The Best Indica Strains For Sleep & Insomnia

Struggling with sleep? The right Indica strains might be your ticket to dreamland. From the science behind THC and CBD's sedative effects, to identifying the most sleep-inducing terpenes, we give you a run down of the best Indica strains for sleep and insomnia.

Godfather OG

With over 34% THC Godfather OG is a potent 60% Indica-dominant hybrid cross of XXX OG and Alpha OG. It was crowned 'Best Indica' at the High Times Cannabis Cup back in 2013 and is known for its calming, relaxing, and uplifting effects. Its rich, earthy taste with hints of grape offer plenty of flavor. With its unbeatable potency Godfather OG is perfect if you want a peaceful night's sleep, making it one of our top rated Indica strains for inducing sleep.

Granddaddy Purple

A cross of Purple Urkle and Big Bud, Granddaddy Purple is an 80% Indica-dominant strain that boasts a THC level of up to 24%. Known for its deeply relaxing high, GDP is perfect for combating pain and inducing sleep, especially for those with insomnia. Granddaddy Purple was initially bred as a strain to relieve pain and aid sleep for medical marijuana patients in California so we can’t think of a better strain to use for sleep.

Cannatonic

With its equal THC and CBD levels of 10%, Cannatonic is a cross between G13 Haze and MK Ultra. This strain is renowned for its relaxing effects, making it the perfect choice for those dealing with seizures, chronic pain, depression, paranoia, and anxiety. Its mild, earthy flavor with citrus undertones makes it great for evening use. If you're looking for a strain that puts you into a calm state and facilitates sleep, without too much of the psychoactive effects, Cannatonic may be the right Indica for you.

GMO Cookies

A cross of Chemdawg and Girl Scout, GMO Cookies is a potent a 90% Indica-dominant strain. Known for its calming, relaxing, and uplifting highs, GMO Cookies is a superb nighttime choice if you want something with a sedative effect. Its unique taste combines earthy and sweet flavors. Chosen by our experts, GMO Cookies is perfect for unwinding after a long day and drifting off into a deep, peaceful slumber.

Grape Ape

Grape Ape is a 90% Indica-dominant cross of Mendocino Purps, Skunk #1 and Afghani genetics, with a THC level of 25%. Known for its calming and relaxing high, perfect for those looking to decompress after a stressful day in the office. Its rich, grape-like flavor will keep you coming back for more until you finally drift off into a deep sleep. A recent addition to the MSNL catalogue, Grape Ape firmly positions itself as one of the best Indica strains for sleep.

Gary Payton

A cross of Y and Snowman, Gary Payton is a 50/50 hybrid with a THC content of 24% and 2-3% CBD. Although not technically Indica-dominant, we thought that it deserved a mention for those of you that want high THC levels along with the therapeutic benefits of CBD. Gary Payton delivers a calming, relaxing, and uplifting high and has a unique flavor profile blending earthy notes with a hint of spice. It is the ideal strain if you are struggling to unwind and relax before bedtime.

Hindu Kush

Hindu Kush, a pure 100% Indica strain with 19% THC, is a landrace cultivar known for its deeply calming and relaxing effects. Hindu Kush, originally from the Hindu Kush mountain range that spans the boarder of India and Afghanistan, is a hardy plant that offers a classic earthy and pine flavor. Perfect for those looking to unwind after a hectic day, Hindu Kush will put you in a tranquil almost hypnotic state that will lead into a deep night’s sleep.

ACDC

ACDC, a balanced hybrid with a CBD level of 24% and less than 1% THC, is a cross between Cannatonic and an unknown Indica. It was awarded the highest CBD strain at the 2015 DOPE Cannabis Cup, ACDC is commonly used as a non-psychoactive medicinal strain. This means that you won’t feel hardly any of the traditional effects felt from cannabis such as drowsiness, however, it has been known to offer a therapeutic and relaxed effect. ACDC is ideal for anyone looking for relief from stress without the ‘high’ that comes with many of the high THC strains.

Northern Lights

Northern Lights, a 90% Indica strain with up to 19% THC, is a cross between Afghani and Thai landraces. This strain is a true Indica classic, having won 'Best Indica' at the High Times Cannabis Cup three times due to its relaxing effects. Its sweet and spicy flavors make for a comforting smoking experience. Ideal for anyone wanting to ease into a deep and restful sleep.

Purple Kush

Purple Kush is a pure 100% Indica a cross of Hindu Kush and Purple Afghani with a THC level of up to 24%. It's known for fast-hitting and sedative effects, providing a heavy stone that soothes without overwhelming. It is the perfect choice for nighttime use and is great for those that want to grow a strain with plenty of bag appeal.

Why do Indica strains make you sleepy?

Indica-dominant strains have high THC levels and are rich in the terpenes myrcene and linalool that are known for their therapeutic properties. THC is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis that works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system. This system plays a key role in regulating mood, pain, and sleep cycles. THC mimics natural endocannabinoids, binding to CB1 receptors in the brain, which helps decrease the time it takes to fall asleep.

However, cannabis affects everyone differently. While most people find that Indica strains help them get to sleep, overusing them can lead to an increased tolerance which over time will require more to achieve the same sedative effect.

What is the most sedating terpene in cannabis?

Myrcene is known as one of the most sedative terpenes in cannabis. It is the same terpene that gives weed its earthy, musky aroma and is quite often found in high levels in Indica strains.

Scientific studies suggest that Myrcene can have sedative effects, that might contribute to the calming effects of some cannabis strains. This is known as ‘the entourage effect’. This theory suggests that cannabinoids like THC and CBD work together with terpenes like Myrcene to intensify their effects.

Can cannabis be used for insomnia?

Many people with sleep difficulties turn to cannabis for its sedative effects, particularly strains that are high in CBD, THC and CBN (cannabinol). THC is known for reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and is particularly effective for people with insomnia. CBD, on the other hand, may not induce sleep directly but can alleviate conditions that interfere with sleep, such as anxiety and pain.

There is scientific evidence to show that cannabis can be used to aid sleep if you have insomnia: THC acts on the CB1 receptors in the brain to produce sedative effects, while CBD contributes to sleep by easing anxiety and pain. Furthermore, CBN, a cannabinoid produced as THC ages, has been gaining more and more attention for its potential to enhance sleep.

What kind of strains are better for sleep and insomnia?

For sleep and insomnia, Indica-dominant strains with higher levels of THC and CBD are considered more effective. The sedative effects of Indica strains are largely attributed to their high THC levels, which can help decrease the time it takes to fall asleep. CBD, known for its relaxing and anxiety-reducing properties, can also contribute to a better sleep experience by alleviating conditions that may interfere with sleep, such as chronic pain or stress.

Terpenes, the aromatic compounds found in cannabis, can also play a significant role in enhancing the sleep-inducing effects of certain strains. As mentioned earlier, Myrcene is regarded as the most sedating terpene, known for its relaxing properties. Strains high in Myrcene, such as Granddaddy Purple and Northern Lights, are often recommended if you are struggling with sleep.

Another sedative terpene is Linalool, which possesses anti-anxiety and sedative properties. Plants like Lavender, which are rich in Linalool are used to make therapeutic oils that can be used as a way of relaxing people through aromas.

At MSNL Seeds, we offer a wide range of Indica-dominant strains with varying THC and CBD levels to suit the individual needs of any grower. Our selection includes strains known for their rich terpene profiles, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for a restful night's sleep. Whether you're looking for the heavy sedation offered by high THC strains, or the gentle relaxation provided by CBD varieties, our catalog caters to all preferences.