The 5 Best CBD Strains

ACDC

If you love cannabis that's packing CBD, this one's for you. A hybrid that's an even mix of indica and sativa, you'll have a hard time finding a strain with a higher CBD to THC ratio than ACDC. The actual ratio will vary from product to product, with some carrying CBD as high as 20% and as much as 6% THC. Of course, if you're reading this list, you probably don't want a lot of THC. Fortunately, you can find ACDC with less than 1% of this cannabinoid.

While this type of cannabis is known to calm and relax, it can also lift you up and is great for daytime consumption. Not only is it useful for keeping you alert, focused, and socially active, but it can help reduce pain, anxiety, and stress. Best of all, it's gentle, making it a great strain for anyone who's sensitive to the negative effects associated with THC. Whether or not you're a fan of the band, this strain will treat you right.

Ringo's Gift

Beatles enthusiasts may be disappointed to learn that this was named after a different Ringo. That's right, there are other Ringos. That disappointment will soon dissipate, however, once a consumer dives in and tries this fantastic strain (Plus, its creator, Lawrence Ringo, was a CBD expert, activist, and founded his own seed collective, so he was a very good Ringo too!). 

Although many still associate sativa with THC, Ringo's Gift is a great example of why such a label isn't all that relevant anymore. A hybrid that's 60% sativa, this strain has a really high CBD to THC ratio, with some products carrying as much as 20% CBD and THC as low as 1%. This type of cannabis is great for anyone who's experiencing stress, anxiety, and/or trouble sleeping. Ringo's Gift is made by crossbreeding ACDC and Harle-Tsu. Speaking of which…

Harle-Tsu

Another one of Lawrence Ringo's creations, Harle-Tsu is made by pairing Sour Tsunami and Harlequin strains (Which explains the name, though feel free to continue singing this one to the tune of Buddy Holly's "Peggy Sue" in your head). Harle-Tsu is 60% indica and can have a CBD percentage of 22 on the high end and a THC percentage as low as 0.86. It won an award for best CBD flower during the 2014 Emerald Cup — and for good reason. It's great for easing anxiety while sharpening focus and enhancing your mood. Harle-Tsu won't cause you to be too sleepy either, making it the perfect option for anyone who wants to relax while staying alert.

Sour Tsunami

Yet another Lawrence Ringo original, Sour Tsunami is grown by crossbreeding NYC Diesel and Sour Diesel. It's notable as one of the earliest examples of a CBD-dominant strain, and it typically contains around 13% CBD and 1% or less THC. It's a popular CBD strain that offers a lot of healing properties and no energizing head buzz. Many consumers seek Sour Tsunami for pain relief, anxiety management, and mood enhancement.

Charlotte’s Web

This list simply wouldn't be complete without Charlotte’s Web. Not only is it one of the most famous of CBD strains, but it played an important role in legalization. This one leans heavier on indica at 60%, and its products may have anywhere from 13-20% CBD. Charlotte’s Web is so low in THC that it's legal in any state. It often winds up in products that target depression, anxiety, and pain. And it probably goes without saying that consumers can enjoy this strain without any psychotropic effects.

There you have it! If you're looking for a great CBD strain, you simply can't go wrong with these five examples. Next time you're at your local dispensary, be sure to ask the budtender about anything mentioned on this list.