what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping 10 Powerful Picks 2025
When Sleep Eludes You: Finding Your Perfect Cannabis Solution
What strain of cannabis is best for sleeping? The answer varies based on your needs, but research points to these top options:
- For deep sedation: Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, Bubba Kush
- For anxiety-related insomnia: Harlequin, ACDC (high-CBD strains)
- For pain-related sleep issues: Hindu Kush, Tahoe OG Kush
Key factors to consider:
– Indica-dominant strains generally provide better sedative effects than sativas
– Terpenes matter: Look for myrcene, linalool, and caryophyllene
– THC-CBD ratio: Higher THC for stronger sedation; higher CBD for gentler effects
More than 25% of American adults don’t get the recommended 7 hours of sleep nightly, and about 40% report sleep disorders annually. If you’re among them, cannabis might offer relief. Studies dating back to the 1970s suggest that THC can help users fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep throughout the night.
I’m Jeremy Rivera, owner of Terp Bros dispensary in Queens. After years of personal experience and customer feedback about what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping, I’ve developed expertise in matching sleep-troubled customers with their ideal nighttime cannabis companions.
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What strain of cannabis is best for sleeping? The Science of Snooze
Ever wonder why some cannabis helps you drift off while others keep you wide awake? Let’s explore the fascinating science behind what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping.
Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, but three deserve special attention when it comes to sleep:
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is like sleep’s best friend – helping you fall asleep faster and stay there longer. Research shows it shortens that frustrating “staring at the ceiling” time and can deepen your sleep. The trade-off? It reduces REM sleep, that dreaming phase your brain loves.
CBD (Cannabidiol) takes a different approach. Rather than knocking you out directly, it tackles what’s keeping you up – like anxiety or pain. The best part? No “high” feeling, just calm relaxation that lets sleep happen naturally.
CBN (Cannabinol) is THC’s older, mellower cousin – literally. When THC ages and oxidizes, it transforms into CBN. Many users swear by its powerful sedative effects, though research is still catching up to user experiences.
| Cannabinoid | Sleep Benefits | Potential Drawbacks | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| THC | • Faster sleep onset • Increased deep sleep • Pain reduction |
• Reduced REM sleep • Possible next-day grogginess • Potential dependency |
Those with severe insomnia or pain |
| CBD | • Anxiety reduction • Pain relief • No intoxication • May improve sleep continuity |
• Less direct sedation • Variable effects between users |
Anxiety-related insomnia, sensitive to THC |
| CBN | • Strong sedative properties • Works well with THC |
• Limited research • Harder to find in products |
Those seeking potent sleep aid without high THC doses |
A comprehensive 2020 review on cannabinoids and sleep confirmed what many users already knew – THC helps people fall asleep faster and stay asleep. However, it also decreases REM sleep. This might actually benefit PTSD sufferers by reducing nightmares, but long-term REM suppression could potentially impact memory and mood.
How cannabinoids steer your sleep engine
Think of your endocannabinoid system (ECS) as your body’s internal balance keeper – regulating sleep, mood, appetite, and more. Cannabis works by interacting with this system’s receptors:
CB1 receptors live primarily in your brain and central nervous system. THC loves these receptors, binding tightly to create both the “high” feeling and those sleep-inducing effects you’re after.
CB2 receptors hang out mainly in your immune system and tissues. While they’re less directly involved in sleep, they help manage inflammation and pain – both notorious sleep disruptors.
When cannabinoids activate these receptors, amazing things happen:
They boost adenosine levels (the same compound caffeine blocks), making you feel naturally sleepy. They quiet an overactive mind, dampen pain signals, and extend NREM (non-REM) sleep – the restorative phase your body craves.
One particularly compelling double-blind study from the 1970s showed THC both accelerated sleep onset and deepened sleep throughout the night for insomnia sufferers.
How terpenes turn down the lights
Those distinctive cannabis smells? They’re terpenes – aromatic compounds that do far more than just smell good. They significantly influence how a strain affects you:
Myrcene is the sleep champion – the most abundant cannabis terpene with powerful sedative and muscle-relaxing properties. Strains high in myrcene (more than 0.5%) create that “sinking into the couch” feeling. Its earthy, musky clove-like scent is a good indicator of sleep potential.
Linalool, also found in lavender (think essential oils for sleep), has well-documented calming effects. Its floral, spicy notes work together with cannabinoids to improve relaxation.
Beta-caryophyllene is special – it’s the only terpene that actually binds to CB2 receptors, potentially reducing anxiety and inflammation with its distinctive peppery aroma.
Terpinolene, common in indica strains, brings sedative properties wrapped in a complex woody, floral scent.
As Dr. Ethan Russo, a respected neurologist and cannabis researcher, explains: “The entourage effect is real. Terpenes work together with cannabinoids to improve therapeutic effects, including sleep promotion.”
When browsing at Terp Bros, always check terpene profiles alongside THC/CBD percentages. This combination creates the “entourage effect” – where compounds work better together than alone.
What strain of cannabis is best for sleeping if anxiety is the culprit
If your sleep problems stem from a racing mind rather than physical discomfort, what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping might look different for you.
High-CBD, low-THC strains often work wonders for anxiety-related sleep issues:
ACDC brings an impressive 20:1 CBD:THC ratio to the table, delivering significant anxiety relief without feeling intoxicated. Many users describe a clear-headed calm that simply allows sleep to arrive naturally.
Harlequin offers a more balanced 5:2 CBD:THC ratio, providing gentle relaxation with just enough mild euphoria to quiet those anxious thoughts without overwhelming effects.
Cannatonic splits the difference with approximately 6-17% CBD and 3-6% THC, offering anxiety relief while minimizing the risk of THC-induced paranoia.
Dr. Anis Rehman, an internal medicine physician, advises: “For my patients with anxiety-induced insomnia, I often recommend starting with a 1:1 or high-CBD ratio product. These formulations can reduce anxiety without the potential paranoia that higher THC might trigger in anxious individuals.”
At Terp Bros, countless customers have found success using these balanced strains about an hour before bedtime, allowing anxiety to naturally subside as sleep approaches.
Product Round-Up: Top 10 Night-Time Strains (2024 Edition)
When sleepless nights have you tossing and turning, finding the right cannabis strain can make all the difference. At Terp Bros, our Queens customers frequently ask us what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping, and we typically guide them toward indica or indica-dominant hybrids. These natural sleep aids have earned their reputation through their deeply relaxing properties. Here’s our carefully curated list of 2024’s most effective sleep-inducing strains:
Granddaddy Purple – “Purple Pillow”
There’s a reason Granddaddy Purple (GDP) has legendary status in the sleep-aid category. With its gorgeous purple buds and distinctive grape-berry aroma, this potent indica delivers a wave of physical relaxation that gently carries you to dreamland.
“GDP is literally my bedfellow for insomnia,” one regular customer told us. “The body high is so complete that I feel like I’m sinking into my mattress, and I’m usually asleep within 20 minutes.”
With 17-27% THC and abundant myrcene and caryophyllene terpenes, GDP creates a mild euphoria that transitions into heavy sedation. It’s perfect for those with moderate cannabis tolerance seeking profound relaxation, but first-timers should approach with caution – start with just a small amount to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Northern Lights – “Aurora Knockout”
Since the 1980s, Northern Lights has been lulling insomniacs to sleep with its earthy pine aroma and dependable sedative effects. This classic indica strain has stood the test of time for good reason.
With 15-22% THC and a terpene profile rich in myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene, Northern Lights delivers immediate relaxation and a peaceful mental state. One long-time customer describes it perfectly: “Northern Lights is the true definition of couch-lock. It melts away my back pain first, then my consciousness. I don’t even remember falling asleep most nights.”
This strain shines particularly bright for those whose sleeplessness is complicated by physical discomfort, effectively addressing both pain and insomnia simultaneously.
Bubba Kush – “Couch-lock Classic”
When sleep seems utterly impossible, Bubba Kush often comes to the rescue. Known for its tranquilizing effects and sweet, earthy flavor profile, this potent indica means business when it comes to sleep.
“Bubba Kush hits you like a truck if you aren’t prepared for its potency,” warns one of our Astoria regulars. “But that’s exactly what I need when insomnia is at its worst.”
Packing 19-25% THC with linalool and myrcene terpenes, Bubba Kush delivers heavy full-body relaxation and mental tranquility. Interestingly, as Bubba Kush flower ages, it tends to develop higher levels of CBN, potentially enhancing its sleep-inducing properties even further.
Blueberry – “Berry Bedtime”
Not every effective sleep strain needs to knock you unconscious immediately. Blueberry offers a gentler approach with its delicious fruity flavor profile and accessible effects, making it a great option for more sensitive users.
With 18-24% THC and a terpene profile featuring myrcene and pinene, Blueberry creates a relaxed happiness that naturally transitions to sleepiness. “Blueberry doesn’t knock me out immediately like some strains,” one Queens customer explained. “Instead, it puts me in such a good mood that I naturally wind down and drift off without the anxiety that usually keeps me awake.”
This strain excels at helping you transition from daytime stress to nighttime relaxation – perfect for those who need help switching gears at the end of a busy day.
Grape Ape – “Fruit-Flavored Lullaby”
With deep purple buds and a sweet grape aroma that matches its name, Grape Ape delivers potent relaxation that’s ideal for evening use. This indica-dominant hybrid has earned a devoted following among those seeking deep, restorative sleep.
Containing 17-23% THC and exceptionally high levels of myrcene alongside caryophyllene, Grape Ape methodically melts away tension. “After a particularly stressful day, Grape Ape is my go-to,” shares a Queens-based customer. “It’s like it systematically removes tension from every muscle, starting with my shoulders and working down until I’m completely relaxed.”
The abundant myrcene in this strain contributes significantly to its effectiveness as a sleep aid.
Hindu Kush – “Heritage Heavyweight”
For those seeking an authentic, unadulterated indica experience, Hindu Kush delivers with authority. This pure landrace strain from the mountainous region between Pakistan and Afghanistan brings deeply sedating effects and an earthy, woody aroma.
With 20-24% THC and a rich terpene profile of myrcene, limonene, and pinene, Hindu Kush creates profound relaxation and a peaceful mental state. “There’s something special about Hindu Kush that feels different from hybrid strains,” notes one customer. “It’s like a weighted blanket for your mind and body – pure comfort and heaviness.”
As a landrace strain, Hindu Kush offers a particularly rich terpene experience that many modern hybrids can’t quite match, creating a full-spectrum effect that sleep-seekers treasure.
ACDC – “Clear-Headed Calm”
Breaking from our high-THC trend, ACDC offers a different approach to better sleep. With 14-20% CBD and minimal 1-6% THC, this strain provides gentle relaxation without significant intoxication – perfect for those who need to remain somewhat alert.
“I need to be functional for my kids if they wake up in the night, so high-THC strains aren’t an option for me,” explains a parent from Astoria. “ACDC helps me relax enough to fall asleep but leaves me clear-headed if I need to wake up.”
With myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene terpenes creating a balanced effect, ACDC stands out for its lack of next-day grogginess, making it ideal for those who need to be alert in the morning.
Harlequin – “Balanced Beam”
Finding the sweet spot between CBD and THC, Harlequin typically offers a 5:2 CBD:THC ratio that provides gentle relaxation without overwhelming psychoactivity. This balanced strain creates subtle effects perfect for those seeking natural sleep without heavy sedation.
“Harlequin doesn’t knock me out, but it removes the barriers that keep me from falling asleep naturally,” reports a customer with anxiety-related insomnia. “It’s like it creates the perfect conditions for sleep to happen on its own.”
With myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene terpenes, Harlequin excels at addressing inflammation-related pain that might otherwise disturb sleep, making it particularly effective for those whose insomnia has physical causes.
Tahoe OG Kush – “Mountain Slumber”
When you need sleep and you need it now, Tahoe OG Kush delivers with its fast-acting effects and powerful sedation. This potent indica-dominant hybrid with its pungent lemony pine aroma works quickly to quiet both mind and body.
Containing 20-25% THC with limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene terpenes, Tahoe OG creates an initial cerebral relaxation followed by heavy body effects. “Tahoe OG is my emergency insomnia medicine,” says one long-time customer. “When I absolutely must get to sleep quickly, this is my go-to. I rarely make it through a full movie after using this strain.”
The rapid onset makes Tahoe OG particularly valuable for those nights when you’re already sleep-deprived and need immediate relief.
Girl Scout Cookies – “Sweet Sedation”
This popular hybrid offers a complete evening experience, beginning with uplifting euphoria before transitioning to deep physical relaxation. Its sweet, dessert-like flavor profile makes medication feel like a treat.
With an impressive 25-28% THC content and caryophyllene, limonene, and humulene terpenes, Girl Scout Cookies creates a complex effect that unfolds over time. “I like to use Girl Scout Cookies about two hours before bedtime,” explains a customer from Jackson Heights. “The first hour is uplifting and helps me decompress from the day, then the second hour gets increasingly relaxing until I’m ready for bed.”
The high THC content makes this strain best suited for experienced cannabis users who understand their tolerance levels.
Choosing Your Ideal Bedtime Buddy
When determining what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping for your unique needs, several factors come into play:
Personal Factors:
- Tolerance: How sensitive are you to THC? New users should start with lower THC options.
- Metabolism: How quickly does your body process cannabinoids? This affects onset time and duration.
- Medical history: Certain conditions may influence how you respond to specific strains.
- Sleep issue: Is your insomnia related to pain, anxiety, or something else?
Product Considerations:
- Indica vs. hybrid: Pure indicas typically provide stronger sedation, while some hybrids offer a more balanced experience.
- Terpene profile: Look for products high in myrcene, linalool, and caryophyllene.
- THC:CBD ratio: Higher THC for stronger sedation; higher CBD for gentler effects with less intoxication.
- Consumption method: Different methods offer varying onset times and durations.
At Terp Bros, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of Indica Cannabis Strains specifically selected for their sleep-promoting properties. Our budtenders are trained to help you steer these options based on your individual needs.
New to cannabis? Start low, go slow
If you’re new to using cannabis for sleep, we recommend starting with a conservative approach:
- Begin with micro-doses: 2.5mg of THC is a good starting point for most beginners.
- Consider balanced products: 1:1 or high-CBD ratios can provide relaxation with minimal intoxication.
- Try tinctures for precise dosing: Products like our Head Heal Tincture Sleep 1:2:2 THC:CBD:CBN 300mg allow for exact measurement.
- Give it time: Effects may take 30-90 minutes depending on consumption method.
“I always tell first-timers that finding your ideal sleep strain is a journey, not a destination,” says our lead budtender at Terp Bros. “What works for your friend might not work for you, and that’s completely normal.”
Veteran user seeking stronger knockout?
For experienced cannabis consumers with higher tolerance levels:
- High-THC indicas: Strains like Granddaddy Purple, Bubba Kush, or Tahoe OG may provide the potency you need.
- Consider aged flower: Older cannabis develops higher CBN levels, enhancing sedative effects.
- Explore concentrate options: These provide higher cannabinoid concentrations for powerful effects.
- Implement tolerance breaks: Taking occasional breaks from cannabis can help maintain its effectiveness.
“Even veteran users should practice moderation,” cautions our dispensary manager. “Tolerance builds quickly with nightly use, potentially diminishing sleep benefits over time.”
Best Ways to Consume for Sleep Success
The method you choose to consume cannabis significantly impacts its sleep-inducing effects. Each consumption method offers different onset times, durations, and intensities:
Smoking & Vaping: quick lights-out
Onset time: 2-10 minutes
Duration: 2-3 hours
Best for: Rapid sleep onset
Inhaling cannabis through smoking or vaping delivers cannabinoids directly to your bloodstream through the lungs, providing the fastest relief from insomnia. This method is ideal when you need immediate help falling asleep.
Advantages:
– Quickest onset of all consumption methods
– Easier to titrate dose (you can stop when you feel effects)
– Full spectrum of terpenes available (especially with vaping)
Considerations:
– Shorter duration may not help with staying asleep
– Potential respiratory concerns with smoking (vaping is gentler)
– Odor may be a concern in shared living spaces
“For customers with severe sleep onset issues, I often recommend vaping a indica-dominant strain about 10-15 minutes before they want to be asleep,” explains our Terp Bros budtender. “The effects align perfectly with bedtime when timed correctly.”
Edibles & Drinks: all-night coverage
Onset time: 30-120 minutes
Duration: 6-8 hours
Best for: Staying asleep through the night
Edibles like gummies, chocolates, and beverages provide long-lasting effects that can help you maintain sleep throughout the night. The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which produces stronger and longer-lasting effects.
Advantages:
– Extended duration covers a full night’s sleep
– No respiratory concerns
– Discreet consumption
– Precise dosing (pre-measured products)
Considerations:
– Delayed onset requires advance planning
– Effects can be stronger than expected
– Harder to adjust dose once consumed
Products like our 1:1 Dark Chocolate Mini Bar Sleepy Indica CBN:THC combine the sedative properties of THC with CBN for improved sleep support lasting throughout the night.
“I recommend taking edibles about 1-2 hours before bedtime on an empty stomach,” suggests our sleep specialist at Terp Bros. “This timing allows the effects to begin just as you’re getting into bed.”
Sublingual Tinctures & Tablets: precision dosing
Onset time: 15-30 minutes
Duration: 4-6 hours
Best for: Precise dosing and balanced duration
Sublingual products are placed under the tongue, where they’re absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This provides a middle ground between the rapid onset of inhalation and the long duration of edibles.
Advantages:
– Faster onset than edibles
– Precise, adjustable dosing
– Longer duration than smoking/vaping
– Discreet and convenient
Considerations:
– May have slight taste
– Requires holding liquid under tongue for 60-90 seconds
– Effects may be milder than other methods
Products like our Protab Lights Out 5 Tablets offer convenient, precise dosing specifically formulated for sleep.
“Tinctures are my top recommendation for new users,” says our Astoria store manager. “The ability to precisely control your dose—down to the single milligram—makes finding your sweet spot much easier.”
Research on cannabis bioavailability shows significant differences between consumption methods. A scientific study on cannabis bioavailability found that inhaled cannabis can have up to 56% bioavailability, while oral consumption typically ranges from 4-20%. This explains why smaller doses are effective when smoking or vaping compared to edibles.
Risks, Tolerance, and Smart Use
While cannabis can be effective for sleep, it’s important to understand potential risks and develop sustainable usage patterns:
Potential Concerns:
-
REM Sleep Suppression: THC reduces REM sleep, the phase where dreaming occurs. While this may benefit those with nightmares, long-term REM suppression could potentially impact memory and mood regulation.
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Tolerance Development: Regular use can lead to diminished effects over time, requiring higher doses for the same benefits.
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Dependency Risk: About 9% of cannabis users develop dependence, which can manifest as withdrawal symptoms when stopping use.
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Withdrawal Insomnia: Ironically, stopping regular cannabis use can temporarily worsen insomnia as your body readjusts.
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Drug Interactions: Cannabis may interact with other medications, including other sleep aids.
“Cannabis is a tool in your sleep toolkit, not a silver bullet,” cautions Dr. Rehman. “It works best when combined with good sleep hygiene practices and addressing underlying causes of insomnia.”
Is nightly use safe?
Research on long-term nightly cannabis use for sleep is still developing. However, sleep specialists generally recommend:
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Rotating strains: Using different strains can help prevent tolerance to specific cannabinoid profiles.
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Taking breaks: Occasional cannabis-free nights help reset your endocannabinoid system.
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Combining with sleep hygiene: Use cannabis alongside practices like regular sleep schedules, blue light reduction, and bedroom environment optimization.
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Consulting healthcare providers: Especially important if you have existing health conditions or take other medications.
“We see the best results when customers use cannabis as part of a holistic sleep strategy,” explains our Terp Bros wellness coordinator. “The customers who maintain the most consistent benefits are those who use cannabis strategically rather than habitually.”
Can you get a medical card for insomnia?
In New York, chronic insomnia alone is not specifically listed as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis. However, many conditions that can cause insomnia are qualifying, including:
- Chronic pain
- PTSD
- Multiple sclerosis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Neuropathy
If you’re considering medical cannabis for sleep, consulting with a healthcare provider familiar with cannabis medicine is the best first step. They can help determine if your specific situation might qualify under New York’s medical program.
Frequently Asked Questions about what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping
What strain of cannabis is best for sleeping if I’m a first-timer?
If you’re new to cannabis, diving into the deep end isn’t the best approach. Think of it like learning to swim – you start in the shallow end, not the ocean.
For newcomers, I always recommend starting with gentle, CBD-dominant options:
Harlequin offers a balanced experience with its CBD:THC ratio that soothes without overwhelming. Many of our first-time customers love how it creates a subtle blanket of calm without feeling “high.”
ACDC is another excellent starter choice. With its impressive 14-20% CBD content and minimal THC (just 1-6%), it’s like the training wheels of cannabis sleep aids – supportive, but not taking over the ride.
Cannatonic splits the difference with moderate CBD levels (6-17%) and gentle THC presence (3-6%), offering a middle-ground option.
“When I tried cannabis for sleep the first time, I was nervous about feeling too intoxicated,” shares Maria from Astoria. “The budtender recommended ACDC, and it was perfect – just enough relaxation to help me fall asleep naturally.”
Remember the golden rule: start with a micro-dose (2.5mg THC or less) and wait at least two hours before considering more. You might be surprised how effective a tiny amount can be when your system is cannabis-naive.
What strain of cannabis is best for sleeping when pain keeps me awake?
Pain and sleep make difficult bedfellows. When aches are what’s keeping you staring at the ceiling, you need something that addresses both issues simultaneously.
Northern Lights has earned its legendary status for good reason. This classic indica targets pain while wrapping you in a cozy blanket of sedation. As one regular from Woodside tells us: “For my chronic back pain, nothing works like Northern Lights. It’s the difference between tossing and turning all night and getting solid sleep.”
Tahoe OG works wonders for those stubborn, deep-seated pains. Its powerful one-two punch tackles discomfort first, then guides you gently into dreamland.
Hindu Kush, with its pure indica lineage, excels at melting physical tension while quieting a pain-distracted mind.
For balanced relief, consider a 1:1 THC:CBD product. The CBD improves THC’s pain-fighting properties while keeping the mental effects manageable – particularly helpful if pain makes you anxious too.
How long before bed should I take my chosen sleep strain?
Timing is everything when it comes to cannabis and sleep. Think of it like baking cookies – you want them coming out of the oven at exactly the right moment.
For vaping or smoking, light up about 10-15 minutes before you want to be drifting off. The effects appear almost immediately, so this method gives you just enough time to brush your teeth, wash your face, and get comfortable.
If you’re using sublingual products like tinctures or dissolving tablets, take them 30-45 minutes before bedtime. This gives the cannabinoids time to enter your bloodstream through the tissues under your tongue.
With edibles or capsules, you’ll need more lead time – about 1-2 hours before bed on an empty stomach, or 2-3 hours after eating. Digestion takes time, and the liver’s processing creates a slower onset but longer-lasting effect.
“Everyone’s metabolism is different,” explains Jeremy, our head budtender. “I recommend keeping a simple sleep journal when you start out. Note what you took, when you took it, and how it affected your sleep. After a week or two, patterns emerge that help you nail down your perfect timing.”
At Terp Bros, we’re passionate about helping our Queens community find better sleep through cannabis. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest research so we can guide you to the right products for your specific needs.
We deliver throughout Queens – from Astoria to Jackson Heights, Woodside to Elmhurst, Sunnyside and beyond. Browse our flower selection online or stop by our store for a chat about what strain of cannabis is best for sleeping for your unique situation.
Finding your perfect sleep strain might take some experimentation, but we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Sweet dreams are closer than you think!
