Medicinal and recreational uses of cannabis are found in both the sativa and indica varieties, which are the two most common kinds of the plant. Known for its “head high,” Sativas provide an exhilarating, stimulating impact that may help relieve anxiety or tension while increasing creativity and attention. Indicas are often connected with full-body effects, such as an increase in deep relaxation and a reduction in sleeplessness and insomnia.
Despite the little amount of study that has been done on these impacts, it seems that these plants have more in common than was previously supposed.
Many in the cannabis business have moved away from the designations indica vs sativa vs hybrid and have instead begun classified the various “strains” or, more accurately, “chemovars” according to the following characteristics:
- Type I: a high concentration of THC
- Type II: a combination of THC and CBD
- Type III: CBD concentrations are high
The cannabis business is increasingly shifting away from the term “strains” and toward the term chemovars (chemical variations), since the term “strain” is often used to refer to germs and viruses.
To put it another way, the category or kind of cannabis you use may not be the best predictor of the effects you will have.
What should you look for to understand strain effects?
The commonly accepted rule of thumb is that sativas are more exhilarating and energetic, and indicas are more soothing and restful — but the truth is that it isn’t quite that straightforward.
Individual plants, even those of the same strain of cannabis, have diverse affects on the user. It all relies on the chemical content of the plant as well as the growth strategy used. Instead than focusing just on the kind of cannabis — sativa or indica — consider the description provided by the producer and dispensary.
Often, plant types are subdivided into particular chemovars or breeds, which are then further subdivided. Chemovars are characterized by the amount of cannabinoids and terpenes present in each of them. In order to assist the user select which chemovar is best suited for them, this “cannabinoid profile” will offer them with the most up-to-date information.
The usage of names alone does not give the user with the essential information to choose the most appropriate profile for them. The overall effects of the chemovar are determined by the substances found in it.
Strains to consider for certain conditions
Keep in mind that the strength of cannabinoids and terpenes may vary from grower to grower, and that although some strains may be beneficial for certain ailments, your individual experience may differ from that of others.
How to choose the most appropriate product for your needs
The following factors should be taken into account while selecting the appropriate cannabis product for you.
Understand what you’re attempting to accomplish.
Making a list of what you want to feel or treat can help you limit down your alternatives. Talk to the person at the dispensary about your intentions for using cannabis, such as relieving sleeplessness, lowering anxiety, or improving energy.
Recognize your own level of tolerance.
Plants like as Pineapple Express are regarded as being of “entry level” difficulty. In most cases, their side effects are moderate and acceptable. Strains with greater concentrations of cannabinoids may be too powerful for a first-time user who is unfamiliar with the plant.
Take into consideration your medical history.
Despite the fact that cannabis is a natural substance, it may have powerful effects. Before experimenting with cannabis, it’s important to think about how it can mix with your current medical problems and prescriptions. When in doubt, consult with a doctor or other healthcare expert to learn more about your specific advantages and possible hazards.
Decide on the mode of ingestion that you like.
Each method of taking cannabis has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you smoke or vape cannabis, you may notice the benefits more rapidly, but it may also irritate your lungs and airways as a result of the irritation. Gummies, chewables, and meals may be more tolerable than inhalation, but the effects of edibles may take longer to manifest and may be much more strong than inhalation.
Legality
Cannabis isn’t legal in every state or country. Until a few years ago, all cannabis products were considered illegal in the majority of states in the United States. Many states, including California, have legalized cannabis for medicinal or recreational uses, or for both.
CBD legislation is also changing.
Some states allow it for therapeutic uses, but they strictly monitor the source in order to avoid CBD products laced with THC from being sold in their states. Before attempting to acquire or consume cannabis, you should familiarize yourself with the laws in your state.
It’s important to remember that cannabis is still illegal under US federal law. If you don’t know the laws of your current location, you might suffer legal ramifications as a result of your actions. In the event that you reside in a country other than the United States, you may be subject to additional laws.
The bottom line
If you’re interested in learning more about how cannabis could benefit you, consult with a doctor or other healthcare expert, or speak with a competent cannabis clinician, such as the ones listed below.
They may talk with you about the possible benefits and drawbacks of using it for your specific health and assist you in finding something that works for you.After that, you may start looking at your possibilities. It might take some time to find the best solution for you. You may also discover that you have a poor tolerance to cannabis.
Visitors to states that have legalized cannabis may go to a dispensary and speak with a member of the staff who has undergone extensive training. They may be able to suggest certain strains or other items that are tailored to your exact requirements.