There are lots of lists out there for the best cannabis strains for this and that. Some of our previous lists have included 10 Best Marijuana Hybrid Strains and Best Strains for Social Events, and others talked about various strains for medical marijuana in Canada. Here is our collection of the top five best cannabis strains of all time.
How Did They Make the List?
The cannabis quality grading system (A–AAAA+) that is commonly used by many Canadian dispensaries will not be used in this list. That grading system is determined by flower structure, trichome density, trim, terpene, profile, ash color, and burn.
While some of these characteristics are covered here, this selection is compiled using the following key criteria: effects, cannabinoid profile, flavor, benefits, and history. This is because the cannabis quality grading system can sometimes be used in a subjective manner. But we wanted to present to you the top strains of all time in the most objective way possible.
AK-47
Effects: Despite its violent-sounding name, users of AK-47 commonly report feeling happy, euphoric, relaxed, creative, and uplifted. This makes it a great option for social events or when kicking back at home.
Cannabinoid Profile: The THC content ranges from 15-20 percent according to lab tests. CBD content is typically less than one percent. The most prevalent terpenes are beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool.
Flavor: The terpenes beta-caryophyllene, limonene and linalool contribute to the citrus and sweet-smelling aromas. Mixed in with the zestiness are hints of pine and wood. It is skunky and spicy with a layer of orange-like sweetness to round it out.
Benefits: AK-47 helps reduce stress, anxiety, pain, depression, and insomnia. It’s ability to relieve stress and anxiety has made it a popular strain for medical marijuana in Canada.
History: The lineage to this sativa-dominant hybrid remains a secret to this day. What we do know is that this strain was bred from the Dutch seed bank Serious Seeds using Afghani, Colombian, Mexican, Thai, and South American landraces. This mixture gives the hybrid a 65:35 sativa-to-indica split similar to King Tut.
Black Diamond
Effects: The Black Diamond kush strain is a pure indica that provides a relaxing vibe and sedative feeling in the body. It often makes the user calm and sleepy. This is great for those who have trouble sleeping and need help loosening up after a long day but do not want to turn to standard pharmaceutical medications.
Cannabinoid Profile: Lab tests show this strain has 18-22 percent THC content and less than one percent CBD on average. Beta myrcene, limonene and beta-caryophyllene are the only recurring terpenes found. Beta myrcene is the leading amount at 0.47 percent.
Flavor: It gives a musky, red wine, or even grape-like scent. The taste, however, is very different, as it is strong with blueberry, burnt toffee, and a slight woodiness.
Benefits: Due to its indica properties, many people use Black Diamond in the evening or before bed. It can cause quick sedation and relieve tension in the muscles and head. Its antiemetic properties help with nausea, making it a popular choice for medical marijuana in Canada.
History: Black Diamond kush strain is a pure indica from Northern California. It is a cross between Diamond OG and Blackberry.
Blue Dream
Effects: Blue Dream gives a calming, euphoric feeling with a gentle cerebral stimulation. It is very strong and a popular daytime choice for experienced users and people who deal with some sort of medical condition but want to remain fully functioning throughout the day.
Cannabinoid Profile: This hybrid is super strong. Lab reports show THC content ranges from 15 to 27 percent, and CBD content is around two percent. Myrcene and alpha pinene make up over 50 percent of the terpene content in this strain.
Flavor: Blue Dream has a super smooth blueberry smell and taste that is very sweet. When smoking, it leaves sandalwood, grape, and citrus flavor in the mouth.
Benefits: This is a popular daytime medicinal strain for sufferers of pain, depression, and/or anxiety. The ability to stay lucid and engaged mentally while also being provided physical pain relief has helped bring Blue Dream to the cannabis limelight.
History: This sativa-dominant hybrid is shrouded in mystery. We do know that it was a California native that first gained prominence in the medical cannabis community on the U.S. West Coast. It crosses the strains Blueberry and Haze.
Purple OG
Effects: This potent, indica-dominant hybrid is a relaxer. It gives the user a cerebral cloudiness, which is enjoyable when listening to relaxing music to better appreciate one’s environmental surroundings.
Cannabinoid Profile: Purple OG has 16 to 20 percent THC, with one percent or less of CBD content. The top three terpenes are linalool, caryophyllene oxide, and myrcene. They all have a similar small percentage in the terpene profile.
Flavor: With a profile of musty berry and pine, Purple OG smells and tastes great. It is smooth, and some people find it has hints of grape too.
Benefits: The sleepy and cloudy effects that come from this strain make it great for evenings or nights at home. Those who struggle to relax or sleep will find it useful. It is one of the older medical marijuana strains due to its ability to help with anxiety and stress.
History: This hybrid comes from Purple Kush and Cali OG Kush, with lineages that go back all the way to the Hindu Kush landrace. It is the oldest medical marijuana strain found in the United States but has gained prominence worldwide, including medical marijuana in Canada.
Pink Kush
Effects: Pink Kush is a pure indica strain that produces strong physical effects. The body relaxes while the mind has happy, euphoric feelings. The body buzz is often strong and long-lasting.
Cannabinoid Profile: Caryophyllene oxide is the most prominent terpene at around three percent. THC content ranges from 20 to 25 percent. CBD content is around one to two percent.
Flavor: It has a sweet, delicate sugary flavor that is at the same time earthy. The earthiness is accompanied by floral notes when consumed.
Benefits: The body-focused effects of Pink Kush make it a favorite for people who suffer from chronic pain, nausea, and migraines. Some medical users also use it to help with insomnia and appetite loss.
History: No one is entirely certain of the history of this strain. Lab tests tell us that it is a distant relative of the indica landrace found in the Hindu Rush range of the Himalayas. The name comes from this and the pink hairs that appear on the buds. In modern times, this has become a cannabis fan-favorite.
Famous Strains, With a Huge Legacy
How do these five strains compare to some of your favorites? Did we include them? If you have yet to try some on this list, then perhaps you’ll find a new favorite strain. And if you’re after medical marijuana in Canada, then you can find any of the five strains online.
