Your Guide to Indica Strains

Picking a cannabis variety can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re in a dispensary stocked with many options. Retailers typically sort products into three broad groups: indica, sativa, and hybrid.

Indica varieties originate from Cannabis indica, a plant that tends to be shorter and bushier than sativa types.

Historically, indica strains have been linked with more of a body-centered high that promotes relaxation. They’re commonly suggested for people seeking help with pain, sleeplessness, nausea, or a low appetite.

Although numerous indica varieties may produce these outcomes, strains aren’t an exact formula.

Factors such as terpene profiles, different cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), and even your prior cannabis use can shape how you respond to particular products.

Still, the indica versus sativa classification can be a practical starting point to steer you toward the effects you want from a cannabis product.

Effects commonly tied to indica strains

Cannabis indica varieties are frequently reported to produce the following effects:

• Relaxing: Many users describe indica strains as helping muscles loosen and the mind slow down.
• Sedating: Indicas often make people feel sleepy, which can be helpful for those with insomnia.
• Pain-relieving: These strains are often advised for people seeking relief from chronic or acute pain.
• Appetite-stimulating: The “munchies” can be beneficial if you’ve lost appetite due to illness or treatment.
• Nausea-reducing: A number of people find indica varieties helpful for easing nausea and maintaining food intake.

A brief word on strain variability

As you explore strains, remember that their effects don’t always match up across producers. A strain sold by one company may feel different than another brand’s iteration of the same name.

If a particular variety works well for you, look into its other characteristics. What are the dominant terpenes? What is the THC-to-CBD ratio? Does the product list other cannabinoids like CBG or CBN?

It’s also important to note that everyone’s response to cannabis varies based on physiology and past experience.

For instance, if you use cannabis often, you’ll likely develop a higher THC tolerance. And your setting matters: being with friends in a familiar place can lead to a different experience than using alone in a strange environment.

How we selected strainsWe picked the strains below using Leafly’s strain explorer and consumer feedback. THC and CBD ranges reflect numbers reported by Leafly, Wikileaf, and AllBud.

Strains for relaxing

The following varieties may be helpful if your goal is to unwind a bit.

Granddaddy Purple

Often called GDP, this strain is well-liked for its purple buds, sweet berry aroma, and calming effects.

Reviewers commonly report feeling mentally at ease, and many recommend it mainly for evening use to wind down.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 17% to 27%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Ice Cream Cake

This indica-dominant cross of Wedding Cake and Gelato #33 is another fan favorite.

Over 80% of consumers on Leafly report it produces relaxing effects. Several users mention an initial light, giggly euphoria that gradually shifts into deep relaxation.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 22%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Purple Punch

A nighttime favorite for many seeking relaxation, Purple Punch has violet hues and a candy-like grape scent.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 18% to 19%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Strains for sleep

Research is mixed on whether cannabis helps or hinders sleep — some people report benefits but more study is needed — these strains are commonly reported to aid sleep.

Northern Lights

This indica cross of Thai and Afghani is a perennial favorite, especially for folks trying to fall asleep.

Reviewers say it relaxes both body and mind, paving the way for deep rest.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 18% to 22%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Bubba Kush

Like many indicas, this one can be very sedating — you likely won’t want to use it if you have commitments afterward.

Several reviewers liken it to a tranquilizer because of its couch-melting qualities.

If you’re new to cannabis, check the THC listed on the product, since some versions have been reported as high as 25% to 27%, which is above the 17% to 20% commonly cited.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 17% to 27%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Mendo Breath

This indica is prized for its calming, soothing properties and is described as having notes of vanilla and caramel.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 19% to 20%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Strains for pain relief

Whether you’re coping with menstrual cramps or ongoing pain, these selections might provide some comfort.

Do-Si-Dos

This pungent indica-leaning hybrid is popular among people treating chronic or acute pain.

Users report relief for issues ranging from migraines to nerve discomfort.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 21% to 30%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

GMO Cookies

Also known as Garlic Cookies, this high-THC variety is a cross involving Chemdawg and GSC.

If the name sounds odd, it’s a nod to the strain’s distinctive aroma — “GMO” references garlic, mushrooms, and onions.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 20% to 30%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

L.A. Confidential

With a somewhat lower THC range, this indica is often suggested for newcomers. It’s known for sedating, relaxing effects paired with a mild euphoria.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 17% to 25%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Strains for appetite

These varieties are useful starting points if you want to boost your appetite.

Zkittlez

With relatively lower THC, Zkittlez may suit beginners. One Leafly reviewer calls it one of the few strains that can raise their appetite on its own.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 15% to 23%
• CBD: 0% to 1%

Slurricane

This potent blend of Do-Si-Dos and Purple Punch combines many of the traits people value in indicas: relaxation, appetite stimulation, and sleepiness — all in one package.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 20% to 28%
• CBD: about 1%

Blue Cheese

Blue Cheese can spark appetite and is appreciated for not being overly sedating, so it can be used at different times of day, not only before bed. You can also explore other options like sativa strains depending on the effects you prefer.

THC and CBD content:

• THC: 17% to 20%
• CBD: 0% to 2%

Possible side effects

Cannabis can relieve a range of physical and mental health symptoms, but it also carries potential side effects.

Keep in mind: Individual reactions to cannabis vary.

Using cannabis, and particularly high-THC products, may lead to:

• feelings of anxiety or paranoia
• trouble sleeping
• drowsiness
• increased appetite
• dry mouth
• dry eyes
• dizziness
• faster heartbeat
• slower reaction times
• coordination problems

If you’re new to cannabis, think about starting with a lower-THC variety and using a small amount until you understand how it affects you mentally and physically.

Bottom line

Indica cannabis varieties tend to be more suitable for evening use thanks to their calming and sedative qualities.

Remember that multiple variables influence how a strain will affect you, including terpene content, cannabinoid ratios, and your own physiology and tolerance.

When trying a cannabis product for the first time, follow the “start low and go slow” principle: begin with a modest dose, observe how you feel, and allow adequate time for effects to appear. You can always increase the dose afterward.