Demystifying Cannabis Strains: A Guide To Choosing The Right Product At The Dispensary

THC and CBD Content

THC and CBD content are two of the most important factors when determining which cannabis strain might be best suited to your preferences, needs, and taste. 

For recreational cannabis, THC is the most well-known and well-studied substance. It’s responsible for the high you get when you consume cannabis—a higher percentage of THC typically means a more intense high. Of course, there are a number of other factors that will also affect the quality and intensity of your high—and we’ll talk about those next.

CBD is not psychoactive, but some people find it decreases their pain and stress levels. Many consumers also find that higher levels of CBD reduce the intensity of the high, counteracting the THC to some degree.

Looking for a more intense high? Choose strains with high THC and low CBD. Looking for something a bit more mellow? Low THC and higher CBD may do the trick. 

Sativa, Indica, and Hybrids

Cannabis generally comes in three different categories: Sativas, Indicas, and hybrids. Broadly speaking, these strains are reported to have the following effects:

• Sativas provide an energizing high and promote creative thinking—more of a “mental high”.
• Indicas promote relaxation and provide stress relief—more of a “body high”.
• Hybrids provide a combination of the effects of both Sativas and Indicas—they’re a mix between the two strains.

In truth, Sativas, Indicas, and hybrids have been heavily mixed together—this means that while you can use these strain supertypes to get a good idea of the effects your cannabis may have, you’ll want to look deeper into the effects of the specific strain you’re interested in. Terpenes play an important role in these effects. 

Terpenes

Terpenes are chemicals found in certain plants, including cannabis. Some users report that different terpenes greatly enhance their cannabis experience. 

Different strains have different terpene profiles, and there’s some evidence that terpenes play a significant role in the high you may experience. While all highs are subjective, here are some of the effects users report from a few different terpenes:

Beta-pinene: Relaxation and stress reduction

Humulene: Energizing

Limonene: Anti-anxiety

Experiment with a variety of different terpenes—eventually, you’ll find a combination that’s well suited to your needs. You’ll also get to enjoy a wider variety of flavours and aromas! 

Sampling a Variety of Strains

The best way to find the right strain for you is to sample a number of different strains. Now that we have legal cannabis, recreational marijuana is easy to access; by talking to your budtender and going over your needs, you’ll be able to find the strains that offer the exact characteristics you’re looking for. 

Conclusion

With an understanding of all of the different attributes cannabis strains can have, you’ll be able to make informed choices about which ones are right for you. Remember that your environment and mood may affect your high, as well as how much you consume, what you’ve eaten, and more.