When consuming cannabis, choosing the right strain can make all the difference in the experience. With so many varieties available, navigating the different types of strains and their effects can be overwhelming.
In this article, we’ll summarize the three types of cannabis strains and their effects, so you can make an informed decision and find the suitable strain. We will give some examples of the most popular strains for medical and recreational purposes with their specific characteristics. So, read on to learn more about the different cannabis strains!
Table of Contents
Sativa Cannabis Strains
Sativa strains are known for their uplifting, energetic high, and cerebral effects, making them ideal for daytime use and creative activities. They typically have a higher ratio of THC to CBD, which produces a more psychoactive and euphoric high.
Some Popular Cannabis Sativa Strains and their Unique Properties:
- Hawaiian: known to provide happy and creative thoughts with light green buds.
- Astroboy: known for its heady buzz that is fast-acting and uplifting, a mix of sweet and sour fruit flavours, like citrus and cherry
- Jack Herer: known for its cerebral and euphoric effects, with a spicy, piney aroma and flavour.
- Durban Poison: known for its uplifting and energizing effects, with a sweet and spicy flavour profile.
- Super Silver Haze: known for its long-lasting and energizing high, with a citrusy and earthy flavour.
These popular weed strains are often used by artists, writers, and musicians who seek to enhance their creativity and focus while working on their craft.
Indica Cannabis Strains
Indica strains are a type of cannabis strain that are known for their calming and relaxing effects on the mind and body. Indicas are typically associated with a sedative or “couch-lock” effect, making them ideal for evening or nighttime use.
A report claims that a cannabis indica often has greater CBD (cannabidiol) concentrations than sativas, which may be a factor in these strains’ calming and pain-relieving properties. Additionally, they frequently have lesser concentrations of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive substance responsible for the “high.”
Some of the effects of indica strains may include:
- Deep relaxation
- Pain management
- Increased appetite
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Improved sleep
Some Popular Indica Weed Strains and their Unique Properties:
- Romulan: This strain is known for its cerebral effects that eventually give way to sedation and relaxation.
- Peyote Cookies: This strain is famous for its long-lasting euphoric effects. This strain features a unique flavor profile with hints of guava, vanilla, coffee and earth.
- Jokerz: This strain is believed to be more relaxing than energizing.
- Bubba Kush: This strain is known for its heavy body effects and ability to induce relaxation and sleep. It has a sweet, earthy aroma and is often used to treat anxiety, chronic pain, stress, and insomnia.
- Blue Cheese: This strain is a unique hybrid that combines the relaxing effects of indica strains with the uplifting effects of sativas. It has a pungent, cheesy aroma and is often used to treat pain, stress, and depression.
Hybrid Cannabis Strains
Hybrid strains are a type of cannabis strain that cross between two or more different strains. This allows growers to create new strains with unique properties by combining the desirable traits of different strains.
Hybrids can be either indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced (with roughly equal amounts of indica and sativa genetics). The effects of hybrid strains can vary widely depending on the specific genetics of the strain.
Some Popular Hybrid Strains and Their Unique Properties:
- Sherbquake: This hybrid strain is known for its soothing properties of relaxation and sleepiness. It often relieves symptoms such as anxiety, pain and stress.
- Milk & Cookies: This balanced hybrid is a popular strain because it makes them feel relaxed, giggly, and hungry. It has an aroma and sweet, butter, and vanilla flavour profile.
- Gorilla Glue #4: This hybrid strain is a potent and relaxing strain known for its heavy body effects. It has a pungent, earthy aroma and is often used to treat pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
- Pineapple Express: This sativa-dominant hybrid is known for its energizing and uplifting effects and sweet, tropical aroma. It is often used to treat stress, depression, and fatigue.
- OG Kush: This indica-dominant hybrid is a classic strain known for its potent and relaxing effects. It has a woody, earthy aroma and is often used to treat pain, stress, and insomnia.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cannabis Strain
When choosing a cannabis strain, there are several factors and certain characteristics to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
Personal Preferences
Consider your particular tastes when it comes to the flavor, scent, and look of the strain. While certain strains may have more pungent or spicy scents, others may have fruitier, floral, or earthier tastes. You might also find certain strains’ distinctive hues or textures fascinating.
Desired Effects
Consider what type of effects you’re looking for from your cannabis. Do you want to feel relaxed and sedated or energized and creative? Different strains can produce different effects, so choosing one that matches your desired experience is important.
THC/CBD levels
Two of the most significant components in cannabis are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). The psychoactive properties of cannabis are attributed to its THC content, whereas CBD is non-psychoactive and is thought to provide many medicinal advantages. Consider its THC and CBD content to evaluate how a certain strain could affect you.
Medical Needs/Medicinal Cannabis
Consider the particular symptoms or ailments you’re attempting to cure if you’re taking cannabis for medicinal reasons. While certain strains could work better for anxiety or sleeplessness, others might work better for pain relief.
Growing Conditions
If you’re growing cannabis yourself, consider the growing conditions you have available. Some strains may be better suited to indoor growing, while others may thrive outdoors. Consider your growing space’s climate and lighting conditions to choose a strain that will grow well.
Conclusion
With so many strains available, it’s important to experiment with different options to find the particular strain for you. It’s also important to consume cannabis responsibly and in moderation, following local laws and regulations.
Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis consumer or new to the world of cannabis, taking the time to explore different strains and consumption methods can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
