Strains

Indicas

Known for their relaxing body high and the infamous “couch lock”, Indica strains are a popular choice for those suffering from pain, anxiety or insomnia. Buds tend to be darker and denser, and typically contain higher levels of CBD, a cannabinoid known for its restorative properties

Sativas

Sativas are a popular choice for the recreational consumer because they tend to contain higher levels of the cannabinoid, THC, or the primary psychoactive component in cannabis. The resulting high tends to be more uplifting and energetic, though it can cause problems for those who experience marijuana-induced paranoia or anxiety.

Hybrids

Hybrid cannabis strains are made by crossing the genotypes of two different strains through self-pollination. The resulting strain might land anywhere on the Indica/Sativa spectrum, depending on the characteristics of the final phenotype.

Cannabinoids (CBD)

Cannabinoids (CBD): Any chemical that interacts with the cannabinoid systems in the body, these can include cannabinoids that come from the plant, from the body or form synthetic variations

Where they seem medically helpful:

• Psychiatric/neurological disorders—reduces symptoms
• Anxiety and panic disorders—reduces symptoms
• Parkinson’s—alleviates psychotic symptoms and some issues with motor control
• Heart function—relaxes some arteries
• Immune system complications—alters growth and function of certain immune cells
• Sleep disorders—increases alertness
• Anti-inflammatory—all of the most common cannabinoids relieve swelling
• Pain—most of the common cannabinoids relieve pain
• MS—along with THC reduces muscle spasms
• Epilepsy—reduces convulsions
• Cancer—along with THC, reduces chemo-related nausea and vomiting, manages pain, stimulates appetite

THC:

Low-THC, High-CBD products have been shown to manage symptoms with limited impact on cognition, and can be used safely at any time of day. Studies published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (BJCP) have suggested that CBD may relieve symptoms of nausea and vomiting, severe muscle spasms, and inflammatory bowel disease. A review of research on the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD from the BJCP can be found here.

Balanced THC-CBD products may effectively manage symptoms with a limited euphoric response, and can be used either in the morning or at night. Studies published in the American Society for Experimental Neuro Therapeutics (ASENT) suggest that cannabinoids (THC and CBD) may have the potential to mitigate neuropathic pain, as well as pain associated with cancer and cachexia. A review of research on cannabinoids as a possible treatment for neuropathic pain from ASENT can be found here.