Sativa and Indica, the two primary varieties of cannabis, are employed for a variety of therapeutic and leisure-time activities. Sativas are renowned for their energizing “head high,” a stimulating impact that can help lessen anxiety or stress while boosting creativity and focus. Indicas are frequently linked to all-over benefits like boosting deep relaxation and lowering sleeplessness. It seems these plants have more in common than previously believed, despite the paucity of study on these impacts.
Many people in the cannabis industry have abandoned the designations Indica, Sativa, and hybrid in favor of categorizing the various “strains” or, more accurately, “chemovars” as:
- High THC type I
- Type II: A THC/CBD mixture
- High CBD type III
The cannabis industry is increasingly replacing the term “strains” with “chemovars” (chemical variations), as the term “strain” is frequently used to refer to bacteria and viruses.
What should you look for to understand strain effects?
It’s a common misconception that sativas are more energetic and enlivening while indicas are more tranquil and relaxing. However, it’s not quite that simple.
Even among cannabis strains of the same type, individual plants have different effects. The chemical makeup of the plant and the growing method are the only factors that matter.
Frequently, the various plant kinds are divided into distinct chemovars or breeds.
The unique cannabinoid and terpene concentration of chemovars makes them distinct. The user will have access to the best data through this “cannabinoid profile” to decide which chemovar is most appropriate for them. Using names alone does not give the user the information they need to select the appropriate profile. The effects of the chemovar as a whole are determined by these substances.
Cannabinoids
Numerous cannabinoids are chemical substances found in large quantities in cannabis plants.
Numerous cannabis-related effects, both beneficial and harmful, are produced by these naturally occurring substances.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), as well as a few other, less prevalent cannabinoids, have been identified by researchers, however, they still don’t fully understand what each one does.
These include:
THC. The main psychotropic component found in cannabis plants is THC. It causes the euphoric “high” or state of being associated with cannabis consumption. THC levels have been rising as breeders attempt to produce hybrids with higher levels of the chemical.
CBD. CBD has no debilitating or euphoric effects. It does not result in a “high.” But several physical advantages could result from it, including the ease of migraines, the prevention of seizures, and the reduction of pain and nausea.
CBN. Cannabinol (CBN) is used to reduce the signs and symptoms of neurological diseases such as epilepsy, seizures, and involuntary muscle stiffness.
THCA. Similar to THC but without any psychotropic effects is tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA). It might help with autoimmune disorders and arthritis by lowering inflammation. It might also lessen the effects of neurological diseases like ALS and Parkinson’s disease.
CBG. Obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression symptoms may all be lessened by cannabigerol (CBG), according to some research.
Terpenes
The concentrations of THC and CBD in a particular strain are frequently discussed, but more recent research points to the possibility that terpenes may have an even greater influence.
Terpenes are an additional naturally occurring substance found in cannabis plants.
The terpenes here directly influence how the plant smells. They might also affect how a particular strain behaves.
According to Leafly, common terpenes include:
Bisabolol. Bisabolol, a terpene with chamomile and tea tree oil undertones, is supposed to help lessen inflammation and irritation. Additionally, it might be antimicrobial and lessen discomfort.
Caryophyllene. The spiciness and pepperiness of the substance may lessen anxiety, ease depression symptoms, and heal ulcers.
Linalool. With its flowery undertones, linalool is thought to aid in enhancing relaxation and elevating mood.
Myrcene. This earthy, herbal molecule, which is the most prevalent terpene, might aid in improving sleep quality by lowering anxiety and insomnia.
Ocimene. Basil, mango, and parsley flavors are produced by this terpene. Its main benefits can include reducing congestion and fending against germs and viruses.
Pinene. As its name implies, this terpene emits a powerful pine fragrance. It might improve memory, lessen pain, and lessen some of THC’s less desirable side effects, like nausea and coordination issues.
Terpinolene. This component in cannabis may have an apple, cumin, and coniferous scent. It might be sedating, antimicrobial, and antifungal.
Limonene. This terpene has bright, zesty citrus overtones. It is rumored to elevate mood and lessen stress.
Humulene. This terpene has strong hops or clove-like earthy and woody aroma. Inflammation may be decreased by cannabis strains that contain this chemical.
Eucalyptol. This molecule is energizing and refreshing with hints of tea tree oil and eucalyptus. It might also aid in reducing inflammation and battling germs.
Comprehensive Sativa
How to choose the right product for you
Keep these things in mind while you search for the cannabis product that is best for you:
- Understand the goal you’re aiming for. You can focus your search by determining what you’re attempting to experience or treat. If you want to use cannabis to treat sleeplessness, lessen anxiety, or boost your energy, discuss your aims with the staff of the dispensary.
- Be aware of your tolerance. Some varieties, like Pineapple Express, are regarded as “entry level.” Their effects are usually bearable and minor. Higher cannabis strains might be too strong for a first-time consumer.
- Think about your health history. Cannabis is a natural product, but it has powerful effects. Before experimenting with cannabis, you should think about potential interactions with current medical conditions and drugs. Ask a doctor or other healthcare provider about your specific advantages and possible hazards if you have any questions.
- Choose the consumption strategy you want to use. There are advantages and disadvantages to each cannabis consumption method. Cannabis can irritate your lungs and airways if you smoke or vape it, however, you might experience effects more quickly. Gummies, chewable, and meals might be more tolerable, but their effects might also be stronger than those of inhalation.
Legality
Not everywhere has legalized marijuana. All cannabis-related items were once prohibited in the majority of the United States. Many states now allow the use of cannabis for either medical or recreational purposes, or for both.
Additionally, CBD laws are changing. While some states permit it for medical use, they strictly control the source to prevent CBD products that have been tainted with THC. You should be aware of local regulations before attempting to buy or consume cannabis.
Remember that marijuana is still prohibited by federal law. You can be in trouble with the law if you are unaware of local regulations. If you reside abroad, you can be subject to different legal requirements.
The Final Word
Speak to a doctor or other healthcare provider, or a qualified cannabis clinician, if you’re interested in learning how cannabis can benefit you.
They can talk about its potential advantages and disadvantages for your personal health and assist you in finding a solution that works for you.
Then you can start investigating your possibilities. It could take some time to choose the best solution for you. You can possibly discover that you don’t tolerate marijuana properly.
You can go to a dispensary and speak with a qualified staff member if you reside in a state where marijuana is legal. To meet your unique demands, they might be able to suggest particular strains or other goods.