Medicinal cannabis strains have a variety of properties that treat numerous symptoms of all kinds of illnesses, but what exactly is a cannabis “strain”? That’s just what we’re talking about today!
Medicinal Cannabis: What is a Cannabis “Strain”?
The Three “Categories” of Marijuana
There are three categories of marijuana that are frequently referenced, these are Indica, Sativa, and hybrid blends.
Indica
Cannabis Indica refers to plants that are from the Cannabis genus and the Indica family. Cannabis Indica is an annual plant and it is naturally high in THC – the compound in cannabis that creates the more psychedelic effects sought by recreational marijuana users. Cannabis Indica can be identified by its short and thick leaves.
Sativa
Cannabis Sativa refers to plants that are from the Cannabis genus in the Sativa family. Cannabis Sativa is also an annual plant and is native to East Asia. The leaves of the Cannabis Sativa differ from the cannabis Indica leaves because they are thinner and longer. Sativa is thought to be a more energizing category of cannabis compared to Indica which is believed to be more relaxing.
Hybrid
Hybrid plants are blends of Sativa and Indica plants. These plants may be any combination of the two categories of Cannabis.
A Note
While it used to be true that there were more unique qualities to each marijuana category, the fact is that now, with so much cultivation of different marijuana varieties, there are significant differences between plants within the same category and fewer differences between plant categories! For this reason, classification of plants is now mostly done according to the levels of THC and CBD in plants. For example:
- High-THC, low-CBD
- High-CBD, low-THC
- Balanced CBD and THC
So, What is a “Strain”?
Cultivars have spent a great deal of time and done a great deal of research in order to crossbreed different cannabis plants to create cannabis plants that have specific qualities. These qualities are the result of different levels of the cannabinoids (compounds) found within cannabis plants.
The word “strain” refers to a particular variety of plant that is developed by cultivars. Each strain has a unique name and unique properties. For example, “Chemdawg” is often recommended by doctors for patients suffering from stress, depression, pain, insomnia, lack of appetite. The most common effects of this strain include feelings of happiness, relaxation, creativity, and euphoria.
How Many Strains Are There?
There are countless strains of marijuana out there, but in the medical field, there is a core group of strains that are most often recommended to patients based on their effects.
What Strain Is Right For Me?
Many newcomers to medical marijuana admit to feeling overwhelmed at the idea that they will have to choose the right strain of medical marijuana for them. They get flustered thinking that they are expected to know what the effects of each strain are. Well, here’s what you need to know:
As your advocate, your medical marijuana prescribing physician understands the different strains of medical marijuana and what they are beneficial for. They will be able to use their knowledge of the different strains in combination with their knowledge of your symptoms and your need, to recommend specific types of medical cannabis for your treatment.
You will also find that the staff at the medical marijuana dispensary is exceptionally well educated about each of their products. Should you need any more information or have any questions about different products when you go to pick up your prescription, the staff at the dispensary is more than familiar enough with their products to help!
What If I Don’t Like a Strain?
As with any medication, different people have different types of reactions to the different strains of medical cannabis. If you experience an unpleasant reaction to the strain that you purchased or if you feel uncomfortable with how it makes you feel, it’s important to communicate directly with your doctor. Your doctor can explain any possible side effects that may dissipate with time as well as make notes on any strains that you reacted badly to. With that information, they will be able to tweak your recommendations to find a strain that is a better fit for you.
Do You Think Medicinal Cannabis Might Be Right For You?
If you think medicinal cannabis might be right for you and would like to talk to a reputable and experienced medical marijuana doctor in Florida, Dr. Tirmal at The Medical Marijuana Doctor can help. Use our easy medical marijuana online appointment tool to set up an appointment at a time that’s right for you and let’s get all of your questions answered.