Individual strains of cannabis will have differing cannabinoid levels and makeup, producing noticeably different effects.
Many people report finding some strains more beneficial than others. For instance, strains with more CBD tend to produce better pain and spasticity relief; strains with more CBN may help promote sleep and reduce anxiety.
There are two distinct strains of cannabis (sativa and indica). However, most medical cannabis is a hybrid.
Sativa
Cannabinoids: THC: High | CBN: Low | CBD: Low
Sativa strains tend to produce stimulating feelings, which makes it preferred for daytime use. Sativa strains typically:
- Stimulate or energize
- Increase sense of well-being or focus
- Reduce depression
- Elevate mood
- Relieve headaches, migraines, and nausea
- Increase appetite
Negative side effects associated with sativa include possible increased anxiety or feelings of paranoia.
Indica
Cannabinoids: THC: Low | CBN: High | CBD: High
Indica strains tend to have calming effects on the body, which makes it preferred for nighttime use. Indica strains typically:
- Provide relaxation and reduce stress
- Reduce intra-ocular pressure
- Relax muscles and reduce spasms
- Reduce pain, inflammation, headaches and migraines
- Promote sleep
- Reduce anxiety
- Reduce nausea and stimulate appetite
- Reduce seizure frequency and promote anti-convulsing
Negative side effects associated with indica include possible feelings of tiredness, mild confusion, or difficulty with certain tasks.
Hybrids
Hybrids contain multiple varieties and characteristics of both sativa and indica strains. When properly cross bred, certain beneficial attributes can be enhanced while undesirable aspects can be mitigated. For example, a sativa-dominant cross may be helpful in stimulating appetite and relaxing muscle spasms.
Current research and anecdotal evidence suggest that, when blended correctly, the following effects may be obtained:
- Analgesic
- Antipsychotic
- Antispasmodic
- Anorectic
- Antibacterial
- Antidepressant
- Antimetic
- Antiepileptic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-insomnia
- Anxiolytic
- Anti-prokinetic
- Vasorelaxant
- Psychoactive
- Appetite stimulant