Sativa strains can often get a bad rep due to the idea they cause serious anxiety and psychosis.
Sativa strains are far from that, however. In fact, due to the mass crossbreeding of strains, a strictly Sativa or Indica strain is very hard to find.
When we say a Sativa strain, we’re in fact talking about a Sativa-dominant strain.
This isn’t to say that the strains don’t carry specific terpene and cannabinoid profiles. These profiles do lead to certain effects. Instead, the idea that all Indica strains are sedating while all Sativas strain makes you feel cerebral is a broad generalization.
Getting to know a wide array of strains and their benefits is important when using cannabis, particularly since so much crossbreeding goes on.
That’s why we’ve laid out the best Sativa strains in accordance with their medicinal benefits.
Best Sativa Strains for Focus
Durban Poison
The Durban Poison strain has a very famed history. It was discovered by Ed Rosenthal while on an excursion in South Africa. It was then brought back across the Atlantic Ocean to the United States.
Durban Poison is a genuine Landrace strain when bred properly. Although it has a myriad of benefits, it’s been known to get users extremely engaged, whether it’s a tedious task or one that requires hours of focus.
Green Crack
The name Green Crack can be a little off-putting for some. Have no worries as it’s far from what the name suggests. It’s been clocked in at an awesome 24% THC, giving users the ability to lock down and crack the books.
It’s the result of inbreeding the Skunk #1 strains. It originally was named green cush, or just cush. That all changed when Snoop Dogg decided to call it Green Crack after he sampled its sativa effects. Thanks to Snoop, the name stuck and is yet to change.
Willie Nelson
There’s no way that with all the crazy strain names, Willie Nelson wouldn’t get his own. An advocate of cannabis for years, Willie Nelson is one of the first public figures to promote its use.
Willie Nelson is a cross between the Vietnamese Black and Highland Nepalese. Its effects are very clear and mentally stimulating, thus making it one of the best Sativa strains for focus.
Kali Mist
Last on our list for the best Sativa strains for focus is Kali Mist. Due to its lower THC and higher CBD concentration, Kali Mist is recommended for daytime use and it’s such a perfect strain for at-work consumption (even if your boss disapproves).
Due to Kali Mist triggering a very deep state of focus, it’s often used for meditation and yoga.
You might find yourself better tuning into the rhythm of your breath and body. Namaste.
Best Sativa Strains for Creativity
Charlotte’s Web
Charlotte’s Web strain has a plethora of medical benefits. Choosing just one is a tough job. But the high CBD percentage allows the creative juices to flow.
Originally bred by the Stanley Brothers, Charlotte’s Web opened the door for many patients in the United States. Bred for Charlotte Figi, a 12-year-old suffering from Dravet’s Syndrome, a rare ailment that causes a mass amount of seizures. It was the first strain bred with almost no THC and all CBD.
Candy Jack
Cand Jack is the delicious cross between Jack Herer and Cotton Candy. It boasts an earthy aroma with a side of citrus. It’s upbeat euphoric and energetic effects often lead to creative breakthroughs. Perfect for pushing through those writers blocks.
A word of warning, it’s a strain that is well known for the munchies. So make sure you got a snack on hand!
Red Congolese
Although a 100% pure Sativa is hard to come by, the Red Congolese is just that. It’s cross between Mexican Sativa, Congolese and Afghani strains.
Red Congolese has garnered a reputation as one of the best Sativa strains. It took home 3rd place in 2013 at the high times cup in Southern California.
Alice in Wonderland
The book Alice in Wonderland is littered with creative images from front to back. Hence why the strain was given its name.
There are a few strains that bring forth creativity like Alice in Wonderland. Any list of best Sativa strains for creativity would be nothing without it.
Harlequin
If you had a Mount Rushmore of Sativa strains, Harlequin would be right there. Regarded as one of the best CBD strains, Harlequin crushes anxiety.
Island Sweet Skunk
Island Sweet Skunk may have the most unimaginative, yet the most spot-on name of all time. Bred on Vancouver Island, it boasts a sweet and skunky taste. We’re not here to judge the names of these stains, but it didn’t take much to come up with it.
Island Sweet Skunk, or ISS, is a Pacific Northwest classic. The coupled effects of relaxation and euphoria are perfect for treating anxiety.
Mango Haze
As with all the Sativa strains for anxiety, Mango Haze is great for day time use. This strain is a cross between Northern Lights #5, Skunk and Haze.
If you couldn’t already guess, it has a light and refreshing taste of mango. Its high won’t blow you out of the water, but that’s exactly what makes it one of the best Sativa strains for anxiety.
Best Sativa Strains for Reducing Pain
Sour Diesel
The idea that Indica strains were the best for pain is long gone. The truth is Sativas are also amazing for dealing with local and chronic pain. Sour Diesel is that, a strong Sativa that rids pain and eases all-around movement.
Jack Herer
Possibly one of the most famed strains of all time, Jack Herer is a legend. Jack Herer is named after the famed author of The Emperor Wears No Clothes.
Jack Herer was an outspoken activist cannabis usage. Fighting until the last day of his life for the legalization of his medicine of choice. His name will live on forever as Jack Here has won 9 first place medals at high times competitions. The strain’s magical ability to curb pain among other ailments is well recorded.
Strawberry Cough
The only thing that compares to Strawberry Cough’s sweet aroma is walking into a strawberry field. While it’s often regarded as a strain for dealing with anxiety, it also reduces pain. And with it being a light Sativa that fights anxiety, day time use is recommended.
This, of course, does not mean it can’t be used at night. It’s just that finding strains for day time medicating can be hard.
Lemon Haze
Last but not least on our section of best Sativa strains for pain is Lemon Haze. This cross between Silver Haze and Lemon Kush is not to be taken lightly. This is of the heavy-hitting variety and should be taken with caution.
Those who are just venturing into the world of cannabis should err on the side of ease. Take a tiny amount, to begin with, as its powerful pain-fighting benefits will be felt instantly. Less is more when it comes to Lemon Haze.
Best Sativa Strains for Depression/Lifting Mood
Laughing Buddha
As the name and section state, Laughing Buddha is a great strain for lifting the veil of depression. Its origins are a bit scattered, but its thought to be in the lineage of Jamaican and Thai strains.
The most notable effect of Laughing Buddha is its euphoric presence. The uptick in smiles and laughter will help anyone get out of a serious rut.
Super Green Crack
Super Saiyan Green Crack is not for the faint of heart. It’s like a jolt of electricity from head to toe. With this energy comes an undeniable expression of happiness and joy.
A word of caution, start with very small amounts, it’s best kept for intermediate users.
Viper
Those that have smoked or vaped viper before will instantly recognize it’s unique taste and aroma. This strain is a cross between Burmese Landrace and Blackseed strains. The flavour profile from this combination is like none other.
It boasts a pungent and spicy taste, with citrus to the sweet aftertaste. The taste alone is enough to make you laugh and smile. By the way, it does plenty of that. Hence it is one of the best Sativa strains for depression and lifting spirits.
Hawaiian Punch
There are people that don’t enjoy certain flavours. Yet have you ever met anyone that doesn’t enjoy Hawaiian Punch? We think not. Its terpene profile is littered with feel-good cannabinoids. Don’t believe us? Try it for yourself.
This one was left for last, as it’s the Alpha of depression-fighting strains. It’s best to leave it for last and try the others first. But you are an adult and can make your own decisions. If you try Hawaiian Punch right off the bat, start very slowly and work your way up.
Found the Best Sativa Strain? The Rest is Up to You
There is no such thing as the perfect cannabis strain, no matter what anyone says. Although there is a general guide to their effects, each will interact slightly different with our bodies. By doing your own research you will find the best results. A systematic process of trial and elimination is the best way to find the best strain for yourself.
The best Sativa strains are up to you, but undoubtedly the ones above are regarded as the best of their respective effects. Don’t be afraid to make your own list of the best and your favourite strains!
All images from Unsplash.