10 Best Cannabis Strains for Relaxation

If you're searching for the best cannabis strains to unwind, this guide has you covered. Whether you're dealing with stress, insomnia, or physical tension, certain cannabis strains can help you relax effectively. Indica-dominant options like Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, and Bubba Kush are popular for their calming and sleep-inducing effects. Meanwhile, hybrids like OG Kush and Cookies and Cream balance relaxation with a touch of mental uplift.

Here’s the key takeaway:

• Indica strains are ideal for deep relaxation and evening use.
• Hybrids offer a mix of effects, suitable for lighter relaxation or daytime use.
• THC levels vary, so start with a low dose, especially if you're new to cannabis.

Thanks to South Africa’s Cannabis for Private Purposes Act, you can legally grow and consume cannabis for personal use. This allows you to explore strains like Purple Kush, Afghan Kush, and Wedding Cake, all of which thrive in SA’s climate. Choose strains based on your needs - whether it’s stress relief, better sleep, or easing physical discomfort.

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1. Granddaddy Purple

Granddaddy Purple (GDP) is an Indica strain that stands out for its deeply relaxing effects. Developed in 2003 by Ken Estes in San Francisco, it gained recognition as the Best US Indica at the 2015 Denver High Times Cannabis Cup. Its striking appearance - deep purple buds, bright orange hairs, and a thick coating of white resin - makes it instantly recognisable. Let’s dive into the details.

Strain Type

GDP is an Indica-dominant hybrid, with about 70–80% Indica genetics. It’s the result of crossing Big Bud and Purple Urkle, creating a strain known for delivering the classic Indica experience: profound physical relaxation without overwhelming mental haze.

THC/CBD Content

The THC levels in GDP typically fall between 17% and 27%, while its CBD content is minimal, ranging from 0% to 1%. Due to its high THC concentration, it’s best for beginners to start with small doses to avoid side effects like dizziness or paranoia. Some lab-tested samples have even hit the upper limit of 27%, making this a potent choice for seasoned users.

Primary Effects

GDP offers a unique mix of mental uplift and deep physical calm. Users often describe its effects as a dreamy, euphoric buzz for the mind, paired with a heavy, sedative feeling in the body. This combination has earned it high ratings - 4.4/5 on Leafly (from 5,689 reviews) and 4.6/5 on AllBud (from 109 votes). Based on user feedback, 39% turn to GDP for stress relief, 35% for anxiety, and 34% for pain management. With its strong sedative qualities, it’s best saved for evenings or nights when unwinding is the goal.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

GDP’s flavour profile is a treat for the senses, featuring sweet grape and berry notes complemented by hints of violet, pine, citrus, and a subtle earthy 'kush' finish. Its aroma mirrors this complexity, blending fruity sweetness with layers of spice and earthiness. As Herbies Seeds poetically describes:

One hit of this truly body buzz weed and you're going to feel like your grandma has just tucked you in with the warmest and the heaviest blanket on the planet.

2. Northern Lights

Northern Lights is a legendary Indica-dominant strain, often referred to as the "original couch-lock cannabis." With roots tracing back to Afghani and Thai landrace genetics, it has earned its place as one of the three cornerstone strains that reshaped global cannabis cultivation - alongside Skunk and Haze. Known for its deeply relaxing effects, this strain is a go-to for unwinding in the evening.

Strain Type

This strain is typically classified as a 90% Indica and 10% Sativa hybrid. Its genetics are the reason behind its heavy, body-focused effects. Instead of energising the mind, Northern Lights works its magic by delivering profound physical relaxation, making it perfect for those seeking to de-stress after a long day.

THC/CBD Content

Northern Lights generally boasts THC levels between 16% and 22%, while its CBD content remains minimal, hovering around 0.1%. This combination is what gives the strain its powerful "couch-lock" reputation. Beginners should approach it cautiously, starting with a small dose to gauge its strength.

Primary Effects

The effects of Northern Lights are a harmonious blend of mental upliftment and full-body relaxation. It’s particularly effective at soothing physical discomfort while inducing a pleasant, euphoric headspace. As noted by Leafly:

"Northern Lights produces euphoric effects that settle in firmly throughout the body, relaxing muscles and easing the mind." – Leafly

Its sedative qualities are enhanced by terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene, which contribute to its calming and muscle-relaxing properties. This makes it a popular choice for addressing insomnia, anxiety, chronic pain, and even loss of appetite. Thanks to its potency, it’s best reserved for evening or nighttime use.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

Northern Lights isn’t just about its effects - it also delivers a sensory experience with its rich aroma and flavour. The strain exudes a classic earthy and piney scent, complemented by sweet and spicy undertones that add depth to its herbal fragrance. On the palate, users can expect a mix of sweet, woody flavours, highlighted by pine and occasional hints of citrus. The exhale is smooth, leaving a sweet aftertaste. However, common side effects include cottonmouth, dry eyes, and a slightly harsh feeling in the throat.

3. Bubba Kush

Bubba Kush is a well-loved Indica strain celebrated for its ability to deliver deep relaxation. Thought to have origins in Afghani genetics and Northern Lights, it’s earned a solid reputation for its sedative qualities. On Leafly, it holds an impressive 4.3/5-star rating from 3,633 reviews, while AllBud users have rated it 4.7/5 from 130 votes. Its calming effects make it a popular choice for evening use.

Strain Type

Bubba Kush is primarily recognised as a classic Indica, though some sources suggest it has an 80% Indica and 20% Sativa composition. This Indica dominance is what gives it its well-known "couch-lock" effect, offering a full-body sense of calm and tranquillity.

THC/CBD Content

This strain typically features THC levels ranging from 14% to 25%, with very low CBD content, usually between 0% and 1%. The high THC concentration, combined with key terpenes like Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Myrcene, provides a potent relaxation effect that’s excellent for easing muscle tension. According to user feedback, 99.46% reported feeling relaxed, 99.29% noted reduced stress, and 83.11% found it helpful for insomnia, making it a go-to for unwinding after a long day.

Primary Effects

"From head to toe, muscles ease with heaviness as dreamy euphoria blankets the mind, crushing stress while bringing happy moods." – Leafly

Bubba Kush is particularly effective for managing stress (36% of users), pain (33%), and insomnia (29%). However, beginners should be cautious, as 71.23% of users reported experiencing significant sleepiness.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

Bubba Kush’s flavour is rich and layered, featuring sweet hashish tones complemented by mocha coffee, dark chocolate, and a roasted cocoa finish on the exhale. Its aroma is equally striking, with earthy undertones and pungent notes of hash, pine, and herbal spices. Common side effects include dry mouth (experienced by 99.69% of users), dry eyes (48.02%), and occasional dizziness (20.08%).

4. OG Kush

OG Kush has earned its reputation as one of the most popular cannabis strains worldwide. This hybrid leans slightly towards Indica (55% Indica, 45% Sativa) and is celebrated for its unique effects. Cannabis journalist Luke Sumpter describes it as being "renowned for its uplifting head buzz that transitions into a heavy couch-lock". With a 4.3/5-star rating from 5,668 reviews on Leafly, it’s clear that OG Kush has left a strong impression on users. Its lineage - a mix of Chemdawg, Hindu Kush, and Lemon Thai - gives it a balanced profile, making it a go-to choice for relaxing after a long day.

Strain Type

As a hybrid, OG Kush offers a mix of effects, but its Indica dominance is what stands out. The blend of Chemdawg, Hindu Kush, and Lemon Thai genetics not only contributes to its relaxing physical effects but also adds a bright, citrusy twist to its profile. This combination has solidified OG Kush’s status as a classic strain. Whether you’re looking for mood elevation or deep relaxation, this strain delivers on both fronts.

THC/CBD Content

OG Kush packs a punch with THC levels ranging from 18% to 26%, while its CBD content stays minimal, between 0% and 1%. The strain’s effects are heavily influenced by its terpene profile, which includes Myrcene (known for its sedative qualities), Limonene (uplifting and mood-enhancing), and Caryophyllene (great for stress relief). According to user feedback, 39% find it effective for stress, 30% for anxiety, and 28% for managing physical pain. For newcomers, it’s best to start slow - if using edibles, stick to 2.5 to 5 mg to avoid overwhelming psychoactive effects.

Primary Effects

The experience with OG Kush begins with an energising cerebral buzz that gradually shifts into a deeply relaxing, sedative body high. It’s particularly suited for evening use when unwinding is the goal.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

OG Kush’s flavour and aroma are a distinctive mix of earthy pine, zesty citrus, and a diesel-like finish. Its taste features hints of lemon, pine, and spice, which many users find enjoyable, though the strong, fuel-like aroma might be overpowering for some. Like other high-THC strains, it can cause side effects such as dry mouth, dry eyes, and occasional dizziness. Given its deeply relaxing effects and potential for couch-lock, it’s best saved for the end of the day when you’re ready to fully kick back.

5. Purple Kush

Purple Kush is a pure Indica strain born from the cross between Hindu Kush and Purple Afghani. Known for its deeply relaxing effects, it’s a go-to choice for those dealing with insomnia or chronic pain. Its striking purple colour comes from anthocyanins - the same pigments found in berries like blueberries and raspberries. Often celebrated as a top-tier "bedtime" strain, Purple Kush is prized for its ability to promote deep relaxation.

Strain Type

Purple Kush’s genetics highlight its pure Indica lineage, which it inherits from its Afghan roots. This gives the strain its dense buds and resin-rich structure, making it ideal for hash production. Unlike Sativa-dominant strains that offer mental stimulation, Purple Kush is all about physical relaxation. It’s designed to help users unwind completely, making it a favourite for nighttime use.

THC/CBD Content

Purple Kush features THC levels ranging from 18% to 26%, with an average of around 20.8%. Its CBD content is minimal, sitting at about 0.1%, while CBG levels hover around 0.3%. This high THC-to-CBD ratio contributes to its strong sedative effects, which are far from clear-headed. According to Leafwell:

THC can stimulate the release of the sleep neurotransmitter, adenosine

This explains its effectiveness in promoting sleep. The strain’s terpene profile includes Humulene (0.49%), Pinene (0.47%), Caryophyllene (0.32%), and Myrcene (0.31%). Together, these compounds enhance its relaxing properties through the entourage effect. For beginners, it’s best to start slow - just one or two puffs - and wait a few minutes before considering more.

Primary Effects

Purple Kush offers a blend of euphoria and deep physical relaxation. Users often experience a mood boost at first, followed by intense drowsiness and a "couch-lock" effect. As Leafwell puts it:

Purple Kush is perfect for nighttime use as it provides users with a long-lasting sedative experience

This makes it particularly effective for addressing insomnia, migraines, stress, anxiety, and even depression. Its benefits are further enhanced by its unique flavour and aroma.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

Purple Kush is known for its earthy, woody scent, complemented by sweet, grape-like and berry notes. This mix of earthy and fruity tones makes it a popular choice for evening rituals, helping users ease into relaxation. However, as with many high-THC strains, side effects like dry mouth, dry eyes, and occasional dizziness may occur. Given its strong sedative impact, it’s best enjoyed in the evening or right before bed.

6. Afghan Kush

Afghan Kush earns its place among the top relaxation strains thanks to its pure Indica roots and rich history. This 100% Indica landrace strain hails from the Hindu Kush mountain range near the Afghanistan–Pakistan border. Known for its high resin production, it has been used for centuries to create charas and Afghani hash [33,4]. Its reputation as a deeply relaxing strain has made it a favourite for winding down after a long day. As Leafly puts it:

"Revered for its heavy resin content and powerfully sedating effects, Afghan Kush is a top choice for anyone looking to relax after a long day."

Afghan Kush blends its ancient genetics with potent effects, making it a go-to for night-time relaxation.

Strain Type

What sets Afghan Kush apart is its pure Indica genetics. The plant is compact, producing dense, resin-coated buds with striking red and orange hairs. As a landrace strain, it serves as a genetic cornerstone for many modern Indicas. One AllBud reviewer, robtrees, aptly describes it:

"Afghan Kush is essentially the benchmark for all other indica landrace strains to go by."

THC/CBD Content

Afghan Kush typically contains THC levels ranging from 15% to 21%, with most samples falling between 15% and 17%. It also features about 6% CBD and approximately 1% each of CBG and CBN [33,34,35]. Its dominant terpenes - myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene - enhance its relaxing and sedative properties.

Primary Effects

This strain delivers a deeply soothing body high, marked by intense relaxation, sedation, and sleepiness. It’s best suited for night-time use [33,34]. Many users report experiencing a strong body stone, accompanied by a serious case of the munchies [34,35,4]. Afghan Kush is especially popular among medical users, who praise its ability to alleviate chronic pain, anxiety, depression, anorexia, and sleep disorders. In a survey, 37% of users highlighted its effectiveness in reducing stress [33,34,35]. As AllBud reviewer FlowerLuvr humorously notes:

"It put the lock in couchlock. And you'll wish you put a lock on your fridge. Best saved for late night."

Its powerful effects make it a reliable choice for those seeking relief from both physical and mental tension.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

Afghan Kush boasts a strong, earthy aroma with hints of tar and a sweet honey musk [33,4]. Its flavour profile includes herbal and sweet undertones, with a pine-like finish that reflects its classic Indica roots. The hash-like taste pays homage to its centuries-old heritage and high resin content, delivering an "old school high." While its effects are potent, users should be prepared for common side effects like dry mouth, dry eyes, and occasional grogginess the next morning [33,35].

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7. Hindu Kush

Hindu Kush is a pure Indica landrace originating from the rugged, high-altitude regions of the Hindu Kush mountains, located between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Over centuries, it has become the foundation for iconic relaxing strains like OG Kush and Purple Kush. Like other classic Indicas, it promises a deeply calming experience.

Strain Type

As a pure Indica landrace, Hindu Kush is known for its compact and resilient growth. Its plants are short, thick, and bushy - perfectly suited to the challenging conditions of high-altitude environments. These pure genetics deliver the quintessential Indica experience: complete physical relaxation with minimal mental stimulation.

THC/CBD Content

Hindu Kush typically boasts THC levels between 18% and 22%, though certain phenotypes have been reported to reach an impressive 32%. These potent THC levels contribute to its powerful relaxing effects.

Primary Effects

Expect a heavy, full-body high from Hindu Kush that promotes deep relaxation and sedation. Many users describe the experience as 'couch-locking,' accompanied by a sense of euphoria and mental tranquillity that helps melt away stress and tension. It's an excellent choice for night-time use, especially for those struggling with sleep issues.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

Hindu Kush features a rich, earthy aroma with skunky undertones. As you savour it, you'll notice flowery, woodsy notes complemented by hints of lemon and pine.

8. Blueberry

Blueberry, a strain born in the late 1970s thanks to the efforts of DJ Short, earned its place in cannabis history by winning the High Times Cannabis Cup for Best Indica in 2000. It’s a blend of exotic landrace genetics - Afghani Indica, Thai Sativa, and Purple Thai Sativa - designed to deliver a deeply relaxing experience. Let’s dive into its genetic makeup and unique features.

Strain Type

Blueberry is an 80% Indica-dominant hybrid with green buds accented by blue and purple hues. It thrives in a variety of growing conditions, making it a versatile choice for cultivators.

THC/CBD Content

Blueberry’s THC levels usually range between 14% and 19%, with some phenotypes hitting around 17–18%. Its CBD content is low, often under 1%, though it occasionally reaches up to 2%. This balance creates a potent high, with Myrcene as the dominant terpene, supported by Pinene and Caryophyllene.

Primary Effects

Known for its “one hit and quit” reputation, Blueberry delivers profound physical relaxation without clouding the mind. Users on Leafly often describe its effects as akin to a “warm hug,” soothing muscle tension and silencing mental chatter. The high brings waves of euphoria and happiness, often sparking laughter, before gently guiding users into a peaceful sleep. Its ability to quiet stressful thoughts makes it a popular choice for unwinding in the evening after a tough day.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

Blueberry stands out with its unmistakable aroma of fresh, sweet berries. Earthy pine, honey musk, and vanilla notes add depth, while the flavour delivers a burst of sweet blueberries complemented by creamy vanilla or spicy pine undertones. Cannabis journalist Adam Parsons captures its essence perfectly:

Blueberry provides a rich, soothing, full-body high... she'll bring the mind into the present moment and momentarily lift away worry as her berry flavours fill the air.

This sensory experience, combined with its high Myrcene content, creates a calming effect that enhances relaxation and soothes the nerves.

9. Cookies and Cream

Cookies and Cream is a hybrid strain created by Exotic Genetix, blending Starfighter with a Girl Scout Cookies phenotype. Known for its calming effects, this strain earned 1st Place for Best Hybrid at the 2014 Denver Cannabis Cup. With a dessert-like flavour and consistently high ratings - 4.5/5 on AllBud (from 74 votes) and Leafly (from 802 ratings) - Cookies and Cream has become a popular choice for those seeking relaxation.

Strain Type

This hybrid is typically described as 60% Indica and 40% Sativa. Its balanced genetics offer a combination of mental uplift and physical calm, making it a favourite for unwinding. The buds are visually striking, showcasing dark green tones with purple highlights, bright orange hairs, and a frosty layer of clear crystal trichomes.

THC/CBD Content

Cookies and Cream boasts THC levels ranging from 20% to 26%, with some phenotypes reaching as high as 30%. Its CBD content is minimal, but it does contain around 1% CBG. The dominant terpene is caryophyllene, which is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, while limonene and myrcene add depth to its profile.

Primary Effects

The effects of Cookies and Cream begin with a euphoric boost that gradually settles into profound physical relaxation. As described on AllBud:

The high starts with a happy head lift that's both euphoric and creative... This is accompanied by a relaxing sleepy effect that leaves you dazed and blissfully unaware of any pain.

Statistics reveal that 30% of users turn to this strain for stress relief, 28% for anxiety, and 25% for depression. Its calming nature makes it ideal for evening use or moments when you need to unwind.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

True to its name, Cookies and Cream offers a dessert-like sensory experience. The flavour combines sweet vanilla, nutty earth, and creamy butter, with hints of chestnut and vanilla maple. Its aroma is equally inviting, blending sweet and pungent notes of nutty earth and candy, with a subtle vanilla undertone when burned. This rich flavour and aroma, paired with its terpene profile, enhance its relaxing appeal.

10. Wedding Cake

Closing off our list of top strains for relaxation, Wedding Cake earns its place with its powerful effects and comforting flavour profile. This indica-dominant hybrid is the result of crossing Triangle Kush with Animal Mints. Known for its ability to deliver deep relaxation, it was crowned the Leafly Strain of the Year in 2019. It boasts impressive ratings, with a 4.6/5 on Leafly (from 2,651 reviews) and 4.7/5 on AllBud (from 267 votes). Interestingly, in Canada, this strain is also referred to as "Pink Cookies."

Strain Type

Wedding Cake leans heavily towards indica genetics, with a breakdown of approximately 60% indica and 40% sativa. The buds are dense and shaped like small pinecones, featuring dark green leaves, vibrant orange hairs, and a thick layer of trichomes. This structure not only gives the strain its visual appeal but also hints at its potency.

THC/CBD Content

This strain is known for its high THC levels, typically ranging between 24% and 27%, with some phenotypes reaching an impressive 30%. It also contains about 1% CBG, which complements its effects. The dominant terpenes - caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene - enhance its calming properties. However, due to its strength, it's wise to start with a small dose to avoid potential side effects like dizziness or anxiety.

Primary Effects

Wedding Cake offers a well-rounded high that starts with a euphoric lift before transitioning into profound physical relaxation. It's particularly popular among users seeking relief from anxiety (24%), stress (21%), and depression (18%). According to Leafly:

The Wedding Cake strain provides relaxing and euphoric effects that calm the body and mind.

One reviewer on AllBud shared:

The taste is uniquely cookies with its heavy notes of vanilla and nuttiness. The high is euphoric and relaxing and is best smoked when there's little demands on your person.

Given its sedative qualities, Wedding Cake is best enjoyed during the evening or before bed, especially if you're looking to wind down after a long day. Be prepared for its "couch-lock" potential, making it ideal for nights when minimal activity is on the agenda.

Flavour and Aroma Profiles

As its name suggests, Wedding Cake delivers a dessert-like experience. Its flavour bursts with sweet vanilla, buttery richness, and cookie notes, accompanied by subtle hints of cherry pie. The aroma is equally inviting, blending the sweetness of vanilla and cookies with earthy pepper, floral undertones, and a touch of nuttiness. This combination makes it as enjoyable to smell as it is to taste.

Comparison Table: All 10 Strains

Here’s a handy table that breaks down each strain by type, cannabinoid levels, effects, and the best time to enjoy them.

Indica strains are known for their strong sedative qualities, making them a go-to choice for unwinding at the end of the day. On the other hand, balanced hybrids bring a mix of effects, offering relaxation with a touch of versatility.

Conclusion

Your ultimate relaxation experience comes down to finding a strain that matches your needs and lifestyle. For deep physical relaxation and better sleep, indica-dominant strains like Granddaddy Purple and Northern Lights are excellent options. On the other hand, balanced hybrids such as Cookies and Cream can ease stress without leaving you overly sedated, making them a great choice for daytime or light evening use.

Pay attention to the THC and CBD ratios when selecting your strain. High-THC options can be very sedating, which might not be ideal if you're new to cannabis or trying to avoid that "couch-lock" feeling. A more balanced cannabinoid profile can offer a gentler experience. As discussed earlier, understanding cannabinoid profiles and terpene effects can help guide your choice. Starting with a low dose is always a good idea, especially to prevent any unwanted effects. Stick to lab-tested products for consistency and safety.

In South Africa, you can conveniently access high-quality, lab-tested cannabis products - including flowers, concentrates, pre-rolls, and edibles - through Amazol's discreet nationwide delivery service. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, relax sore muscles, or simply unwind after a long day, combining a personalised approach with Amazol's reliable products ensures you can relax with confidence and ease.