Top pick

Northern Lights is the first pick. Leafly lists THC at 16% to 21% and myrcene as the top terpene. Myrcene is the terpene in hops, lemongrass, and mango. User reports describe a body-heavy effect. Inhaled flower starts in 5 to 10 minutes. A 3.5 g jar costs $25 to $45 in US states with adult-use sales.

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How the picks were ranked

Four inputs: terpene profile, THC range, onset time, and how easy the product is to buy and dose. Strain claims come from dispensary labels and user reports. Clinical trials on strains do not exist. NCCIH states that evidence for cannabis as a sleep aid is limited. Sleep Foundation notes that THC can shorten sleep onset and cut REM sleep.

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Options

  1. Granddaddy Purple. THC 17% to 23%. Myrcene and caryophyllene. Grape and berry smell. Onset 5 to 10 minutes inhaled.

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  2. 9 lb Hammer. THC 18% to 24%. Indica from Jinxproof Genetics. Berry and lime notes. High THC makes it a poor first choice for new users.

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  3. Hindu Kush. THC 15% to 20%. Myrcene dominant. Landrace from the Hindu Kush range. Lowest cost per gram on this list.

  4. Bubba Kush. THC 15% to 22%. Caryophyllene and limonene. Earthy and sweet. Cross of OG Kush and an unknown indica.

  5. Purple Punch. THC 18% to 23%. Caryophyllene and pinene. Cross of Larry OG and Granddaddy Purple. Grape and blueberry profile.

  6. LA Confidential. THC 16% to 20%. Pinene and caryophyllene. Cross of OG Kush and Afghani. Mild pine flavor.

Convenience sets the order

Pre-rolls, vape carts, and single-serve gummies move a strain up or down. A 10 mg gummy takes 30 to 90 minutes to start and holds 4 to 6 hours. A vape cart starts in 2 to 5 minutes and holds 1 to 3 hours. Buyers who want a fixed dose pick gummies. Buyers who want a fast onset pick flower or a cart.

CBN

CBN is an oxidized form of THC. Packages list 5 mg to 25 mg. Clinical evidence for CBN and sleep is thin. Treat label claims as marketing.

Bottom line

Pick Northern Lights if you smoke flower. Pick a 10 mg indica gummy if you want a set dose. Start at 2.5 mg to 5 mg of THC. Do not drive after use. Talk to a clinician if you take sedatives, blood thinners, or sleep medication.