Best Sativa Strains of 2024 for Energizing, Stimulating & Euphoric Effects

Jamila Khan
·22 min read

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Cannabis enthusiasts aiming for profoundly energizing and uplifting properties are promised to have a wonderful experience with Sativas.

While Indica strains tend to offer more relaxing effects, cannabis Sativa is more stimulating and uplifting, while strains with high strength are known for offering more intense and longer-lasting effects.

As for their therapeutic properties, cannabis Sativa may relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression, while those struggling with chronic fatigue may also benefit.

Known for its high level of different aromatic compounds and high potency, Maui Wowie is the top-rated Sativa strain, while the six other equally incredible cannabis Sativa also deserve a spot here, and we discuss them all, so let’s go!

Best Sativa Weed Strains - First Look

Sativa strains tend to make you feel very energized and uplifted, while a major mood enhancement with marijuana plants in this category is not uncommon either. This being said, Sativas are preferred for daytime consumption.

As for the seven cannabis Sativa options we discuss here, we ranked them based on their strength, flowering time, overall growing difficulty, flavor, and aroma profile, and finally, potential benefits and effects.

Maui Wowie – Best Cannabis Sativa Overall

Pros

  • THC content between 15% and 20%

  • Offers very energizing effects

  • Around 80% of Sativa genetics

  • Resistant to pests and diseases

Cons

  • Suitable only for tropical environments

Our journey for the best Sativa cannabis varieties starts with the famed Maui Wowie, which originates from Hawaii.

This is a cross between Hawaiian sativa cannabis strains, and it offers a profound sense of euphoria with energizing effects.

Due to its unique characteristics, Maui Wowie is favored among cannabis consumers struggling with anxiety and depression, while it may also be beneficial to those dealing with chronic fatigue.

This famed Sativa strain has THC levels usually ranging from 15% to 20%, making it moderately potent, hence suitable for newbies to the cannabis community.

Every grower interested in growing Maui Wowie should remember that the average flowering time with this Sativa strain is eight to ten weeks, which is typical for plants in this genus cannabis family.

Whether you are interested in growing male or female cannabis plants, keep in mind that Maui Wowie is not the best option if you are new to growing cannabis.

Maui Wowie does well in tropical environments, and they love open spaces. They also prefer light feeding. If you do not reside in an area with a warm and tropical climate, the best you can do is to grow Maui Wowie indoors and try to replicate Hawaiian conditions.

Maui Wowie strikes a perfect balance between tropical fruity vibes with a hint of citrus and coconut, and its flavor profile is definitely reminiscent of its Hawaiian origin.

Where to Buy Maui Wowie Consumables

For the best Maui Wowie consumable, we recommend the Exhale Wellness Delta-8 THC – Maui Wowie disposable vape that comes with a hefty dose of delta-8 and less than 0.30% of delta-9.

Where to Buy Maui Wowie Seeds

With its unique combination of terpenes, Maui Wowie is a true representative of the Sativa family, known to produce quite stimulating and energizing effects, but cultivation is not easy as Maui Wowie only thrives in tropical environments.

One of the best seed companies to order Maui Wowie seeds is SeedSupreme. When you order, you get free seeds. They have amazing BOGO deals every month to get the best seeds.

>> Check the best price for Maui Wowie Seeds at Seed Supreme

Blue Dream – Boosted Creativity and Inspiration

Pros

  • Anti-anxiety effects

  • May boost creativity

  • Tetrahydrocannabinol levels around 18%

  • Does well in most environments

Cons

  • Slightly longer flowering time

If you are interested in growing marijuana plants that may boost creativity and inspiration, Blue Dream may be a great choice.

This Sativa-dominant hybrid is a cross between Haze and Blueberry, and the effects associated with Blue Dream are generally stimulating.

At the same time, it shares some characteristics with Indica varieties; hence, it can make users feel content and relaxed, making it a great choice when struggling with anxious thoughts and stress.

As for the strength, this Sativa has Tetrahydrocannabinol levels, usually ranging from 17% to 25%, making it a great choice for those who are new to consuming cannabis.

It usually takes between nine and eleven weeks for Blue Dream marijuana plants to show off their first buds, which is a slightly longer flowering time window compared to alternatives.

On a more positive note, growing a Blue Dream cannabis plant is usually a very straightforward and easy process.

Whether growing a female or male plant, Blue Dream thrives in most growing conditions, but to the biggest yields and optimal harvests, make sure you provide plenty of lights at least eighteen hours a day during the flowering stage.

Blue Dream is famed for its unique flavor profile that harmoniously blends the aroma of sweet berries with subtle citrusy notes. Consumers will also notice a hint of hash, diesel, and earthy vibes.

Where to Buy Blue Dream Consumables

The DiamondCBD 900 mg D8 Vape Cart - Blue Dream - Hybrid - 1ml - 10X is a great alternative to consuming Blue Dream. These top-grade vape cartridges are infused with 900 mg of delta-8 THC and offer around 200 hits on average.

Where to Buy Blue Dream Seeds

Growing a Blue Dream seeds is a truly rewarding experience, especially when we consider that this famed Sativa induces profound creativity and inspiration with subtle relaxation and soothing vibes.

If you plan on growing Blue Dream Seeds, you can get high-quality seeds at ILGM. They have amazing customer support and growing guides to help you get the best out of your seeds.

>> Check the best price for Blue Dream Seeds at ILGM

Jack Herer – Ideal for Daytime Marijuana Use

Pros

  • Pleasant citrusy and piney notes

  • Flowering times up to ten weeks

  • THC levels around 20%

  • Yields 800 gr/m2 indoors

Cons

  • Does not do well in colder climates

Our search for premium Sativa varieties continues, and in good spirits, we come to Jack Here, another famed member of the Sativa family with unique, energizing effects that make a great option for daytime use.

With Jack Herer, you will feel more energized and uplifted, while many Jack Herer consumers also experience a clear-headed high that leads to feelings of pure bliss and contentment. With Jack Herer, you may also experience less stress.

Generally, a Jack Herer cannabis plant has THC levels of around 20%, which is more than enough for more experienced THC consumers to enjoy the delightfully pleasant effects of this Sativa.

When cultivated the right way, the average flowering time for Jack Herer is around eight to ten weeks, and yields are quite impressive, especially when you grow Jack Herer indoors (800 gr/m2).

Jack Herer is considered a relatively easy strain to grow, but remember that it does not do well in colder climates.

This being said, if you are interested in Jack Herer cultivation, make sure you do your best to maintain a stable higher temperature and moderate humidity levels. Make sure humidity levels are not over the top, as your male or female plant may suffer from mold.

As for the flavor profile, Jack Herer is cherished in the cannabis community for its authentic spicy and piney flavor profile that also has subtle earthiness vibes most consumers report on the inhale.

Jack Herer Consumables

Jack Herer vape cartridges are all over the place, but we recommend you give a shot to DiamondCBD 100 mg Delta-8 + Live Resin Gummies - Jack Herer – Sativa that boast a hefty dose of 3,000 mg of delta-8 THC with other potent cannabinoids from the organic hemp plant.

Where to Buy Jack Herer Seeds

If you are looking for Sativa that makes an ideal option for daytime use, Jack Herer, with its strong uplifting and stimulating effects, should most certainly appear on your radar, and the same goes for Jack Herer vape carts if you have a vape pen to use.

To get high-quality Jack Herer cannabis plants, you need high-quality seeds. You can order your Jack Herer seeds at Homegrown Cannabis Co. They will help you get the best yields for this amazing strain.

>> Check the best price for Jack Herer Seeds at Homegrown Cannabis Co.

Strawberry Cough – Major Euphoric Vibes

Pros:

  • Anti-stress and euphoric highs

  • Around 75% of Sativa genetics

  • Known to be a big producer

  • Berry flavor with sweet notes

Cons:

  • Too potent for new consumers

Strawberry Cough is another famed Sativa known for its unusual flavor profile.

This is a cross between Haze of unknown origin and Strawberry Fields, and in a true Sativa fashion, it makes you energized and uplifted.

With 75% of Sativa genetics, Strawberry Cough is known for inducing strong anti-stress and euphoric highs, so if you are seeking euphoria, this strain checks all the boxes while offering even more.

The mix of Haze and Strawberry Fields is known as a highly potent strain with THC levels that often reach 25%, depending on the cultivation method.

With both male and female flowers, the average flowering time is typically between sixty-three and seventy days, or around nine weeks, which is perfectly reasonable for a strain of this strength.

Being easy to grow, this strain makes a great choice for those who are new to growing cannabis. However, if you will be growing outdoors, make sure you protect your plants from harsh environmental conditions.

In addition, you also want to provide your male or female plant with all the basic nutrients, especially during the flowering stage, as this is the best way to ensure flavorful buds later on.

One of the main highlights of this strain is its incredible flavor profile. Experienced cannabis consumers are familiar with the strain’s unusual berry aroma that nicely mixes with spicy and sweet notes.

Strawberry Cough Consumables

As for the best consumables, we recommend DiamondCBD vape carts. 900 mg HHC Vape Cart - Strawberry Cough - Sativa - 1ml – Fresh offers a strong punch being infused with 900 mg of HHC and a smaller dose of delta-9 THC.

Summary

The cross between Haze and Strawberry Fields is known for introducing major euphoric vibes, and with one of the most unusual cannabinoid profiles, it may also alleviate symptoms of depression and similar health conditions.

>> Check the best price for Strawberry Cough at Seedsman

Chocolope Fem – Most Unusual Flavor Profile

Pros

  • Unique experience due to chocolatey flavor

  • THC percentage around 19%

  • Energizing and majorly uplifting effects

  • Responds well to most training techniques

Cons

  • Not as popular as other Sativas

The Chocolope Fem strain is a popular choice among Sativa consumers.

This unique strain is a mix of Cannalope Haze and OG Chocolate Thai, and one of its main highlight features is its uniquely aromatic chocolatey flavor.

As for the benefits and effects, this strain is great for making you feel happy and clear-minded, especially in larger doses.

Many people find it helps lift their mood, which can be really helpful for those dealing with excessive stress.

Chocolope Fem has a moderate THC level of up to 19%, so it is a good choice for people new to cannabis. If you are looking for something stronger, make sure you check out other famed Sativa options featured here.

It takes about ten to twelve weeks for Chocolope Fem plants to flower, but the wait is worth it because you can get a lot of yield from it if you provide optimal conditions, and the same goes for other plants in the cannabis world.

Growing Chocolope Fem can be a bit challenging, but this does not mean you should not give it a chance.

You will need to make sure your plants are getting enough light, and you need to keep the right temperature and humidity. This is especially important following the completion of the vegetative stage.

The flavor and aroma of this hybrid weed strain are unique, with an earthy and chocolatey smell and taste. Some people also notice fruity notes.

Chocolope Fem Consumables

While it might be hard to find Chocolope Gem consumables, a similar option for a strong effect is the 920 mg D10, D8 Vape Pen - Pineapple Express - Hybrid - 1ml – Hyper from DiamondCBD, rich in cannabinoids, which also gives an uplifting and energizing effect.

Summary

Whether you are interested in daytime or nighttime use, we feel like Chocolope Fem may easily become your favorite, especially if you are one of those consumers aiming for the most authentic experience.

>> Check the best price for Chocolope Fem at DNA Genetics

Durban Poison – Fast-Acting Effects

Pros:

  • Known for intense, fast-acting effects

  • 100% Sativa lineage

  • THC levels up to 25%

  • Fruity flavor with sweet vibes

Cons:

  • Increased risk of side effects

The next Sativa cannabis strain we want to discuss is the famed Durban Poison.

This strain is known for its fast-acting effects, perfect when you cannot wait to feel pleasant cerebral highs, and perfect for more experienced cannabis consumers.

Durban Poison is also known for its ability to elevate mood, while most consumers also report feeling very energized and uplifted. This strain is also known to produce euphoric highs, ideal when you are feeling down.

Compared to other weed strains featured here, Durban Poison is known for its high THC levels that often reach 25%.

On average, it takes Durban Poison plants to bloom between eight and nine weeks, and generally, they are ready for harvest in early autumn.

What we also like about Durban Poison is the fact that it is relatively easy to grow, perfect if you are just starting your marijuana-growing adventure.

While it is very easy to grow and enjoy the biggest yields, make sure you provide consistent humidity and temperature levels. Also, keep in mind that this particular marijuana variety does best in dry and hot conditions.

Durban Poison’s flavor is one of its standout features. The flavor is mostly fruity and sweet, but most consumers also notice pleasant mint vibes on the exhale.

Durban Poison Consumables

The Durban Poison Flower - THCA – Sativa by DiamondCBD is one of the best Durban Poison consumables. It has a high THC level, with 25.2% of total cannabinoids, including delta-9 THC with a hefty dose of THCa.

Summary

If you are looking for a marijuana variety known to produce fast-acting and longer-lasting effects, Durban Poison makes a wonderful choice, and with THC levels up to 25%, the stimulating effects are quite intense.

>> Check the best price for Durban Poison at Herbies

Royal CBDV Automatic – Fast Flowering Time

Pros

  • High in CBD and CBDV

  • Fast flowering time (less than 8 weeks)

  • Potential pain-relieving effects

  • 75% of Sativa genetics

Cons

  • Less intense psychoactive effects

The last Sativa marijuana variety we discuss here is the Royal Queen Seeds Royal CBDV Automatic, a remarkable strain in the cannabis world famed for its fast flowering time and potential pain-relieving effects.

Besides potentially relieving physical discomfort, Royal CBDV Automatic is also known for inducing emerging and stimulating effects we generally associate with Sativa marijuana strains.

This strain is also known to produce milder relaxing and soothing effects.

Royal CBDV Automatic has quite high levels of CBD, around 5%, while the percentage of CBDV is also around 5%, and the THC content is below 0.5%, so expect less intense psychoactive effects.

One of the main benefits of growing Royal CBDV Automatic is the strain’s short flowering window. More specifically, these plants tend to blossom in less than eight weeks, which is quite impressive.

Suitable for new growers, Royal CBDV Automatic is relatively easy to grow even if you have zero experience growing Sativas or marijuana in general.

Royal CBDV Automatic pants can get rather tall, so the best option is to grow them outdoors, but if you have a bigger indoor space, this is also an option.

Either way, make sure you maintain appropriate temperature and humidity levels and provide enough food.

As for the aroma, consumers mostly report pleasant piney and earthy vibes, which is a common flavor profile of many Sativa marijuana varieties that are rich in CBD.

Royal CBDV Automatic Consumables

Royal CBDV Automatic Consumables are not available, but a great alternative is the Clarity Blend - 1800 mg Vape Pen - Sativa - 2ml - Blends by Fresh by DiamondCBD, which boosts mental clarity and productivity while offering the intense entourage effects being rich in CBD and THC.

Summary

With an incredibly fast flowering time, Royal CBDV Automatic makes a great choice for both experienced and new cultivators, and with a rich CBD content, its pain-relieving effects should never be underestimated.

>> Check the best price for Royal CBDV Automatic at Royal Queen Seeds

What Is Sativa?

Sativa is a type of marijuana plant that grows tall and has thin leaves. It comes from warm places and takes a long time to fully grow, compared to varieties in the Indica family.

Some well-known types of this plant are Durban Poison and Maui Wowie, alongside other featured strains.

Sativa plants are special because they can make people feel more upbeat and full of energy. They often have a higher THC content, which is the part that gives the energetic feeling, and less CBD compared to Indica varieties.

People like Sativas for their ability to help with creativity, increase focus and energy, make socializing easier, and improve mood.

These strains are great for daytime use because they usually do not make you feel sleepy but alert. More on the most prominent characteristics of Sativa marijuana strains in the following section.

Characteristics of Sativa Strains

Below, we examine the main characteristics of Sativa, their appearance, general aroma profile, and cannabinoid composition.

Appearance and Growth Traits

A Sativa plant is usually tall and thin, with leaves that are long and narrow. A Sativa plant usually grows taller than other cannabis types, sometimes reaching over 12 feet high.

The leaves are usually lighter green in color and take longer to mature than their Indica varieties. Sativas generally thrive in warm climates.

Aroma and Flavor Profile

Sativas are also known for their distinct aroma and flavor profiles. They often have a fresh, earthy smell combined with hints of fruits or spices.

When it comes to taste, they can range from sweet and fruity to earthy, minty, or herbal, providing a wide variety of flavors for marijuana consumers to enjoy.

Cannabinoid and Terpene Composition

Sativas usually have higher levels of THC, which is responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects, while CBD levels are typically lower.

This means they can give a more energizing and uplifting experience. Terpenes are what give the plant its aroma and flavor. Sativas are rich in terpenes like limonene and pinene, which give them a citrusy and piney aroma.

>> Check the best price for Maui Wowie at Seed Supreme

Benefits of Sativa Strains

In this section, we discuss some of the most well-known benefits of Sativa marijuana varieties for medical and recreational uses based on the most current research detailed here [1].

Medicinal Applications

When it comes to Sativa’s medicinal applications, these marijuana varieties can help reduce symptoms of depressive disorders and anxious thoughts while making you feel more upbeat and optimistic.

Sativas are known to increase energy levels, which can be beneficial for people suffering from chronic fatigue. Some Sativa varieties may also be beneficial to people dealing with chronic pain and physical discomfort.

Some people also find that Sativa varieties help improve focus and creativity while at the same time boosting productivity.

Recreational Uses

The uplifting and stimulating effects of Sativa varieties make them perfect for social gatherings, as they can help stimulate conversation and boost the overall mood.

Because of the energy boost they generally provide, Sativas are often beneficial to people who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking.

In addition, many consumers report that Sativas enhance their appreciation of music and art while at the same time boosting creativity and inspiration.

Factors to Consider

Personal Preferences and Tolerance

Everyone is different. What works for you may not work for somebody else, and this is why it is crucial to take into account your personal preferences.

In other words, make sure you consider what you like in terms of taste and aroma. Also, take into account your tolerance. If you are new to cannabis, you naturally want to start with varieties that are less potent.

Desired Effects and Therapeutic Benefits

Sativas are known for their uplifting and energizing effects. They can also help with things like focus and creativity. Some people use them for medical reasons, like reducing stress or potentially managing pain.

Either way, you want to familiarize yourself with the effects of different strains before you make your decision.

Availability and Legal Considerations

Not all strains are readily available, and in many countries, cannabis is yet to be legal.

In other words, the laws can be different depending on where you live. This being said it is crucial to examine laws and regulations in your area even before you think about buying cannabis in any form.

Responsible Use and Dosage Guidelines

Finally, it is crucial to approach Indicas and Sativas responsibly. This means knowing how much to take and not going overboard.

Also, starting slow means giving your body enough time to adjust to the new substance, and this is crucial for a safe experience.

Sativa vs. Indica Strains: What is the Difference?

Sativa and Indica are two main types in the cannabis world, both equally popular for different reasons. They are used widely for different purposes, and their effects and appearance differ greatly.

Sativas tend to be tall and thin with narrower leaves. They generally thrive in areas with warm climates. As for the effects, Sativas are known to induce upliftment and energizing effects with significant mood upliftment and euphoria.

On the other hand, Indicas tend to be short and bushy with wider leaves. Unlike Sativas, Indica varieties do well in cooler climates.

The effects of Indica varieties are usually soothing and relaxing, with some strains inducing even sedative effects.

Therefore, if you want a boost to be more active or creative, Sativa might be the better choice. If you are looking to chill out and relax, Indica varieties will most certainly work better for you.

>> Check the best price for Maui Wowie at Seed Supreme

Potential Side Effects

Consuming Sativas is associated with different side effects, and the most common adverse reactions include dry mouth and dry eyes, while some consumers may also experience changes in blood pressure, dizziness, and nausea.

Some may also experience an increased heart rate, anxious thoughts, and mood changes. It is important to note that these side effects are generally short-lived, but if they persist, do not hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional.

Sativa Strains Growing Tips

If you are interested in growing Sativa cannabis strains, this brief but handy guide can be a great starting point.

To get the best results with Sativa varieties, make sure you provide enough space, as Sativas tend to grow taller, and not having enough space may hinder their growth. You also need to provide enough lighting.

Aim for twelve hours of light when your plants enter the flowering stage and around eighteen hours of light when in the vegetative stage. When growing indoors, you can use high-quality HPS and LED lights.

Sativas thrive in areas with warmer climates, so make sure you keep temperatures between 68-77°F, and it is especially important to maintain adequate temperatures at nighttime. As for humidity, Sativas prefers areas with humidity levels between 40 and 50%.

You may do some pruning to improve circulation and boost the growth. Pruning often results in higher yields and overly healthier plants.

Finally, you want to feed your plants with necessary nutrients, and this is especially important during the flowering stage.

FAQs

For more information on the best Sativas, please check out our FAQs section.

What Strain Is 100% Sativa?

Durban Poison is a remarkable 100% Sativa variety that is known for offering fast-acting effects that also tend to last longer due to its higher potency.

What Is the Best Sativa Strain?

The best Sativa strain is Maui Wowie, which originates from Hawaii. While not the easiest strain to grow, it has a remarkable flavor profile and promises high yields.

How Do Sativa Strains Make You Feel?

With Sativas, you will feel uplifted and energized. Some Sativa varieties are also known to induce mood upliftment, boost creativity, and make you more productive.

Is Sativa an Upper or a Downer?

Sativa is generally considered an upper, meaning with Sativas, you will experience upliftment and stimulation, with many varieties in this family also inducing cerebral highs and euphoria.

Do Sativa Strains Make You Sleepy or Hyper?

With Sativas, you will feel more hyper, while with Indica varieties, you are more likely to feel sleepy and overly relaxed.

What Are the Strongest Sativa Strains?

The strongest Sativa varieties are Durban Poison, Jack Herer, and Blue Dream, while other featured Sativas are also known for inducing quite potent effects.

What Is a Pure Sativa Strain?

Durban Poison is a pure Sativa strain, meaning its entire lineage comes from Sativa parents, and it has zero Indica genetics.

Is Sativa the Best High?

Many consumers agree that Sativas offer the best highs, and this does not come surprising, considering that Sativas usually have a higher THC content than their Indica counterparts.

Will Sativa Strains Keep You Up at Night?

In some people, Sativas may cause insomnia issues, meaning staying awake late at night, but this usually happens when consuming Sativas later at night.

What Sativa Strains Are Best for Happy?

Maui Wowie is the best Sativa to experience happy and uplifting vibes, but Blue Dream, Durban Poison, and other feature varieties can induce the same pleasant effects.

Best Sativa Strains - Final Thoughts

Whether you are aiming for upliftment, mood enhancement, or a boost in creativity, Sativas never disappoints, and this is especially true for Maui Wowie, which rightfully appears at the top of our list.

Blue Dream and Jack Herer are the closest runner-ups, and they will also induce pleasant, uplifting effects. The same goes for other famed Sativas we looked into in detail in the sections above.

Under the right growing conditions, you can have your own thriving Sativa garden, and we hope all the exciting things we discussed before will be of great help as you hop on your growing adventure.

References:

  1. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Health and Medicine Division; Board on Population Health and Public Health Practice; Committee on the Health Effects of Marijuana: An Evidence Review and Research Agenda. The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence and Recommendations for Research. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2017 Jan 12. 4, Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids.

The information regarding cannabis, cannabis-related, THC and CBD products is for informational and educational purposes only, not substituting professional medical advice or treatment. We do not promote or endorse the use, sale, or distribution of cannabis where it's not legally permitted. The legality of cannabis varies by state and jurisdiction, and we urge users to comply with all federal, state, and local laws concerning its use and sale. We encourage users to consult with healthcare professionals. We might earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of the links. McClatchy's Commerce Content team, which is independent from our newsroom, oversees this content.

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