It’s hard to definitively state which strain of cannabis contains the very highest level of THC. The availability of strains and smoking devices have continually evolved for centuries. The preferences and practices of growers, the tastes of local consumers and the effects of regional climate on cannabis growth all shape the variety (and quality) of strains that are available today. The range of strains has only expanded since cannabis’ statewide recreational legalization in 2012, and the gradual rise of legalization in states across America, with new options cropping up year after year.
As many of our readers may know, THC is the psychoactive component found in the cannabis plant, contrasting to the non-intoxicating cannabinoids CBD and hemp. High levels of THC are associated with increased “strength” or effects of intoxication felt by a strain’s consumers. Many users have reported that high-THC strains have benefits which differ from lower-THC varieties – including the reduction of nausea, inflammation, muscle-control issues, and pain.
We’ve used Leafly’s strain explorer feature to find seven strains containing 20% THC or more – meaning that these strains contain some of the highest available levels of THC. Today, we’ll examine at the respective compositions of these seven standouts and the alleged effects of each.
Motorbreath
Motorbreath is a cross of the better-known strain Chemdog and SFV OG Kush. Its name references the strain’s earthy flavor with distinct notes of fuel and citrus. Motorbreath contains nearly 26 percent THC – one of the highest available levels – and less than one percent of CBD by contrast. The terpenes of limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene enrich the flavor of this strain with hints of citrus, peppery, and herbal aromas.
Those who’ve tried Motorbreath report a blend of calming and energizing effects from the hybrid strain – and emphasize that newbies should go easy, keeping the strength of the strain in mind.
Peanut Butter Breath
If Motorbreath doesn’t sound appealing, perhaps Peanut Butter Breath will leave a better taste in your mouth. This strain is a cross of Do-Si-Dos and Mendo Breath. Peanut Butter Breath contains 24% THC and little-to-no CBD by comparison. Like Motorbreath, Peanut Butter Breath brings Limonene and Caryophyllene to the table, but the presence of Linalool adds a subtle floral flavor. This strain is popular in continents around the world, and is reported to evoke relaxation and sedative effects.
Bruce Banner
Bruce Banner originated in Colorado’s own Fort Collins, named in honor of The Incredible Hulk’s everyman alter-ego. Much like the Hulk, this hybrid strain of cannabis packs a punch – it contains 23% THC, and users report rapid and intense effects from this strain compared to other popular varieties. Of every possible feeling reported with this strain, more than half of reviewers emphasized feeling happy, relaxed, and even euphoric after smoking this high-THC option. Bruce Banner is said to feel much more energizing than calming, with the same top terpenes found in Motorbreath for hints of citrusy, peppery and herbal aromas.
Sunshine
With a name like sunshine, it’s no surprise to learn that 83% of reviewers claim that this strain produces happy, uplifting and energizing effects, as well as the reduction of nausea and pain. This sativa strain contains approximately 23.5% THC
OGKB
While this strain is technically a hybrid, the indica-dominant composition of OGKB is much more likely to producing calming, sedative effects in users than the energizing head-highs associated with sativa-heavy strains. With 24% THC, cannabis doesn’t get much stronger than OGKB. The most commonly reported effects of OGKB are relaxation and euphoria. OGKB is derived from the older, more energizing strain GSC (also known as Girl Scout Cookies). OGKB contains a rich blend of terpenes. While the predominant Caryophyllene packs a peppery flavor, the strain is said to blend rich herbal, earthy aromas with hints of berry and even vanilla. Since its introduction to the scene, OGKB has since been crossed to help create two new varieties – OGKZ and Grateful Breath.
Silver Haze
Silver Haze is the lovechild of two well-known strains which have both been around for decades – the pure-sativa strain Haze and the pure-indica fan favorite Northern Lights. With 21.5% THC, the sativa-dominant hybrid Silver Haze takes after both of its ancestors in the effects it reportedly produces. In fact, more than half of reviewers of Haze and Silver Haze alike reported feeling happy, uplifted and euphoric. Contrary to what it’s name may suggest, this strain doesn’t reportedly cause brain-fog, with users claiming to feel clearheaded from Silver Haze’s intensity. Silver Haze was named for it’s crystal-rich appearance, with shimmering THC glands covering the surface of each bud.
Grease Monkey
Grease Monkey has earthy and skunky overtones, with the strength of its flavor rivaling only its alleged impact. In fact, this indica-dominant hybrid is said to offer relaxation above all else, with 78% of users reporting this effect. Legal adult users battling insomnia and chronic pain reported that Grease Monkey helped to alleviate the impact of both maladies and more. Grease Monkey originated as a cross of two more heavy-THC hybrid strains – Gorilla Glue #4 and Cookies and Cream, respectively packing 20% and 21% THC. With an average of 22.5% THC in its composition, Grease Monkey takes it a step further than either of its well-known parent strains.
Visiting Our Head Shop Won’t Be A Strain
Interested in learning more about the composition of cannabis strains? Leafly’s Strain Explorer is an excellent tool for Coloradoans above age 21 seeking a stronger understanding of cannabis.
If you’d rather visit a head shop than a website, we highly recommend 710 Pipes’ three convenient local locations in Denver and Northglenn. 710 Pipes carries a huge variety of popular smoking devices and accessories, like JUULs and other vaporizers, water pipes, rolling papers, apparel and so much more! Stop by our Northglenn head shop between 8AM-10PM, seven days a week. We have two Denver pipe shops open daily from 12-8PM (11AM-9PM Thursdays through Saturdays) – on Colfax and on Evans near DU. Denver University students get 10% off with a valid student ID!
We’ll see you soon!