If you become a medical cannabis patient and are prescribed dried flower, your prescription will likely include both a product name and the cannabis strain (or "cultivar") it comes from. Understanding the different types of cannabis and their unique characteristics is crucial for effective treatment.
Cannabis strains, also known as weed strain names, often have evocative names like Wedding Cake, Green Gelato, and Peanut Butter MAC. While these weed names might suggest different flavours, smells, or effects, they don't tell you much about the strain's therapeutic properties. For medical purposes, understanding the cannabinoid and terpene content is far more important.
Let's explore the origins of cannabis strains, why they're significant in cannabis culture, and how they're relevant from a medical perspective. We'll also delve into the indica vs sativa debate and examine whether different strains of weed feel different.
What Is a Cannabis Strain?
All medical and recreational cannabis comes from the Cannabis sativa plant, which has been cultivated for thousands of years. Historical records indicate its medical use dates back as far as 2800 BC.Cannabis is a complex plant containing hundreds of active compounds, including:
- Cannabinoids: THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) are the most well-known, but others like CBN (Cannabinol), CBG (Cannabigerol), and their acidic precursors THCA and CBDA also play important roles.
- Flavonoids and Terpenes: These secondary metabolites contribute to the plant's smell, flavour, and potential effects. They form a terpene shield that protects the plant and influences its therapeutic properties.
As cannabis spread across the globe, plants adapted to local environments, creating distinct strains known as "landraces." For example, strains from the mountains of Afghanistan evolved very differently from those that thrived in the heat of Mexico, leading to the development of various types of cannabis.
How Did Modern Cannabis Strains Evolve?
In the past century, and particularly in recent decades, cannabis enthusiasts began breeding these landraces to create new strains. Breeders discovered that each strain had unique characteristics, including aroma, flavour, appearance, and psychoactive effects.
In the 1960s, cannabis breeders in California introduced Himalayan strains, which grew better in the local climate than Central American varieties. This experimentation with outdoor cultivation led to the creation of legendary strains like Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze.
Today, there are over 700 cannabis strains (NCBI), with databases like Leafly documenting more than 6,500 varieties. These leafly strains provide a comprehensive resource for understanding the diverse world of cannabis.
What's the Difference Between Marijuana Strains?
Cannabis strains differ in their genetic profiles, which influence several characteristics:
- Cannabinoid Content: Each strain has a unique combination of cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBN, and CBG, determining its psychoactive and therapeutic effects.
- Terpene Content: Terpenes are aromatic compounds that influence a strain's smell and flavour. Common terpenes include limonene, myrcene, pinene, linalool, humulene, and β-caryophyllene These terpenes, which can be categorized as monoterpenes or sesquiterpenes, contribute to the strain's overall effect and potential medical benefits.
- Appearance: Strains vary in leaf size, shape, colour, and the number of buds.
- Flavour and Smell: Depending on the terpene profiles, strains can be described as "earthy," "citrusy," "sour," or "floral."
The chemical composition of each strain can be affected by factors such as indoor cultivation or outdoor cultivation, as well as the use of artificial light. These factors can influence the production of cannabinoids and terpenes, leading to variations in the strain's effects and potential therapeutic benefits.
Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Strains
Cannabis strains are traditionally classified into three categories: Indica, Sativa, and hybrid. While these labels are still widely used, research suggests they may not fully reflect the plant's effects. Let's explore the difference between indica and sativa:
Indica
Originally from the mountains of Central Asia, Cannabis indica is described as a short, dense plant with broad, flat leaves. Indica strains are often associated with relaxation and sedation, making them popular for relieving pain, anxiety relief, or insomnia.
Examples of indica strains include Northern Lights, Hindu Kush, and Grandaddy Purple.
Sativa
Adapted to hot climates like Africa and Central America, Cannabis sativa is taller, with sparse branches and thin leaves. Sativa strains are said to be energising, promoting euphoria, creativity, and productivity.
Examples of sativa strains include Pineapple Express, Sour Diesel, and Lemon Haze.
Hybrid
Most modern cannabis strains are hybrids, bred to combine the characteristics of Indicas and Sativas. Hybrids can be Sativa-dominant, Indica-dominant, or balanced, depending on their parent strains.
Examples include Gelato, Chemdawg, and Skywalker.
It's important to note that the effects of different strains can vary significantly. Do different strains of weed feel different? The answer is yes, due to their unique combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Pure THC and CBD Products
While some medical cannabis products are made with pure THC or CBD, you can't grow a cannabis plant that contains only one cannabinoid. Even THC- or CBD-dominant strains contain other cannabinoids and terpenes in smaller amounts.
Pure THC or CBD products are created through extraction and distillation processes, producing isolates with concentrations upwards of 99%. However, it's worth noting that these isolated compounds may undergo degradation over time, potentially converting to other cannabinoids like CBN.
Common Cannabis Strains
Here are a few popular strains used in medical cannabis, often considered among the ‘best’ weed strains:
Afghani
A classic Indica strain known for its relaxing and sedative effects. Afghani has an earthy aroma due to terpenes like myrcene and α-pinene and contains moderate THC levels.
Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)
An award-winning hybrid strain combining OG Kush and Durban Poison. GSC is high in THC and low in CBD, offering a balance of euphoric and relaxing effects.
Gelato
A sweet-tasting hybrid with fruity undertones, Gelato is derived from strains related to GSC. It contains significant THC levels and terpenes like limonene and β-caryophyllene.
While these strains are popular, it's important to remember that the strongest weed isn't always the best for medical use. The ideal strain depends on the patient's specific condition and needs.
Choosing the Right Strain in New Zealand
In New Zealand, medical cannabis is only available through prescription. Doctors work with patients to determine the best products for their conditions, considering cannabinoid and terpene content rather than just strain names.
Available products include oils, dried herbs, capsules, lozenges, and topical creams. To begin treatment, consult with your GP or a medical cannabis specialist. They can guide you through the process and help you select the best strain and product type for your needs.
While a weed strain chart can provide general information about different varieties, it's crucial to work with a healthcare professional to find the most suitable option for your specific condition.
Understanding cannabis strains and their therapeutic properties can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment. Always discuss your options with a qualified medical professional to find the right solution for your condition.
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