Types of Cannabis Strains: Indicas, Sativas and Hybrids

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Finding the right weed strain can be complex and difficult. In fact, it takes some experimenting, guidance, and at least a little bit of research. Whether you are looking for a specific strain for social or medical reasons, there are some things to know. Not all strains are equal. Some are social and energetic. Others are sleepy and introspective. Medically, some are better for certain conditions than others are.

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When searching Google for “cannabis delivery near me,” you will find a variety of different strains. If a company operates legally, it will test its products for quality and label all cannabinoid profiles. You will know exactly how much THC, cannabidiol, and other cannabinoids are in a particular strain, as well asits terpenes and flavonoids. If you understand the differences, then finding a suitable strain is much easier.

What are Cannabis Strains?

There are well over 100 different cannabinoids in cannabis plants, and then there are terpenes, flavonoids, and other compounds, as well. However, when it comes to what affects the body, there are two primary cannabinoids to know about. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says they are tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, and cannabidiol, or CBD. THC is psychoactive, which makes users ‘high.’

In the vast majority of recreational strains, THC is the main ingredient. Unless the strain is specifically low or free of THC, such as hemp, it will dwarf the quantity of CBD in it. For example, some of the most potent strains measure upwards of 28 percent THC, but CBD seldom ever exceeds one percent. Despite this vast comparative difference, this tiny amount of CBD is enough to affect a patient noticeably.

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Although CBD is itself not psychoactive, it is extremely valuable medicinally. Not only does it contain all of the medical benefits of marijuana, but it also combats the effects of too much THC. This is important to remember: If you ever find yourself uncomfortable after some overindulgence, weed delivery Santa Monica will get a CBD antidote to you in less than 45 minutes.

Medically, a CBD level of one percent is all a patient needs. Scientists consider it comparatively high. A strain low in CBD typically measures around 0.6 percent, even less. Breeders are growing new strains with high CBD levels, such as Charlotte’s Web, and some, like the Ruderalis strains, exist already with typical ratios of six percent THC or less to 7.5 percent CBD.

Because of the high CBD content in strains like these, patients are able to enjoy all the medical benefits of marijuana, but without feeling ‘stoned’ or ‘high.’ These two crucial cannabinoids also interact with each other, however, called the “entourage effect.” This relationship also affects the strain and its influence on you, both socially and in the wide array of illnesses that it effectively treats.

Indica Strains

When searching “cannabis delivery near me,” you will find many Indicas on offer. These strains are famous for their ‘stoned,’ sedated-like effects. Indica tends to manifest itself most in the physical body, and medically, it acts as a powerful muscle relaxant for severe muscular disorders, such as spasticity, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. They are also effective sleeping aids.

Because Indicas are mild sedatives, they are highly effective at putting even the most avid insomniac to bed. For the same reason, patients stock up on Indica strains to treat an array of other health and mental problems, including anxiety, depression, arthritis, chronic pain, swelling, and other inflammatory medical conditions. They are mostly high in both THC and CBD.

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Sativa Strains

In contrast, Sativa strains offer a headier experience than Indicas. They promise a more cerebral effect, one typically energetic, mentally focused, and highly sociable. Patients use Sativa during the day, as it keeps them awake and motivated. It is also popular among cancer and HIV/AIDS patients, as it stimulates appetite and quells nausea.

Sativas are giggly, talkative, and active strains. They are ideal for a gathering of friends, a lifting of mood, a boost of creativity. They also treat headaches, depression, chronic pain, and a horde of other debilitating medical problems. Generally, Sativas have a moderate to potent THC percentage, but CBD levels are typically on the low side.

Hybrid Strains

Hybrids have both Indica and Sativa genes. They share parents from both, and as such, they exhibit the characteristics of both. Some of the best marijuana today is hybrids and there is good reason why breeders cross them. Pure Indica has a tendency to cause couchlock, while pure Sativa can prevent sleep. Combining them genetically balances the two extremes out.

Hybridizing is a massive advantage for some patients, particularly those treating severe pain, for which both strains are effective. An Indica-dominant strain will be less sedating and more mentally focused than a purer strain, while a Sativa-dominant one may reduce the likelihood of THC-related anxiety and insomnia so typical of purer Sativas. Most strains today are hybrids.

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You will face these terms and choices when you order marijuana delivery in Santa Monica. Many combine strains formedicine. The cerebral effects of Sativa make them ideal for daytime use, when you need to be awake, whereas Indicas are better for use later in the day, for sleep. Hybrids combine the best of both, and the condition you are treating should determine which strains are most appropriate.

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Everyone is different, however. Choosing strains according to the symptoms you wish to relieve is the wisest place to start. From there, you can experiment with edibles, concentrates, and buds to find those you prefer. Just as important as the medical application is your experience when taking it, and always remember to go slowly until you know how your body responds to and tolerates a particular strain.

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Comments (1)

  1. Avatar for Zac Zac August 26, 2018 / 2:26 pm / Reply

    Right on! I’m a Sativa fan

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