There are hundreds of different cannabis strains available today. If you set out to try them all, it would literally take you years. Figuring out what’s what can seem like a monumental task.
Don’t worry; it’s easier than you think.
In this article, we’ll help you understand what a cannabis strain is. Understanding strains is a cornerstone to figuring out what will serve you best. With our help, you’ll be able to navigate dispensaries like a pro.
Understanding the Cannabis Strain 101
It’s widely accepted that all of the various cannabis strains available today hail from a common ancestor—a single variety of cannabis that has its roots in Asia.
After thousands of years of cultivation, cross-pollination, and breeding, we now have the great privilege of choosing between many different marijuana strains—each one unique, offering different medicinal benefits and sensations.
This is because each cannabis strain has been bred to have a different concentration of the cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and other compounds.
Growers spend hours ensuring their plants will have a certain look, taste, and effect on the user. From there, they brand them accordingly. The three main strains are considered to be Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid.
The Main Strains
Understanding the difference between Indica and Sativa strains is actually pretty simple.
Indica is a cannabis strain that is lovingly referred to as a sleepy strain. It decreases energy levels, often resulting in ‘couch-lock.’ As the name suggests, you won’t want to leave your couch.
This makes Indica cannabis strains nighttime favorites. Primarily used for relaxation, anxiety, or sleep disorders. These strains also tend to have higher CBD content. Making them more often used for medical issues.
Sativa is a cannabis strain that is praised for its uplifting, energetic effect. This is due to higher THC levels, which produce more of a “head high” rather than a “couch-lock.”
With a Sativa cannabis strain, brain activity increases, and your senses are heightened. These effects can enhance creativity and production while alleviating symptoms of depression. Because of this, Sativa’s are used most often in recreational settings.
What About Hybrids?
Most strains are not 100% Indica or Sativa, but rather a combination of the two. These strains are known as hybrids. They allow users to get the best of both worlds. You can choose a hybrid cannabis strain that favors Indica or Sativa to achieve the results you desire.
Hybrids are neat because they result from countless hours of experimentation by breeders to achieve particular results.
Find Your Strain
When it comes to finding the perfect cannabis strain for you, the research is half the fun. It’s important to note that body chemistry plays a role in how you experience a high, regardless of the strain.
It would help if you talked to your ‘budtender’ about your specific concerns or needs. They should be able to point you in the right direction. In general, experts recommend starting with an Indica cannabis strain. The effects should be milder and easier for newbies to handle.
Still curious? Be sure to check out the rest of our content while you’re here. We’ve got useful insights into all your curiosities.
