Cannabis is available in many strains, with each varying cannabis strain producing different effects. This means each strain is suitable for treating various types of medical conditions.
The effects of cannabis are highly individualized because everyone's physiology and Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is different. Also, age, gender, and your overall health will make a difference on your experience.
The method you choose to consume cannabis will also change the experiences, especially regarding the onset and duration of effect. Smoking, vaping or ingesting have different effects on the way the cannabinoids enter your bloodstream. If you inhale cannabis, be it with a joint, vape, or a bong, then you could experience the effects within seconds or a few minutes. On the other hand, ingesting cannabis will take longer, and the effects may last longer.
There are three main types of cannabis strain.
The two most widespread strains of the marijuana plant are cannabis Sativa and cannabis Indica. It is easy to tell them apart by their different appearances, but there are also chemical differences.
Knowing the differences between how these two plants interact with the body and their unique properties will help you determine the best for your health needs.
How Can Cannabinoids Help The Body?
Cannabis is a complex plant, and research indicates it has over 400 chemical compounds. Of these, there are many different compounds referred to as cannabinoids. When found in plants, we can describe these as phytocannabinoids, and they provide the plant with protection for many things, from insect attacks to UV protection. The human body produces its own type of cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids. These are produced by the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) and help the body regulate essential functions such as mood, pain control, sleep, and immune response.
When there is an imbalance in human endocannabinoid production, phytocannabinoids from plants like cannabis can fill the gap. These phytocannabinoids can help by replacing what the body can't or isn't producing sufficient quantities of.
When we consume cannabis, the various cannabinoids can bind to different receptors. These play different roles in our bodies, which isn't fully understood yet, and a lot more research is still required.
How Many Cannabinoids Are There?
We don't know for sure, but so far, over 113 have been identified. The two most well researched are THC and CBD, but these are just the tip of the iceberg.
All the cannabinoids can be divided into different subgroups such as Cannabichromenes, Cannabicyclols, Cannabidiols (the most common is CBD), Cannabielsoins, Cannabigerols, Cannabinols and Cannabinodiols,
Cannabitriols, Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinols, Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinols (of which THC and THCA belong), and many miscellaneous others yet to be classified.
As many of these are yet to be studied, we don't know their exact role when taken in the body. Cannabinoids are only one set of the compounds found in plants, terpenes and flavonoids are also present, and these account for the flavor and smell. However, they seem to have medical qualities as well.
Many of these cannabinoid compounds in the raw cannabis plant have an extra carboxyl group attached. For example, tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) is not intoxicating as it is in the wrong form for the body to consume. So a method of decarboxylation is used through heating the compounds, which in the case of THCA converts it to THC, allowing the full effects to be felt.
Cannabis Sativa Medical Uses
Sativa strains of cannabis are known for the energizing and uplifting effects. They typically contain higher levels of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than cannabinoids. This means they deliver greater euphoric and cerebral stimulation than Indica cannabis strains.
Because of this high, they are often better used in the day time. They help boost creativity and relieve symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, stress, and physical pain. This makes Sativa good for treating the following illnesses.
Mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorders.
ADHA
HIV/AIDS
Glaucoma
Alzheimer's Disease.
Many of the weed strains with haze in the name are Sativa dominant strains of cannabis. They were made popular in 60's California. Some of the well known potent THC strains are Acapulco Gold, Lemon Haze, and Jack Herer.
Cannabis Indica Medical Uses
Indica strains are most known for their soothing and sedating effects. They typically have a higher cannabinoid level than Sativa strains, which is the reason behind the relaxation effect.
Indica strains can help treat symptoms such as insomnia, headaches, nausea, seizures, anxiety, physical pain, and muscle spasms.
Indican strains are used to treat these illnesses.
Cancer
Multiple Sclerosis
Fibromyalgia
Lupu
Sleep Apnea
Anxiety disorders like OCD, PTSD, and panic attacks.
Arthritis
PMS
Crohn's Disease
Epilepsy
Those weed strains with the kush in the name will be high Indica dominant strains. The name is given to strains that originate from the Hindu Kush mountains. These strains typically have an aroma that varies from eathy and floral to sweet with hints of spice pepper and even citrus. They should taste smooth and herbaceous. Some common Kush strains are OG Kush, Bubba Kush, and Purple Kush.
Hybrid Strains Medical Uses
By crossbreeding different strains of Indica and Sativa, their properties can be mixed. The new plant will inherit a mix of properties from each of the two parent plants, so it will have a mix of properties and fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum when it comes to Sativa and Indica strains.
Picking The Best Strain.
Remember that each marijuana strain can affect people differently, and you may have to experiment to find the strain that works best for you. Remember, you may need to wait a while to feel the effects. Depending on how you consumed the cannabis, this could be a few minutes if you smoke or vapes or up to an hour if you ingested the cannabis, so be sure to wait a while to gauge the level of effect before taking more. You may experience some side effects such as dry mouth, dry eyes, and dizziness. Budtenders can help you pick strains that will match your needs.
James is an experienced content writer and marketing manager at Lookah, one of the growing number of online headshops selling glass bongs and vapes at affordable prices, checkout www.lookah.com to see their range of products.