Finding the right strain for you can be a challenging task, especially if you are trying hemp-derived cannabinoids for the first time or still consider yourself to be a newbie. But all you budding stoners need not worry, Eighty Six did the research for you! Read on to get familiar with some of the best strains for beginners.
Types of Cannabis Strains
Before we start talking cannabis strains, let’s go over the basics real quick. Cannabis strains can be grouped into one of the following categories: indicas, sativas, and hybrids. What’s important to remember is that indicas generally provide more of a body high while sativas generally provide a more cerebral high and hybrids provide a bit of both. These are definitely more guidelines than they are hard rules; not every strain follows this pattern exactly and many strains contain hybrid genetics somewhere in their breed history.
What Makes a Good Starter Strain?
The culture around cannabis may seem like it’s all about potency, and for more experienced cannabis users with a higher tolerance, that may be true. But beginners should pace themselves, and focus more on the effects associated with the strain rather than getting too caught up in the THC percentage. Beginners looking to try cannabis for the first time should look for strains with a low to moderate percentage of THC, ideally, below 20%.
We did just say not to be too preoccupied with percentages, and you shouldn’t! Keeping the THC percentage below 20% will ensure that you don’t get too high the first time, which can be a scary and uncomfortable experience that makes it hard to try cannabis again. Despite cannabis’s association with relaxation, some strains can cause anxiety, panic or paranoia in high doses, so it’s very important to start slow if you’re new to cannabis, regardless of the strain you’re using.
Best Hybrid Strains for Beginners
Hybrid strains were bred using both indica and sativa genetics. These strains are super popular amongst both new and experienced cannabis users because it provides the best of both world, leaving you with both a body and cerebral head high. Some hybrids even contain CBD, which makes them a great help to ease the symptoms of some minor discomforts. Hybrid strains make great starter strains as CBD can enhance the entourage effect and make for a wonderfully relaxing first time experience.
Jungle Scout Cookies
Jungle Scout Cookies are a more energizing hybrid strain, making it a great option if you like to start your day with a little wake and bake but don’t want to end up napping the day away. Even with only 12% THC and 1% CBD, Jungle Scout Cookies still packs a heavy punch with a powerful high, so start small with this strain until you know how it affects you.
And if you do end up loving the strain, did you know that our Dough Boy Delta-9 THC 2G Disposable features Jungle Scout Cookies? Give it a try!
Banana Peel
Banana peel is a newer strain, but high rated among users. It contains a mild amount of THC, standing at just 15%. This makes the strain right in the range you want to be if you’re thinking of trying cannabis or any of Eighty Six’s hemp-derived cannabinoids for the first time, making this an excellent hybrid strain for beginners.
Gorilla Glue
Gorilla Glue has had a bit of an identity crisis in the last few years, with copyright issues forcing a name change to GG4. Regardless of the name, this is a must-try strain. It’s more powerful than others on this list coming in hot at 20% THC, but this strain is known for its balanced, relaxing, euphoric high and it’s enormous buds are truly a sight to behold. Good for beginners, or cannabis users of all experience levels, GG4 is a perfect sampling of some of the best cannabis strains out there.
Best Indica Strains for Beginners
Indica strains tend to be a little more popular than sativas and for good reason! These strains are sure to melt away the frustrations of your day, leaving your body feeling comfortable, cozy, and relaxed.
Purple Punch
Purple Punch is made from the genetics of Granddaddy Purple (more on this later), so it’s another deeply relaxing indica strain that’s great for beginners. With its sweet aroma and sedating effects, Purple Punch, available in disposables, vape cartridges, pre-rolls, and syringes.
Granddaddy Purple
Grandaddy Purple is another very popular strain known by many names. It’s a powerful indica with just the right amount of THC for a novice clocking in at 17% THCC. GDP is known to induce sleepiness and be very calming, making it the perfect beginner strain for a relaxing night after a long day.
Forbidden Fruit
Forbidden Fruit is a beautiful strains that’s perfect for anyone who’s new to cannabis. Not only does it have an amazing fruity flavor, it’s known for inducing deep states of relaxation, and is perfect for users who struggle with insomnia.
Best Sativa Strains for Beginners
Sativa strains are great for more energetic individuals who like to stay lit and productive. Take it slow with sativas though, as the powerful head high can make users feel jittery or anxious.
Green Crack
Green Crack does by many names, but regardless of what it’s called, it’s a consistently popular sativa strain and a great option for beginners. It contains around 17% THC which is right in the ideal range for beginners looking for a good starter stain. If this sounds like the strain for you, the Mango Mobbin Live Rosin 2G Disposable is made from Green Crack!
Blue Dream
Blue Dream is a nearly perfect sativa strain, providing users with an evenly powerful cerebral head high. Coming in at 18% THC, it’s right in the idea range for a beginner strain and has a pleasant fruity taste that appeals to both novice and experienced users alike. Eighty Six has you covered when it comes to Blue Dream, available in disposables, vape cartridges, pre-rolls, and syringes.
Strawberry Cough
Strawberry Cough is a bright and fruity sativa strain that leaves users feeling both euphoric and energized, making this one of the very best daytime mixes. With 19% THC, Strawberry Cough is one of the stronger strains on this list, but we recommend it because of its pleasant, stress-relieving effects. Strawberry Cough is a popular strain, so Eighty Six stays stocked with disposables, carts, syringes, and pre-rolls.