- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Choosing the right cannabis strain can often feel like an overwhelming task, especially given the myriad options available. While it may be tempting to select a strain based on its unique name or popularity, it’s essential to understand that each strain offers a distinct experience influenced by its specific characteristics.
What Is a Marijuana Strain?
A marijuana strain refers to a specific variety of the cannabis plant. Strains are typically divided into three categories: cannabis indica, cannabis sativa, and hybrids. Each strain possesses unique characteristics, including variations in size, color, flower shape, and plant structure.
More importantly, they differ in chemical composition, particularly in terms of their THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) content. These compounds are responsible for the plant’s psychoactive and therapeutic effects, respectively. The specific combination of these compounds, along with other cannabinoids and terpenes, contributes to each strain’s distinctive effects, flavors, and aromas.
What Are the Different Types of Cannabis Strains?
Indica
Indica strains originate from the harsh climates of the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. They are typically short, bushy plants with broad leaves.
Indica strains are known for being physically sedating, and they are often used for their potential medicinal properties because they can aid in controlling pain and alleviating the symptoms of certain mental disorders like anxiety and depression.
Sativa
Sativa strains are known for stimulating and energizing effects. Originating from warmer climates, sativa plants are taller, thinner, and have narrower leaves compared to their indica counterparts.
When consumed, sativa strains induce a more psychological, cerebral high that’s often associated with increased creativity and social interaction. They are commonly used in the daytime due to their ability to provide energy and improve users’ moods.
Hybrid
Hybrid strains are a crossbreed of indica and sativa cannabis plants that have been cultivated to combine the effects of each strain. They are designed to provide a more balanced experience, incorporating the relaxing effects of indica strains and the energizing impact of sativa strains.
The effects of hybrid strains can lean more towards the indica or sativa side depending on the traits of their parent plants. Some are more stimulating, while others are more calming.
What Are the Most Popular Cannabis Strains?
One of the most popular sativa strains is Sour Diesel, which is renowned for its energizing effects and is a favorite among consumers seeking a cerebral high.
Blue Dream is another beloved strain known for inducing full-body relaxation and gentle cerebral invigoration. This combination of 60% Sativa and 40% Indica is widely used for mood elevation and pain relief.
Granddaddy Purple, is an indica strain characterized by its deep purple buds, is famous for its stress-relieving effects and is often recommended for insomnia.
Pineapple Express is a sativa-dominant hybrid that combines potent cerebral effects with a tropical flavor profile, making it popular among consumers seeking a flavorful, long-lasting high.
Lastly, OG Kush, a classic strain, is appreciated for its ability to mitigate stress and induce euphoria. This indica-dominant strain has a sour lemon scent with woody undertones that users love.
How Do You Choose the Right Strain for You?
Choosing the right strain of cannabis is a personal journey that should consider several key factors.
Firstly, flavor preference plays a crucial role. Different strains have diverse terpene profiles, which influence the taste and aroma. Some strains have a citrusy flavor, while others may be more earthy or piney.
Next, consider any medical conditions you might have. Certain strains of cannabis are known for their potential to alleviate symptoms of specific medical conditions. For instance, Sativa strains may help with issues like depression and ADHD, while Indicas are often used for pain relief and insomnia.
Price is another important factor. While everyone wants the highest quality, your budget may limit your options. However, don’t be dismayed. There are plenty of affordable strains that offer great effects and flavors.
Lastly, consider where you plan to smoke cannabis. If you’re going to use it in a public place, a less pungent strain might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you’re in the comfort of your own home, aroma might not be an issue.
The best way to discover the most appropriate strains for you is to decide what kind of experience you’re looking for and then experiment with a wide variety until you find your favorites. If you are consuming marijuana for medical purposes, your doctor can recommend the best strains for you.
Why Choose the Sanctuary?
At the Sanctuary Wellness Institute, we are committed to ushering you smoothly through the process of obtaining a medical marijuana card. Our experienced team understands the intricacies of the process in your state and can demystify it for you.
We can connect you with a certified medical marijuana doctor who can assess your condition and provide a recommendation if they deem medical marijuana a suitable treatment option. If you’re ready to begin your medical cannabis journey, look no further than the Sanctuary.
How we reviewed this article:
- Kate Robertson (2021). Cannabis 101: A Guide to Indica Strains
https://www.healthline.com/health/indica-strains - Naveed Saleh (2023). Indica vs. Sativa: What’s the Difference?
https://www.verywellhealth.com/indica-vs-sativa-1123887 - Datrianna Meeks (2021). What Are Cannabis Hybrids?
https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/november-2021/what-are-cannabis-hybrids/ - Godfrey Junior (2023). 15 Best Weed Strains Every Stoner Should Know in 2024: India, Sativa, Hybrids & More
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2023/11/28/best-weed-strains/ - Cresco Labs (2024). Indica vs Sativa
https://www.crescolabs.com/indica-vs-sativa/
Current Version
January 8, 2024
Written By
John DiBella
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
John DiBella is the co-founder and CEO at The Sanctuary Wellness Institute. His goal is to foster healthier lifestyles to improve individuals’ quality of life and health span through online medical and non-medical services. When he’s not writing blogs about medical marijuana, he enjoys hiking, camping, surfing and sailing.
