A Complete Guide to Cannabis Strains
As we know, cannabis farming or harvesting is on the rise in the United States, (especially with the fast-developing techniques of indoor grow lights), because it contains medical properties to treat painful conditions.
Different cannabis strains produce different results. So, if you’re targeting a specific outcome, it is very important to study cannabis strains, and its reasons.
According to the report, the cannabis market is expected to hit $31.4 billion by the end of 2021. So, what are your thoughts on cannabis farming?
In this article, you will get to know about what exactly cannabis strains are? By the end of this article, you’ll be able to figure out the difference between strains of cannabis.
What is a Cannabis Strain?
So, what exactly are cannabis strains, and how these strains differ from each other?
So, let’s get started.
The powerhouse of cannabis originated in Central Asia. But after years of research and exploration, cannabis is now available to every continent.
We bet you would have already seen words like Indica, Sativa, and hybrid when you’re searching for cannabis, right?
So, how are these strains related to cannabis cultivation? As we’ve mentioned earlier, different types of weed or marijuana provide different results. In addition, not every strain contains the same medical or recreational properties.
Generally, cannabis strains are divided into three groups:
● Indica: Indica strains are originated from the Hindu Kush mountains of India, and many believe it has a relaxing effect on its users.
● Sativa: Whereas Sativa strains are annually herbaceous plants found in different parts of Eastern Asia. Sativa strains produce a more energizing effect as compared to Indica.
● Hybrid: Hybrid strains is the mixture of Indica and Sativa. It contains the properties of both strains.
Well, these are three leading cannabis strains spreading worldwide. Still, having questions in mind regarding different types of cannabis strains? Don’t worry. We have a separate section for the explanation of cannabis strain types.
THC Vs. CBD
THC and CBD are the chemical compounds found in the hemp genus. Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the only two natural compounds found in cannabis strains or hemp.
To know the difference between THC and CBD, you’ve to understand what they actually are in general.
So, let’s start with CBD first:
What is CBD?
As you already know, the term CBD referred to Cannabidiol, discovered in the 1940s.
CBD is the second widespread compound found in cannabis strains. CBD can be extracted from hemp or marijuana.
Extracted CBD from hemp contains a trace amount of THC, whereas CBD from marijuana may contain more THC.
What is THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main mind-altering element in cannabis.
According to National Institute on Drug Abuse, THC activates the brain’s reward system by signaling the release of the brain’s chemical dopamine.
Dopamine is like a transmitter that plays a vital role in mood and pleasure.
The Key Difference Between THC Vs. CBD
You’ve entirely understood both terms; now, let’s move forward to see the critical difference between them.
Both THC and CBD affect the endocannabinoid system. A system that plays an essential role in maintaining homeostasis.
Scientists/Researchers are still working to out the in and out of the multiplex system.
THC and CBD almost share the same abilities, but still, there is some difference between these two terms:
● THC produces high psychoactive compounds, whereas CBD does produce psychoactive compounds but not in higher quantity.
● THC can only be extracted from marijuana, whereas CBD extracted from hemp or cannabis strains.
Well, these were some key differences between THC and CBD with some explanation. Now, move forward to our next section to explain three and significant cannabis strains as promised.
Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Strains of Marijuana
We know that Indica, Sativa, and hybrid are different strains of cannabis. In this section, we’ll explore more about cannabis strains. It’s better to know every aspect of the strain library before cultivating cannabis.
1. Cannabis Sativa
Sativa strain is one of the most commonly grown kinds of Cannabis genus. It has been widely used to source food, recreation, seed oil, and industrial fiber.
Since cannabis Sativa thrives in warm weather, it originated in tropical/hot countries of Colombia, Mexico, Thailand, and South East Asia.
The Sativa strains can be identified by a characteristic smell like pepper and earthy with some trace of diesel. When fully flatten, Sativa plants can stretch up to 4 to 4.5 meters.
Sativa strains affect your cerebral activity, which impacts emotion and mood. These strains are mostly famous for increasing energy power and tackle depression. In short, Sativa has some good medical properties; you can use it without interfering the daily life activities.
2. Cannabis Indica
Indica is another type of cannabis strain originating in the Hindu Kush Mountain region of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Not only that, this strain is widely cultivated in Morocco and other areas of the subcontinent.
The plants of Indica strains can be identified by short with broad leaves. The height of the Indica
plant ranging from 2 to 6 feet.
Well, the properties of Indica strains are quite the opposite of Sativa. It more like physical activity, which can be felt across the human body. Sativa strain mostly used to treat muscle pain, increasing relaxation, and help patients to rest.
3. Hybrid Strains
Hybrid strains are a mixture of both Indica and Sativa strains. Whoever wants to get the benefits of strains can use hybrid strain. Hybrid strains are mostly used for medical purposes. This type of strain is best for recreational users.
There are many hybrid varieties available in the markets. Hybrid strains lists are as follows:
● Inbred Line
● F1 Hybrid
● F2, F3, F4 Hybrids
When two or more varieties are combined, they form a new variety of Hybrid.
Most Popular Strains of Cannabis
So far, we’ve almost discussed everything about cannabis strains. We know you’re still wondering which strain is best for cultivation? In Fact, this question is the most asked question on the internet.
To be honest, there is no such thing as the best strain because weed is such an unorthodox experience.
Cannabis strains may work differently on different bodies. The same weed strain may give energy to one and make sleepy to another person. You’re not sure which strain suits your physique. That’s how things work in the cannabis world!
Though some popular strains of cannabis can be answerable through data and research, here is the list of some popular cannabis strains around the world:
● Gorilla Glue: Gorilla Glue is also referred to as GG4, one of the most popular strains of 2021. It’s an American multi-generation hybrid strain. It is one best weed strains to buy online. It is potentially strong as its name looks. To grow Gorilla Glue, you’ve to be very experienced and skillful to grow at the level of THC 30%.
● Girl Scout Cookies: Also known as GSC, another hybrid cannabis strain that originated in North Carolina. The performance of GSC has made the way to become famous among cannabis growers.
● Wedding Cake: Wedding Cake or Cake Kush is another popular hybrid strain known for its relaxing effects. Wedding cake is suitable for aches and pain. You can use this strain as medical treatment or for recreational purposes. For pain, Cake Kush is a perfect option!
● Harlequin: Harlequin is the lightest and more straightforward among any other cannabis strains. This strain is not much psychoactive as compared to other weed or marijuana strains.
● South Plant: South Plant is derived by the crossing of South African plant with genes from South India. It is hard to take this strain outside of South Africa. However, South Plant has the ability to improve concentration and provide a comfortable sensation.
Choosing The Right Strain for You
It’s always been hard for new growers to choose the right strain in order to start their journey. So, how to decide which strain is right for your business?
There are some specific criteria you should consider while choosing the cannabis strain for yourself:
● Flavor:
A cannabis strain can produce a satisfactory amount of flavor and aromas. It’s up to your experience, and you can choose the strain which provides flavor and aromas according to your needs.
● Strength:
Depending on the absorption of cannabis, some cannabis strains are more potent than others, like THC has higher potency compared to CBD. If you are looking for high-intensity of cannabis strains, THC would be a better choice. Or want to try something less strengthen, go with CBD.
● Growing Method:
Growing techniques may affect your farming experience. Many people preferred the weed which grown outside. And some, without having the ideal weather conditions, chose to grow cannabis indoors.
● Benefits:
Different cannabis strains provide different medical properties. Not every strain shares the same medical properties. It varies from person to person, by talking to your medical support to find out which strain you want to target.
● Budget:
Budget is the most important aspect of choosing the right strain. A particular budget in mind will surely help you to decide which strain you should go for.
