Best Strains for Pain

Navigating the vast array of cannabis strains available to patients can feel like a daunting task, especially for those new to medical cannabis. With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and confused. Finding the best strains for pain is more than just a choice for many consumers — it's necessary to manage pain effectively and enhance overall well-being.

Can Weed Help with Pain?

As attention grows on its impressive pain-relieving properties, cannabis is emerging as a promising option for pain management. Scientific research suggests its chemical components significantly impact the body's complex pain pathways.

Hearing patient experiences is invaluable for understanding how effective cannabis is for pain relief. A 2019 study found that strains high in THC significantly reduced pain, which corresponded with the intensity of the high reported by patients.¹

A 2024 study discovered that a small 1mg dose of THC significantly reduced pain compared to a placebo, indicating that THC could be an effective option for pain management. Many patients also indicated that they use medical cannabis alongside or instead of over-the-counter and prescription drugs to manage pain.²

CBD has also shown promise for pain relief. Research indicates that CBD creams, edibles, and other products can help reduce pain and inflammation in various types of chronic pain. Additionally, when CBD and THC are taken together, they have been found to provide better pain relief.³

Compounds in cannabis, called terpenes, might also help patients manage their pain. Studies show that some terpenes, like myrcene and caryophyllene, can do so, which could make particular cannabis strains especially adept at easing pain.

Best Terpenes for  Pain

Terpenes, which play a role in giving cannabis its smell and taste, are also important for the potential healing effects of the plant. Some terpenes may reduce pain and inflammation, making them helpful in managing pain. Some of the top cannabis terpenes known for helping with pain are:

Caryophyllene

β-Caryophyllene has been noted in research for its ability to reduce pain and inflammation. Studies show that it might work by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB2 receptors, to ease pain and swelling. One study found that patients often preferred strains with lots of β-caryophyllene for relieving migraines and headaches.⁴

Myrcene

Myrcene is famous for its potential calming and muscle-relaxing effects. Studies suggest that myrcene, alongside THC, CBD, and caryophyllene, might help with pain.⁴ 

α-Humulene

α-Humulene, found in cannabis and other plants like hops and basil, is recognized for its potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Research indicates that it might help ease pain by reducing inflammation.⁵

Limonene

Limonene, commonly found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, is also present in certain cannabis strains. It is recognized for its potential mood-enhancing and stress-relieving properties but also shows promise in pain management.^6,7

Linalool

Linalool is a floral-scented terpene commonly found in lavender and some cannabis strains. Its soothing aroma is often associated with relaxation and stress relief and exhibits analgesic properties.^8,7

Geraniol

Geraniol is a terpene with a sweet, floral aroma found in various plants, including cannabis. Along with its pleasant scent, geraniol possesses potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies indicate that geraniol may exert its pain-relieving effects by inhibiting certain enzymes involved in inflammation and modulating pain-signaling pathways.⁷

Terpinolene

Terpinolene is a lesser-known terpene with a woody, herbal scent found in cannabis and other aromatic plants like sage and rosemary. Although its pain-relieving mechanisms are not as well understood as some other terpenes, terpinolene demonstrates potential as an analgesic agent.⁹

How to Choose Strains for Pain

Selecting the best cannabis strain for pain involves understanding the interplay of terpenes, cannabinoids, and personal preference. Here's how patients can make smart choices:

Consider the Terpene Profile

Terpenes may play a role in cannabis's effectiveness for pain relief. Patients should look for strains rich in potentially pain-relieving terpenes like β-caryophyllene, pinene, limonene, linalool, terpinolene, myrcene, and α-humulene. These terpenes are suggested to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.^4-8 Knowing what terpenes are in a strain can help patients make a choice that matches their goals for managing pain.

Assess Cannabinoid Content

The mix of THC and CBD in a strain can affect how well it eases pain. For conditions with inflammation, research suggests products and strains with a lot of CBD might be better because they're less likely to exhibit troublesome symptoms, like feeling impaired. Patients experiencing neuropathic pain may benefit from balanced THC:CBD ratios.¹⁰ Learn more about cannabinoids for pain relief.

Explore Strain Families

Pain management with cannabis is complex, but certain strain families have distinct characteristics:

• Kush strains, with their soothing terpene profile, are often favored for nighttime pain relief and managing insomnia, a common companion of chronic pain.
• Haze strains, known for their energizing and mood-boosting properties, can help alleviate pain-related anxiety and depression.
• Diesel strains, celebrated for their high THC content and potent pain-killing effects, may be suitable for patients with severe or chronic pain conditions.

Consider Patient Preferences

Since cannabis affects everyone uniquely, finding the right strain for pain relief is a personal journey. Some terpenes or strains might work wonders, while others might not. Keeping a pain journal to track how different strains make you feel can help identify what works best and tailor your choices accordingly.

Avoid Unwanted Effects

Not all strains are created equal, especially when it comes to pain management. Some strains or terpenes may worsen symptoms or produce unwanted side effects. High-THC strains may trigger anxiety or paranoia in certain individuals, while those containing certain terpene combinations, like pinene and limonene, might not be the best choice for nighttime relief.

The 5 Best Strains for Pain

For effective pain relief, patients often choose certain cannabis strains known for their pain-relieving properties, rich terpene profiles, and balanced cannabinoids. Here are the top 5 strains for pain relief based on patient reviews and scientific research:

Critical Mass

Critical Mass is a high-CBD cultivar known by consumers for its soothing and relaxing effects. With a terpene profile featuring myrcene and β-caryophyllene, this strain may offer potent pain-killing and anti-inflammatory properties. Its balanced THC:CBD ratio makes it ideal for potentially managing various types of pain, including neuropathic and inflammatory conditions.

Patients often praise Critical Mass for its gentle yet effective, pain-relieving effects without inducing intense intoxicating effects. Combining CBD and terpenes, like myrcene and β-caryophyllene, may help alleviate pain while promoting relaxation and calmness.

Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)

Girl Scout Cookies, or GSC, is a cultivar renowned by consumers for its euphoric and uplifting effects. Due to a terpene profile featuring limonene and caryophyllene, GSC may offer a balanced blend of pain relief and mood elevation. 

Patients highly regard GSC for its potential ability to alleviate both physical and psychological aspects of pain. The potential synergy between its terpenes and cannabinoids may offer a well-rounded pain-relieving experience, making it a favorite among those seeking relief from chronic pain conditions.

Harlequin

Harlequin is a unique cultivar known for its high CBD content and low THC levels. With a terpene profile featuring myrcene and pinene, Harlequin may deliver gentle pain relief and a clear-headed experience. Its balanced cannabinoid profile is reported to make it suitable for daytime use without causing sedation or impairment.

Patients appreciate Harlequin for its potential ability to provide substantial pain relief without the extremely intoxicating effects commonly associated with high-THC strains. The presence of CBD and terpenes, like myrcene and pinene, may offer a synergistic effect that effectively combats pain while maintaining mental clarity. Remember that there is THC in this strain, so intoxication may still occur in individuals sensitive to THC.  

White Widow

White Widow is a classic cultivar renowned for its potent analgesic and uplifting effects. It features caryophyllene and myrcene terpenes, potentially offering robust pain relief and mood enhancement. Its moderate to high THC content may provide long-lasting relief from chronic pain conditions.

Patients often turn to White Widow for its potential pain-relieving effects and mood-boosting properties. The combination of THC and terpenes, like caryophyllene and pinene, may create a holistic experience that addresses both physical discomfort and mental stress.

Blue Dream

Blue Dream is a popular cultivar known for its balanced effects and pleasant aroma. Its terpene profile features myrcene and pinene, Which offer gentle pain relief and mental relaxation. Its moderate THC content provides therapeutic benefits without overwhelming intoxicating effects.

Patients praise Blue Dream for its versatility in managing various types of pain, including neuropathic and inflammatory conditions. The synergistic interaction between THC and terpenes, like myrcene and pinene, delivers effective pain relief while promoting a sense of calmness and well-being.

References

1. van de Donk T, Niesters M, Kowal MA, Olofsen E, Dahan A, van Velzen M. An experimental randomized study on the analgesic effects of pharmaceutical-grade cannabis in chronic pain patients with fibromyalgia. Pain. 2019;160(4):860-869. doi:10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001464 ↩︎
2. Safi K, Sobieraj J, Błaszkiewicz M, Żyła J, Salata B, Dzierżanowski T. Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol for Pain Treatment—An Update on the Evidence. Biomedicines. 2024; 12(2):307. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12020307 ↩︎
3. Mlost J, Bryk M, Starowicz K. Cannabidiol for Pain Treatment: Focus on Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2020; 21(22):8870. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21228870 ↩︎
4. Baron EP. Medicinal Properties of Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids in Cannabis, and Benefits in Migraine, Headache, and Pain: An Update on Current Evidence and Cannabis Science. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. 2018;58(7):1139-1186. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13345 ↩︎
5. Hanuš LO, Hod Y. Terpenes/Terpenoids in Cannabis: Are They Important? Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids. 2020;3(1):25-60. doi:https://doi.org/10.1159/000509733 ↩︎
6. Sommano SR, Chittasupho C, Ruksiriwanich W, Jantrawut P. The Cannabis Terpenes. Molecules. 2020;25(24):5792. Published 2020 Dec 8. doi:10.3390/molecules25245792 ↩︎
7. Liktor-Busa E, Keresztes A, LaVigne J, Streicher JM, Largent-Milnes TM. Analgesic Potential of Terpenes Derived from Cannabis sativa. Pharmacological Reviews. 2021;73(4):98-126. doi:https://doi.org/10.1124/pharmrev.120.000046 ↩︎
8. Weston-Green K, Clunas H, Jimenez Naranjo C. A Review of the Potential Use of Pinene and Linalool as Terpene-Based Medicines for Brain Health: Discovering Novel Therapeutics in the Flavours and Fragrances of Cannabis. Frontiers in Psychiatry. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.583211 ↩︎
9. Johnson AL, Verbitsky R, Hudson J, Dean R, Hamilton TJ. Cannabinoid type-2 receptors modulate terpene induced anxiety-reduction in zebrafish. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 2023;168:115760. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115760 ↩︎
10. MacCallum CA, Eadie L, Barr AM, Boivin M, Lu S. Practical Strategies Using Medical Cannabis to Reduce Harms Associated With Long Term Opioid Use in Chronic Pain. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.633168 ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.