Walk into any dispensary, like EarthMed, and you will find yourself with cannabis consumption options aplenty. The first thing you need to decide when shopping for products is which type of cannabis is right for you.
If you’re new to the world of weed, you may be wondering what the different classifications mean for the strains you see in the dispensary. Even though cannabis plants grow the same way, different types of marijuana will have unique effects on your body, based on the subspecies. Cannabis plants are typically one of three subspecies: Indica, sativa, and ruderalis.
Since indica and sativa plants contain more medicinal properties than the lesser-known ruderalis, cultivators and cannabis geneticists tend to focus their efforts on these and create hybrids containing properties of both. By harvesting the flower and other parts of the cannabis plant, we’re able to enjoy the weed products we know and love today.
Indica = In-da-couch
Scientifically known as Cannabis sativa indica (confusing, I know), indica strains are great for nighttime usage or relaxing any time. When it comes to this type of weed, you’ll experience more of a body buzz than a head high. This strain is sometimes nicknamed “in-da-couch” because some of the most common indica effects on the body include a sense of relaxation, reduction in energy, and comfortable sleepiness.
Also known as “in-da-kitchen” these weed strains are famous for their appetite-increasing properties — making them an excellent choice for medical patients who have lost their desire to eat.
This potent plant tends to grow shorter and bushier than its counterpart. The leaves on indica plants are usually wider and broader than those on sativa. This type of cannabis also grows faster than a sativa flower and produces more buds on average. The indica flower is recommended to canna connoisseurs that want a heavy, mellow, relaxed, euphoric, and sleepy feeling.
Popular indica strains include Hindu Kush, Afghan Kush, Northern Lights, 9lb Hammer, Granddaddy Purple, and many of the most popular candy strains.
Sativa = Sunny
While the scientific name for sativa (Cannabis sativa) is similar to indica, the effects you can expect from this taller and slimmer plant are entirely different. So what is sativa weed? Unlike the aforementioned type of cannabis, think of sativa as stimulating and best used during the daytime (hence, the sunny reference). Sativa weed effects are often associated with mood and mental stimulation.
Using a sativa product, you can expect to experience more of a head high with increased energy. Perfect for getting your creative juices flowing, sativa weed is known to make the consumer feel invigorated, happy, and positive. Using the alliterative mnemonic “sunny sativa stimulates” will help you remember that this plant is for daytime use.
Popular sativa strains include Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, Green Crack, Durban Poison, Tangie, and Strawberry Cough.
Hybrids = Best of Both Worlds
What is hybrid weed? As the name suggests, hybrid cannabis strains are produced using both indica and sativa parent plants. Typically categorized as either indica- or sativa-dominant, these plants contain properties from both plant subspecies.
With the cannabis industry growing exponentially and plant genetics ever-evolving, new hybrid weed strains are being developed constantly. These new types of hybrid weed strains are great for anyone who wants their cannabis to have specific, unique impacts.
Since hybrids are essentially cultivator-created, the effects of hybrid weed can vary quite a bit from strain to strain. Hybrid strains can reduce anxiety and stress, create feelings of euphoria, help ease the effects of chemotherapy and radiation, and a host of other things. Make sure you take a good look at hybrid reviews on Leafly or Iheartjane to see what sort of effects you can expect from your hybrid cannabis product.
Popular hybrid strains include Pineapple Express, Blue Dream, Trainwreck, OG Kush, White Widow, and Wedding Cake.
The first step to choosing your cannabis product is deciding what type of weed strain will suit your needs best. As with everything else in life, results may vary. Part of weed’s allure is trying many different kinds to see what works best for your needs. Consider the cannabis odor, sensation, and flavor as you decide which strains are your favorite. Only you can decide which is the best choice for your body and mind.
Which type of strain do you prefer? Hit me up on social media and let’s spark up a conversation about it.
