To many people, deciding to medicate with medical marijuana can be an easy decision, but many patients can have trouble deciding what kind of cannabis to use. With thousands of strains available, it can become confusing or even overwhelming for patients to figure out which strain is right for them.
Comparing Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid Cannabis Strains
Sativa and Indica are the two main species of cannabis, which have thousands of subspecies, or strains. Sativas contain more THC than CBD/CBN, While Indicas contain more CBD/CBN than THC. THC, CBD, and CBN are all cannabinoids, the beneficial compounds in marijuana that produce medical and psychoactive effects. Each strain has its own effect, such as Sour Diesel, a Sativa which can relieve symptoms of depression, ADHD, and PTSD, or Granddaddy purple, an Indica which relieves stress, pain, and insomnia. Patients can easily use online resources or consult with specialists to find out whether Sativa vs Indica strains suit them the best.
Sativa Cannabis Strains
Sativas are skinny plants that can reach up to 20 feet tall. They’re well known for their ability to relieve symptoms, while still allowing the patient to go about their daily life without feeling too tired or “couch-locked.” Sativa strains are known to alleviate many of symptoms for diseases and disorders such as:
- Nausea
- Depression
- Low/no appetite
- Glaucoma/Intro-ocular disorders
- HIV/AIDS
- Headaches/Migraines
- Chronic pain
Indica Cannabis Strains
Indica plants grow wide, dense, and are generally much shorter than Sativa plants. Indicas are known to have more a sedative effect on the patient. Indica strains are ideal for alleviating the symptoms of patients suffering from insomnia and pain, but they also can alleviate symptoms of other diseases and disorders, such as:
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinsons
- Panic attacks
- Chronic Pain
Hybrid Cannabis Strains
Hybrid strains are the best of both worlds for many patients. Hybrid strains are a cross of two or more strains of cannabis, allowing the patient to get the desired effects of both Indica and sativa strains in one hybrid strain. For example, let’s say a patient has arthritis pain but needs to medicate before work each day. A hybrid strain would allow him to reap the benefits of Indica’s pain relief without becoming too drowsy.
Unique Cannabis Strains in Prescott, AZ from SWC Arizona
Choosing the right strain of cannabis is most effective when the patient uses a process of trial and error. Most dispensaries like SWC Arizona have a knowledgeable staff that can help patients pick what is right for their symptoms. Websites like Leafly and Weedmaps to read up on marijuana strain genetics and effects. Our staff would be happy to help you explore the right strains for you.
