Everyone has different preferences when it comes to the cannabis high. Some users prefer strains that can put even caffeine to sleep while others prefer energetic strains that are nothing short of a caffeine-fueled adventure. Some people even prefer strains that calm them down or help them think clearly.
But the most common type of strain our community consumes is none of these; it’s the euphoric high that’s the most popular. What’s that? It’s a feeling of intense happiness that some cannabis strains bring.
There has always been a connection between cannabis and our mind and body. The herb impacts us in various ways with one of the desired effects being euphoria. Euphoria, characterized by joy, relaxation, and a lifted spirit is often the incentive for individuals to turn to cannabis.
In this article, we will delve into the realm of cannabis strains specifically designed to evoke feelings of euphoria. Whether you're a cannabis enthusiast or new to this domain, grasping an understanding of the strains and their effects can significantly enrich your cannabis journey.
We will explore various aspects linking euphoria with cannabis. We will also look into many strains that increase the intensity of euphoria you feel. From sativa varieties that offer a creative high to indica-dominant options that deliver profound relaxation, there is a wide array waiting to be explored.
People choose these strains for various reasons. Most times, it’s just to get the giggles out and wind down after a hard day’s work. Sometimes, it’s just to shoot the shenanigans with friends. Whatever your reason may be, here are some amazing euphoric strains that are worth trying. But, first, let’s understand a bit about how cannabis can induce euphoria.
Exploring the Connection Between Euphoria and Marijuana
Euphoria, often defined as a sense of joy and contentment, is something we all seek as humans. Specifically, many people use cannabis for this very reason as it allows you to feel joy and euphoria even if it's for a short period.
What exactly triggers this feeling? How does marijuana bring it about?
The Scientific Basis of Euphoria
Euphoria is a state influenced by various brain neurotransmitters and receptors. When we use marijuana, its components called cannabinoids interact with the body's system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which plays a vital role in regulating mood, appetite, pain perception, and other important bodily functions.
The key cannabinoids responsible for inducing euphoria are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the element in marijuana known for its psychotropic or narcotic properties while CBD is non-psychoactive and often linked to relaxation and stress relief.
How does Marijuana Trigger Euphoria?
When THC binds with the brain's receptors — CB1 receptors — it sets off a series of neurotransmitter actions that result in the sensation of euphoria. This stimulation of CB1 receptors across various brain areas, like the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex influences mood regulation, pleasure perception, and reward processes.
Coming to CBD, although it doesn't cause a high, it can still impact feelings of happiness indirectly by influencing how THC engages with brain chemicals. For instance, CBD can boost the effects of THC by making them last longer and lessening outcomes like anxiety and paranoia.
Factors that Affect Euphoria
Various factors play a role in how much joy someone experiences when using cannabis.
Cannabinoid Composition: The balance between THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids in a strain can greatly influence its ability to create feelings of happiness. Strains with more THC and less CBD are more likely to induce feelings of joy whereas strains with balanced levels of THC and CBD might offer a more balanced and moderate experience. Strains with higher CBD levels may provide a harmonious and less intense sense of euphoria while offering additional therapeutic advantages, like stress alleviation and anxiety reduction.
There are some common cannabinoids, like CBG (cannabigerol) and THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) that can also impact the pleasurable effects of cannabis. Although they are present in small quantities, their presence can change the overall experience and contribute to what's known as the entourage effect, where cannabinoids team up to boost each other's effects.
Terpenes: These compounds found in cannabis impact its taste and smell. Certain terpenes like limonene and beta-caryophyllene can enhance the effects of cannabinoids by affecting brain activity.
Terpenes are compounds in cannabis and other plants that add to their taste and scent. Apart from being appealing to our senses, terpenes can also alter how cannabinoids work and influence the kind and strength of euphoria you feel.
Limonene: Recognized for its citrusy scent, limonene is linked to uplifting and mood-improving effects. Strains rich in limonene might lead to a euphoric feeling.
Myrcene: Present in most cannabis strains, myrcene is renowned for its calming and soothing qualities. Strains with high myrcene levels could bring about a relaxed and tranquil euphoria.
Beta-Caryophyllene: Even small amounts of beta-caryophyllene have been noted to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, potentially boosting THCs pleasurable effects.
Genetics: The genetic structure of a cannabis strain is key in determining its effects. Sativa-dominant strains tend to bring about uplifting and energetic effects while those leaning towards indica often induce more relaxation. Hybrid strains combine elements from both types, offering varying levels of happiness.
Understanding how these elements interact can assist you in selecting strains to achieve your desired level of happiness.
Best Cannabis Strains that Induce Euphoria
1. Pineapple Express
Did you know that Pineapple Express is more than just a stoner comedy? The name is a meteorological term that defines a recurring atmospheric river over the Pacific, originating from Hawaii (since it’s known for pineapples). For us, it’s synonymous with one of the most popular cannabis strains ever.
The name is apt for two reasons. One, it is an offspring of Hawaiian strains and Trainwreck. Two, its flavor. Pineapple Express features a distinctive flavor profile that combines citrusy pineapple (get it?) notes with hints of spice and earthiness.
The high it produces is energetic and happy with a touch of creativity, making it one of the best mid-day work strains to consume. This is your work-from-home bestie. It can also get you out of writer’s block (don’t ask how we know), or you can use it while reading, fishing, or working out.
If you’re a grower, you’d be happy to know that this strain produces dense, popcorn buds in just over seven weeks. You can even use training methods like super cropping, high-intensity lighting, or bush-style gardening to boost its yield and potency. This strain is suitable for both new and experienced growers.
2. Mimosa Shot
Mimosa Shot is an incredible strain with a THC level of 30%. Just one puff delivers a burst of citrusy delight that transports you on an exhilarating journey through levels of joy you never imagined. This strain is also a favorite among many cultivators due to its balanced strength, purple appearance, and substantial yields reaching up to 800 g/m².
Feeling intoxicated is an understatement when embracing the euphoria of Mimosa Shot. With high potency, this strain hits you instantly, lifting your spirits in no time. The uplifting effects are felt after one just puff guiding you towards a state of contentment and happiness.
Limonene, a terpene that enhances the experience of Mimosa Shot, makes it perfect for boosting your mood after a long day or for enjoying a fun weekend gathering.
The impressive genetic background of Mimosa Shot comes from crossing Mimosa and Fruit Punch — two strains renowned for their citrus notes. Although the strain is indica-dominant, it is complemented by a 35% sativa lineage. Mimosa Shot offers a balance for a joyful day or night. Mimosa Shot is highly esteemed for its potency, boasting a THC level of 30% that delivers effects with just one puff.
Right from the harvest stage, Mimosa Shot releases a scent of citrus fruits, leading to a sweet candy-like taste with subtle hints of spice and peppercorn on the exhale.
Perfect for cultivation, Mimosa Shot yields buds covered in sticky trichomes and deep purple shades. Employing LST techniques can enhance airflow and light exposure resulting in healthier harvests. Allowing time for curing is crucial for maximizing flavor and aroma development.
Mimosa Shot is a beginner strain that flourishes in maintained indoor growing environments. Whether you're an experienced grower or just starting out, Mimosa Shot stands out as a great choice.
3. Bruce Banner #3
Bruce Banner #3 is a superb strain making waves across various dispensaries and seed banks. With a THC content of 28%, she delights users with earthy and diesel-like flavors, making her a top pick for those looking for euphoric effects.
Banner #3’s high THC levels bring about feelings of happiness and upliftment for boosting mood and creativity. This strain is perfect for daytime use or social occasions, offering an energizing and joyful experience. If you need help starting conversations as an introvert, Bruce Banner #3 is the one to go for. She makes you creative, and enthusiastic, and you will reach out for another joint.
A blend of Colorado Ghost OG and Strawberry Diesel, Bruce Banner #3 is a balanced hybrid with 65% Sativa and 35% Indica, delivering wonderful effects on both the mind and body.
As a photoperiod strain, Bruce Banner #3 will need about 60-65 days to flower indoors. Outdoors, you will be rewarded with harvests that will make others envious, as you can expect even 1000 grams from one plant! Yes, if you take good care of her, it isn't unheard of.
This is also why this strain is known as 'The Incredible Bulk'. You won't be disappointed even if you grow indoors. As the third iteration of Bruce Banner, this plant boasts yields that can go up to 800 grams per square meter.
By employing techniques like SCRoG or LST, and utilizing the right light, you can further enhance your harvests. Featuring a THC concentration of 28%, Bruce Banner #3 stands out as one of the most potent cannabis strains available, promising an exceptionally powerful experience.
Thanks to its lineage tracing back to Strawberry Diesel, Bruce Banner #3 emanates a fuel scent with undertones of citrus, accompanied by a classic Kush flavor profile. Its terpene composition offers a blend of earthy notes that elevate the taste experience.
Thriving well in outdoor environments, Bruce Banner #3 exhibits medium to tall growth patterns. Growers can anticipate buds that are chock full of resin and abundant yields, making it a preferred choice for those aiming for both quality and quantity in their cultivation endeavors.
If you want big yields and a strain that makes you happy every time you take a puff, opting for Bruce Banner #3 seeds is highly recommended.
4. Alaskan Thunderfuck
Pardon the name, but that’s what it’s called. This strain is known for its wacky name and intriguing genetic history, which traces back to Alaska’s Matanuska Valley. It’s believed to be a cross between a Russian ruderalis and an unnamed Northern California strain, subsequently bred with an Afghan landrace.
The result is a potent hybrid that’s known for its mental focus and subtle physical relaxation. With THC content of as much as 27%, you can expect this strain to Thunder… you get the point.
The high gradually builds up, including analytical thinking and creativity. The effects are cerebral and subtle and can be quite effective when you want to brainstorm ideas or have an engaging conversation.
What you’ll also enjoy is its distinct aroma and flavor from the chunky flowers with orange pistils. The aroma is woody with hints of cedar, pine, and lemon. The smoke has a pungent, acrid aroma, though, so don’t be surprised while smoking it.
If you’re a medicinal user, you can also benefit from this strain; it’s good for ADHD, stress, depression, nausea, and headaches. Although, it’s not advised for those sensitive to THC-induced anxiety.
The strain requires a warm, semi-humid climate to grow well with a flowering window of up to ten weeks. Outdoors, you can expect it to be ready by mid-October. You will have to curb its pungent odor, though, if you want to be discreet.
This strain has built up quite a reputation for itself. It’s got complex flavors and a long-lasting euphoric high. It even inspired drag queen superstar Alaska Thunderfuck 5000!
5. White Widow
If there’s one strain that you should try in your life, not limited to this list, it’s White Widow, one of the most popular strains ever. If you haven’t tried this, are you even a true cannabis lover? Okay, enough with gate-keeping.
White Widow is a hybrid strain that’s known for its resin production and potent effects fuelling energy in you. The strain was bred by renowned Dutch breeders, Green House Seeds, during the end of the 20th century, and it’s an offspring of South Indian sativa landrace and Brazilian indica.
Back in the day, strains like Haze dominated the underground cannabis community. Still, this strain fought through to win the 1995 High Times Cannabis Cup along with several other accolades.
Look at the buds, they are chonky and conical, packed with a dense coating of trichomes that gives it a whitish hue — its namesake. The buds produce a pungent, ammonia scent with earthy tones, but the flavor is that of earth.
What will stand out is its high — a testament to Dutch cannabis breeders’ precision and expertise. The cerebral high will enhance your awareness without getting you out of your head. It’s still potent, but it is functional and sociable.
The high will come fast, improving your mood, focus, and energy. You can also expect to be more creative after consuming this strain. Although, some users may even experience some light psychedelic sensory experiences. Be vary of paranoia if you are a new user, though.
If you are a cannabis grower, this is an excellent strain to grow. It is resilient and adaptable to both indoor and outdoor environments. Plus, it’s compact and mold-resistant during its growth stage. It flowers for nine weeks and reaches maturity by early October outdoors.
6. Milky Way F1
As an F1 hybrid that will rev up your senses with its high THC levels and a delightful blend of terpenes, this robust strain is known for its strength and vitality, producing autoflowering plants that complete their life cycle in mere 70–75 days. As you can understand, it's a great option if you want something that makes you euphoric and allows you to grow more plants as well. Want to go visit the Milky Way, anyone?
Created from a mix of Blue Mammoth, Blue Dream, and Sin Tra Bajo Auto genetics, Milky Way F1 yields a plant that thrives in most growing spaces, whether it's a balcony, an indoor grow tent, a greenhouse, or outdoors.
Milky Way F1 provides a great high accompanied by an effect that eases the body, offering the perfect balance for unwinding at the end of the day. With its super high THC levels and diverse terpene profile featuring myrcene, caryophyllene, limonene, and pinene, this strain boasts notes of skunk and citrus. The comforting body buzz is great for relaxation while subtle hints of CBG and soothing terpenes maintain a wonderful vibe.
Compact and dependable, Milky Way F1 typically grows to a height of 70cm making it well-suited for growing environments. Although it may be petite in size compared to other monstrous autoflowers, Milky Way F1 allows you to harvest her quickly, so you can grow the plants as many times as you want throughout the year.
Whether you're cultivating it indoors, outdoors, in a greenhouse, or in pots, this variety is well-equipped to thrive. Most importantly, this strain is also adept at fighting pests and diseases. It can adapt to most climates. Since it's an autoflower, you don't need to plan ahead as it's not affected by light cycles like photoperiods.
7. Orange Sherbet Auto
The Orange Sherbet Auto strain is known for its citrusy taste and sativa-dominant nature. With a THC level of 26%, it offers an uplifting high that lasts for several hours. It's sweet, tangy, and tastes like a wonderful lemon. Once you have it, you'll go gaga over it!
Experience a joyous ride with Orange Sherbet Auto as it sparks creativity and motivates you like none other. Most cannabis strains aren't good to use in the daytime; however, Orange Sherbet Auto is an exception, despite her high THC levels.
It's perfect for staying productive and indulging in hobbies or enjoying gatherings. Whether you're at a party, on a beach outing, or on a walk in nature, this strain will keep you feeling energized and engaged.
Regardless of where you grow it — indoors or outdoors — this monstrous strain can grow about 150cm tall. And, if you're wondering why it's named Orange Sherbet Auto, it produces buds covered with orange hairs and trichomes that give them a frosty white look. The resinous buds release a blend of mandarin oranges, fresh citrus juice, earthiness, and pine.
Consider using Low-Stress Training (LST) to help even the lower branches receive light. During the flowering stage, provide ample support to prevent the plant from bending under the weight of its buds.
Orange Sherbet Auto is simply perfect for both commercial growers and home cultivators aiming to make the most of their growing space, boasting yields of up to 650g/m2 within just 9-10 weeks from seed to harvest. When it comes to its flavor profile, Orange Sherbet Auto offers a blend of fresh orange juice and sweetly tart mandarin sorbet. Inhale and savor the essence of candy with subtle earthy undertones. Once you exhale, you'll notice exotic tropical fruity notes accompanied by a hint of pine. This unique taste perfectly complements the uplifting and invigorating effects it delivers.
When enjoying Orange Sherbet Auto, expect a sativa high that can keep you pleasantly elevated for hours. Its exquisite aromas and stimulating effects make it an excellent choice for gatherings or pursuing your favorite hobbies. Whether you're ticking off tasks on your to-do list or simply unwinding during leisure time, Orange Sherbet Auto proves to be a wonderful companion.
8. Fruit Punch Auto
Moving on to Fruit Punch Auto, this sativa-dominant hybrid is designed to induce effects that are perfect for any setting. For instance, it's great for a session with your good friends, or if you want to attend a party. Surely, your friends will want to know where you got this beautiful strain from.
Get ready to be the star of the party as it energizes you, makes you chatty, and elevates your mood. Oh, and the ideas and conversations you have under the influence of this beautiful strain are something you'll remember forever!
This particular strain combines the calming attributes inherited from Skunk and Haze genetics to balance out its uplifting effects. Many users attest to the fact that this herb makes them come out of their shells and become more sociable. And if your thoughts are all over the place, Fruit Punch can help you focus too.
It's perfect for reducing stress and anxiety while boosting any interactions as it’s quite good at transporting you to a paradise filled with calmness and happiness. Featuring a THC content of 21% and a CBD strength of 1.1%, it provides a blend that can possibly help with several ailments.
Staying true to its name, Fruit Punch Auto delivers sweet and fruity tastes with hints of lemon, lime, and mango that evoke wonderful thoughts of an exotic paradise. Its scent is just as appealing with fruity and citrus notes paired with a hint of skunkiness.
Suitable for both beginner and experienced cultivators, Fruit Punch Auto thrives in many environments. It reaches a height of around 80-120cm and produces around 700-800 grams per square meter indoors in only 80 days from germination. Outdoors, you can even get about 150 grams for every plant you grow but you can utilize various techniques like LST and ScrOG to increase it.
9. Triple G
Triple G is an indica hybrid created from the renowned Gorilla Glue and Gelato strains, with Green Gelato and Royal Gorilla as its genetic parents. With a THC level of 26%, Triple G delivers wonderful effects and delightful dessert-like flavors that cater to both the body and mind.
But, don't underestimate Triple G! Beginners should use caution due to its THC concentration. Experienced users will appreciate a wave of energy leading to deep thinking, creativity, and self-reflection. While enjoyable, the high may induce anxiety if you're not experienced in using cannabis. Triple G also holds promise for appetite stimulation, insomnia relief, or chronic pain management.
Coming to the taste, from the very first puff, you'll Indulge in the tastes of chocolate, berries, and candy that accompany its amazing effects. The strong scents of spice and diesel add to the journey, making each puff a flavorful adventure.
Triple G plants grow into incredible plants with flowers covered in vibrant orange hairs and thick resin glands. Triple G, with her beautiful characteristics, grows in a bushy shape making her easy to care for. She responds well to pruning and topping to expose her bud sites to a fair amount of light. Whether cultivated indoors or outdoors, Triple G produces a good yield in both settings.
10. Wedding Gelato
Wedding Gelato is an excellent blend of Gelato 33 and Wedding Cake, which is sure to soothe your senses with its nutty and sweet flavors. It’s an excellent choice for celebratory situations since it's known for its euphoric effects.
While Wedding Gelato traces its lineage back to its primary parents, its complex history involves the combination of multiple parent strains through meticulous crossbreeding efforts. The result is a strain that speaks of the evolution of cannabis breeding.
It was originally bred by Royal Queen Seeds and has come to be known as one of the best outdoor cultivars. It can also flourish indoors with proper care and attention, though. You should be prepared for its varying growth patterns, though, and training methods like trellising and pruning will help you along the way.
The strain boasts a diverse flavor profile of vanilla notes with hints of sweet, spice, and herbs. The euphoric high is also uplifting, sure to leave you relaxed and happy. It’s got a THC content of up to 25%, so it can also help with chronic pain, fatigue, and depression.
11. Purple Kush
Purple Kush is a one-of-a-kind indica strain, thanks to its delightful taste and vibrant colors. The strain originates from the legendary breeding neighborhood of Oaksterdam, Oakland. It’s a hybrid of Hindu kush and Afghani, delivering a slow and soothing full-body high, which earned it a place in the Top 10 Kush Strain by High Times, 2006.
Purple Kush grows medium yet dense buds, green with purple hues. The buds are also flush with trichomes, which gives them a dewy visual appeal, while orange pistils stick out. The aroma is of earthy sandalwood with undertones of grapes. The flavor is also very grape-like.
It induces a gradual onset of physical relaxation, easing you into a state of euphoria without any overwhelming cerebral effects. You can even enjoy it during the evenings due to its mildly sedative properties. It can also help you with depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
In terms of cultivation, Purple Kush grows low and bushy, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. Its flowering period lasts about 8 weeks indoors and until mid to late September outdoors. With proper care, you can expect a moderate yield of dense, colorful buds. Curing the buds properly preserves their bold flavors and vibrant colors, ensuring a satisfying smoking experience.
12. Cherry Pie
Cherry Pie, a fusion of Granddaddy Purple and Durban Poison, offers a cannabis experience with its fruity flavors and well-balanced effects. With a makeup of 60% indica and 40% sativa, Cherry Pie boasts THC levels reaching around 20%.
Get ready for a euphoric experience with Cherry Pie for daytime use or creative pursuits. The initial cerebral boost gradually lets you transition into a relaxed state, providing a buzz suitable for various activities. Whether you want to unwind, indulge in activities with your friends, or socialize with strangers, Cherry Pie brings joyous and euphoric vibes to any occasion.
As the name suggests, Cherry Pie delights the senses with fruity berry undertones accompanied by hints of vanilla and cookies. This distinct flavor profile makes Cherry Pie a delectable and gratifying choice for cannabis connoisseurs.
The Cherry Pie strain is known for its adaptability, making it a great choice for both outdoor and indoor growing. When cared for correctly, these plants grow into amazing specimens. Indoors, they typically reach heights of around 120cm and can yield up to 450g/m² after flowering for 8-9 weeks. Outdoor plants have the potential to grow taller, reaching heights of up to 180cm and yielding around 500g per plant by the beginning of October.
Summary: Top 12 Cannabis Strains That Make You Euphoric
This is merely scratching the surface of awesome euphoric strains. But if you’re new to cannabis, this is the starting point. There are tens if not hundreds, of strains you can try for an intriguing euphoric high. As always, remember to experiment with new strains until you find your groove.
As always, if you are a new grower, be wary of the THC content. You don’t want to smoke something with >20% THC — that will probably not go well for you. For starters, pick strains with a milder high so you don’t end up overwhelming yourself or, worse, greening out.
Cannabis strains are incredibly diverse and this is just one facet of them. There are cannabis strains that can make you sleepy, more creative, relaxed, slow, or hungry. Sometimes, you may even come across those that do all that together.
Stay tuned to know about such awesome cannabis strains that you can try next. We post regular stories on the best cannabis strains to try for both new and experienced users. Don’t miss out.
