What Are the Best Strains for Beginners?

Welcome to the wonderful world of cannabis — smooth travels await if you choose your strains smartly. And though there are hundreds (maybe even 1,000 or more) of strains to choose from, a small handful are exceptionally well-fit for newcomers. Our guide to the best strains for beginners gives you everything you need to calmly and confidently explore the menu.

What makes a great strain for beginners?

Cannabis flower with low THC levels. The best strains for beginners have THC levels around 19% or 20%, or maybe even lower. Slightly higher percentages are OK if you plan to try only a very small amount at first. For pre-rolls or ground flower in a small bowl or pipe, that’s just one or two hits.

CBD alongside THC. Although THC is the main reason you feel giggly, hungry, or sleepy when enjoying cannabis, many cultivars (strains) contain other cannabinoids, too. Among these so-called “minor” cannabinoids, CBD is typically the most common, and that matters for beginners. Within the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which shapes your response to cannabis, CBD modulates the receptors to which THC binds. That means your body does not feel the effects of THC as strongly — a good thing for those trying out cannabis for the first time. (Edibles and a few vapes have clear THC to CBD ratios.)

The best beginner-friendly cannabis strains

Consider this list as you decide which products to try for your first cannabis experience (or your first one in a long time). Remember, though, that THC percentages vary from batch to batch, and the percentages listed here may not be accurate for the precise item you’re buying. Always read the laboratory test results of any product before trying it.

White Widow

Another high-caryophyllene and high-myrcene hybrid strain, White Widow, takes you to more euphoric, creative realms. Expect to feel at ease but not so relaxed you get stuck lying on the couch. Big home projects or intimidatingly long books can be much easier to tackle when you fly with this spicy, earthy cultivar.

Average THC content: 23%

Average CBD content: 0.5%

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Jack Herer

This sativa-dominant hybrid cultivar is named after a widely adored cannabis advocate, and that’s not the only reason it’s so prominent. This high-terpinolene strain is also hailed for its euphoric, uplifting sensations — this one will get your wheels off the ground. You might also find some inspiration and mental clarity along the way, so make Jack Herer your pathway into cannabis if there’s a big creative project on your plate.

Average THC content: 20%

Average CBD content: 0%

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Pineapple Express

Sweet tropical fruit — not just pineapple, but mango — is the main aroma with this cultivar, which you might know from the late-aughts movie named after it. Myrcene is this sativa-dominant hybrid’s primary terpene, but where many strains high in myrcene are known for couch-lock, Pineapple Express is widely found to be energizing. It’s a great choice if you’re coupling your initial cannabis adventures with an artistic endeavor or a house-cleaning marathon.

Average THC content: 20%

Average CBD content: 0.3%

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Sour Diesel

A legend among New York cultivars, Sour Diesel is a morning-friendly sativa-dominant hybrid strain that’s high in caryophyllene. You might feel more energetic, talkative, and uplifted (and a bit relaxed, too) when venturing into cannabis with this strain. Its skunky, diesel-like aroma with faint citrus notes is the only thing that might stifle first-timers. Its social boost, perfect for seeing friends or going to parties, is worth the flavor — which many come to appreciate in due time.

Average THC content: 21%

Average CBD content: >1%

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Blue Dream

This widely beloved hybrid cultivar is known for its mood-boosting effects and sweet, blueberry-like flavor. Expect to feel body relaxation thanks to Blue Dream’s dominant terpene, myrcene, alongside a clear mind and a surprising lack of stress.

Average THC content: 19%

Average CBD content: >1%

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Granddaddy Purple

A classic among longtime cannabis consumers, the indica cultivar Grandaddy Purple is just as excellent for first-timers, especially if you’re looking for a good night’s rest. This cultivar’s myrcene-dominant terpene profile largely explains its sedative effects, but myrcene can’t quite speak to this strain’s gorgeous aroma. Instead of myrcene’s herbal notes, Grandaddy Purple’s flavor shines with grape and berry notes — a gorgeous set of just-before-bed tastes.

Average THC content: 19%

Average CBD content: >1%

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Tips and tricks for trying cannabis for the first time

Start low and go slow. Microdosing is best to start — just 2.5mg of THC for edibles (or even less) and a hit or two if you’re smoking. Importantly, since you won’t feel any effects right away, wait a while before diving in deeper with another 2.5mg of THC (for edibles) or another hit or two (for smoking). If you’re smoking, wait 15 to 30 minutes for the effects to sink in, and for edibles, wait up to two hours. Only after this time passes should you consume more.

Choose the right type of product. Edibles that you can easily split into smaller pieces (as in, smaller doses) are a wise choice for first-timers. Some of the best strains for beginners are also easy to find as flower or pre-rolls, both of which are great for newcomers too. Cannabis concentrates and vapes are far too potent for beginners and should be avoided for now.

Understand indica versus sativa. Although indica versus sativa isn’t perfect science, there’s a loose correlation between each label and a certain set of effects. Indica cultivars are often associated with bedtime or moments when you just don’t want to get off the couch. Sativa strains are better for anything daytime. Keep this in mind while perusing the menu.

Consider your environment and goals. If you’re embarking on cannabis travels to feel more social, choose a beginner-friendly strain known for uplifting, talkative effects. From there, try it out in the presence of someone you trust in case your experience isn’t what you expected. Having someone else around makes the ascent (and descent) all the better.

Make a plan for if you get too high. Although it’s not likely, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Try your products in a place where you feel at home, with people with whom you’re at ease. Stock up on some snacks and stay hydrated. If you do get too high, take a deep breath — it will pass. Take a nap or lie down, enjoy a shower, or go for a walk. Anything you can do to distract or calm yourself should help.

Step aboard with The Travel Agency

Your first time enjoying cannabis can be among the most transformative journeys of your life. As you consider which of the best strains for beginners might best assist with your ascent, visit The Travel Agency or browse our menu to find all our newcomer-friendly options. Our budtenders are here to get you on the plane and send you on life-changing travels.