The Best Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief Cannabis Strains

Many people seek medical marijuana to relieve pain. With more and more studies enlightening us about the benefits of cannabinoids and terpenes, it's easy to see why. This 2022 study about myrcene clarified the terpene's pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. This 2017 paper highlighted myrcene’s sedating effect and proved that caryophyllene has anti-inflammatory properties.

Want to learn how you could potentially (!) use cannabis strains for various medical conditions? If you're searching for the best strain for inflammation and pain, this list is for you. It's handpicked to only include cannabis strains that are high in terpenes recent studies have proven to provide analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Zkittlez

Zkittlez is a well-known indica-dominant strain, loved by enthusiasts for its tantalizing flavors and relaxing effects. With a THC concentration of up to 20%, you can expect a potent high that will leave you feeling relaxed and euphoric. Additionally, Zkittlez may relieve pain because of its dominant terpene, caryophyllene. It is known to have antinociceptive properties, which are believed to block the nerves from feeling pain.

Zkittlez Feminized Seeds

One puff of this flavorful strain, and you'll understand why Zkittlez is named after the fruity rainbow candy. Those who try it, say they aren't just tasting the rainbow; they're seeing it as well.

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The therapeutic relief continues beyond caryophyllene. Zkittlez also contains linalool and humulene, which are terpenes that the scientific community seems to think might help with chronic nerve pain.

On the flavor front, Zkittlez truly lives up to its moniker. Much like the candy its namesake, this indica-hybrid boasts a sweet and fruity flavor profile loaded with delightful notes of berries, grapes, and citrus fruits. If you're looking for a cannabis strain that provides pain management (which is also available in autoflower variant), leaving you feeling relaxed while the taste of candy lingers in your mouth, Zkittlez may be what you've been missing.

Zkittlez cultivar profile

Apple Fritter

Apple Fritter stands out among cannabis strains for pain because there is so much going for it, especially if the current studies about terpenes hold any water. Apple Fritter’s pain-relieving qualities are due to caryophyllene. It's the dominant terpene for this balanced hybrid, known for its antinociceptive effects that can ease pain. According to multiple recent studies, caryophyllene also offers anti-inflammatory properties.

Apple Fritter Feminized

Like a serving of warm apple fritter, the Apple Fritter Cannabis strain is known for its inviting taste and aroma combined with deeply relaxing yet smile-inducing effects. 

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Apple Fritter contains other terpenes like pinene, which is said to have anti-inflammatory properties and provide pain relief. However, it specifically soothes neuropathic pain. This means that while caryophyllene provides antinociceptive effects, which is believed to help reduce muscle aches and soreness of the body, pinene might provide relief from nerve pain (and may help with migraines too).

Of course, Apple Fritter isn't just about the therapeutic effects. It's still a cannabis strain, and a darn potent one at that. It boasts a high THC concentration of 23% and delivers a refreshing high that leaves you chatty and euphoric. It also relaxes your body and boosts your mood. It also has an autoflower variant available in our store.

It should be illegal not to talk about the flavor of a strain named Apple Fritter. Yes, this strain does have the sweet taste of apples, but you may not expect the hint of diesel that creeps in right after. If you're a connoisseur with an adventurous palate, try Apple Fritter.

Apple Fritter cultivar profile

Lowryder

Lowryder is a famous name in the cannabis cultivation community, primarily because it pioneered the autoflowering game. As the first commercial autoflowering strain, it gave growers a more manageable alternative to cultivating weed. This trait can also be an attractive option for those who want to grow their own medical marijuana, as tending to it is relatively straightforward and requires less time and effort than regular photoperiod strains.

Lowryder Autoflower Seeds

Lowryder autoflower seeds is believed to be one of the first autoflowering strains of marijuana. Although small, lowrider has noticeable cerebral effects. The onset is slow yet satisfying.

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There's more to Lowryder than its groundbreaking autoflowering characteristic. Caryophyllene, the dominant terpene in its flowers, may give it antinociceptive properties, which can help with muscle pain and soreness. One study regarding caryophyllene's antinociceptive qualities said that the terpene interacts with the CB2 receptor that produces antinociception. If the name CB2 sounds familiar, that's because it's the same receptor that THC and CBD bind to.

Lowryder also contains pinene and linalool, which are terpenes studies suggest relieve neuropathy and reduce inflammation. That's why Lowryder is one of the best cannabis strains for chronic pain. It seems to provide two types of pain relief: one for your body's soreness and the other for nerve pain.

Lowryder cultivar profile

Do-si-dos

Do-si-dos is an indica-dominant strain with a high THC concentration that dances around 26% to 30% and provides a potent high that will have you feeling euphoric and relaxed. It may even offer relief against anxiety thanks to its dominant terpene, limonene, which is said to have anxiolytic and stress-relieving properties.

Do-si-dos Feminized Seeds

Do-si-dos is a newer strain, hitting the market around 2016. In a short time, though, the strain has built a large fanbase thanks to its high THC content, which can reach levels of 30%.

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The strain also contains caryophyllene and linalool. These two terpenes provide relief against various types of body aches. Caryophyllene seems to provide antinociception, which may produce a muscle-relaxing effect. At the same time, linalool is believed to soothe neuropathic pain and may help with migraines. These two terpenes are also thought to have anti-inflammatory qualities.

Terpenes don't just exist in cannabis to provide it with a blend of therapeutic benefits. They also add flavor to the flowers, and with Do-si-dos (also in autoflower), the sweet and minty flavor is undercut by a strong earthy and flowery taste.

Do-si-dos cultivar profile

Disco Bizkit

Disco Bizkit is a well-rounded, balanced hybrid that offers a blend of effects catering to both recreational and medical cannabis smokers. With THC levels up to 22%, consumers can expect a potent high that will leave them feeling uplifted and euphoric. The strain will also give users a relaxing body buzz. This balanced hybrid doesn't just stop at mood enhancement. It also has the potential to stimulate appetite, which is helpful for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal.

Disco Bizkit

Love growing our Do-Si-Dos and Girl Scout Cookies hybrid for high THC, sweet caramel flavor, and easy cultivation. Also called Disco Bizkit, it delivers old-school disco vibes. Ideal for beginners with our feminized seeds and a staple for experienced growers due to reliable yields.

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As for its terpene profile, myrcene is the dominant terpene in Disco Bizkit. Myrcene’s perceived anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties may also provide these effects when smoking Disco Bizkit flowers.

This balanced hybrid's flowers contain myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene. Caryophyllene is known for its antinociceptive properties, which are excellent for relieving everyday aches and pains. At the same time, limonene helps with mood and stress.

Disco Bizkit cultivar profile

Biscotti

Biscotti is an indica-dominant strain that’s well-loved due to its complex flavor profile and potent effects. It’s also known for its high resin content, adding to its popularity as a cannabis concentrate.

Biscotti Feminized Seeds

Many qualities define a great strain. For some, it is flavor and potency. For others, it is yield. If you like flavor, potency, and high yields, our feminized Biscotti seeds are both a grower's and consumers' dream.

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Every cannabis user should experience Biscotti. It offers a relaxing, uplifting buzz that will leave you with a tingling sensation. In addition to its soothing and mood-boosting effects, Biscotti has a complex flavor profile that tastes like sweet cookies with hints of diesel. It provides a unique blend of flavors that appeals to many cannabis connoisseurs.

Besides its distinct flavors and soothing effects, Biscotti could potentially provide therapeutic relief. The flowers of this indica-hybrid have caryophyllene as their dominant terpene. This means that the strain may possess antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties. Since Biscotti also contains limonene and myrcene, its therapeutic qualities are enhanced. Limonene could provide stress-relieving effects, while myrcene offers its sedating effects.

Biscotti cultivar profile

Chronic Widow

If current studies on terpenes are accurate, Chronic Widow may be one of the best strains for helping against chronic inflammation and pain. With caryophyllene as its dominant terpene, this indica-hybrid seems to have properties that soothe aches and pain and relieve inflammation.

Chronic Widow Feminized Seeds

Chronic Widow seeds grow herb that delivers an energetic, spacey high. After just one puff, you'll feel completely stoned. It comes with a spicy yet creamy flavor, with extremely high THC levels.

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Chronic Widow has other terpenes outside of caryophyllene, such as geraniol and pinene. These terpenes might enhance caryophyllene's anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Both terpenes are believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

There's nothing quite like a sesh with Chronic Widow. It combines spicy with sweet, almost like hot honey. If this is your idea of tasty, Chronic Widow might be your new favorite strain.

Chronic Widow cultivar profile

Cherry Pie

It's pure coincidence that nearly half of the strains featured here are named after some kind of snack: Zkittlez, Biscotti, Apple Fritter, and now Cherry Pie. True to the delectable dessert it's named after, this indica-hybrid tastes like a freshly baked cherry pie with hints of earthiness.

Cherry Pie Feminized Seeds

Cherry Pie seeds grow a sweet-smelling indica dominant treat that delights the senses while relaxing the soul. One puff, and your mouth is watering from the aroma of freshly baked cherry pie.

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A sesh with Cherry Pie will leave you feeling euphoric and relaxed. It may even provide relief from chronic pain and inflammation. Cherry Pie's dominant terpene is myrcene, which is said to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cherry Pie also contains geraniol and caryophyllene, terpenes that have shown potential in relieving pain and inflammation. Caryophyllene is said to induce antinociception, which dulls pain in the body and may even soothe aches and sores. One recent study supports the idea that geraniol provides therapeutic relief against chronic pain.

Cherry Pie cultivar profile

Big Bud

Big Bud is a standout strain popular for its high yields of highly resinous flowers. With the recent studies on cannabis and terpenes, this indica-hybrid is also pointed to as a potential pain reliever.

Big Bud Feminized Seeds

Big Bud remains popular for all kinds of growers due to its high yields. Staying true to its lineage as an indica strain, Big Bud delivers deep full-body effects that will highly motivate you to relax.

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The dominant terpene in Big Bud flowers is pinene. This terpene has the potential for therapeutic relief due to its perceived analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities. Big Bud flowers also contain myrcene, which has been mentioned in current studies for its believed ability to soothe pain and inflammation.

Beyond the possible therapeutic benefits of Big Bud, this indica-hybrid also offers effects that many recreational smokers enjoy. With THC concentrations that range from 15% to 20%, Big Bud provides an uplifting and relaxing high that will leave you couch-locked as your mind fills with euphoria.

Big Bud cultivar profile

White Rhino

When asked about the best strain for pain relief, long-time cannabis enjoyers would typically recommend White Rhino. This indica-dominant strain became widely known for providing a profoundly relaxing high that soothes various aches and pains. It's also known for enhancing one's mood and appetite.

White Rhino Feminized Seeds

White Rhino is a well-respected strain boasting of parentage from the regions of India, Afghanistan, and Brazil. Weed grown from White Rhino seeds delivers a relaxing high, perfect for those feeling stressed out.

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The dominant terpene in this indica-hybrid is myrcene, which seems to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities. White Rhino also contains pinene, which is said to soothe nerve pain. With several potential therapeutic benefits, it isn’t surprising that Greenhouse House Seeds named this strain White Rhino, knowing rhino horns were used in ancient Chinese medicine.

This could also explain why Scott Blakey (a.k.a. Shantibaba) renamed White Rhino Medicine Man after leaving Greenhouse, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of the strain.

White Rhino cultivar profile

Sources used in this article

• McDougall, J. & McKenna, M. (2022) Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Properties of the Cannabis Terpene Myrcene in Rat Adjuvant Monoarthritis [PubMed Central]⁽¹⁾
• Russo, E. & Marcu, J. (2017) Cannabis Pharmacology: The Usual Suspects and a Few Promising Leads (Chapter 3) [ScienceDirect]⁽²⁾
• Eeswara, A. et al. (2023) Combined non-psychoactive Cannabis components cannabidiol and β-caryophyllene reduce chronic pain via CB1 interaction in a rat spinal cord injury model [PubMed Central]⁽³⁾
• Schwarz, A. et al. (2023) Terpenes from Cannabis sativa Induce Antinociception in Mouse Chronic Neuropathic Pain via Activation of Spinal Cord Adenosine A2A Receptors [PubMed Central]⁽⁴⁾
• Song, Y. et al. (2021) Limonene has anti-anxiety activity via adenosine A2A receptor-mediated regulation of dopaminergic and GABAergic neuronal function in the striatum [ScienceDirect]⁽⁵⁾