Over the past year, it’s seemed like when it comes to conversations around weed, CBD is hogging the spotlight. However, for many of us, THC is still the star of the show. Tetrahydrocannabinol is the cannabinoid that is most closely linked with the high feeling associated with cannabis. When you heat cannabis — whether by combustion, vaping, or cooking it — THC-A is converted into THC. This form of the cannabinoid binds with CB1 receptors found in the brain.
Over the years, appreciation for THC has led to a sort of cannabis arms race. Across the globe, growers specially cultivated their crops, selecting them for higher and higher levels of THC. Today, we have a veritable cavalcade of high-THC strains with many dispensaries packed to the rafters with dozens of extremely potent buds. Choosing the right one for you can be a little overwhelming, so we’ve made a list of some of our favorite high-THC marijuana strains.
Strawberry Diesel
THC Percentage: 16%
This strain is better for beginners thanks to its somewhat less imposing THC content. However, veterans may enjoy it for a more mellow experience. Also, this doesn’t mean that this is by any means a weak strain. A sativa-heavy hybrid, Strawberry Diesel is an energizing weed that also delivers a degree of muscle relaxation. This is a strain you can bring from day to night easily. While the THC level of this strain is less imposing for beginners, they should still be wary, this strain kicks in fast!
Sour Diesel
THC Percentage: 19%
After all those relaxing strains it can be nice to come back to something with a bit more of an energizing kick? Sour Diesel, or Sour D, is a sativa-dominant hybrid that hits fast and infuses consumers with vivid, energizing effects. Like all high-THC strains, experts believe it’s great for treating pain. It is renowned for its longer-lasting effects, making it a favorite for medicinal users.
Blue Dream
THC Percentage: 19%
Blue Dream is a hybrid strain that is heavily dominated by its sativa lineage. This means that it is an energizing day-time strain that promotes creativity and bubbly, positive moods. It’s somewhat milder than other high-THC strains, gently easing consumers into a calm and level euphoria. It’s got a distinctive sweet and fruity aroma, although some batches lean more towards an arboreal pine scent. For medicinal users, experts believe Blue Dream is a great way to cope with pain and nausea, and, thanks to its sativa-like characteristics, it won’t turn you into an utter couch potato. Beginners should start with small doses and build up from there.
Girl Scout Cookies
THC Percentage: 19%
Girl Scout Cookies, or GSC, is a classic hybrid that’s one of the most well-known strains available today. It is a cross-breed of OG Kush and Durban Poison, two extremely popular and sought after herbs. This is a potent strain with a strong euphoric effect. While it has the heady qualities of a sativa, it’s a hybrid that also leads towards a mellow body-high. This multiple Cannabis Cup winning strain is renowned for its ability to help with pain, nausea, and appetite loss. It’s best used sparingly — a little can go a long way — and beginners could be taken unawares by its unique blend of a relaxing body high and potent head high.
Amnezia Haze
THC Percentage: 19.5%
Winner of the 2004 Cannabis Cup and the 2012 Sativa Cup, Amnezia Haze is a lemony strain that is jam-packed with energy. This strain built a name for itself in the coffee shops of Amsterdam and maintains a lot of that popularity. This is a fantastic daytime strain with a generous, uplifting buzz.
Kosher Kush
THC Percentage: 20%
This strain is a true nighttime weed — not something you want to pass around at a party unless you’re hoping for something extremely mellow. Originally this strain was clone-only, meaning that it could only be cultivated from clippings. However, pioneering grow company DNA Genetics, found a way to make it available in seed form. Again, this is a true after-dark strain: When you consume it, sleep won’t be far behind.
Gorilla Glue
THC Percentage: 20%
Another powerful hybrid, Gorilla Glue is a potent strain that delivers a truly euphoric high. It is another nighttime strain. In fact, its name comes from the fact that it is so relaxing that it feels like you’re glued to the couch. The glue motif carries over to its actual appearance, with buds renowned for the impressive amount of resin coating them. This strain is a multi-award winner for a reason, and its potent effects are in significant demand.
Bruce Banner
THC Percentage: 23%
Bruce Banner is famous for his ability to turn into something very strong and very green (The Hulk, for those living under a comics-free rock). With a huge proportion of THC, this strain more than lives up to its namesake. The nugs of this plant are dense and potent, featuring a peppery citrus aroma. This strain kicks in fast and delivers an energetic and intense high. The head high tends to linger the longest, but consumers should also notice a certain level of body relaxation.
