19 Weed Strains Used for Treating Muscle Spasms & Pain (That MMJ Patients Swear By)

Key Takeaways

Recent clinical trials show cannabis extract is twice as effective as placebo for muscle stiffness – 29.8% of patients report significant improvement with cannabis vs. 15.7% with placebo Indica strains are scientifically proven better for muscle relaxation and pain management – but a lot of anecdotal evidence confirms this, as well. CBD-rich strains provide relief without heavy psychoactive effects Modern consumption methods offer precise dosing and faster relief than ever

Living with muscle spasms can be more than just uncomfortable – it can completely derail your daily life.

Especially when these involuntary muscle contractions stem from underlying conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, or chronic pain disorders.

Here’s some good news: relief might be just a strain away.

Science is finally catching up to what patients have known for years. A major clinical study found that cannabis extract relieved muscle stiffness in just under 30% of patients compared to just under 16% of those given placebo – that’s nearly double the effectiveness.

And you don’t have to smoke anymore if that’s not your thing. The market has exploded with options: precision vaporizers, microdose edibles, targeted topicals, and even cannabis dabs. The WHO estimates that 12 million individuals worldwide live with painful muscle spasticity, and more doctors than ever are prescribing cannabis as a first-line treatment.

Before we dive into the 19 best strains for muscle cramps and spasms, let’s look at when and why cannabis works so damn well for this stuff.

Cannabis as a Muscle Relaxant – When & Why It Actually Works

Here’s the deal: Muscle spasms happen when a muscle involuntarily contracts and can’t relax. This disruption in communication between the brain and muscles often results from damage or dysfunction in the nervous system.

The new science is pretty wild. Cannabis cannabinoids like THC bind with cannabinoid receptors within the human endocannabinoid system to reduce levels of inflammatory proteins. Lower inflammatory proteins = suppressed spasm response.

Cannabis works for muscle spasms through several mechanisms:

How Cannabis Helps	The Science
Muscle Relaxation	THC binds to CB1 receptors, reducing muscle tension
Anti-Inflammatory	CBD reduces inflammatory proteins that trigger spasms
Pain Relief	Both THC and CBD have analgesic properties
Improved Sleep	Better rest = better muscle recovery
Neuroprotection	May protect nerve function over time

But here’s the important part: Your doctor won’t typically consider cannabis unless your condition causes chronic, debilitating pain. Over 80% of patients with cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis experience muscle spasticity, and these patients usually qualify for medical marijuana cards more easily than those with occasional muscle cramps.

What the Latest Research Actually Says

The research landscape has completely changed since we first wrote this guide. We’re not just relying on anecdotal evidence anymore.

Major Clinical Findings:

• Multiple Sclerosis Studies: In a 15-week controlled trial, 61% of participants on cannabis extract reported improvement in spasticity, compared to 46% on placebo. Patients also showed improvement in walking time, pain relief, and sleep quality.
• 500-Patient Study: In one of the largest studies to date, more than half of 500 participants reported greater than 20% improvement in spasticity after just one month of treatment with synthetic cannabinoids.
• Professional Sports Recognition: The World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from its list of banned substances in 2018, and professional athletes are increasingly turning to cannabis for muscle recovery and anti-inflammatory benefits.

What This Means for You:

• Cannabis isn’t just “alternative medicine” anymore – it’s evidence-based treatment
• The medical community is on board – more doctors are prescribing than ever
• Insurance coverage is expanding in many states for qualifying conditions

19 Best Cannabis Strains for Muscle Spasms & Pain

Important note: Everyone reacts differently to cannabis strains. Start low, go slow, and consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment.

Indica-Dominant Strains (Best for Evening/Night Use)

1. Northern Lights

The OG muscle relaxer

THC: 16-21% | CBD: <1% | Type: 95% Indica

Northern Lights remains the gold standard for muscle relief. This strain contains high levels of myrcene, a terpene known for its sedative properties that contribute to reduced muscle spasms.

Why it works: The substantial THC level creates a full-body high that’s perfect for melting away muscle tension. Expect deep relaxation and likely couch-lock.

• Expected potency: High – strong body effects with minimal cerebral activity
• Flavor and smell: Sweet, earthy, with hints of pine and spice
• Expected effects: Deep relaxation, sedation, pain relief, appetite stimulation
• Best used with: Evening meals, meditation, gentle stretching
• Daytime/nighttime: Nighttime only

2. Afghan Kush

Pure mountain medicine

THC: 17-20% | CBD: Up to 6% | Type: 95% Indica

Afghan Kush is rich in the terpenes myrcene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene, which have been shown to have analgesic properties and give the strain a spicy, citrusy aroma.

Updated 2025 info: Recent testing shows some phenotypes hitting 6% CBD, making this a surprisingly balanced option for muscle relief without overwhelming psychoactive effects.

Best for: Evening use, muscle spasms with inflammation, beginners who want potent relief.

• Expected potency: High – powerful body stone with clear mental effects initially
• Flavor and smell: Earthy, pine, with spicy and citrus undertones
• Expected effects: Heavy body relaxation, anti-inflammatory relief, mild euphoria
• Best used with: Hot baths, gentle massage, relaxation techniques
• Daytime/nighttime: Evening to nighttime

3. Granddaddy Purple (GDP)

The purple powerhouse

THC: 20-27% | CBD: <1% | Type: Indica-dominant

Known for its high THC content and potent effects, this indica strain can be particularly effective for muscle spasticity and chronic pain. Its calming effects are perfect for those struggling with severe muscle spasms.

What’s new: GDP has become a favorite among MS patients specifically for its ability to address multiple symptoms at once – spasms, pain, and sleep issues.

Best for: Severe chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, end-of-day relief.

• Expected potency: Very High – intense body effects with strong sedation
• Flavor and smell: Sweet berry, grape, with floral undertones
• Expected effects: Deep muscle relaxation, euphoria, sleepiness, appetite boost
• Best used with: Comfortable seating, calming music, bedtime routine
• Daytime/nighttime: Nighttime only

4. Blackberry Kush

Sweet relief

THC: 16-20% | CBD: <1% | Type: Indica-dominant

2025 update: Another solution ideal for chronic pain and muscle spasms, Blackberry Kush offers a fruity aroma and a potent body high. Patients report that its effects are particularly good for muscle spasms that interfere with sleep.

Best for: Bedtime use, taste-sensitive patients, chronic nighttime spasms.

• Expected potency: High – strong body relaxation with mild cerebral effects
• Flavor and smell: Sweet berries, earthy undertones, slight diesel notes
• Expected effects: Body heaviness, pain relief, drowsiness, mood elevation
• Best used with: Pre-sleep routines, comfortable environment, light snacks
• Daytime/nighttime: Evening to nighttime

5. Purple Urkle

The mysterious relaxer

THC: 18-21% | CBD: <1% | Type: Indica

Despite its mysterious origins, Purple Urkle has earned a reputation for delivering serious body relaxation. The fruity, skunky aroma is just a bonus.

Best for: Full-body muscle tension, stress-related spasms, evening use.

• Expected potency: High – potent body effects with calming mental state
• Flavor and smell: Fruity, skunky, with grape and berry notes
• Expected effects: Full-body relaxation, stress relief, sleepiness, pain reduction
• Best used with: Relaxation activities, gentle movement, wind-down routines
• Daytime/nighttime: Evening to nighttime

Hybrid Strains (Balanced Day/Night Options)

6. Blue Dream

The versatile champion

THC: 17-24% | CBD: 2% | CBN: 1% | Type: 60% Sativa/40% Indica

When it comes to muscle relaxation, Blue Dream is believed to be one of the best medical marijuana strains to try. The strain’s hybrid genetics may promote relaxation and relief of muscle tension while helping reduce the frequency and severity of muscle spasms.

Why it’s special: Blue Dream contains higher-than-average levels of both CBD and CBN, making it more therapeutically valuable than many hybrids.

Best for: Daytime relief, active patients, first-time medical users.

• Expected potency: Moderate to High – balanced effects allowing functionality
• Flavor and smell: Sweet berries, vanilla, with earthy and floral notes
• Expected effects: Gentle euphoria, muscle relaxation, creativity, focus
• Best used with: Light physical activity, creative work, social situations
• Daytime/nighttime: All-day use, especially morning to afternoon

7. White Widow

The balanced powerhouse

THC: 18-25% | CBD: <1% | Type: Sativa-dominant hybrid

White Widow is a popular medical cannabis strain due to its energizing and mood-lifting qualities, and it’s reported to be an excellent strain for muscle spasms. It contains excellent anti-inflammatory terpenes like 3-carene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene.

2025 insight: Perfect for patients who need muscle relief but can’t afford to be sedated during the day.

Best for: Morning/daytime use, work-day relief, active lifestyles.

• Expected potency: High – energizing yet relaxing, functional high
• Flavor and smell: Earthy, woody, with pine and spicy pepper notes
• Expected effects: Mental clarity, physical relaxation, mood boost, pain relief
• Best used with: Work activities, exercise, social engagement
• Daytime/nighttime: Morning to early evening

8. Cherry Pie

The mood lifter

THC: 16-20% | CBD: <1% | Type: Hybrid

A cross between Durban Poison and Granddaddy Purple, Cherry Pie offers gentle physical relaxation while keeping your spirits up.

Anti-inflammatory boost: Cherry Pie’s genetics give it solid anti-inflammatory properties, great for reducing swelling and stiffness.

Best for: Stress-related muscle tension, mood disorders with physical symptoms.

• Expected potency: Moderate – balanced effects with gentle onset
• Flavor and smell: Sweet cherry, earthy, with subtle spice and herb notes
• Expected effects: Mood elevation, gentle relaxation, creativity, mild pain relief
• Best used with: Social activities, light exercise, creative pursuits
• Daytime/nighttime: Afternoon to early evening

9. OG Kush

The California classic

THC: 20-26% | CBN: 1% | Type: Slightly sativa-dominant

OG Kush contains about 1% cannabinol (CBN), a minor cannabinoid that has shown promise for muscle conditions.

Why CBN matters: Recent research suggests CBN may be particularly effective for muscle relaxation and sleep, making OG Kush more therapeutic than its THC content alone would suggest.

Best for: Evening use, chronic pain, sleep-related muscle issues.

• Expected potency: High – strong effects with complex cannabinoid profile
• Flavor and smell: Citrus, pine, earthy, with fuel and spice undertones
• Expected effects: Euphoria, deep relaxation, pain relief, sleepiness
• Best used with: Relaxation time, pre-sleep routine, pain management
• Daytime/nighttime: Evening to nighttime

10. Blue Widow

The balanced blend

THC: 15-20% | CBD: <1% | Type: Balanced hybrid

A cross between Blueberry and White Widow, this strain delivers relaxing body effects without overwhelming sedation.

Best for: Balanced relief, moderate spasticity, versatile use.

• Expected potency: Moderate to High – well-balanced effects
• Flavor and smell: Sweet blueberry, earthy, with hints of spice
• Expected effects: Balanced euphoria, muscle relaxation, mental clarity
• Best used with: Various activities, microdosing protocols
• Daytime/nighttime: All-day versatility

CBD-Rich Strains (Low Psychoactive Effects)

11. CBD Critical Mass

The therapeutic heavyweight

THC: 5-6% | CBD: 5-6% | Type: Indica-dominant

Perfect 1:1 ratio: This strain offers significant muscle relief without heavy psychoactive effects. The substantial CBD content battles neuropathic pain effectively, while its anti-inflammatory traits help lessen swelling and ease stiffness.

Best for: Beginners, workplace-friendly relief, neuropathic pain.

• Expected potency: Low psychoactive, High therapeutic – minimal impairment
• Flavor and smell: Earthy, citrus, with sweet and skunky undertones
• Expected effects: Pain relief, anti-inflammatory, mild relaxation, clear-headed
• Best used with: Work activities, daily routines, medical protocols
• Daytime/nighttime: All-day use

12. Cannatonic

The gentle giant

THC: 6-7% | CBD: 6-17% | Type: Balanced hybrid

Cannatonic is celebrated for its mild, relaxing effects, which can significantly help calm muscle spasms without leaving you overly sedated. Its CBD content can effectively tackle neuropathic pain, while the THC component helps ease physical discomfort.

2025 update: New phenotypes are testing even higher in CBD, some reaching 17%, making this an incredibly therapeutic option.

Best for: New users, daytime relief, anxiety with muscle tension.

• Expected potency: Very Low psychoactive, Very High therapeutic
• Flavor and smell: Citrus, pine, earthy, with subtle floral notes
• Expected effects: Calm alertness, pain relief, anxiety reduction, muscle relaxation
• Best used with: Daily activities, meditation, gentle exercise
• Daytime/nighttime: Excellent for all-day use

13. ACDC

The clear-headed healer

THC: 1-6% | CBD: 20%+ | Type: Sativa-dominant

The CBD champion: ACDC’s high CBD content makes it a powerful tool for combating neuropathic pain while keeping your mind completely clear.

Best for: Work hours, driving patients, pure therapeutic relief.

• Expected potency: Minimal psychoactive, Maximum therapeutic
• Flavor and smell: Sweet, earthy, with cherry and pine undertones
• Expected effects: Clear-headed relief, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective
• Best used with: Professional activities, driving, cognitive tasks
• Daytime/nighttime: Perfect for daytime use

14. Harlequin

The balanced performer

THC: 7-15% | CBD: 8-16% | Type: Sativa-dominant

5:2 CBD to THC ratio: Harlequin’s balanced ratios mitigate THC’s potential paranoia while enhancing its analgesic benefits, making it excellent for pain relief without a heavy high.

Best for: Daytime relief, anxiety-prone patients, functional medication.

• Expected potency: Low to Moderate psychoactive, High therapeutic
• Flavor and smell: Mango, citrus, earthy, with musky undertones
• Expected effects: Alert relaxation, pain relief, mood stability, focus
• Best used with: Work, social activities, active recovery
• Daytime/nighttime: Ideal for daytime use

15. Suzy Q

The non-psychoactive option

THC: <1% | CBD: 11-13% | Type: Indica-dominant

If you want a strain that addresses muscle spasms but doesn’t get you high, Suzy Q is one of your best bets.

Best for: Zero tolerance for THC, workplace use, elderly patients.

• Expected potency: No psychoactive effects, Moderate therapeutic
• Flavor and smell: Floral, cherry, earthy, with subtle spice
• Expected effects: Pure therapeutic relief, no impairment, anti-inflammatory
• Best used with: Any daily activity, professional settings, sensitive users
• Daytime/nighttime: Suitable for any time

Sativa-Dominant Strains (Energizing Relief)

16. Jack Herer

The legendary activist

THC: 15-24% | CBD: <1% | Type: Sativa-dominant

Named after the cannabis activist, Jack Herer delivers a balanced blend of cerebral and physical effects. You can ease muscle discomfort while enjoying a creative, energizing high.

Best for: Daytime use, creative work, functional relief.

• Expected potency: High – energizing yet therapeutic
• Flavor and smell: Pine, spice, citrus, with earthy and floral notes
• Expected effects: Mental stimulation, creativity, mild muscle relaxation, euphoria
• Best used with: Creative work, brainstorming, light physical activity
• Daytime/nighttime: Morning to afternoon

17. Chocolope

The tasty energizer

THC: 18-19% | CBD: <1% | Type: Sativa

This strain charms with coffee and chocolate flavors while delivering invigorating effects. Perfect for relieving muscle tension without the risk of falling asleep.

Best for: Morning use, taste enthusiasts, productive days.

• Expected potency: High – stimulating with functional muscle relief
• Flavor and smell: Coffee, chocolate, earthy, with sweet undertones
• Expected effects: Energy boost, focus, mild muscle relaxation, mood elevation
• Best used with: Morning routines, work tasks, physical activity
• Daytime/nighttime: Morning to early afternoon

18. Super Sour Diesel

The motivating medicine

THC: 20-24% | CBD: <1% | Type: Sativa-dominant

Known for energizing and uplifting effects, this strain helps muscles relax while keeping your mind active and focused.

Best for: Busy schedules, motivational boost, active recovery.

• Expected potency: Very High – intense cerebral with functional body relief
• Flavor and smell: Diesel, citrus, pungent, with herbal and skunky notes
• Expected effects: High energy, mental clarity, motivation, muscle tension relief
• Best used with: Demanding tasks, exercise, problem-solving activities
• Daytime/nighttime: Morning to mid-afternoon

19. Green Crack

The energizing paradox

THC: 15-24% | CBD: <1% | Type: Sativa-dominant

Despite its intense name, Green Crack is fantastic for muscle spasms while providing energy to stay active and mobile.

Best for: Fatigue with muscle pain, mobility issues, active lifestyles.

• Expected potency: High – very energizing with surprising muscle benefits
• Flavor and smell: Citrus, tropical fruit, sweet, with earthy undertones
• Expected effects: Intense energy, focus, alertness, mobility enhancement
• Best used with: Physical activities, demanding schedules, fatigue management
• Daytime/nighttime: Morning to early afternoon only

Modern Consumption Methods: Beyond Smoking

The game has completely changed. Edibles take 30-90 minutes to work but provide longer-lasting relief, while tinctures placed under the tongue work almost immediately. You can also explore vaping strains rich with both THC and CBD for more controlled dosing.

Best Methods for Muscle Spasms:

Method	Onset Time	Duration	Best For
Vaporizing	1-5 minutes	2-4 hours	Fast relief, precise dosing
Sublingual Tinctures	15-30 minutes	4-6 hours	Discreet, consistent dosing
Edibles	30-90 minutes	6-8 hours	Long-lasting relief, sleep
Topicals	15-30 minutes	2-4 hours	Localized relief, no high
Capsules	30-90 minutes	6-8 hours	Precise dosing, medical feel

Dosing Guidelines for 2025: Start Low, Go Slow: Always start with a low dose, typically between 2.5 to 5 mg of THC for edibles, to avoid overconsumption.

For Muscle Spasms Specifically:

• New users: 2.5-5mg THC or 10-20mg CBD
• Experienced users: 5-15mg THC with equal or higher CBD
• Severe chronic conditions: Work with a doctor for higher doses

Timing Matters: Take a low dose and wait at least 45-90 minutes before taking more. Set a timer. Both doses will kick in later if you don’t wait.

What Makes These Strains So Effective?

The Cannabinoid Factor:

• THC: THC has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiemetic properties, making it valuable for managing pain, nausea, and muscle spasms.
• CBD: Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a euphoric high and is prized for its anxiolytic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Minor Cannabinoids: CBN has shown promise for muscle conditions, while CBG is being researched for its potential muscle-relaxing properties.

Terpene Profile Matters: Myrcene is renowned for its sedative effects, making it particularly effective for easing muscle tension. Limonene can help reduce muscle spasms and pain while providing mood-enhancing properties.

Key Terpenes for Muscle Relief:

• Myrcene: Sedative, muscle-relaxing
• Linalool: Anti-inflammatory, calming
• Beta-caryophyllene: Pain relief, anti-inflammatory
• Limonene: Mood enhancement, spasm reduction

Safety and Considerations

Potential Side Effects: Cannabis can have side effects such as psychoactive effects (THC can cause euphoria, dizziness, and confusion), drowsiness and fatigue.

Important Interactions: Ask your doctor before using cannabis if you’re taking prescription muscle relaxers or other medications. Cannabis may interact with certain medications by enhancing their effects or impacting how they break down.

Quality Matters: Look for products that have been lab-tested for potency and contaminants. This can help you make informed decisions about dosage and avoid adulterants that might contribute to spasms. Word of warning – since vaped weed can have a stronger (or at least, more immediate) effect, proceed with caution if you’re using a vaporizer.

The Bottom Line: Cannabis Works, But Do It Right

Living with muscle spasms doesn’t have to define your life. The research is clear: cannabis extract provides relief at twice the rate of placebo, and we finally have the strains, products, and consumption methods to deliver that relief safely and effectively.

Here’s my advice:

• Start with a CBD-rich strain like Cannatonic or Harlequin if you’re new to cannabis
• Work with a doctor who understands cannabis medicine
• Keep a journal of what works and what doesn’t
• Consider your lifestyle – indica for nighttime, sativa for daytime, hybrids for flexibility
• Experiment with consumption methods – vaping for fast relief, edibles for long-lasting effects

The most important thing? You don’t have to suffer in silence anymore. Cannabis isn’t just “alternative medicine” – it’s proven, effective treatment that’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.

Whether you’re dealing with MS-related spasticity, post-workout muscle cramps, or chronic pain conditions, there’s likely a strain and consumption method that can help you reclaim your comfort and mobility.

Ready to experience these strains at their therapeutic best? The Kind Pen’s precision vaporizers ensure you’re getting consistent, effective doses every time – because when you’re treating a medical condition, reliability matters.