Product innovation in the cannabis industry has become a ray of sunshine on our trips to the dispensary. Every time we go, a childlike nature seems to take over us as we face the endless possibilities of edibles, extracts, and flowers.

Not only that. As the industry grows, product specs and components like cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids have walked on to the scene and have become increasingly more important in consumer’s purchase habits. Advances in cannabis research and knowledge have paved the way for companies to call-out these types of specs on their products and make us (the consumers) more aware of what we’re buying and the specs we’d like our cannabis to have.

Product specs have become so important that they have altered consumer behavior single-handedly. Regular cannabis consumers are no longer happy with just buying marijuana. We’ve become privy of the substances we let our body ingest and have become goal-oriented with everything we consume. If we’re smoking weed, we want to know exactly what we’re accomplishing and what to expect each strain. Thus, consumer behavior has evolved almost as fast as the industry itself.

However:

It was not always this way. At the very beginning, we only realized what a specific cannabis strain smelled and felt like until we tried it for the first time. This was a time when dispensaries and online reviews were not available to everyone, and consumers had to go by trial and error.

Perhaps the very first “product spec” that helped us in our decision-making process was the type of cannabis bud we were buying. It was Indicas, Sativas, and hybrids that first molded our likes and dislikes in the cannabis world.

Sativas, being famous for delivering energetic and cerebral vibes, were perhaps preferred by people in need of mood and creative boosts. While Indicas were often used to induce relaxing physical effects.

If you’re an anxious person (like me…), then you might have also identified that thc can be at times overwhelming, and sometimes we just need a non-psychoactive hemp option that will still get us to that unwinded and relaxed state. This is why we’ve included a bonus hemp flower option at the beginning of the list for those who just can’t deal with thc when it comes to ending the day.

Origins to the genetics of this indica-lover’s favorite are still unclear. Some experts claim it’s a hybrid of up to 11 different species, while others classify it as a descendant of Afghani and Thai landrace strains. It is recognized among farmers for its friendly and strong growth tendencies, along with terpenes that give it a sweet and spicy aroma. This strain has been known to aid with pain relief and insomnia, which makes it a highly recommended flower to help manage depression and stress.

Heads-up, this one might be a biased review because of the deep feelings of love I have for this strain, one of my personal favorites. First grown by famous cannabis breeder DJ Short, who put together a hybrid using Afghani, Purple Thai, and Thai strains. The flower produces a strong sweet-blueberry aroma (hence the name), it can reach THC levels of over 18% and produces a relaxed and eventually drowsy feeling. Great for nighttime use and to help with lack of appetite.

Being an Indica and THC heavy strain, Granddaddy P. is probably best enjoyed before bed or right before a huge satisfying dinner. Pinene, Nerolidol, and Beta-Caryophyllene terpenes are responsible for the smells and flavors of sweet grape and berries that distinguish this deliciously crafted strain. Also used by many to treat anxiety and depression, which has made GP one of the most widely consumed strains in the world.

You’ve probably heard famous artists like Snoop Dogg mention this one before. Known to help with intense anxiety, stress, and depression, MK is also a nighttime strain. Like most Indicas, Master Kush has been known to bring about heavily sedative effects in part due to high THC levels upwards from 20%.

This is a landrace Indica strain from the Hindu Kush mountains and is known as a precursor to many other modern Indica hybrids. The terpene profile on this sweet thing makes for a strong aromatic scent, and the close to 17% THC content provides a heavy body high, which can help fight stress, lack of appetite, and sleeplessness.

For many, this strain is the one that started it all hundreds and hundreds of years ago. A hash landrace strain, rich in kief, and predominant in the Hindu Kush mountain region between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Hindu Kush was first used by Asian nomads in what is believed to be sacred rituals for deceased relatives. But today, Hindu Kush has become the go-to for cannabis consumers looking to stimulate a weak appetite, treat gastrointestinal pain, and relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress.

This piece of hybrid Indica heaven gets its name from the frosty looking trichomes that cover the plant when it hits maturity. This strain is a hybrid of a couple of other classic Indica strains on the list: Northern Lights, Afghani, and Skunk. It comes with around 17% THC content and is known for an earthy scent and a strong sedative high. Not to be confused with its close relative; Ice Wreck (Hybrid between ICE and Trainwreck strains).

Typically used to relieve stress, insomnia, and stress. This strain first appeared on the map in 1998 with a THC content of up to 22% (spec that made it a go-to for many medical cannabis patients). 80% Indica, BK is believed to have been bred originally using the Afghani strain. Which means it’s best used as a nighttime strain. Don’t expect clear-headedness when consuming this one, leave it for those times when you just want to kick your shoes up and forget about everything.

Not only a classic Indica but also one of the best hybrids out there. A cross between Skunk #1, Afghani, and Mendocino Purps, this strain is commonly used to provide uplifting emotions of happiness and euphoria. Nevertheless, with over 17% THC, Grape Ape is probably best left for nighttime use as a feeling of drowsiness can make a sudden appearance.

Highly potent Indica dominant hybrid bred from both Sativa and Indica strains. Its Sativa effects show up at the beginning of the high, but after that brief instance, you better prepare for the trademark sedative effects of an Indica dominant strain. With up to 23% THC, 9 Pound hammer hits like, well, a hammer, as extreme muscle relaxation and a sense of sleepiness kick in.

Even though its true origins remain unknown, legend tells that G13 was initially developed by the CIA in the 60s by cloning the Afghani strain and naming each clone iteration G1, G2, etc. Until G13 came along. It appears this is the one our government friends decided to stick with. The truth is we’ll never know if this story is real or not, but what we do know is that this Indica dominant strain provides one of the most powerful highs on the market with over 20% THC. Allegedly used to help treat symptoms of depression, insomnia, and pain (headaches, joint pain, and muscle soreness alike).

A highly sedative Indica strain with terpenes that give off acidic scents. Often used to treat muscle pain and soreness, anxiety, and also used as a nighttime sleep aid due to its heavy sedative effects. Californian to the stem and winner of several cannabis cup awards, this bud is worth a try.

Edition based out of the Bay Area in California has every connoisseur California dreaming. Their PCH Sunset strain is considered a heavy hitter at 25% THC, full of flavor, and fantastic terp profile. Expect a smooth and creamy smoke that will have you relaxed as you unwind from the busy thing we call life. If you are someone who loves craft cannabis and small-batch growing, you will appreciate Edition and its PCH Sunset strain.

25.14% THC

1.41% Terps

28.53% Cannabinoids