Most cannabis strains for beginners have low THC levels and produce a somewhat appealing flavor. These are the go-to strains for casual smokers who wouldn’t want their day spoiled by the dizziness and disorientation of potent strains.

So, if you consider yourself a novice cannabis smoker, we have a list of cannabis strains you should restrict yourself to as you learn the ropes. The list is determined by the strains’ genotype, whose categorization can help you quickly identify cannabis strain alternatives for similar effects.

This guide also provides tips on the best cannabis consumption methods that serve beginners better.

While cannabis strains varieties can be several, it is how you consume that determines the effects and duration.

Please note that this information is neither intended to be medical advice nor an endorsement of any product. You should always consult a doctor before using cannabis for any purpose.

Key Takeaways

• The best weed strains for beginners are those with mild psychoactivity and little or no side effects.
• Strains like Cannatonic and Harlequin inhibit THC psychoactivity and offer more therapeutic benefits.
• The best strains for beginners can also lead to unwanted side effects, so novice smokers should start with low doses.

How To Categorize Cannabis Strains

Cannabis strains are mainly categorized by Sativa, Indica, THC, or CBD percentages

Cannabis strains are categorized according to their potency based on their cannabinoid, terpene, and indica-sativa profiles. Information from the strain’s genotype helps connoisseurs quickly tell which is suitable for a specific purpose.

Cannabinoids are the primary determinants of the strain’s potential effects and classification. Cannabinoids include Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabinol (CBN), and more. Since THC is known for psychoactivity, it becomes a vital indicator of a potent strain.

On the other hand, CBD has also proven to aid significantly in matters therapy. Cannabis strains with significant CBD levels have shown tremendous efficacy in alleviating pain, muscle spasms, and depression. CBD is also known to counter the effects of THC.

When it comes to the best cannabis strains for beginners, they must have low THC levels and a higher-than-average CBD ratio. This keeps the effects mild, preventing couch-lock effects, drowsiness, or any other side effect.

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What Is the Difference Between Indica and Sativa?

White Widow cannabis has some South Indian Indica parentage

Initially, cannabis strains were either Indica or Sativa. However, recent technological advancement and increased crossbreeding have enabled production of hybrid strains with Indica and Sativa properties.

One way to distinguish the two cannabis variants is through their effects. Indica dominant strains are known to be calming and sedative, while the Sativas are energizing and recreational. Much of the different properties are attributed to the strains’ origin, with those from the equatorial region tend to lean more on Sativa due to factors like more THCV.

What Are Terpenes in Cannabis?

Jack Herer Cannabis is a Sativa -dominant strain

Terpenes are the oils in cannabis that produce different smells and flavors. A cannabis strain’s terpenes are as crucial as the THC and CBD as they not only enhance its potency but also set the atmosphere.

Terpenes like limonene and pinene are known to facilitate analgesic properties while offering a sweet smell of pine and citrus. Terpenes can also inhibit any side effects from a cannabis strain, enhancing your experience and helping you identify your favorite cannabis strain.

What Are the Side Effects Of Cannabis Consumption?

The side effects of cannabis consumption depend on factors like the strain and the consumption method. Side effects also differ between individuals, but we have the common ones reported across the board.

It’s worth noting that even beginner-friendly cannabis strains can have unwanted side effects, hence the need to tread with caution.

Common side effects that you’re likely to experience from too much cannabis consumption include:

• Dry eyes
• Hunger pangs
• Sleepiness
• Increased heart rate
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Paranoia
• Anxiety
• Dry mouth

The best way to prevent side effects is to follow a doctor’s prescription.

The Best Cannabis Strains For Beginners

The best cannabis strains for beginners include Harlequin, Cannatonic, and Northern Lights. These strains have low THC levels and bearable side effects, not to mention the potential therapeutic benefits.

Here is a more detailed look at the best cannabis strains casual smokers should consider.

1. Cannatonic Cannabis Strain

Cannatonic cannabis strain

Cannatonic cannabis should be the go-to strain when you want more therapeutic effects than psychoactivity. As a progeny of the revered MK Ultra and G13 Haze, Cannatonic packs a THC-CBD ratio of 1:1, with CBD levels reaching 16%.

As a result, stoners can expect a short-lived mellow high that’s uplifting and powerfully relaxing. The balanced effect is also contributed by the strain’s hybrid balance with 50% Sativa and 50% Indica properties.

Cannatonic also has pinene, myrcene, and Beta-caryophyllene terpenes known to boost its abilities to alleviate pain, stress, and anxiety. Most importantly, the terpenes contribute to a herbal or pine flavor with hints of pepper.

2. Harlequin Cannabis Strain

Harlequin cannabis strain pack showing some of the ingredients and quantity

Harlequin has about 10% CBD content that provides therapeutic effects and counter any effects produced by the 5% THC. It inherits the high CBD from Swiss Thai, Nepali, and Colombian Gold cannabis strains.

In addition, the CBD in the Harlequin cannabis strain is boosted by the 0.6% cannabigerol (CBG) content that enhances anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. CBG is another cannabinoid similar to CBD, and both are non-psychoactive and can counteract THC effects.

Harlequin is also 75% Sativa, meaning that the sedative effects are minimal, and consumption will likely cause a clear-headed and alert sensation.

3. Northern Light Cannabis Strain

Northern Lights Cannabis Strain

Northern Lights cannabis strain is 95% Indica, meaning that the effects may lean more towards sedation than energizing. What makes it ideal for beginners is the relatively low THC levels, averaging 17%. However, beginners should start with a very low dosage, as a few hits could lead to drowsiness.

Northern Lights embodies a genotype from its parent trains, the Thai Kush and Afghani cannabis. As such, it has remained a building block for prize-winning offsprings like Shiva Skunk, White Widow, and the Sativa powerhouse Super Silver Haze (SSH).

How To Consume Cannabis Strains for Beginners

Smoking with A Gravity Bong

Beginners should consume cannabis in moderation while observing all the legal and safety measures. Using percolator bongs has shown to be an effective way to filter the smoke and protect your throat and lungs from impurities.

While edibles are encouraged for their discreet nature and prolonged onset, they could offer a more potent effect as the THC is broken down in the liver during digestion.

Vaping is another commonplace for many beginners as it offers a smooth inhale and immediate effects. The quick onset makes it easy for you to tell the proper dosage.

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Take It Slow

Novice cannabis consumers should approach cannabis strains highlighted here and others with great caution to avoid accidents or incidences. It’s advisable to start with low THC and high CBD strains and master your dosage.

With time, you’ll be good to try other more potent strains and venture into other consumption methods. Most importantly, consume cannabis responsibly, set the right environment, and adhere to the legal and ethical guidelines.