Considering the fact that there are over 700 strains of cannabis out there in the world today, finding the best Indica strains in the market is near impossible. Think of it! The numerous breeds, crossbreeds, and similar naming systems often leave weed lovers confused on which sativa or indica strains will best suit their needs the most.
Luckily, experts in the field of cannabis have carried out various studies listing out effects of numerous strains and their composition. Today, we have narrowed down the list and selected the best Indica strains in demand around the cannabis market.
But before we discuss these strains in detail, let's take a look at what makes up an Indica strain.
What is an Indica Marijuana Strain?
Indicas are one of the three main types of cannabis plants, along with Sativa and hybrid strains. Indica plants have distinct characteristics and effects, such as a shorter and bushier appearance and broader leaves compared to Sativa plants. Indica strains are known for inducing relaxation, sedation, and a body-centered high.
The best Indica strains of cannabis are frequently utilized for their ability to alleviate stress, manage pain, and promote better sleep. These cannabis indica strains are often preferred for evening or nighttime use because they have calming and potentially sedative effects. Choosing between Indica and Sativa strains ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired effects that users seek. Understanding the differences between these two types of strains can help individuals make an informed decision when it comes to cannabis consumption.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid Cannabis
Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid are the three main types of marijuana strains, each with distinct characteristics and effects. Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative properties, making them ideal for stress relief, pain management, and promoting sleep. These strains typically have higher CBD content and lower THC levels, resulting in a more calming and body-centered high. The best Indica strains are commonly preferred for nighttime use or when seeking deep relaxation.
In contrast, Sativa strains are associated with uplifting and energizing effects. They often have higher THC content and lower CBD levels, leading to a more cerebral and uplifting high. Sativa strains are popular for daytime use, as they can enhance creativity, focus, and social interactions. They are sought after by users looking for a euphoric and invigorating experience.
Hybrid strains, as the name suggests, are a blend of both Indica and Sativa genetics. These strains offer a more balanced experience, combining the relaxing effects of Indica with the uplifting qualities of Sativa. Hybrid strains vary widely in their effects, depending on the specific blend of parent strains. They provide users with a diverse range of experiences to cater to individual preferences and needs. Some hybrids lean more toward Indica dominance, while others lean more toward Sativa dominance, offering a versatile selection of effects for cannabis enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether it's Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid, the choice of cannabis strain depends on the desired effects and the user's personal preferences.
15 Best Indica Strains You Must Try
Now that we fully understand the basics of what an indica strain in, let's discuss the best indica strains on today's current marijuana market:
1. Purple Kush – Best for Pain Relief
Purple Kush is a well-known indica strain that is highly regarded for its potent pain-relieving properties. This strain is cherished by medical marijuana patients seeking relief from chronic pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms. Purple Kush's soothing and relaxing effects make it an excellent choice for nighttime use when you want to unwind and alleviate physical discomfort.
2. Hindu Kush – Best for Growing
Hindu Kush is a classic and highly sought-after indica strain that originates from the mountain range of the same name. Known for its robust genetics and resilience, Hindu Kush is a top choice for growers and breeders looking for a strain that can withstand harsh weather conditions and produce high yields.
Hindu Kush is named after an 800-kilometer mountain range that stretches through Afghanistan into Tajikstan. Hindu Kush is an Indica strain with high levels of THC. It possesses a sweet aroma and is known to bring a sense of nausea relief to its users.
3. Granddaddy Purple – Best for Insomnia
Granddaddy Purple, also known as GDP, is a classic Indica strain that has gained a strong following for its potent effects and beautiful purple buds. This strain is a cross between Purple Urkle and Big Bud, resulting in a flavorful and relaxing experience.
Granddaddy Purple is cherished for its ability to induce deep relaxation and promote a restful sleep, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relief from insomnia or chronic pain.
4. Girl Scout Cookies – Best in Aroma
Girl Scout Cookies is an incredibly popular indica strain known for its delicious aroma and potent effects. This strain has a sweet and earthy scent with hints of mint and chocolate, reminiscent of its namesake cookies.
Not only does Girl Scout Cookies offer a delightful fragrance, but it also delivers a strong and long-lasting high that relaxes both the mind and body. The combination of its unique aroma and powerful effects makes Girl Scout Cookies a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.
5. Northern Lights – Best for Relaxation
Northern Lights is an iconic Indica strain that has been around since the 1980s. It is renowned for its resinous buds, earthy aroma, and powerful relaxation effects. Northern Lights has a high THC content and is often recommended for those seeking relief from stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
6. Blueberry – Best for CBD
As the name suggests, Blueberry is known for its distinct blueberry aroma and flavor profile. This Indica strain offers a smooth and relaxing high, making it popular among both recreational and medical users. It is often used to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and combat stress.
7. GMO – Best in Taste
GMO, also known as "Garlic Cookies", is an Indica marijuana strain created from crossing Chemdawg and Girl Stout Cookies. It possesses a garlicky taste and is best known for its intense aroma. GMO has a long-lasting high effect that lasts for hours and causes deep sleep.
8. Blue Gelato – Best in Appearance
Blue Gelato is a delightful Indica-dominant strain that combines the genetics of Blueberry, Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies, and Sunset Sherbet. With its vibrant blue and purple hues, this strain is visually stunning. Blue Gelato offers a well-balanced high that is both euphoric and relaxing.
It's known to uplift your mood while also providing relief from pain and stress. The sweet and fruity aroma of Blue Gelato makes it a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.
9. Ice Cream Cake – Best for Sleep
Ice Cream Cake is a highly potent Indica strain that is beloved for its sweet and creamy flavor. It is a cross between Wedding Cake and Gelato #33, resulting in a strain that offers a deeply relaxing and euphoric experience. Ice Cream Cake is known for its dense buds covered in trichomes, giving it a frosty appearance.
This strain is often recommended for those looking to unwind after a long day or seeking relief from chronic pain and insomnia. Its calming effects make it a perfect choice for relaxation and stress relief.
10. Godfather OG – Best in THC Levels
Godfather OG is an incredibly potent Indica strain that is not for the faint of heart. With THC levels reaching up to 34%, it is one of the strongest strains available. This strain offers a deep body high and is known to induce a couch-lock effect.
It's perfect for those seeking intense relaxation and relief from chronic pain or insomnia. The aroma of Godfather OG is a mix of earthy and citrus notes, with a hint of pine. Its flavor profile is similarly complex, with hints of spice and sweetness.
11. Platinum Bubba – Best in Fragrance
Platinum Bubba is an exceptional Indica strain that offers a truly enjoyable experience. This strain, a cross between Platinum OG and Bubba Kush, boasts a rich lineage that contributes to its remarkable qualities. With its dense and resinous buds, Platinum Bubba showcases the true beauty of Indica strains.
Its distinct aroma combines earthy notes with a hint of sweetness, creating an enticing fragrance that lingers in the air. When consumed, this strain delivers a deeply relaxing high that penetrates both the mind and body.
12. Glue Tech – Best for Inflammation
Glue Tech is a rare Indica strain created from crossing Gorilla Glue and Alien Tech strains. Once you toke up this bad boy, you will feel slight heaviness at the back of your head, followed by sleepiness. It is a sedative and relaxing marijuana strain that can help treat inflammation, cramps, gastrointestinal disorders, and anxiety.
13. Grape Bubba – Best for Calming Effects
Grape Bubba is a delightful Indica strain that combines the best of both worlds. With its unique blend of genetics from Grapefruit and Bubba Kush, this strain offers a tantalizing experience for cannabis enthusiasts. The aroma of Grape Bubba is a burst of sweet grape, with undertones of earthiness and spice. Its flavor profile mirrors its scent, providing a smooth and fruity smoke that lingers on the palate.
When it comes to effects, Grape Bubba delivers a deeply relaxing high that eases both the body and mind. It's perfect for unwinding after a long day or for those seeking relief from stress, anxiety, and insomnia. This strain's Indica dominance ensures a calm and tranquil experience that leaves you feeling blissfully content. With its beautiful purple hues and resinous trichomes, Grape Bubba is not only a treat for the senses but also a powerful ally in relaxation.
14. Blue Cheese – Best for Poor Appetite
Blue Cheese is a highly regarded Indica strain known for its distinct aroma and potent effects. This strain gets its name from its pungent smell, which combines the scents of blueberries and cheese. The unique fragrance adds an interesting twist to the overall experience, making it a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.
Aside from its enticing aroma, Blue Cheese also boasts a strong and relaxing high that can help stimulate appetite. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with poor appetite due to medical conditions or treatment side effects. When consumed, Blue Cheese induces a deep sense of relaxation that can ease both physical and mental tension. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals seeking relief from stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
15. Sour Diesel – Best to Unwind
Sour Diesel, while primarily known as a sativa strain, also has some indica qualities that make it worthy of mention. Its energizing and uplifting effects can be followed by a sense of relaxation and tranquility. This combination makes Sour Diesel an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced experience.
The strain's pungent aroma and distinct diesel taste further add to its appeal. Whether you're looking for a burst of creativity or simply want to unwind, Sour Diesel offers the best of both worlds.
Cannabinoid Conclusion
You can find the best Indica strains in smoke shops across the Washington DC area. However, the problem is finding a smoke shop that operates legally and provides government-approved weed. In DC, smoke shops are mandated to operate under the laws set by Initiative 71. So it is highly recommended you find an i71 complaint shop.
Top Level is a premier holistic smoke shop located in Tenleytown; we comply with the provisions of the Initiative 71 Laws and gift our customers premium quality best Indica strains as well as a large variety of products.
Shop online or call us today at (202) 740-6670 to place your order. Check out the Top Level online menu here. Enjoy in-store shopping or preorder online & skip the line! For Top Level DC hours, please check our website. Also, follow us on Instagram to learn more about buying art prints for free weed gifts in Washington DC with our 420-friendly and Initiative 71-compliant gifts.
* All our marijuana gifts are subject to availability. To see what products and strains we currently have in stock, please check our website *
What indica strain gets you the highest?
Determining the "highest" indica strain depends on various factors, including individual tolerance and the strain's THC content. Some potent indica strains known for their strong effects include "Godfather OG," "Northern Lights," and "Gorilla Glue #4." However, cannabis effects can vary for each person, so the highest strain experience may differ from one individual to another.
What is the best indica for relaxing?
One of the best indica strains for relaxation is "Granddaddy Purple" (GDP). Known for its calming effects, GDP induces a deep sense of relaxation and can help alleviate stress and tension. Its high myrcene terpene content contributes to its soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for relaxation and unwinding.