Cannabis is generally divided into three species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. The first two species are prevalent in the types of cannabis we smoke or ingest. However, over the years, breeders have developed many hybrids.

Breeding techniques are incredibly sophisticated in the modern era. It allows experts to create new strains with specific effects. There is a suggestion that indica strains cause tiredness while sativas perk you up. This is valid to an extent but doesn’t tell the whole story.

The theory that indica strains cause tiredness while sativas perk you up is valid to an extent but doesn’t tell the whole story.

It seems as if the aromatic compounds, terpenes, and specific cannabinoids, impact how you feel. As it happens, sativa strains often contain terpenes that provide an energy boost. In contrast, indica varieties usually have more sedative-causing terpenes. However, not every indica helps you sleep, and not every sativa wakes you up.

In this article, we discuss the varieties that are best for delivering a dose of energy. You may find these strains helpful, whether you are fatigued or merely having one of those days. Read on to find out what strains may give you an energy boost.

1. Super Lemon Haze: Sativa

Super Lemon Haze is an extremely popular strain among cannabis smokers. It won first prize in 2008 and 2009 in the High Times Cannabis Cup. With a THC content of up to 22%, Super Lemon Haze is a cross of Super Silver Haze and Lemon Skunk.

As its name suggests, this strain has a very citrusy scent and taste, with some undertones of pine. Its robust and lemon flavor is sure to wake you up. Some users say this strain gives your morning espresso a run for its money.

Features of Super Lemon Haze:

Sativa-dominant, this strain is excellent for delivering a hit of energy
Bred as a hybrid between Super Silver Haze and Lemon Skunk
It has a predominantly citrusy aroma and flavor
Has a growth period of 56-65 days
THC content can be as high as 22%, meaning it is not appropriate for novice smokers

Effects:

Super Lemon Haze is a great energizer, leaving users with a sense of euphoria after they light up. Some users report a heightened sense of creativity, too. When coupled with your increase in energy, this could lead to some productive activities! However, some users say they get an attack of the munchies, so have some snacks handy.

2. Green Crack: Sativa

Want an interesting fact about Green Crack? Originally called ‘Green Kush,’ Snoop Dogg renamed this sativa-dominant strain ‘Green Crack.’ As the word ‘crack’ suggests, this strain delivers a pretty intense high.

Physically, Green Crack appears like an indica plant. Rest assured, however, that it gives you the same buzzy high as any other sativa strain. Some users claim they feel more focused after using this variety of cannabis. Its THC content ranges from 13% to 21%.

Features of Green Crack:

Sativa-dominant, although it appears like an indica variety when growing
Its actual heritage is unknown, but some suspect that its lineage traces back to Skunk #1 and Sweet Leaf Indica
Possesses a fresh citrus scent with earthy undertones
Allows for a very smooth smoke
Apart from alleviating fatigue, this is potentially a good strain for managing anxiety and depression
Grows in around 7-8 weeks

Effects:

If you’re looking for an energy boost, this is the strain to deliver it. Make sure you don’t smoke Green Crack late at night because it will negatively impact sleep. This strain produces a considerable energy boost, a reasonable degree of euphoria, and may even help your creativity.

Be aware, however, that the potency of Green Crack can cause psychedelic effects. Some users report paranoia and panic attacks due to the intensity of the high. A little goes a long way here, so smoke within your limits and get ready to recharge!

3. Durban Poison: Sativa

Durban Poison is an excellent sativa strain cultivated in Africa and suited to such growing conditions. Although this strain is like an indica plant in terms of structure, the long, tapered shape betrays its sativa nature. Durban Poison delivers a high that is almost entirely cerebral. It could help you become insanely energized and active with no sign of couchlock.

Its energetic high lasts somewhere between 2 and 3 hours, so don’t take it right before bedtime! Many users compare this strain to espresso, so take that as a sign that you’ll feel more awake in no time.

Features of Durban Poison:

100% sativa
It has a THC content of between 16% and 20%
It possesses a pungent, dank scent with some hints of licorice
Creates thick smoke
Grows in around 8-9 weeks and often has a higher than average yield

Effects:

With an intense cerebral high, Durban Poison could sharply boost your energy and productivity levels. This is a great strain if you want to unleash your creative side. It could help you accomplish everything on your to-do list, whether they are mundane chores or creative tasks. One downside is that newcomers to marijuana may experience paranoia and jitters. As long as you know your limits, you’ll have fired through your chores before you hit midday!

4. Sour Diesel: Sativa

Sometimes called Sour D, this prevalent strain is named for its pungent aroma. Although it is 70-80% sativa, Sour Diesel also has some indica genetics. This fact makes it popular with medical smokers as well as recreational users.

This strain gives users a very pleasant headrush that can lead to a boost in energy. However, you may also start to feel a little spacey. Thankfully, the indica genetics anchor your soaring high with physical relaxation. The balance means that you won’t succumb to couchlock. The high usually lasts around 2-3 hours.

Features of Sour Diesel:

Sativa dominant with some indica genetics
Boasts a strong THC content of up to 22%
It has a fuel-like scent which gives the strain its name, but some find the taste too chemical and strong
Flowers within 10 weeks when grown indoors
The high lasts around 2-3 hours
Produces a pleasant high with some physical relaxation, making it great for sufferers of anxiety

Effects:

The warm high that Sour Diesel produces means that it can generate a feeling of euphoria. It is excellent for sufferers of mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Sour Diesel is an energizing strain that can increase creativity, relax the body, and engage the mind.

This strain tends to cause associative thinking, excellent for those looking for a creative energy boost. It is potentially overwhelming for a few individuals who will suffer an ‘out of control’ feeling. Make sure to adjust your intake accordingly, and you’ll experience a great high.

5. Jack Herer: Hybrid

Named after the American cannabis activist Jack Herer (a.k.a The Emperor of Hemp), this strain has secretive origins. It is probably a hybrid of Haze, Northern Lights #5, and Shiva Skunk. It can deliver a hit of energy to users, making it an extremely popular strain. In fact, it has won the Cannabis Cup a total of nine times.

This strain is of the ‘wake and bake’ variety. It provides users with a powerful creative high that is somehow relaxing. It is used for a range of medical issues, from mood disorders to chronic aches. Compared to other energizing strains, a reasonably low THC content makes Jack Herer the perfect option for cannabis newcomers.

Features of Jack Herer:

Slightly sativa-dominant
A THC content of between 18% and 23%
Smells of citrus fruits like orange and lemon, with a hint of dank pine
It creates a very smooth smoke that some describe as almost herbal
Delivers an energizing, pleasant headrush
Flowers within 10 weeks
Excellent for newbie smokers

Effects:

Jack Herer produces a calming head high that packs a punch of energy, acting quickly after you light up. The initial tingle spreads throughout the body, relaxing every part of you without leading to a feeling of immobilization. You will likely feel inspired and creative, ready to work on whatever tasks you have to complete.

The balance between cerebral and physical effects means you will feel at ease but still in full control of your actions. Most users say they feel active when they consume Jack Herer. Therefore, it makes sense to enjoy it during morning or afternoon sessions.

Final Thoughts on Energetic Marijuana Strains

There are thousands of cannabis strains with unique properties. Above, we have detailed the five best strains to help curb your lethargy and help you feel more energized.

We believe this list holds something for everyone. If you’re a marijuana novice, you can try a ‘gentle’ strain like Jack Herer. Cannabis connoisseurs in search of a hard-hitting energy high may prefer Green Crack, and so on. Feel free to try a few, but take note of your limits.

Strains