For cannabis consumers who have found a few go-to strains that never disappoint, the search for new favorites doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right approach, past favorites can become a guide to discovering new strains that deliver the same magic.

The process starts with understanding why a past strain worked so well. Whether it brought a spark of creative energy or a wave of relaxation, those effects are often tied to the strain’s terpene and cannabinoid profile. Headset’s retail data shows that most shoppers choose strains based on desired effects rather than whether they’re labeled as “indica” or “sativa.” Translating those effects into specific terpenes and cannabinoids is the first step toward finding the next hit. Pinene and limonene, for example, are often associated with uplifting and energizing moods, while myrcene and linalool tend to lean toward calming and relaxing effects.

Matching strains by their terpene “fingerprint” is often more reliable than going by name alone. If Blue Dream was a favorite because of its bright, creative energy, then looking for strains with similar limonene-forward or pinene-supporting profiles—such as Super Lemon Haze, Jack Herer, or modern crosses with citrus-pine signatures—can lead to a similar experience. Since lab labels list top terpenes in descending order, they can serve as a “flavor wheel” to guide selections. Industry research, including findings from clinician Ethan Russo, supports the idea that terpenes can shape and enhance THC’s effects.

Cannabinoid content is another important factor. Even two strains with identical terpene ratios can feel different if one tests at 31% THC and the other sits at 18% with a touch of CBD. Many consumers find their sweet spot between 15% and 24% THC, which offers potency without overwhelming the senses. If a favorite strain delivered comfortable clarity at around 20% THC, it makes sense to look for new strains in the same range—especially those with small amounts of CBD to help balance the effects.

Exploring a strain’s genetic lineage can also reveal promising options. Breeders often create new strains by building on proven genetics, stacking traits that people love. If Gelato 33 is a top pick, its “relatives”—such as Gelato 41, Mochi, or Sunset Sherbert descendants—often carry the same creamy dessert aroma and balanced, euphoric effects. Seed bank descriptions, breeder notes, and community databases can help identify these “cousin” strains.

Both online and in-person shopping can be more productive with the right tools. Many dispensary menus allow filtering by dominant terpene, flavor, or effect. Some platforms even offer “similar to” recommendations powered by lab data and customer feedback. In-store, a knowledgeable budtender can suggest options that match a customer’s favorite strain, but specifics help—mentioning that a favorite is a limonene-dominant hybrid with gentle body relaxation around 20% THC gives them something concrete to work with.

Reliable information is key. Verified lab results and Certificates of Analysis (COAs) provide the real breakdown of cannabinoids and terpenes. Products with transparent COAs often have higher repeat-purchase rates, according to industry reports. Scanning QR codes, when available, offers quick access to detailed testing data. Reading multiple customer reviews can also help, especially when the same descriptive terms—like “clear,” “social,” or “sleepy”—appear repeatedly.

Experimenting with different formats can keep things interesting without losing the core chemistry of a favorite strain. A strain loved in flower form might also shine as a live resin cartridge, rosin, or strain-specific edible. While the onset and duration may differ, keeping terpene and cannabinoid profiles consistent can deliver a familiar vibe. Changing only one variable at a time helps pinpoint what makes each experience enjoyable.

Keeping a strain journal can make the discovery process even easier. Recording the date, product name, dosage, top terpenes, THC/CBD levels, time of day, and three words describing the effects creates a personal database. After just a handful of entries, patterns start to emerge, guiding future selections and reducing the chances of disappointment.

There’s also a wealth of trustworthy resources available. Leafly offers terpene-based search tools, Weedmaps provides access to verified COAs, Headset shares retail trend insights, and state regulators post testing standards. Peer-reviewed studies on cannabis chemistry continue to grow, giving consumers more information than ever before.

One important note: cannabis affects everyone differently. Consumers should start with low doses, increase slowly, and consult a healthcare professional when using cannabis for medical reasons or alongside other medications.

With a bit of detective work, a past favorite can become a roadmap to discovering new strains. The process turns what might have been a gamble into a guided adventure, making cannabis shopping more fun, more informed, and more rewarding.