Not surprisingly, different strains of weed influence the kind of buzz you get. If you’re rushing to finish a project, you might prefer mind-clearing cannabis strains to help you focus. If you’re exhausted after a tiring day, you might consider something that will make you feel fully at ease and relaxed.
What we just mentioned is a description of the difference between a body high and a head high after smoking weed. Depending on what experience you want to get out of the strain, both could be beneficial, especially if you consume indica or sativa medicinally.
How exactly do you know which type of high suits you? Which products are right for you? Read along to find out!

The Difference Between a Body High and a Head High
To easily distinguish and explain the main difference between a body high on weed and a head high on weed, let’s refresh our memories and go back to the basics: the old indica vs. sativa debate.
Sativa strains are tall plants generally characterized by thin, fan-like leaves. You might want to consumeingest this strain if you have plans to socialize or to finish a task. Indica plants are shorter, with broader, darker leaves. It often brings a nighttime buzz, or a “couch-lock” effect, which is described as a pleasant feeling before you finally give in and fall asleep. Hybrid strains, or the product of masterful cross-breeding of both, offer a combination of effects.
While it is common knowledge that sativa strains are head-high weed, and indica dominant strains tend to have more relaxing effects, there is much more than the genetic make-up of a cannabis plant.
Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and the Entourage Effect
Researchers have identified over 100 distinct cannabinoids in marijuana plants, including CBD and THC. These compounds replicate our bodies’ endocannabinoids, which means that when the cannabinoids come into contact with our receptors, different highs are produced.
Terpenes (Terpenoids), or the oils responsible for a plant’s aroma and taste, have a lot to do with how the effects of weed are carried out in the body. When all of these come into synergy, what researchers call the “entourage effect” takes place. It means that what you feel from smoking is created by more than just its THC content. Sort of “lock and key effect,” all the other cannabinoids are interacting in the body with one another to produce sensations that could be completely different from the THC itself.
Aside from all that was mentioned above, there are hybrid cannabis strains that deliver an entirely different set of effects, combining qualities found in indica and sativa.
Thankfully, the continuously expanding cannabis strains research has provided data that is useful for those specifically interested in either head highs, or body highs. These days, budtenders suggest placing more importance on terpenese to truly distinguish what kind of high it creates.
Another factor to consider is the consumption method. If you vape, you’re more likely to experience the effects quicker than consuming edibles.

A Head High on Weed Can Make You Feel…
- Excited
- Energized
- Creative
- Focused
- Enthusiastic
- Active
- Inspired
Some Head High Weed Strains and Products to Try:
- OG Kush Pre-rolls (THC: 22% / CBD: 1.9%)
- Super Lemon Haze Pods (THC: 78% / CBD: 2.2%)
- White Widow Hybrid (THC: 20% / CBD: 1%)
- Organic Sour Cookies (THC: 23% / CBD: 2%)
Body High on Weed Can Make You Feel…
- Calm
- Relaxed
- Sleepy
- Drowsy
Some Body High Weed Strains and Products to Try:
- Master Kush (THC: 75% / CBD: 2.2%)
- Lemon Sour Diesel Shatter (THC: 72 – 80%)
- Fire OG (THC: 79% / CBD: .0.5%)
True North Cannabis Co. Can Help Guide Your Experience
True North Cannabis Co. is Ontario’s largest retail cannabis shop, with 20 stores – and counting – all across the province. Our goal is to make high-quality cannabis products accessible and affordable to everyone, including those who are interested in trying out head high vs body high products: from dried flowers to topicals.
Visit any of our locations, or contact us to find out more about our offerings specific to each location. Talk to one of our experienced budtenders and ask them about head high vs body high and how to achieve your desired effect!


