Though cannabis is biologically classified as the single species Cannabis Sativa, there are at least three distinct plant varieties: Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis, though the last is rare. There are also hybrids,which are crosses between sativa and indica varieties. Cannabis used for fiber is typically referred to as hemp and has only small amounts of the psychoactive cannabinoid THC, usually less than 1%.

Genetic "breeders" of the cannabis seed have developed thousands of different strains of cannabis from these three varieties. There are marked differences between sativa, indica, and hybrid. Today, we mostly find hybrids. It can be difficult to find pure indica or sativa.

All types of medical cannabis produce effects that are more similar  than not, including pain and nausea control, appetite stimulation ,reduced muscle spasm, improved sleep, and others. But individual strains will have differing cannabinoid and terpene content, 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. As noted above, effects will also vary for an individual based on the setting in which it is used and the person's physiological state when using it.

In general, sativas and indicas are frequently distinguished as follows:

Sativas

The primary effects are on thoughts and feelings. Sativas tend to produces stimulating feelings, and many prefer it for daytime use.

Some noted therapeutic effects from use of Sativas:

• Stimulating/energizing

• Increased  sense of well-being,  focus, creativity

• Reduces depression, elevates  mood

• Relieves  headaches/migraines/nausea

• Increases appetite

Some noted Side-Effects from use of Sativas

• Increased anxiety feelings

• Increased paranoia feelings

lndicas

The primary effects are on the body. lndicas tend to produce sedated feelings, and many prefer it for nighttime use.

Some noted Therapeutic Effects from use of lndicas:

• Provides relaxation/reduces stress

• Relaxes muscles/spasms

• Reduces pain/inflammation/headaches/migraines

• Helps sleep

• Reduces anxiety

• Reduces nausea, stimulates appetite

• Reduces intra-ocular pressure

• Reduces seizure frequency/anti-convulsant

Some noted side-effects from use of lndicas:

• Feelings of tiredness

• "Fuzzy" thinking

Hybrids

Strains bred from crossing two or more varieties,with typically one dominant. For example, a sativa­ dominant cross may be helpful in stimulating appetite and relaxing muscle spasms.Crosses are reported to work well to combat nausea and increase appetite.

More info on understanding strains:

http://medicalmarijuana.ca/learning-center/marijuana-strains

Last updated on October 1, 2015 by Kind Deliveries, Inc.