Understanding Hybrid Cannabis Strains

Understanding Hybrid Cannabis Strains

The Joint CannabisAug 14, '24

Move over sativa and indica—hybrid strains are the most common type of cannabis. But despite their prevalence, hybrids are most often discussed in the context of sativa or indica context. However, seasoned cannabis users know that there’s more nuance to weed than that.

Every cannabis hybrid is like a grab bag of different effects. By getting a better understanding of these strains, you’ll be able to cater your buzz to your desired mood. It’s part science, part smoke, and a unique aspect of the amazing world of marijuana!

A Tale of Two Tokes

Research on marijuana is still catching up to usage, so there are many unknowns in the world of cannabis. For example, experts are questioning the consistency of the psychoactive effects of plants labeled sativa and indica.

Individual growers use the terms indica and sativa somewhat subjectively considering that most strains are cannabis hybrids. The strain is often tested for effects and then assigned a label. However, this doesn’t mean the labels are useless. These classifications, while not an exact science, help us understand what to expect from our bud.

Sativa

Sativa strains are associated with an energetic, brainy buzz. These nugs are often celebrated by artists and thinkers for getting the creative juices flowing. A joint stuffed with sativa might be passed around before a jam session or thrown in a bowl for a wake-and-bake session.

If you’re looking to wind down, this might not be the best type of strain for you. Its cerebral qualities unlock the mind. For certain smokers, sativa before bed is akin to chugging a cup of coffee. You’re bound to stop counting sheep and start assigning them names and personalities!

Indica

Millions of smokers have memorized the effects of indica using the mnemonic “in da couch.” If you want time-melting sedation, bong rips of indica are the ticket. These are binge TV-worthy buds that bring on the giggles and the munchies.

Indica is not the best strain for socialising. In fact, many users smoke it before bed for its sedative effects. While a little rest and relaxation can hit the spot, getting swept up in your own train of thought probably isn’t the best idea when entertaining guests.

The Benefits of Hybrid Strains

Hybrid cannabis in a bong bowl

Hybrid strains are all about balance. Through crossbreeding, strains are created to cultivate different effects. You can blend cerebral and body highs until you find the sweet spot.

Imagine a buzz that makes you feel creative yet calm. Or a smoke session that relaxes your body and focuses your mind. Cut down on any potential negative effects by dialing in your high with hybrid flower.

Best Hybrid Strains

Now that you know a little more about cannabis hybrids, let’s take a deeper dive into some of the most popular types. We’ve selected a handful of our favourite hybrids to load into your bong. These buds split the difference between the effects of indica and sativa, giving your highs a custom vibe.

Gorilla Glue

Gorilla Glue is an award-winning hybrid strain that leans towards indica’s relaxing effects. Puffs of these buds draw out an earthy aroma that’s punctuated with refreshing hints of pine. The exhale is slightly sour as heavy feelings of relaxation take hold quickly after.

Load your pipe with Gorilla Glue after a long day at work or during a mellow Saturday afternoon. You’ll feel happily “stuck” to the couch as you wash away into a relaxing, mood-lifting high. Make sure you have snacks handy!

Biscotti

Biscotti is a hybrid strain that blends the best of sativa and indica into one unique high. The slightly sweet and nutty aromas evoke cookie vibes. As the buzz creeps in, you’ll feel like the relaxing yet inventive mood could transport you to your corner cafe.

The balanced blend of cerebral and relaxing effects activates your brain without paranoia. Biscotti is a great bud to smoke creative arts or a brainstorming session. Roll it into a joint and puff away as you wait for inspiration to spark!

Sour Diesel

If you’ve ever taken a deep breath while pumping your gas (and kind of enjoyed it), Sour Diesel is for you. This hybrid strain leans heavier on the sativa effects, and when the pine-laced petrol aroma swirls around you, you’ll feel an energetic, buzzy brain high take hold.

Sour Diesel is a great strain for a wake-and-bake because you remain focused and energetic while still reveling in a touch of euphoria. Vapourize these buds before a chatty group hang or brunch date.

Runtz

Closeup view of bud from a hybrid strain

Sometimes, the more creatively named strains can fail to deliver the flavors they promise. This isn’t the case with Runtz. It’s a hybrid cannabis that’s thick smoke swirls with tropical fruit notes and a kiss of sugar.

The buzz is cerebral but feels more mood-boosting than thought-altering. A slight euphoria and enhanced sense of humor make Runtz a great daytime smoke when you want to have a little fun doing chores or spice up a normal activity.

Apple Fritter

Be warned: Apple Fritter’s THC levels are much higher than your typical hybrid strain. Every potent puff packs sweet apple pastry and creamy cheese notes, all while a mellow body high flows from your head to your toes.

Heavy sedation and relaxation will lull you into a content bliss. While some users enjoy Apple Fritter before bed, the hybrid blend of the bud makes it a great strain to smoke before doing some low-key TV bingeing.

One Last Hybrid Hit

Hybrid strains are just as unique as the wants and needs of the 420 community. Taking your time to experiment with hybrids can help you strike a balance of effects that elevate your highs from stereotypical to exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Congratulations, you’ve filled your brain with info on hybrid strains. Now it’s time to load your bowl and put that knowledge to use! Shop our vast cannabis store for flower and dive into the dank world of hybrids. Your smoking sessions are destined to become tailor-made tokes. Free shipping on orders over $100!

About the Author

The Joint Cannabis

In 2007, The Joint Cannabis began as a smoke shop until the Canadian federal government legalized cannabis in 2018 when they expanded to provide both cannabis and vape products. They operate a chain of cannabis and vape stores throughout Manitoba and Saskatchewan to provide local, same-day delivery for orders placed in Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Regina. Their team of experts has been educated in the ever changing industry to help their customers find the best products for them. The selection of cannabis and accessories they carry is unmatched and they are committed to offering the best prices—including price-matching when needed.