Making the decision to use medicinal cannabis can be a very easy decision to make. But deciding which strain is best for a particular individual or condition can be more complicated. Many patients have never tried or grown cannabis before discovering it as a medicine. When choosing a strain, it is useful to have a basic understanding of the differences between Indica strains and Sativa strains in terms of their medical applications. All psychoactive cannabis contains the active compounds known as cannabinoids, but the proportions of the two main cannabinoids in the various strains create different effects when they are ingested.
Cannabinoids
In terms of measurable effects on the body, and research into those effects, the two main cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and CBD (cannabidiol).In most medicinal cannabis strains, THC makes up the majority of the active ingredients, while CBD represents a much smaller fraction. For instance, a potent strain may be measured at 15% or even 19% THC, but will typically contain less than 1% CBD.
Indica Strains
Indica strains generally create a sedated feeling, typically centered in the body which relaxes as muscle tension is reduced. Indicas are most effective in treating muscle spasms and tremors (for example caused by multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease), chronic pain, arthritic and rheumatic stiffness and swelling, insomnia, anxiety and related conditions.
Strains
Sativa strains provide a cerebral, energetic ‘high’ effect which is experienced in the mind as well as in the body. These strains are most effective for the treatment of nausea (for example caused by chemotherapy or HIV/AIDS medications), appetite stimulation, migraine headaches, depression, chronic pain and similar symptoms.
Effects and Uses of Indica/Sativa Hybrid Strains
Hybrids or cross-breeds of indica and sativa strains exhibit characteristics from both types of cannabis. For some patients this offers an advantage, especially when medicating with to relieve chronic pain. The combination of the two can aid mental clarity and decrease sedative effects, while adding indica to sativa strains can lower the tendency of pure sativas to occasionally stimulate anxiety.
Choosing the Best Strain
Before making the decision to use medical cannabis to treat any condition. Always consult with a physician first.
Listing the symptoms you seek to relieve is generally the best starting point for selecting the best strain. It is also important to remember that just as every person’s physiological make-up is slightly different, the experience of using cannabis medicinally is also different for everyone.