains.
Remedy kicks out a sweet, woody, and earthy aroma, with a sweet and earthier flavor when consumed in oil form.
Bottom line
Like with most wellness products, when shopping for cannabis strains, finding what works for you takes some trial and error. When you find something you enjoy, look into the strain's genetics and details — that can help guide your future choices. And if something doesn't sit right with you, take note of what it was and why, so you'll know what to steer clear of next time.
