Cannabis use is increasing all over the United States, as well as other countries. Many states have legalized marijuana for medical use, and some have even legalized it recreationally. There are many ways to consume marijuana, from smoking it to vaping it to edibles and much more. Aside from the many routes of ingestion, there are literally tons of different marijuana strains to choose from. These varying cannabis strains can have varying levels of THC, CBD, and other chemical components. Let’s discuss this in-depth and review some of the many different marijuana strains out there…
What is a marijuana/Cannabis strain?
So, just what is a marijuana “strain?” This can be equated to the “breed” or type of marijuana that has been grown. Different seeds from each strain will yield that “breed” of cannabis. There are 3 basic categories that these weed strains will fall under. They are as follows:
- Sativa: Cannabis strains that fall under this category are said to have a more energizing effect on the user.
- Indica: Cannabis strains in the indica category will have a more relaxing effect on the user and may even cause drowsiness (great for sleep).
- Hybrids: The types of cannabis strains in this category are hybrid mixes of sativas and indicas. They can vary in the strength of each. Some may be a 50/50 ratio, while others can be 10/90 indica to Sativa.
Note that there is some debate in the medical and scientific communities about the differences between Sativa, indica, and hybrids. While there are some noticeable physical differences in cannabis strains – to the eye as well as to the olfactory system (your sniffer) and taste buds – the effects that you actually feel may not differ that much.
You can also find marijuana strains that are classified by THC levels. Higher amounts of THC will cause more euphoric feelings than those lower in THC. Ones with more THC will also likely lead to more undesired effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and red, irritated eyes.
Sativas can have a range of smells and flavors but often tend to smell more fruity and fresh or even grassy. Indicas are more pungent and aromatic, sometimes smelling more piney and stringent.
What Is Marijuana/Cannabis Used For?
There are many uses for a variety of marijuana strains. Some of the most noted uses for medical marijuana today include:
- Epilepsy
- Pain and inflammation
- Insomnia and other sleep-related disorders
- Anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders
- Appetite and other digestive issues
- Nausea
- Multiple sclerosis
- Glaucoma
- Easing of side effects of other medications/drugs
- And more
Please remember, if you are wanting to use marijuana for any medical purpose, you must see a doctor and get a prescription. Even if you live in a state where it is recreationally legal, you should see your doctor if you are interested in using cannabis for any medical purpose. Please do not try to diagnose or treat any potential medical condition at home on your own. It’s just not worth it, and some symptoms can even be a sign of some more serious underlying condition.
How to Choose a Strain
Choosing a strain can be quite difficult with all of the options out there. Depending on your personal needs and your ability to handle the intense effects of marijuana, your ideal strain might differ from others with the same needs and/or desired results.
If you are using medical marijuana for insomnia or for anxiety, then you may benefit more from the use of an indica that can help you to feel more relaxed. If you are using it for pain and inflammation throughout the day, then you may benefit more from a sativa that can help you to stay more alert and awake feeling.
Another factor to consider is simply personal taste. You may not like the way that a certain strain tastes or how it burns and smokes. This may have a huge effect on your decision regarding which marijuana strain you choose.
One last thing to think about is the potential unwanted side effects that come along with each marijuana strain. Some may be more powerful than others and can lead to much heavier side effects. These can be too much for some. You may need to try out several to really hone in on the right one for you.
Remember, talking with your doctor is one of the most important factors here. Discuss your strain options with them, as well as the most common side effects and uses. They will be able to help you make the best decision for your individual needs and desired results.
Different types of strains
Now that you know a little more about cannabis strains, let’s dig into talking about some of the specifics on some of the most popular ones. Here is the rundown of some of the most popular medical marijuana strains out there…
Acapulco Gold
As the name would suggest, this strain originated in Acapulco, Mexico. It is one of the most well-known cannabis strains and is also touted as one of the best around. The buds are often colored green to brownish-gold with orange pistils (hairs). It is said to have an aroma similar to that of toffee or butterscotch, and the flavor, when smoked, is comparable to nutmeg… sounds delicious!
It is a well-known sativa that provides energizing effects. It is believed to work well for stress, fatigue, pain, and nausea.
Blue Dream
This marijuana strain is a cross between Blueberry Indica and Sativa Haze. Its buds are light green with yellow and brown tints and purple pistils (hairs). This lovely color combination creates an almost blue-violet hue, hence the name, Blue Dream.
This hybrid cannabis strain is known to be relaxing while not causing extreme drowsiness. It is said to be ideal for pain, inflammation, and even cramps while not leaving you feeling fatigued and exhausted. Check out our review of this strain by clicking here.
Purple Kush
This strain is high on the indica scale. It will leave you feeling quite euphoric and relaxed. The buds are most often a bright green with purple hairs, giving it the name Purple Kush.
Purple Kush indica is often used for those who suffer with insomnia and sleep-related conditions since it has such a relaxing effect. It is also believed to be great for pain and muscle spasms.
Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel strain is a hybrid but is usually very high on the sativa end of things. The buds are often fluffy and colored a light green with yellow hues. You will often find many orange or red hairs (pistils) in this strain.
This sativa dominant strain is well known for providing results while keeping you feeling lively and awake. Some even say that it actually provides more energy along with its relieving effects. Many people enjoy using this marijuana strain for pain throughout the day, as well as stress and even depression.
Bubba Kush
Bubba kush is another indica marijuana strain. It is found with dense “nugs” (buds) that are a deep green with purple hues.
This indica strain is believed to be great for helping to induce sleep and relaxation – or just to destress when life gets hectic. It is also touted by many as a strain that is great for pain and inflammation.
Granddaddy Purple
This cannabis strain is yet another heavy hitter, high THC indica. As the name would suggest, the buds have purple and violet hues. Purple Punch Strain is the best known breeding of Granddady Purple.
Granddaddy “Purp” (short for purple) is thought to be another cannabis strain that is ideal for helping to induce stress relief and rest. Many people use this marijuana strain for sleep. Another common use for this one is to induce appetite.
Afghan Kush
This strain originates from the Hindu Kush mountains and it yet another high THC indica. The nugs are typically green with golden hues – but can sometimes be purple.
This is another cannabis strain for sleep, appetite, and pain relief. You have probably noticed by now that the indicas seem to be most ideal for these three purposes.
LA Confidential
This is another indica strain that has a very piney, woody, and earthy scent and taste. The buds are dense and bright green with yellow and purple hues.
This is another strain that is widely used for sleep-related issues, as well as pain and inflammation. Many people with chronic pain prefer this medical marijuana strain.
Maui Wowie
Maui Wowie is a sativa cannabis strain that has been well known since the 1970s. It has dense yet fluffy buds with golden undertones and red and orange hairs.
This sativa cannabis strain is preferred amongst many daytime users – like those who use medical marijuana for pain and inflammation. Users tout it for providing high levels of energy and creativity.
Golden Goat
This strain was created by accident in Topeka, Kansas. And as the name would suggest, has golden tones in the buds.
Users claim that this high THC strain provides high levels of creativity with a very euphoric feeling.
Northern Lights
This is one of the most well known pure indica marijuana strains. It is deep green with purple color.
This indica cannabis strain is touted for helping with sleep, pain, depression, stress, and more. It is a favorite amongst medical cannabis users.
White Widow
White widow is a hybrid cannabis strain. It is very light green in color and has a large amount of white crystals, giving this marijuana strain its name.
Users say White Widow provides a high that improves mood while providing energy and relaxation all at the same time. Many medical marijuana users with depression say they prefer this strain, especially if they need more energy throughout the day.
Super Silver Haze
Super Silver Haze is a high sativa hybrid marijuana strain. It has dense buds with light orange and yellow hues and even some white crystals.
This is another high energy sativa dominant strain. Users say they prefer this strain for pain relief, nausea relief, and to help boost mood. They also report it induces high levels of euphoria.
Pineapple Express
This strain was made famous by a 2008 comedy. It is a high THC sativa strain with dense nugs and lots of golden yellow colors.
It is reported to provide high energy, mood-boosting high with great pain-relieving effects.
Fruity Pebbles
As the name would suggest, this strain is a colorful one. It can range from deep to bright green with purple, pink, red, yellow, and orange coloring throughout the nugs.
Users report that this strain can make you quite giggly. For this reason, people prefer it as a mood booster. It is also often used to help with nausea and to induce appetite.
Final Thoughts
Now you know much more about a variety of cannabis strains, as well as how to identify them. If you are interested in using any of these as a medical marijuana strain, then you should consult your physician. You should also ensure that you are following all local laws and legislation.
