There are three kinds of users we know of: those who appreciate indicas for its calming effects, sativa seekers looking for a dash of euphoria, and the all-around weed lover who will try just about anything once.
As regulations around marijuana have begun to fall off the branches, more than ever, consumers and enthusiasts have gained access to hundreds of strains. Now, getting to know your favourite buds is more accessible than ever.
The Indica smoker is commonly the type of individual who is looking to drift off from reality, revoke stress, and treat aching pains thanks to the indica’s sedative quality. Often the top choice for nighttime use, these strains are perfect for when you feel like doing nothing at all.
Looking to get the most bang for your next indica purchase? Our seasoned marijuana connoisseurs have put in the long hours to describe our favourite indicas from best dispensaries in Canada.
1. Purple OG Kush
Best for: Insomnia and Stress Aroma: Earthy, Sweet Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Loss of Focus This potent indica is a king among strains and is sure to get your munchie-mania activated. The Purple OG Kush is highly sought after for it’s medicinal qualities. This bud boasts a musty sweet aroma that will be quickly followed by a full body and head sensation. Be warned, this could lead to a deep dreamless sleep. Optimal for nighttime use, many users claim that this particular strain will leave you feeling cloudy afterward — a little goes a long way.2. Aurora Indica
Best for: Insomnia and Stress Aroma: Skunky Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes The wunderkind strain — born of parents Afghan and Northern Lights — is an instant classic. Ideal for calming down and wooing away insomnia and pain. If you’re looking for a restful sleep without the toss and turn, Aurora’s bulky floral buds are a must-have. Famous for its thick coat of crystals and potent smell, you’ll be able to enjoy simply doing little, if anything. If relaxation is what you’re looking for, try Aurora.3. Afghan Skunk
Best for: Nausea and Stress Aroma: Skunky, Dank Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Afghan Skunk has built quite a reputation for itself in the Indica strain pool. Originally cultivated in the States, the strain quickly became a staple overseas in Amsterdam and here in Canada. Sporting ‘Skunk’ in its name, it’s of no surprise this bud packs a pungent herbal smell. Best yet, Afghan Skunk makes our list due to its sky-high THC levels which have been reported at 17%. It’s a classic for a reason4. White Kush
Best for: Insomnia and Stress Aroma: Nutty, Sweet Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Like most Kush varieties on our list, White Kush is known for its strong aroma and ability to relax even the busiest of minds. An exemplary choice for any individual seeking out instant stress relief or looking for a surefire way to wind down after a long day. Popular on the West Coast, this sweet floral scented indica is perfect for relaxation and kicking insomnia to the curb.5. Grand Hindu
Best for: Inflammation and Pain Aroma: Grape, Sweet Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Grand Hindu is a rare and spicy strain, flaunting a citrusy grape flavour that goes down smoothly. It is notorious for its purple colouring and powerful ability to calm the body and mind. If you’re looking for a perfect pairing for a lazy Sunday or an evening of Netflix, this bud is a great choice. This strain is also a good choice if you suffer from inflammation or pain. Be cautious, however, as the Grand Hindu strain has a tendency to get users zoned out.
6. MK Ultra
Best for: Stress and Pain Aroma: Dank, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes The winner of the High Times Cannabis Cup in 2003 is known far and wide for its cerebral effects. It’s no wonder MK Ultra was named after the CIA’s mental manipulation project. Dense, sticky, and dank — users have made longstanding claims that this particular bud comes with hypnotic effects. Considered one of the world’s strongest strains, use this euphoric bud wisely, my friend. You may not be able to do much for a while after use.7. M-39
Best for: Insomnia and Stress Aroma: Citrus, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth The offspring of notorious strain heavyweights Northern Lights and Skunk, M-39 is a difficult crop to grow. When you see it, seize the day. Exuding a fruity and lemon taste with abundant crystals whisking up major impacts for your experience — its THC content has been measured up to 16.5%. The buds are compact, heavy, and dense.8. Blue Cheese
Best for: Insomnia and Stress Aroma: Cheese, Blueberry Misfortunes: Dry Mouth Blue Cheese is an indica cross created by crossing a Blueberry male with an original U.K. Cheese. The sweet and savory smells of berry and blue cheese combine to create a creamy, unique flavor reminiscent of literal blue cheese. The heavy indica effects will help you feel relaxed at the end of the day and can provide relief for muscle spasms, pain, and stress.9. Critical Mass
Best for: Pain and Stress Aroma: Sweet, Citrus Misfortunes: Dry mouth Critical Mass earned its moniker because the buds are so dense, the branches of the plant snap under the weight of them. Aside from its mass, the strain packs a potent punch boasting upwards of 22% THC levels. If you’re looking for relief from either pain or stress, this strong and sweet strain delivers the medicine. Despite its strength, Critical Mass offers enough mellow that you won’t feel paranoid or incapable of holding a normal conversation. Let the good times roll.10. DJ Short Blueberry
Best for: Insomnia, Pain, and Stress Aroma: Sweet, Blueberry Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes A relative of BC’s infamous blueberry variety, the strain has taken many forms and can be found in the far reaches of Southeast Asia. A perfect berry-flavored companion for those seeking out mild sedation. Whether you suffer from insomnia or pain, this beauty is known to be impactful immediately upon consumption. Also, if you’re in the market for an indica that serves a touch of euphoria as well, DJ Short Blueberry serves that too. A well-rounded grass experience.11. Chemo
Best for: Insomnia, Pain, and Depression Aroma: Pine, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Very Strong A Canadian classic, this staple dates back to the 1970’s when bell bottoms and disco reigned supreme. According to lore, and hinted by its name, Chemo was created to treat the side effects of chemotherapy. Also known as “UBC Chemo” — a nod to the university that developed the bud. Best known for its subtle woody aroma and potent medicinal effects — perfect for patients treating nausea, appetite loss, pain, and sleeplessness.12. Alien Dawg
Best for: Stress and Pain Aroma: Dank, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes As powerful as your last UFO sighting, Alien Dawg is an out of this world splice between Chemdawg and Alien Technology. This intergalactic strain will put you in orbit due to its high 20% THC levels that alter both your body and mind. Known for its bright green, crystal-packed coat, you’ll be sure to note the bud’s density as it locks you to your seat. If you suffer from being stressed out, this comes highly recommended. You’ll be on a rocket ship to Spaceland in no time.13. Cadillac Purple
Best for: Stress, Pain, and Insomnia Aroma: Grape, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Looking for a full body experience, an experience parallel to rolling out in a fully-stacked Cadillac? The deep green and purplish buds of this mighty indica offer up full-scale relaxation from head to toe, soothing and calming aching pains. Accompanied by a sweet perfumey smell, the Purple Cadillac will steer you directly to dreamland if you’re not careful. This particular strain is also known to be a creeper, so give yourself a few moments before thinking you need more. You probably don’t.14. Banana Kush
Best for: Stress and Depression Aroma: Tropical, Bananas Misfortunes: Dry Mouth Introducing one of the West Coast’s finest in the Kush category, Banana Kush. Upon smoking, your taste buds will be transported to a banana-riddled paradise. It’s a smokable, tokable vacation where you’ll enjoy a mellow sense of euphoria and a gentle buzz courtesy of its lime green colouring and creeper-status. If you happen to suffer from either depression or anxiety, this could be just the vacation you need to help ease the mind. Feel uplifted with this aromatic tropical escape.15. OG Kush
Best for: Stress and Pain Aroma: Pine, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes You can’t be called the OG without good reason. This cannabis classic is the backbone and grandpappy of many of the West Coast’s varieties. Arriving on the scene in the early 90’s, this strain continues to flourish and is a top choice for marijuana connoisseurs. Best known for its heavy euphoric properties, it’s been used to soothe the effects of migraines, ADD/ADHD, and common stress disorders. Consider this your ultimate chill pill.16. Willy’s Wonder
Best for: Stress and Nausea Aroma: Dank, Sweet Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dizziness With a name like Willy, you know this bud’s going to be a good time. Willy’s Wonder is legendary in status, and you only need to try it to see why. Known for its colourful hues ranging from green to gold to violet to crimson and beyond. Its psychedelic good looks are just one of Willy’s wonders. With aromas also delivering a playful blend of tropical fruit and citrus, it has been known to offer a unique sweet and sour taste. Potent as the best of them, if you’re not used to your body feeling like a bowling ball, you may need to work up to this one.17. Platinum Kush
Best for: Stress and Pain Aroma: Dank, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Very Strong Acquiring its fine name from the bud’s silvery hues, the Platinum Kush is best known for its thick coat of crystal resin. The THC content is bold, measuring up to 18%, and even brags trace levels of CBD. If you don’t mind the sensation of a full body gone numb or letting your mind play tricks on you, this quality strain is a must-try. Yet, don’t be fooled by your initial reaction — users often report feeling instantly energized, only to soon wind up crashing into a deep sleep.18. Eight Ball Kush
Best for: Stress and Pain Aroma: Citrus, Pine Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Hailing from the Hindu Kush region, Eight Ball is ready to sink into that corner pocket and finish the game. Notable for its ability to stimulate the mind, this earthy and dank smelling kush strain will plant you on your couch in moments with nowhere to go but up. It’s a stellar choice for sore muscles following an intense workout or for aching pains that are barricading you from keeping you on point. Users also report getting a mood lift courtesy of Eight Ball, so be poised for your best smile.19. Jesus OG
Best for: Stress and Depression Aroma: Citrus, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes The holy descendent of Hell’s Angel OG and Jack the Ripper, the Jesus strain arrives like the prodigal son. It saves. If you’re looking for sweet salvation from anxiety and a case of blues, this influential saviour is a top-shelf choice. Gaining a reputation for activating creativity and even focus, this indica is a preference of gamers, music lovers, and artists alike. If you appreciate a bud that doesn’t cloud your mind, this uplifter is here to deliver you from evil.20. Lavender Kush
Best for: Pain and Stress Aroma: Lavender, Floral Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes The Lavender strain brings in high marks for its aromatic nods to French fields and floral notes. Its deep purple hue paints the tips of its leaves, another cohesive link to its name. This fast-acting Kush is flawless for treating pain, helping users with issues which include chronic back pain. Made to be smoked in the evening, this bud offers relaxation and happiness upon inhaling. If you’d like to indulge in a loose and wavy evening kicking back with your favourite smokewear, look no further.21. Ancient OG
Best for: Insomnia and Stress Aroma: Pine, Nutty Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Ancient OG was parented by the South Asian Indica and the beauty Snow Lotus. While ultimately a paradigm choice for those seeking relaxation and a good night’s rest, the sweet nutty taste doesn’t hurt. Some have claimed that the strain brought on a mild psychedelic edge to their high times, while others consider it their fail-safe for kicking insomnia. Either way, Ancient is equated to wisdom, so get wise to this OG family cousin.22. Pot of Gold
Best for: Insomnia and Pain Aroma: Skunky, Sweet Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dizziness Placing second in the 2003 Cannabis Cup, this sticky bud is for avid fans of chasing rainbows. Notoriously potent and renowned for its physical effects on the body, this skunky and sweet premier strain is great for rapid-acting pain relief and sleep induction. While relaxation remains Pot of Gold’s strongest playing card, the bud can also contribute to blossoming creativity. Careful though, this is a sticky one and is difficult to bust up by hands alone.23. PVC OG
Best for: Muscle Spasms and Pain Aroma: Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth The PVC OG is an elusive indica created in Long Beach, California. The birthplace of longboards and beach babes. Created exclusively for medicinal purposes, the strain was crafted and tailored to offer up a herbal solution to muscle spasms, pain, and stress without users having their focus or motivation compromised. This powerful indica has been commonly reported to serve up a tingly sensation to users, so close your eyes and enjoy the unusual sensations of the PVC OG.24. Abusive OG
Best for: Stress and Insomnia Aroma: Spicy, Dank Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Don’t be alarmed by the intimidating moniker, the only thing it will hit you with is a peaceful state of mind. This relaxing bud is caked with resin and reveals a pungent aroma that will make head turns. A deep green with furious little orange hairs illustrates its quality, and Abusive OG a great choice if you’re looking for the ultimate calm down. However, if you’re hesitant about strains that bring on mental haze, steer clear. This one’s sure to get you foggy.25. King Louis XIII
Best for: Stress and Insomnia Aroma: Pine, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth A regal strain worthy of its royal name. Much like in King Louis’ day in the white-hot 1600s, this bud introduces itself with its heavy perfume far before you’ll see it. Its smell is a piney earthy musk, and it’s a preferred selection for those who enjoy a dominating smell. With THC levels as high as 20%, this potent strain lends well to easing both insomnia and stress. Get relaxed and feel like you’re most regal self — you deserve it.26. Sugar Black Rose
Best for: Stress, Pain, and Insomnia Aroma: Rose, Floral Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Sugar Black Rose for all you romantics in search of the perfect bloom your significant other will actually appreciate. The answer has arrived. This dynamic cross of Critical Mass and Black Domina is best known as an indica-dominant hybrid. With a sweet smooth taste with hints of all things pretty: fresh cut flowers and a dash of fruit. However, don’t let the flowery moniker fool you, this bud is known to relax your entire body and leave it tingling with a buzz. A great companion for those suffering from anxiety or muscle pain.27. True OG
Best for: Insomnia, Stress, and Headaches Aroma: Dank, Pine Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Originally discovered in Southern California, the birthplace of the term “OG” when it still meant “ocean grown”. The True OG boasts a long lasting mellow that keeps on giving. Known to be both pleasant and well suited for head highs, this is a perfect pick for those searching out pure relaxation. You may notice it coming on slow, but most good things do, my friend. The True OG also has a reputation for kicking your arousal up a notch, so play safe.28. Blue Moonshine
Best for: Stress and Pain Aroma: Berry, Pine Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Another indica courtesy of the DJ Short collection takes its place on our list. This powerful blueberry indica performs with the same endurance as a seasoned track star. Best known for its elevated body highs, it sweeps away stress and is also an effective pain reliever. With effects ranging from deep relaxation to overall mood lifting, it’s a classic staple in any connoisseur’s secret stash.29. Skywalker
Best for: Insomnia, Stress, and Pain Aroma: Sweet, Earthy Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes What would any list be without a nod to the Star Wars franchise? Even if you’re no nerd, don’t let the name stand in the way of giving this strain a try. This well-rounded indica is notoriously used in treating both pain and insomnia — potent and powerful. Skywalker has been successful in helping patients with PTSD and some users have easily replaced their Xanax ‘scripts for the natural healing qualities of this effective bud.30. Dark Star
Best for: Depression, Pain, Stress, and Insomnia Aroma: Dank, Pine Misfortunes: Dry Mouth Another journey out of the stratosphere is in order. Indica heavyweight Dark Star continues to deliver a spaced out experience to avid users. A CBD-rich bud has made it a go-to for individuals suffering from pain and anxiety. However, it helps with a bushel of other ailments too: insomnia, stress, and depression. It’s as multi-purpose as a swiss army knife in terms of relief. Above all else, this strain packs a sour smell and glowing qualities.31. Blueberry
Best for: Stress and Pain Aroma: Sweet, Blueberry Misfortunes: Dry Mouth, Dry Eyes Anyone who appreciates weed is likely familiar with Blueberry, considered the standard among indicas. It proudly took home the title of Best Indica at the Cannabis Cup 2000, and its reputation has been rock solid ever since. With a taste true to its name, it serves up a sweet berry flavour. On the medicinal side, it is known to relieve stress and pain, but those who are in it for pure enjoyment love its bright colours and potent THC content.