A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis Strains
The cannabis plant is incredibly versatile. It’s been used to treat various conditions and symptoms, and its effects can range from feelings of happiness and attentiveness to pain and anxiety relief. Manufacturers have used the plant to create a variety of products, such as edibles, concentrates, topicals, tinctures, vapes, medical cannabis, and more.
While the exact number of marijuana strains in existence is unknown, it’s estimated that there are hundreds, if not thousands of different strains available. Each strain has unique characteristics and effects, making it possible to find the perfect strain for any individual’s needs.
The cannabis industry has seen a surge in growth and popularity due to the recent shift in public perception and legalization of cannabis. This has increased the number of cannabis strains released, and studies have predicted that the adult-use cannabis market will be worth more than $33 billion by 2025. That represents remarkable industry growth, and it’s expected to continue in the coming years.
This article will provide a brief introduction to cannabis strains, detail their classifications, and list a few of the most popular ones that might interest you.
What Are Cannabis Strains?
The term “strain” refers to a particular type of cannabis bred for specific qualities such as aroma, potency, appearance, and effects. Names for these varieties are typically based on their distinguishing traits. For example, a Gelato strain will produce a distinct sweet smell, while a Sour Diesel strain will have a citrus-like smell.
Due to the infinite possibilities in cross-breeding, there are now many designated types of cannabis to choose from at cannabis dispensary store. Consider how much tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) you’d like, the effects you want, and so on while searching for a strain.
What are the Three Classifications of Cannabis Strains?
There are three primary classifications of weed strains: sativa, indica, and hybrid. It’s important to avoid generalizations about the effects of various strains because they all have unique properties. The effects felt from a given strain of cannabis will rely heavily on the individual using it, as body size, health, and level of experience will all play a role.
That said, sativa, indica, and hybrid strains respectively tend to induce similar effects for different users.
Sativa
Smokers who want to be productive in the daytime typically like sativas. The uplifting qualities of sativas and their ability to spark new ideas have made them popular among cannabis consumers. These effects are well known for their usefulness in facilitating discussion, fine motor performance, and relaxation.
Sativas have a well-deserved reputation for alleviating mental fatigue and uplifting users thanks to their positive effects on creativity and perspective.
Here are some of the most popular sativa and sativa-dominant hybrid strains:
Strawberry Cough
This strain is as described by its name. It has a sweet, berry-like aroma and flavor, but the dense smoke it produces is notorious for causing coughing fits. Still, the effects of this strain are typically euphoric and energizing, making it an excellent choice for daytime use.
Sour Diesel
With a THC content of up to 25%, a single hit of Sour Diesel will trigger a wave of cerebral stimulation that gradually spreads throughout the body. This strain is highly recommended for those searching for a powerful, long-lasting high.
Jack Herer
This variety produces abundant harvests in any climate, and its consistently pleasant effects make it a go-to for regular users. Jack Herer is an excellent choice for those who like to start the day off on a happy note due to its sweet, piney flavor and energizing effects.
These three are good choices if you’re feeling upbeat and want to have the urge to move and be productive.
Indica
Compared to sativa strains, the effects of indica cannabis products are more stress-reducing and calming. These cannabis varieties focus more on the body, and their products can be felt down to the cellular level. It’s why individuals with chronic pain, including cancer patients who have not found relief from conventional painkillers, have turned to indicas.
Here’s a list of great examples of the indica or indica-dominant hybrid strain:
Northern Lights
Northern Lights is known for its soothing effects and is often used to help with insomnia, pain, and stress. It has a THC content between 15 and 25%, putting users in blissful relaxation and weightlessness. The potent anti-anxiety and sleep-inducing effects of cannabis make Northern Lights a strain best enjoyed in the evening.
Girl Scout Cookies
Because it can contain as much as 28% THC, Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) is often considered one of the most potent strains. A rich euphoria-inducing substance, GSC also has a pleasant scent and flavor. A 60:40 indica:sativa ratio gives GSC a superb blend of indica and sativa effects for the user.
Granddaddy Purple
The Granddaddy Purple variety of cannabis is extremely well-liked. There’s about 0.5–1% CBD and 17–23% THC in this predominantly indica strain. It’s been widely celebrated for centuries due to its potent analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, and calming effects.
These three indica strains above are a must-try if you’re having a tough day.
Hybrid
Most cannabis strains are hybrids. Even the majority of indica and sativa strains are hybrids! A strain’s cannabinoid and terpene profile is more indicative of its effects than its sativa, indica, or hybrid classification. The chemotype can determine the medicinal properties of the hybrid.
Here’s a list of some popular hybrid strains for you to try out:
OG Kush
When OG Kush first appeared in the 1990s, it was in California. This high THC (18–25%) and low CBD (0.1–0.5%) strain is believed to be a hybrid between Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and Hindu Kush. Known for its sour-citrusy and earthy aroma, it gives users a cerebral high while also easing stress in the physical body.
Sour Space Candy
A high-CBD strain, Sour Space Candy may help you unwind without getting high. This hybrid strain’s origins can be traced back to Oregon, and it’s a product of crossing Sour Tsunami and Early Resin Berry. This variety grows beautiful buds and is known for its sweet and sour taste, with citrus and berry hints.
Gorilla Glue
Gorilla Glue, also known as Original Glue, Gorilla Glue #4, and GG4, is a particularly potent hybrid strain. Having won many Cannabis Cups, this THC-rich strain is known for both its psychoactive and relaxing effects. Gorilla Glue crosses Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel, creating a sweet, earthy aroma and a spicy, diesel-like flavor.
These are the three suggested hybrid strains for cannabis users to try. Before indulging in any bud, make sure to research and prepare thoroughly.
Conclusion
As previously stated, cannabis offers a wide range of potential medical uses; however, different cannabis strains may have varying degrees of success in treating specific conditions. Whether you’re looking for effective medicinal goods or just a new strain to explore, it’s essential to learn as much as possible about it before trying it.
John DiBella is a medical marijuana advocate, owner of The Sanctuary Wellness Institute, and a writer. When he’s not writing blogs about medical marijuana, he enjoys hiking, camping and sailing.