The 7 Highest THC Strains to Try in 2024

What are the highest THC strains for 2024? If you are looking to reap the benefits of high THC, then look no further than strains (cultivars) like:

• Kush Mintz
• Bruce Banner
• Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)
• Gelato
• GMO
• Wedding Cake
• Strawnana

These strains pack a punch with an average THC content of over 20%.

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What Is Considered ‘High THC’ in Cannabis Strains?

Strains that have a THC content of 15% or more are considered “high THC” strains.  Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, is one of the most well-known cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. It is thought to be responsible for the psychoactive properties of marijuana, alongside many of its therapeutic benefits.

Each cannabis strain can vary wildly in THC content, with some plants containing little to no THC and others containing THC percentages in the 30s or 40s. What constitutes “high THC content” can also differ from one expert to another. However, the rule of thumb is that 15%-20% is considered high, and more than 30% is very high.

Despite this general rule, the definition of “high THC” can vary from product to product. While 15%-20% THC content may be considered high when the marijuana is inhaled in its dried form, this may be relatively low for concentrates, with values above 60%. In this way, different amounts of THC can have different effect strengths when consumed via other methods.

Does the Amount of THC in Cannabis Matter?

There could be marked differences in the type and duration of psychoactive effect between a cultivar that is 15% THC and one that is 25%-plus THC. However, when it comes to cannabis concentrates measuring 60%+ THC, it does not necessarily get users “higher.” One study conducted by the University of Colorado shows that:

“Despite differences in THC exposure, flower and concentrate users showed similar neurobehavioral patterns after acute cannabis use. The domains of verbal memory and proprioception-focused postural stability for both groups were associated with THC.”

This suggests that, after a certain point, the amount of THC in a product does not necessarily mean “more psychoactive.” Other cannabinoids and terpenes also play a part in the sort and length of effect a particular cannabis variety has.

Potential Benefits and Risks of Using High THC Strains

Benefits

Cannabis strains higher in THC can have many potential benefits, one of the main ones being that lower doses need to be consumed to get to a person’s therapeutic zone. High amounts of THC have shown particular efficacy in cancer treatment, including:

• Reduction of tumors
• Reduction of breast cancer cell proliferation
• Reduction of nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undertaking chemotherapy

The use of high-THC strains can also aid in treating multiple sclerosis symptoms, chronic pain, and glaucoma.

THC can ease the symptoms of depression, PTSD, and various eating disorders in terms of mental health. It is especially helpful in reducing stress, which can positively affect the overall quality of life.

Risks

Despite the above benefits of high-THC strains, some users report potential adverse effects, including:

• Drowsiness or lethargy
• Unwanted psychedelic effects and hallucinations
• Increased heart rate
• Panic attacks
• Paranoia
• Increased sensitivity to pain

A “bad reaction” to marijuana, often due to high-THC ingestion, usually only lasts as long as the “high” lasts. However, this small window does not minimize the unpleasantness of the symptoms.

Further research suggests that the negative effects of high-THC intake can sometimes last longer than the high. It may interact with specific neurotransmitter systems and promote schizophrenic-like symptoms that can last long.

Individuals with genetic or environmental predisposition are more likely to develop psychosis by consuming high-THC strains. This is why individuals with relatives with schizophrenia may want to limit the ingestion of high-THC content.

It is important to note that these adverse effects can vary with the amount and type of cannabis ingestion. Without predisposing factors, they can be rare.

Highest THC Strains

Scientists and users debate which specific cannabis strain has the highest THC content, but listed below are some of the most undeniably THC-potent strains for 2024.

Kush Mintz

This cannabis strain has a THC content of 28%. Medical marijuana patients often choose Kush Mintz to help relieve symptoms associated with anxiety, stress, and depression. The dominant terpene is limonene which is known for its mood enhancing and stress-relieving effects. This strain is harder to find at dispensaries, so definitely give it a try if you spot it on the shelf this year.

Bruce Banner

Bruce Banner is a potent strain, just like the Incredible Hulk for which it is named. This Sativa-dominant hybrid crosses OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel, with a THC content of around 27%-29%. Many cannabis consumers use Bruce Banner for its euphoric and energizing effects that come on rather quickly. Individuals often report a sweet and fruity scent, alongside its efficacy in treating pain and fatigue.

Girl Scout Cookies

Girl Scout Cookies is a potent strain that contains THC levels of 19%-20%. The GSC strain is noted for its sweet, mint, vanilla, biscuit, chocolate, and pastry-like flavors and appetite-inducing, uplifting effects. Patients have used GSC for chronic pain, nausea, appetite loss, anxiety, and depression. The dominant terpene is caryophyllene, which may have anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Gelato

Gelato has been described as having a sweet aroma; a fruity, nutty, vanilla, and mint flavor, and relaxing, euphoric effects. It contains a THC level of 21% which makes it an excellent option for medical marijuana patients looking to alleviate stress,  anxiety,  chronic pain, fatigue, and insomnia. The dominant terpene is caryophyllene. 

GMO

This potent strain has a high THC content of around 27%-33%. It has a funky, earthy smell with skunky undertones. GMO is reported to be great for inducing appetite, and has uplifting and euphoric effects. Dominant terpenes include caryophyllene and limonene both known for their mood-boosting and stress-busting effects.

Wedding Cake

The Wedding Cake cannabis strain has variable THC levels, an average of 25%, with some plants testing higher. It is an indica-dominant hybrid between Cherry Pie and Girl Scout Cookies. Sometimes referred to as pink cookies, Wedding Cake produces long-lasting euphoria, creativity, and productivity. It is described as highly relaxing and can help with anxiety and depression.  

Strawberry Banana

Strawberry Banana, or “Strawnana,” as the name suggests, has sweet and fruity notes. It is an indica-dominant hybrid strain from the combination of Bubble Gum and Banana Kush. With 25% THC content, like others on this list, inexperienced users may want to proceed cautiously. However, many use this marijuana strain for its increased creativity and mood-boosting effects.

Other honorable mentions include Death Star, Gorilla Glue, and Blueberry Crumble.

Last Updated: March 2024
Published: May 2022