As one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States, more people are taking advantage of the vast benefits of medical marijuana every day. However, what many people do not know about cannabis is that there are actually several distinct marijuana strains that each serve different functions. Medical cannabis is utilized to ease patients’ discomfort for a variety of conditions, so it is critical to select the right cannabis strain for your symptoms.
But how do you know which cannabis strain to choose? We have compiled a list of the main types to make selecting your medical cannabis effortless.
Types of Medical Cannabis Strains
There are three main categories that cannabis strains are classified as:
1. Indica Strains
An Indica strain of cannabis is meant to provide a physical effect throughout the body. These strains are characterized by their shorter flowering time, higher number of leaves, and lower THC content. Oftentimes, Indica strains are suggested for:
- Relieving muscle tension
- Easing nausea
- Increasing relaxation
- Boosting appetite
- Reducing pain
- Promoting sleep
Due to their tranquilizing properties, Indica strains are typically recommended for nighttime use. Some popular Indica strains are:
- Skywalker OG
- Purple Sunset
- Northern Lights
- Banana Hammock
- Afghan Kush
- L.A. Confidential
- Guru #10
2. Sativa Strains
A Sativa strain of cannabis aims to provide more of a mental experience. Sativa strains are usually considered the energizing cannabis strain, giving the user a feeling of alertness, creativity, and productiveness. Due to Sativa strains’ ability to help users focus, it is recommended for daytime use rather than nighttime. Research has even indicated that Sativas may have the same effect on depression as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are commonly prescribed antidepressants. Some popular Sativa strains are:
- Dutch Hawaiian
- Super Silver Haze
- Maui Waui
- White Buffalo
- Sour Diesel
- Dream N’ Sour
- Jack Herer
3. Hybrid Strains
A hybrid cannabis strain is a mix of Indica and Sativa strains, with three options to choose from:
- Indica-dominant strain
- Sativa-dominant strain
- Balanced strain
A hybrid aims to provide the best of both strains: the energizing effects of Sativa and the calming effects of Indica. In general, hybrids tend to have more THC, which is the psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana. If you are looking for a strain that contains equal parts of CBD, a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid, a balanced strain may be optimal for your needs.
Due to their unique effects, hybrid strains are among the most popular options for medicinal purposes. Some common conditions that hybrid strains treat include:
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Degenerative disc disorder
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Fibromyalgia
- PTSD
- Migraines
- Scoliosis
Some popular hybrid strains to choose from are:
- Pineapple Express
- Golden Goat
- Reggae Cowboy
- Orange Velvet
- Blue Dream
- Pink Cookies
- Trainwreck
- Big Love
- Blue Sunshine
Choosing a Medical Cannabis Strain
When selecting a medical cannabis strain, you need to know your treatment goals. For example, do you want to sleep better at night? Are you experiencing anxiety that is affecting your daily life? Are you looking for pain relief?
Once you know the effects that you’re searching for, speak to your provider about what these goals are. Not only will they be able to help you with which strain to choose, but they can also point you towards more “entry-level” strains to help determine your tolerance levels.
Along with your healthcare provider, you can talk to your local dispensary workers, as they are cannabis experts who will be able to guide you in the right direction. Remember, selecting a marijuana strain is a trial and error process. You may have to try several kinds before finding one that works best for you.
Contact a Florida Medical Marijuana Doctor
Florida medical marijuana has gained significant traction in recent years as people seek out new solutions and safer treatments for a variety of ailments and conditions. If you or a loved one are suffering from a chronic condition or acute illness and are interested in more treatment options, contact the Medical Marijuana Treatment Clinics of Florida or take our patient survey today to see if you qualify for a medical marijuana registration card so you can start receiving the treatment you deserve.
Share the Article
