HealthStrains & products

The best cannabis strains for fibromyalgia

Published on May 21, 2016 · Last updated September 23, 2022
(Gillian Levine for Leafly)

Fibromyalgia is a difficult condition to live with, but as we’ve learned from Leafly reviewers, cannabis can offer respite. It makes sense when you look at some of the symptoms fibro sufferers face:

  • Joint pain
  • Fatigue
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Tenderness and generalized pain
  • Insomnia
  • Inability to focus

There isn’t a lot of research on cannabis as a treatment for fibromyalgia, but clinical studies using synthesized THC for symptom management shows promising results. Still, there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence in Leafly’s strain reviews alone to show that cannabis is certainly providing much needed relief to many of those willing to experiment. These strains, according to our user-submitted strain data, seem to be doing the trick.

Related
Can cannabis treat fibromyalgia better than prescription drugs?

Keep in mind, relief is not limited to these strains alone. There a lot–and we mean a lot–of strains that can treat pain, fight fatigue, reduce depression and anxiety, sharpen focus, and crush insomnia. Consider trying other high-CBD strains, or cannabis in various other forms like edibles, topicals, or ingestible oils. Everyone’s body is different, so the key is to try different strains and products to see what works best for you.

Harlequin

harlequin cannabis strain

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With the painkilling power of THC and CBD combined, this strain is the perfect way to start your day. If you’re sensitive to THC, you’re in luck: Harlequin’s high-CBD content helps curb the intoxicating and anxious side effects of THC, letting you go about your day without that dizzying euphoria that some unaccustomed consumers find distracting or unpleasant.

“I take three puffs and get a wonderful body high that takes my pain away. It’s not that I don’t notice it anymore…it feels like it’s gone. It makes me SO happy to not feel my pain. Note that I have fibromyalgia and degenerative disc in my lower back, to for me to not be feeling my pain seems like somewhat of a miracle.” – chasmyn

Cannatonic

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In further testament to the power of high-CBD strains, Cannatonic is the third most celebrated strain from Leafly reviewers with fibromyalgia. It’s only mildly intoxicating due to its CBD dominance, making it an excellent choice for new consumers. However, even veterans will appreciate this hybrid’s ability to crush pain, anxiety, muscle spasms, and a myriad of other symptoms.

“I am taking this for Fibromyalgia. This has been the most helpful strain I have found in clearing my mind. Less mind clutter leads to more mental and physical energy.”bearcubb

Tahoe OG

Tahoe OG cannabis strain

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This is the strain you’ll need for when your fibromyalgia symptoms are keeping you up at night. Tranquilizing and dreamy, Tahoe OG leads muscles into blissful relaxation, melting the pain and tension out of them.

“This will give the pain killing effects need for heavy pain, as well as give a sedative effect, so one can go to sleep. [It’s] one of the top ten strains I use for my condition.”savagec3

Granddaddy Purple

granddaddy purple cannabis strain

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Guiding you into relief with a sweet berry and grape flavor, Granddaddy Purple is a classic strain with potent painkilling properties. GDP boasts high levels of myrcene, a terpene commonly believed to help relax muscles and control pain. Not only does this sweet-tasting strain treat physical symptoms, its pacifying euphoria loosens the grip of stress, anxiety, and depression to help you stay positive.

“I finally decided to roll a joint of this and some Tahoe OG, and now I’m free of cramps, muscle spasms, shooting pain, nausea, anxiety, etc…It’s rare that I find a strain that will completely help with medical problems, but also help me be happy, become more creative, and stay awake.”GanjaGoddess410

GSC

gsc cannabis strain

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Coveted for its potency, flavor, and quality of effect, it’s no wonder that fibromyalgia patients also found something to love about this award-winning hybrid. GSC is known to have a high THC content, so if you’re new to cannabis or sensitive to THC, be sure to dose low and slow with this hybrid powerhouse.

“I bought this strain for pain relief and it worked quite well. I suffer from fibro & arthritis and after smoking this for the first time, it seemed to work as well as some pain pills.”TONYROSEITTI

Blueberry

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Named for its unmistakable ripe berry aroma, Blueberry delivers a nuanced effects that mellows everything from physical pain to emotional anguish caused by fibromyalgia. Blissful effects wash in on the flavorful exhale, leaving you feeling relaxed in both body and mind.

“Was in so much body pain today due to fibromyalgia, so I picked up Blueberry wax this afternoon…can safely say this is the best strain for body and migraine pain I’ve tried so far. I melted into my bed, very dreamy effect.”cholladay

Bubba Kush

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The symptoms of fibromyalgia are multifaceted, but thankfully, so are the effects of Bubba Kush. Muscles relax. Eyelids heavy. The mind goes from a running pace to walking. Bubba Kush bestows its gift of relief alongside a sweet, earthy coffee aroma with subtle woody notes that will keep you coming back for more even after your symptoms subside.

“Helps me sleep great which is godsend for severe fibromyalgia…working great for my awful bee stinging feeling nerve pain!”Anonymous

Headband

Headband cannabis strain

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Named for its hugging cerebral sensations some refer to as the “halo effect,” Headband is a favorite for those suffering from headaches. But that’s not the only type of relief this fragrant hybrid has to offer. Headband’s rich terpene profile gives rise to a spectrum of benefits, including stress reduction, mood enhancement, a feeling of wakefulness and focus, and muscle relaxation.

“It’s a great strain, knocked out my knee pain that is causing a fibromyalgia flare up. It’s definitely is easing the flare up as well and the migraine associated with it.”Paraleash

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Bailey Rahn
Bailey Rahn
Bailey is a senior content manager at Leafly, specializing in strains and health. She's spent 7+ years researching cannabis products, spreading patients’ stories, and exploring healthy ways of integrating cannabis into daily life.
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