If you’re new to taking medical marijuana for chronic pain or other medical conditions, you may be surprised to learn that many different strains exist, each offering varying benefits and effects. When you first walk into a medical marijuana dispensary, you’ll find a range of cannabis products arranged according to the type of medical marijuana strains.
While all strains can help with pain relief and symptom management, different types of marijuana also offer distinct additional benefits like relaxation, enhanced concentration, and more.
At LeafMed, your go-to Mississippi medical marijuana dispensary, we’ll help you find the best strain for your needs. Before visiting our shop, learn how to get a medical marijuana card in Mississippi.
Types of Medical Marijuana and Popular Strains
Medical marijuana strains fall into three primary categories that help patients understand which will help their symptoms best. The categories include Cannabis sativa strains, Cannabis indica strains, and hybrids of both C. sativa and C. indica. We will discuss the advantages and common strain names for each below.
C. Sativa Strains
Many consider C. sativa to be the energizing, invigorating strain. The mental enhancers can promote creativity, productivity, alertness, and concentration, making this strain more popular for daytime use. Clinical research shows that C. sativa strains can also improve depression symptoms as they interact with chemical imbalances, similar to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Some of the most popular Sativa strains include the following:
- Dutch Hawaiian
- Sour Diesel
- Super Silver Haze
- White Buffalo
- Maui Waui
- Jack Herer
- Dream N’ Sour
C. Indica Strains
C. indica strains typically provide more whole-body effects, often leading to relaxation rather than mental alertness. Many people characterize C. indicas as “body highs” while considering C. sativas as “head highs.” C. indicas typically have a slightly lower THC content with more leaves and a shorter flowering time.
Some of the primary effects you may feel with a C. indica strain include the following:
- Muscle tension relief
- Reduced nausea
- Improved relaxation and comfort
- Appetite increases
- Pain relief
- Improved sleep
If you struggle with stomach or appetite issues, insomnia, chronic pain, or a general lack of comfort and relaxation, C. indica may be for you. Many prefer using a C. indica at night because it may promote restfulness. You can use a C. sativa during the day and a C. indica at night to enjoy the best of both worlds.
The most popular C. indica medical marijuana strains include the following:
- Skywalker OG
- Northern Lights
- Purple Sunset
- Afghan Kush
- L.A. Confidential
- Guru #10
Hybrid Strains
Hybrids contain both C. sativa and C. indica strains for comprehensive mind and body effects. With a hybrid strain, you can feel the energy-boosting productivity effects of the C. sativa with the pain relief and relaxation of the C. indica.
Hybrids often have the highest THC content and may also include CBD, another compound from the cannabis plant that provides additional health benefits. Many medical marijuana patients choose hybrid strains for their extensive effects. From improving chronic pain and depression symptoms to alleviating PTSD, migraines, epilepsy symptoms, and more, hybrids can help you manage many conditions.
The top hybrid strains include the following:
- Pineapple Express
- Reggae Cowboy
- Golden Goat
- Orange Velvet
- Pink Cookies
- Blue Dream
- Trainwreck
- Blue Sunshine
- Big Love
How Do Strains Vary Within Their Respective Categories?
Once you pick your favorite medical marijuana strain category, you’ll need to select the actual strain. The strains within their respective categories typically have a few distinct characteristics:
- THC content: Each strain will range in THC content, so you can choose one aligning with your preference.
- Flavor: All strains vary in color, smell, and flavor, typically inspiring their unique names.
- Primary effect: Often, individual strains feature a primary effect within their category. For example, many associate Northern Lights (C. indica) specifically with inducing sleep and improving insomnia symptoms.
Choose LeafMed for Your Medical Marijuana Needs
At LeafMed, we’re your go-to medical marijuana dispensary in Mississippi. Shop at one of our LeafMed Mississippi locations or contact us today to learn more about the different medical marijuana strains.