Recovering from surgery, rehabbing a sports injury, or battling a long-term illness? We put our bodies through a lot every single day, and sometimes, that results in pain. It’s estimated that 21% of Americans live with chronic pain, and as of yet, there’s no perfect answer for every single person experiencing pain.
Cannabis isn’t a magic cure-all for every ailment. However, when used in conjunction with the advice and recommendations of a medical professional, it’s been reported by some consumers to have pain-relieving properties and aid in the management of chronic conditions. It’s important to note, though, that cannabis isn’t a commonly prescribed medical treatment, and must always be used in accordance with local laws.
The Relationship Between Cannabis and Pain
Chronic pain, regardless of the cause, is one of the most common reasons that customers might seek out comforting cannabis strains for physical relief. As many cannabis consumers know, though, bodies and strains alike aren’t one-size-fits-all, so many gravitate towards the ratios or products that best suit their needs—with comfort as the ultimate goal.
For instance, some might be all in on solely CBD for a gentle, non-intoxicating body ease. On the other hand, other consumers prefer leaning into THC for its reported euphoric and distracting physical sensations, which some customers have reported work for issues like neuropathy. It doesn’t have to be strictly one or the other, though, and many praise 1:1 CBD to THC ratios for a more balanced approach that can be tailored to the unique needs of the individual.
Let’s Talk Terpenes
Alongside the balanced approach of a CBD and THC hybrid, consumers can further tailor a pain-relief experience. There are also terpenes to consider when it comes to the most relaxing weed strains. Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds in plants, and determine cannabis qualities like aroma and therapeutic effects. There are two terpenes in particular that consumers report aid in a soothing experience: Myrcene and Caryophyllene.
- Myrcene: A terpene that is also found in mangoes and hops, Myrcene has a reported relaxing effect that is said to help with sleep and inflammation. Often described as having aromatic hints of balsam and clove, Myrcene is believed by some to contribute to the “entourage effect,” increasing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier and therefore enhancing the effects of THC.
- Caryophyllene: For those looking for a terpene with less sedative effects, consumers often turn to peppery and woodsy Caryophyllene, which is reported as physically soothing and non-intoxicating. For this reason, Caryophyllene is often found in topicals or creams, but it’s also available in ingestible form.
A Few Customer Favorites
This may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Let’s get down to it: what’s the best cannabis strain for pain? If this sounds like something you’re interested in, we have several options available that match the relaxing profiles that pain-relief consumers typically request.
For instance, here are few heavy, relaxing, indica-forward strains:
- GG4, a classic strain found solo or in hybrids, slowly creeps to its full effect over time.
- Granddaddy Purple, with potent, sleepy effects, is found primarily in hybrid forms such as Cherry Pie or Apples & Bananas.
Because these strains are indica-forward, they are known to provide a primarily physical sensation that many enjoy.
Alternatively, high-CBD hybrids can provide a gentler, non-intoxicating experience for consumers looking for an everyday option. These products can range from topical treatments to tinctures to ingestibles to match multiple needs and lifestyles. No matter what you choose, though, you should always consult a medical professional about your pain and use caution when trying cannabis.
Visit Us at East Coast Cannabis
Whether you’re searching for the best cannabis for physical relief or want to explore some other options, our budtenders are here to help at all three of our locations.
