Which Cannabis Strain is Right For You?

Identifying which strain of cannabis is best for your needs can be a journey of trial and error. Cannabis is generally bucketed into three main categories: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid, each having their own specific characteristics. The categories mainly indicate how the plant is physically structured. Indica strains are known for their wide fan leaves and squat stature, while Sativa strains often grow tall and spindly with long, thin fan leaves. Hybrid strains are a mix of Sativa and Indica genetics. The categories also claim to have different effects, with Sativa providing a head “high” and Indica providing a body “high.” There are many other characteristics of strains that can have an impact on the overall effects including terpene and cannabinoid profile. The strain you choose will be based on what effect you desire. Since cannabis has a range of medical uses, some strains are better for certain conditions than others.

It’s also worth researching the potential adverse effects of the strain. Many of the more common strain categories, which you can find below, list dry mouth, dry eyes, and dizziness as possible side effects. Marijuana also has the potential to interact with medications you might be taking. Make sure to not operate machinery or vehicles when using marijuana. 

Cannabis Sativa

Sativa strains of cannabis are great for those wanting an uplifting high to spark creativity and alertness. Sativa is a great daytime strain and can be a great replacement for alcohol due to its effect of liveliness and desire to interact. Sativa strains can sometimes cause increased anxiety in those with ADHD or are pre-disposed to anxiety.

Cannabis Indica

On the other side of the strain spectrum, Indica is for someone who wants a relaxing sleep aid or to feel more of a “body high.” Indica strains are mainly used for pain relief and usually induce a case of the munchies. Smoking an Indica strain at the end of the day can help you unwind from the overstimulation of the day. It’s also known to be helpful for women during their menstrual cycle.

Hybrid Marijuana

Hybrid strains cross Indica and Sativa for a combined mind and body high. Generally speaking, most existing strains are no longer pure Sativas or Indicas, instead of being Sativa-dominant or Indica-dominant hybrids. Sometimes, there will be 50/50 mixes with both strain types of cannabis. These hybrids are the result of the inherent inquisitive nature of the cannabis community, which has experimented for years to create strains with unique combinations of desirable psychoactive effects.

CBD

If you want the calming effects without the high or stoned feeling, strains that are high in cannabidiol, or CBD, is another option. CBD is one of the most prevalent cannabinoid compounds found in the cannabis plant and has quickly become one of the most popular in the cannabis community. CBD does not produce the “high” or “stoned” effects that are typically expected from THC. Instead, CBD, which is an entirely different compound from THC, allows one to feel the therapeutic and pain-relieving effects of cannabis without the psychoactive consequences of feeling high. Many people take CBD to alleviate symptoms of chronic pain, and sometimes it is even used to treat individuals suffering from epilepsy, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and other health issues.