Cannabis medical uses by strains
On the internet you will find a wide range of information about Cannabis strains with different flavors/aromas: strawberry, vanilla, chocolate, cherry; with various effects: euphoric, invigorating, relaxing, concentration-improving, sleep-promoting, energizing, etc.; intended for various health conditions: depression, insomnia, nausea, inflammation, pain, etc.; also containing various predominant terpenes.
Researchers created the two broadest categories of Cannabis as early as the 18th century. The strains were classified as Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa after taking into account the physical and chemical differences between the plants in some geographical regions.
Using Cannabis in any format can be a very easy decision, but choosing which variety of Cannabis is best for a particular individual or condition can be more difficult.
Even those who know how it works for recreational and social purposes do not always mean that they know the most suitable varieties of Cannabis for special medical purposes.
When choosing which strain of Cannabis would be most suitable, it is useful to gain a basic understanding of the differences between Indica strains and Sativa strains in their medical use.
But let’s start from the beginning.
Cannabinoids.
All varieties of Cannabis contain active compounds known as cannabinoids, but the proportions of the two main cannabinoids in different strains produce different effects when used.
In terms of measurable effects on the body and the study of these effects, the two main cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
In most therapeutic strains of Cannabis, THC makes up the majority of the active ingredients, while CBD makes up a much smaller proportion. For example, a strong strain may contain 15% or even 19% THC, but it usually contains less than 1% CBD. Nevertheless, this relatively small proportion may have a significant effect on the way Cannabis affects the patient. Although CBD alone is not considered a psychoactive substance, it can provide many of the medical benefits of Cannabis and also reduce the effects of THC.
Indica strains usually have a medium to high THC content as well as a relatively high CBD content. Sativa strains usually have moderate to high THC and a relatively low CBD content.
The relationship between these two main cannabinoids somehow explains the different effects of the many strains, as well as the extremely wide range of diseases that can be treated with medical Cannabis.
Difference between Indica and Sativa strains.
The Cannabis plant is divided into three subspecies: Sativa, Indica and Ruderalis. Ruderalis are small and even impractical plants for medicinal purposes, therefore they are not usually chosen by breeders, cultivators or patients. When you’re buying a Cannabis plant, your choice will almost always be split between Sativa and Indica strains, and also Sativa-Indica hybrids, but more on that later.
To understand how Indica differs from Sativa, it is important to be aware of how cannabinoids work. Cannabinoids are the active chemical compounds found in Cannabis. The best-known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which we have already identified.
THC is a psychoactive compound responsible for the ‘high’ feeling most commonly associated with Cannabis use. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that can offer certain medical benefits, such as reducing anxiety and inflammation.
Indica strains are known to have moderate levels of THC and CBD.
Sativa strains are known to contain high levels of THC and low levels of CBD.
In addition, the effects of Cannabis are also affected by terpenes, essential vegetable oils that interact with cannabinoids and enhance certain medical effects. These interactions form the so-called “entourage effect”.
Knowing the differences between these and other types of Cannabis will make it easier for you to identify the best strains for your health symptoms.
Sativa strains.
Cannabis products derived from the Sativa strain have an energy-boosting and uplifting effect. Sativa strains usually contain more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than CBD, which causes more euphoria on the brain than Indica strains.
Sativa strains provide the brain with an energetic “high” effect, which is felt by both mind and body. These strains are most effective in treating nausea (such as those caused by chemotherapy or HIV / AIDS medications), appetite stimulants, migraine headaches, depression, chronic pain, and similar symptoms.
Sativa strains are best for everyday use and for socializing. These strains are also known to stimulate creativity and help you focus.
Medical symptoms that Sativa relieves: mood swings; fatigue; nausea; increased concentration; stress relief; physical pain; encourages creativity.
Medical effects of Sativa: increased energy; uplifting mood; euphoria; high concentration; feeling of happiness.
Medical conditions for the use of Sativa: mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder; ADHD; HIV / AIDS; glaucoma; Alzheimer’s disease.
Best strains of Cannabis Sativa:
Maui Wowie – can help you feel super calm, yet energetic and creative. It also reduces fatigue, making it great for days when you need to be productive.
Sour Diesel – is very energizing and good for improving mood, it is great for giving you energy. It also has a significant stress and pain-relieving effect.
Acapulco Gold – originated in Acapulco, Mexico, it is a well known and highly praised Cannabis strain. It is known for its euphoric, energy-creating effects. Reduces fatigue, stress, pain and even nausea.
Super Silver Haze – another energy strain. Creates a feeling of euphoria, reduces pain and nausea and improves mood. This is great for reducing stress.
Durban Poison
Green Crack
Super Lemon Haze
Tangie
Pineapple OG
Candyland
Jack Herer
Island Sweet Skunk etc.
Description of the appearance of the plant.
Cannabis Sativa plants are usually slender with thin leaves. Growing them takes longer than growing Indica and they need more light. Because they have only small amounts of CBD and high levels of THC, they have a much greater effect on the brain. THC is thought to promote euphoria, which may partly explain why Sativa gives energy, improves mood and is often recommended for daily use.
Indica strains.
Cannabis products derived from the Indica strain are known for their restful and sedative effects. Indica strains usually contain more CBD than Sativa strains, so it is known to have a greater relaxation effect.
Because of this effect, Indica-based products are used to treat a variety of ailments and diseases.
Indica strains usually create a sedative and deeply relaxing feeling. This feeling tends to be centered in the body, which relaxes as muscle tension decreases. Indica is most effective in treating muscle spasms and tremors (such as those caused by Multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease), chronic pain, arthritic and rheumatic stiffness and swelling, insomnia, anxiety and related conditions.
Medical symptoms Indica relieves: anxiety; insomnia; physical pain; muscle spasms; nausea; headache; convulsions.
Indica’s medical effects: muscle relaxation; uplifting mood; drowsiness; increased appetite.
Many of these effects are thought to be specifically associated with CBD. For example, studies show that CBD can relieve insomnia, anxiety, arthritis, inflammation, and other physical conditions. Indica is often recommended in the evening as they may promote better sleep.
Medical conditions for the use of Indica: tumors; Multiple sclerosis; Fibromyalgia; Lupus; sleep apnea; anxiety disorders, including: obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks; Parkinson’s disease; arthritis; PMS; inflammation; Crohn’s disease; epilepsy.
Best strains of Cannabis Indica:
Grandaddy Purple – is a very relaxing strain. It is often praised for its insomnia and stress reduction results. Users also note that it can cause euphoria and increase hunger, which is great if you lack appetite.
Bubba Kush – is a relaxing, sleep-stimulating strain. It’s great for helping you fight insomnia and improving your attention span. It also offers pain and stress-relieving results.
Northern Lights – is another relaxing, sleep-stimulating strain. It is also known for its mood-boosting effects and can be used to reduce insomnia, pain, stress and depression.
Purple Kush – is great for causing a state of bliss to make you feel relaxed, happy and sleepy. It is often used to relieve pain and muscle spasms. Its sedative effect means that it can be used to reduce insomnia.
Afghan Kush – is highly relaxing and sleep-promoting – originating in the Hindu Kush Mountains near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. It can also help you feel hungry if you lack appetite and can relieve pain.
LA Confidential – is another relaxing and sleep-stimulating strain that is often used to reduce insomnia. It is also said to have a noticeable anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, which makes it a favorite for people with chronic pain.
Platinum Kush
Blueberry Kush
God’s Gift
Presidential OG
Skywalker etc.
Description of the appearance of the plant. Indica plant is short and bushy with broad leaves. It grows faster than Sativa plants and has a higher yield. Because these plants have more CBD and less THC than their relative Sativa, they are known to affect the body more than the brain. Higher concentrations of CBD can help limit the psychoactive effects of THC, allowing more exposure to the body and less exposure to the brain.
Medical applications of hybrid strains.
Many Cannabis growers are crossing Sativa and Indica strains to create unique hybrids. Cannabis hybrid strains may contain a 50/50 ratio of Sativa to Indica, or they may be 60/40 or even 90/10. If one strain predominates, the effects of this strain will be more pronounced.
Breeders often cultivate hybrid strains in the hope of creating a “best of both worlds” scenario in which the user can enjoy the best of both mother plant strains. For example, a hybrid such as White Widow is evenly distributed between Sativa and Indica to reduce inflammation while improving mood. And the Pineapple Express variety can help reduce nausea without leaving the user tired or sluggish.
Patients who need to take medication throughout the day can choose a Sativa-dominant hybrid in the morning (for energy) and switch to an Indica-dominant hybrid in the evening (for sleep) while treating the same symptoms.
The unique properties of hybrid strains allow patients to experience even more personalized and effective treatments.
Favorite hybrid cannabis strains:
Blue Dream – is relaxing and soothing, but it is not a total sedative. This makes it great for relieving pain, cramps or inflammation when you have sleep problems and can’t fall asleep. In addition, it is said that it improves mood and creates a feeling of euphoria.
Pineapple Express – made famous with the 2008 film, has a pineapple-like aroma. It is a relaxing and mood-boosting agent, but it is also thought to give you energetic activity. This is a kind of strain that could be good for daily productivity.
White Widow – improves mood, gives energy and relaxes at the same time. It is said to help relieve pain and stress as well as feelings of depression. If you feel tired, White Widow can help you maintain energy and alertness.
Golden Goat – is remarkable for making you feel euphoric and creative. It is also great for reducing fatigue and stress by improving mood.
Fruity Pebble – OG or FPOG is associated with euphoria and relaxation, which could be great for reducing stress. It often makes users feel carefree, helps reduce nausea and increases appetite.
Girl Scout Cookie
OG Kush
GG4
Trainwreck
Headband
Cherry Pie
Platinum Girl Scout Cookie
Tangerine Dream
LSD etc.
Find the best type of Cannabis strain for your health.
Very rarely, but it is possible to consult a doctor about the most suitable strain for your health condition, or you can find out at the point of sale where you shop.
Usually, just remember the following:
- If you need to treat anxiety or a physical condition associated with pain, Indica strains may be helpful.
- If you need to treat a brain-related condition, you could benefit from Sativa strains (the only exception is anxiety, as increased THC euphoria can actually worsen the anxiety and cause paranoia for some users).
And you may have to try several types before you find the one that’s right for you. Neither of the two patients metabolizes Cannabis in exactly the same way, so try a few varieties until you get the relief you are looking for.
You can find the most comprehensive overview of Cannabis strains on the Leafly.com website.
We will definitely continue this topic. This is just an introduction.
The information on the internet about CBD products and their use will be ambiguous, so we always recommend reading safe and reliable sources. We also use websites related to the Cannabis industry, research and education to prepare information.
The content of this site is for informational purposes only. We are not medical experts and this should not be interpreted as medical advice. Be sure to consult your doctor before undergoing CBD or other treatment.
The chemistry of every human body and brain is unique, so the use of CBD to improve mental as well as physical health does not guarantee results. However, many GWEEPRODUCTS CBD oil users have included it into their daily routine as one of the therapies for improving mental, physical health and quality of life.
References: leafly.com; healthline.com
Photos: Unplash.