If you’re relatively new to medical cannabis (or cannabis, in general) but are interested in using it to help with a medical condition, you may not know where to start. There are many different types of cannabis strains, and some may be better for certain conditions than others. Here we break down the basics of cannabis strains so you can get a little more familiar with the different types and get a better idea of which strain might be best for you.
Medical cannabis, unlike recreational cannabis, is professionally cultivated and processed to produce a consistent, effective product. Differing ratios of phytocannabinoids, including THC and CBD, among others, are found in the two main cannabis strains – indica and sativa – and their hybrids.
The indica plant is short and bushy and can be grown indoors in a warm temperature. This strain has a sedating and relaxing effect and is best for anxiety and insomnia. Sativa is tall and thin and can be grown outdoors in cooler temperatures. This strain may provide more invigorating and stimulating effects, making it a good option for depression and fatigue. Hybrids (or crosses) between these strains produce a wide range of these effects, thus making some more beneficial for one condition other another.
Although there are thousands of different types of cannabis hybrids, here, we’ll focus on some common strains that may be used to treat different types of medical conditions and symptoms. We’ve also noted the ratio of THC to CBD in each strain for those who want to avoid the psychoactive effect of the plant:*
Charlotte’s Web
Ratio: very low THC:CBD
Treats: epilepsy; pain; nausea
Girl Scout Cookies
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: depression; anxiety; pain
One to One
Ratio: equal THC:CBD
Treats: muscle spasms; pain; epilepsy; nausea
ACDC
Ratio: very low THC:CBD
Treats: pain; stress; inflammation; nausea; epilepsy
Northern Lights
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: stress; pain; insomnia; depression; nausea
Purple Kush
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: depression; pain
Strawberry Cough
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: depression; pain; fatigue; appetite suppression
Harlequin
Ratio: low THC:CBD
Treats: arthritis; pain; fatigue; inflammation
Blue Dream
Ratio: high THC:CBD
Treats: arthritis; pain; depression; anxiety
Sour Diesel (Sour D)
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: stress; depression; pain
Dr. Grinspoon
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: fatigue; depression; mood disorders
Crimea Blue
Ratio: low THC:CBD
Treats: pain; muscle spasms
G-13 Haze
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: insomnia; depression; anxiety; nausea
Satori
Ratio: very high THC:CBD
Treats: sleep disorders; depression; fatigue; headache
Avi-dekel
Ratio: very low THC:CBD
Treats: stress; depression; appetite suppression; muscle spasms
Remember, you may have to try a few different strains to see which works best for you. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or medical cannabis dispensary any questions or concerns you might have about different cannabis strains.
Learn more about different cannabis strains by watching the video below:
*A low THC:CBD ratio indicates higher CBD levels, whereas a high THC:CBD ratio indicates higher THC levels