6 Best Strains to Help Combat Fatigue
Article written by
Tina MagrabiSenior Content Writer
Content reviewed by
Dr. Lewis Jassey
You know the traditional stoner stereotype: lazy and sleepy. While it’s true that some cannabis has this effect, not all marijuana strains are the same. Some strains can actually support your energy levels and ward off fatigue.
How does one plant make you both tired and energized? It’s all in the compounds. Look inside the cannabis plant, and you’ll find hundreds. Each one serves a particular purpose. Terpenes and cannabinoids are compound types, and they influence your energy levels the most, whether uplifted or relaxed. CBD, THC, and CBN are three examples of common cannabinoids. Terpenes make up a significant part of cannabis’ fragrant aroma. Other plants, like rosemary, oranges, and peppermint, also have rich terpene profiles.
Some of the best marijuana strains for chronic fatigue syndrome include:
- Durban Poison
- Jack Herer
- Mimosa (Purple Mimosa)
- Super Lemon Haze
- Sour Diesel
- Strawberry Cough
Get your medical marijuana card
Connect with a licensed physician online in minutes.
How Cannabis Affects Fatigue
Cannabinoids work with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Together, the synergistic impact affects our energy levels. The endocannabinoid system has at least two kinds of receptors, and CB1 and CB2 receptors receive cannabinoids like THC and CBD, helping the body reach homeostasis (balance).
You have CB1 and CB2 receptors throughout your body. The cannabinoid THC and the CB1 receptor fitlike a lock and key. Depending on the dose, you might feel sleepy or energized when THC interacts with the CB1 receptor. That’s because your CB1 receptors are densely-populated in the brain, and the brain responds to the amount of THC you give it.
Cannabinoids and Terpenes for Energy
THC, CBD, and THCV should be your primary cannabinoids when selecting a cannabis strain to fight fatigue. But that’s not the only important factor. Your terpene profile matters, too. Look for strains rich in terpinolene, pinene, and limonene to boost your energy levels. Terpinolene has woodsy notes with a floral layer, and pinene takes you to the pine trees with its refreshing scent. Limonene smells like oranges, and you’ll notice its citrusy aroma. In high concentrations, many varieties of cannabis that contain a combination of pinene, limonene, terpinolene, and/or beta-caryophyllene tend to have more energizing effects.
Your dosage might be more important than terpene and cannabinoid content. THC is biphasic, affecting you differently at high and low doses. Higher doses of THC will make you tired, while lower doses can uplift you, especially when combined with cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and THCV.
Free Cannabinoid and Terpene Guide
Cannabinoids and Terpenes to Avoid
You shouldn’t look at an individual terpene or cannabinoid and say, “That won’t help me.” But, you should identify your strain’s most abundant terpene and cannabinoid. Then, see how those two compounds support or discourage the effect you’re going for.
For example, CBD isn’t something to avoid when looking for the best strains for fatigue. But CBD shouldn’t be the strain’s most abundant cannabinoid, either. There is scientific evidence that high doses of CBD have a sedative effect, while it can be energizing in lower or more moderate doses. But it largely depends on the dosage you consume.
You might stay away from linalool-heavy strains, too. You’ll find linalool in the lavender plant, a plant often cited for its ability to relax you. That’s because of linalool. Plenty of research supports the terpene’s ability to encourage a sedative state. High concentrations of myrcene and humulene, which are found in hops, are best avoided.
However, it is worth remembering that a cannabis variety may also have an energizing effect followed by a more sleepy effect, which can happen either as you consume more cannabis or as the sleep-inducing and relaxing effects of cannabinoids and terpenes start to take hold over time.
Best Strains (Cultivars) for Fatigue
Durban Poison
Durban Poison is a sativa strain, exuding a sweet and earthy taste. You’ll feel energetic and uplifted after consuming the correct dose of it. Some people call Durban Poison the “espresso” of cannabis, which provides a consistent, sharp-minded effect every time. Depending on who grew it and where you might see Durban Poison’s THC content as high as 24 percent. Terpinolene and beta-caryophyllene are two primary terpenes in this hard-hitting, energizing strain.
Jack Herer
Jack Herer is a sativa-dominant strain. It’s a classic most cannabis enthusiasts love. Many daily consumers reach for Jack Herer every morning before they begin the day. It’s known for a calm yet euphoric and clear-headed experience that lasts throughout the day. Jack Herer averages between 15-24 percent THC. Terpinolene, caryophyllene, and pinene are three of the strain’s most present terpenes.
Mimosa (aka Purple Mimosa)
Mimosa is a hybrid. It’s a cross between Purple Punch and Clementine. Consumers report Mimosa helps them take on the day. Myrcene, pinene, and limonene are Mimosa’s most prominent terpenes. You’ll find the THC content usually between 19-27%. Mimosa’s Purple Punch lineage might make you sleepy, so be mindful of your dosage.
Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid, offering energizing and euphoric effects. Many consumers report relief from chronic pain after consumption, and you might find yourself feeling more chatty and friendly after consuming it. Terpinolene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene are dominant terpenes in Super Lemon Haze. This stimulating cannabis variety contains up to 25 percent THC.
Sour Diesel
The classic and beloved Sour Diesel is a sativa strain filled with myrcene and limonene. It’s a creative, uplifting, and energizing variety. Some consumers prefer Sour Diesel before a workout or nature hike. It usually has at least 18 percent THC, sometimes containing up to 26 percent.
Strawberry Cough
Strawberry Cough is a sativa strain known for its sweet, berry aroma and taste. You’ll experience uplifting, cerebral effects with a strong sense of euphoria. Consider it your go-to strain during times of high stress. Strawberry Cough contains high THC — between 15-26 percent, on average — and myrcene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene are some of the strain’s most abundant terpenes.
Get Your Medical Card
Connect with a licensed physician online in minutes.
