Over the past decade, cannabidiol—more commonly known as CBD—has shifted from obscure scientific term to household name. In the UK especially, interest in CBD has ballooned. It's now found in everything from skincare to smoothies, but for many, the heart of its appeal lies in high-cannabidiol cannabis strains—plants specifically bred to offer the potential benefits of cannabis, without the high. Here's a quick overview of what makes high-CBD strains so popular, how they’re used, what the science says (without drowning you in medical jargon), and even how to grow your own.
The Rise of Cannabidiol in the UK
CBD’s mainstream moment isn’t just a trend—it’s a full-on movement. According to Releaf's UK CBD report, an estimated 1.3 million people in the UK use CBD regularly, and over 6 million have tried it. That’s nearly 10% of the adult population dipping into the cannabidiol well, whether through oils, gummies, vape pens, or cannabis flower. The UK’s CBD market was valued at around £690 million in 2021, and it’s still growing rapidly. This makes the UK the second-largest consumer market for cannabidiol in the world—behind only the United States[1].
This surge in popularity isn’t just about curiosity; it’s about results. People across the country are turning to cannabidiol for support with everything from everyday stress to post-gym recovery, often preferring it over pharmaceutical alternatives.
So... What Is Cannabidiol, Really?
Cannabidiol is one of the major active compounds in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC—the one that gets you high—CBD is non-intoxicating. This means you can consume it and still stay focused, calm, and clear-headed.High-cannabidiol strains are cannabis varieties bred specifically to be rich in cannabidiol and often low in THC. Some strains are so low in THC that they won’t register on a drug test, making them especially attractive for people who want the potential benefits of cannabis without the mind-altering effects.
What Cannabidiol Is (and Isn’t) Good For
Let’s be clear: cannabidiol isn’t a miracle cure. But research over the last decade has shown promise in several key areas. Most notably, cannabidiol has shown the potential to help reduce anxiety in clinical settings. A 2023 meta-analysis published in Psychopharmacology found that cannabidiol had a meaningful effect on reducing symptoms of anxiety when compared with placebo treatments [2]. Other studies have linked it to better sleep quality and even a reduction in cravings for people recovering from substance use [3].
Importantly, cannabidiol is already being used in clinical medicine. The NHS-approved medicine Epidyolex, which contains cannabidiol, is licensed for the treatment of certain rare childhood epilepsy conditions. That alone tells you that this isn’t just wellness-industry hype.That said, for the average person, cannabidiol is more often used to take the edge off. Whether it’s managing daily stress, easing post-exercise soreness, or improving sleep, people find that high-CBD strains can offer gentle, noticeable support—without turning their world upside down.
Growing High-Cannabidiol Strains: A Few Tips
If you're tempted to try growing your own CBD-rich cannabis (where legally permitted, of course), you’re in luck: many strains are now tailored for home growers.
The key to success lies in choosing the right genetics and paying close attention to the environment. Strains with high CBD and low THC ratios tend to thrive in similar conditions to regular cannabis—18 hours of light in veg, 12 in flower, warm and dry climates, and proper nutrition. But timing is everything: harvesting too early or too late can affect the final cannabinoid profile.
Make sure you dry and cure your buds slowly, ideally in a cool, dark space with stable humidity. This helps preserve not only the cannabidiol but also the terpenes, which contribute to the plant’s aroma and therapeutic effects.
Recommended CBD-Rich Strains from Seedsman
If you’re ready to explore high-cannabidiol strains, Seedsman offers a number of excellent options. Here are a few standouts:
Cream & Cheese CBD 1:1
A balanced 1:1 CBD:THC hybrid (approx. equal levels) combining the mild buzz of THC with cannabidiol's steady influence. Flowering takes about 60-65 days indoors. Expect rich cheese-like aromas with creamy, earthy undertones and a subtle sweetness. Known for its relaxative properties, Cream & Cheese CBD 1:1 offers a mellow experience ideal for unwinding without overwhelming effects.
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Purple Kush CBD 1:1 Auto
A 90% indica autoflowering variety with a 1:1 ratio of cannabidiol to THC. Ready to harvest in just 9 weeks from seed, it delivers earthy fruit fragrances complemented by sweet berry hits. Purple Kush CBD 1:1 Auto's calming vibes promote a gentle physical ease - perfect if you're looking for a soothing, low-key experience.
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Peyote Wi-Fi CBD 2:1
A predominantly indica photoperiod strain yielding around 12-14% CBD versus 6-8% THC (2:1 ratio). Flowering lasts 60-65 days. Expect a blend of sour citrus and subtle earth - ideal for topical formulations. Peyote Wi-Fi CBD 2:1 delivers a chilled sensation that may ease muscle tension, soreness, and mild inflammation, thanks to its thoughtfully-balanced cannabinoids.
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Doctor Seedsman CBD 30:1
A sativa-dominant photoperiod strain with 20% cannabidiol and less than 1% THC - an impressive 30:1 CBD:THC ratio. Doctor Seedsman CBD 30:1 flowers in around 56-63 days indoors. Aromas are pine-forward with spicy notes and earthy undertones. Designed for blissful relief, this strain offers deeply relaxing body effects without psychoactive highs.
Buy Dr Seedsman CBD 30:1 Feminised Seeds
Pink Kush CBD 30:1 Auto
A 90% indica autoflowering strain with about 17% CBD and just 0.5% THC makes for 30:1 CBD:THC ratio. From seed to harvest takes approximately 9 weeks. Its scent channels damp forest and pine, with soft hints of red fruits. Pink Kush CBD 30:1 Auto adds a splash of magical colour to any garden, and offers a gentle, soft body relaxation that evokes calming vibes - perfect for unwinding after a long day.
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Why Cannabidiol Strains Are Here to Stay
Cannabidiol-rich cannabis strains offer a bridge between wellness and cannabis culture. They bring the benefits of the plant without the high, opening the door to people who might otherwise be hesitant to try it. In the UK, with regulation improving and public interest showing no signs of slowing, CBD looks set to play a central role in modern health and lifestyle choices.
Whether you’re interested in growing, vaping, or simply learning more, high-cannabidiol strains are worth your attention. They offer an elegant, natural solution to modern-day stress—and, with the right strain, a satisfying growing experience too.
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References:
[1] Market Sizing: Demand for CBD Soars During Lockdown As UK Market Now Estimated at £690 Million
