With cannabis being either medically or recreationally legal in over 30 states, public perception of the plant is experiencing a paradigm shift. Yet, those who choose to consume still face the risk of being associated with some very wrong assumptions, or "stoner stigmas," usually born out of a lack of information on the topic. One of the more common stigmas that consumers face is the idea that weed makes you lazy, or the "couch potato" myth. While it's not completely incorrect that there are some strains out there that will make you sink to the bottom of the couch, the truth of the matter is this isn't a blanket effect applicable to all cannabis, or even all cannabis users. There are even strains that give you energy.

lazy stoner iStock / KatarzynaBialasiewicz

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Effects Will Vary By Strain

So you’re probably thinking: I knew that! Indica makes you sleepy and Sativa wakes you up! The truth, though, is not that simple. Thanks to underground crossbreeding, nearly every strain now is a hybrid. Given this fact, it would then be more appropriate and accurate to describe a strain as Indica-Dominant or Sativa-Dominant, rather than simply Indica or Sativa.

Of course, keeping this in mind, if you’re looking for a high that will give you energy, it’s best to steer clear of Indica-Dominant strains and shift your focus more towards Sativa-dominant strains.

Remember Chemical Composition Matters, Too

The cannabinoids and terpenes found in cannabis matter, and their ratios of each of these elements matter, too.

The two most well-known cannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (commonly known as THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for producing the psychoactive effects brought on by the cannabis plant, while CBD is the most prevalent non-psychoactive cannabinoid. We also can’t forget botanical terpenes and terpenoids! These are diverse classes of organic and naturally occurring chemicals that give plants their aromatic properties. These also play a huge role in herbal and homeopathic remedies.

Each cannabis strain contains different amounts and ratios of cannabinoids, terpenes, and terpenoids. This is why different strains produce different effects. It’s been said to avoid strains with a high content of Myrcene if you want to experience an energetic boost from your cannabis. Of course, it should be noted that the precise mechanisms and chemical synergies are still not fully understood at this time for why certain weed makes you more energetic.

A macro of a cannabis flower showing the thichomes iStock / Jack Deagon

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Okay, So What Strains Will Give Me Energy?

Good question! The answer lives on The WikiLeaf Database, where you can select the qualities and effects you’re looking for from your cannabis. Below, we’ve outlined six different strains that are excellent energy boosters.

Blue Dream

Blue Dream is a potent cross between Blueberry and Haze. Blue Dream is a slightly sativa-dominant strain. Blue Dream has a relatively high THC content that averages as low as 17 percent and as high as 24 percent. As far as CBD goes, Blue Dream can reach a level of two percent. For CBN levels, it reaches one percent.

Blue dream tastes like blueberry and sugar. Blue Dream is also great for treating anxiety, depression and pain.

Casey Jones

Casey Jones is (surprise!) a Sativa-dominant strain. It was named after a famous train conductor who spent the last minutes of his life saving passengers on his train. Casey Jones provides a euphoric, energetic high. Some note feeling creative and introspective as well.

Casey Jones is a great strain for the morning time. Casey Jones is also great for helping treat symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress related disorders.

Chronic

Chronic is sometimes used as a general term for cannabis, but in this case, it is a particular strain. is a cross between three strains:

  • AK-47
  • Northern Lights
  • Skunk #1

Chronic provides a well-rounded high. Its THC content varies between 10 percent and 20 percent. CBD is also present in this strain, with levels ranging from one percent to 13 percent.

Chronic’s effects take hold quickly and is best enjoyed in the evening hours or before going to bed. The high from Chronic is known to be long-lasting, sometimes even up to six hours.

Chronic is also great for treating depression, anxiety, ADHD and for women’s health concerns.

Khalifa Kush

Khalifa Kush is, you guessed it, Wiz Khalifa’s brand of cannabis. Khalifa Kush, sometimes known as KK, is an Indica-dominant hybrid (80/20 Indica) with insane THC levels, regularly testing between 26 and 29 percent. Its CBD content is about 2 percent.

Khalifa Kush is known for its stimulating effects and is best for a morning smoke session. It’s also great for midday. Breeders specifically designed this strain for uplifting cerebral effects as well as a relaxing body effect.

If you’re new or a lightweight, proceed to this strain with caution; it’s potent!

Lemon Haze

You’ve probably heard of Lemon Haze before! It’s a popular Sativa-dominant hybrid strain. Its parents are sativa hybrid Silver Haze and Lemon Skunk. It has a distinct citrus flavor. It also produces a long-lasting, well-balanced high. Both indica and sativa fans will appreciate this bud.

Lemon Haze is known for its creeping high, often requiring several minutes before striking. Furthermore, Lemon Haze has a number of medical benefits as well. It helps with moderate stress and depression and is also known for assisting in relieving nausea. It is also an excellent strain for helping to combat pain.

Pineapple Haze

Pineapple Haze is a sativa-dominant strain that produces buzzy, cerebral effects. This flavor-focused strain is a cross between Pineapple and Haze.

Pineapple Haze is excellent for a daytime smoke for work or for enjoying some active leisure time. This strain THC content has been measured at between 15 percent and 22 percent.

Besides energy, Pineapple Haze is great for migraines, depression, loss of appetite, ADHD and anxiety. It is known to produce effects such as enhanced creativity, energy, focus, and euhporia.