Looking at a medicinal cannabis plant, it’s not immediately obvious that all plants are not created equal. Cannabis plants are commonly referred to as indica, sativa, or a hybrid of the two, which tells us how the plant will affect most people. From those plants, there are nearly 780 known cannabis strains and new ones are being developed every day! Those strains are what you see displayed at the dispensary and have names like Grand Daddy Purp, Yoda, Gorilla Glue, and more. A quick rule of thumb when it comes to considering the right cannabis strain for you is that Indica strains are more relaxing, great for nighttime use, and have higher CBD and lower THC counts. Sativa strains are more energizing, great for daytime use, and have lower CBD and higher THC counts. A hybrid is a varying percentage of the two.
Our knowledgeable budtenders are always happy to offer recommendations to our patients, and as you can see, with the wide variety of strains available we encourage patients to familiarize themselves with the various cannabis classifications in order to make the most educated decisions about medicating. Below are some of the main cannabis classifications and what you can expect from each.
Heavy Indica
Heavy indica strains can have intense full-body effects and are recommended for relaxation, nausea reduction, sleep, and long-lasting pain relief. Most patients use heavy indica strains for nighttime medicating. See the strongest indica strains according to herb.co.
Clear Indica
These strains are on the lighter side of Indica, but still offer pain relief and relaxation with less intense sedating effects. Most patients use clear indica strains for nighttime medicating. See the best indica strains according to The Chill Bud.
Indica-Dominant Hybrid
This strain of cannabis delivers full-body pain relief with a relaxing head high. Depending on the patient’s tolerance and preference, indica-dominant hybrids are good for nighttime medicating (sleep) or daytime medicating (minor pain relief without intense sedating effects). See the strongest indica hybrid strains according to herb.co.
Even Hybrid (50/50)
Even hybrid strains are frequently used to alleviate stress, headaches, and depression with the perfect balance of head and body effects. These strains are appropriate for any time of day, depending on the patient’s preference and tolerance. See a long list of 50/50 hybrid strains on Leafly.
Sativa-Dominant Hybrid
A sativa-dominant hybrid delivers a cerebral high with a relaxing body effect. Patients experience calm, clear-headed physical and mental relief with sativa-dominant cannabis strains, which are typically used during the day. See the best sativa-dominant strains according to Zativo.com.
Heavy Sativa
Heavy sativa strains are ideal for patients who want an intense and uplifting body high with a heavy head effect. These strains boost focus and creativity and can relieve depression and anxiety in patients. Heavy sativas are great for daytime medicating. See the strongest sativa strains according to herb.co.
Clear Sativa
This strain classification is recommended for patients who are looking for mental effects and little-to-no physical effects. Clear sativas are stimulants that are known to help with depression, nausea, chronic pain, and focus, and are best for daytime use. See the best clear sativa strains according to herb.co.
Now that you know the differences between cannabis strain classifications, the only thing left to do is head to one of our 4 Valley locations to choose the best cannabis strain for you. Our knowledgeable Swell budtenders will be happy to assist you making the best decision for your individual need.