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Marijuana strains: The best of indica, sativa, hybrid, and more
Marijuana strains with different effects and properties have become increasingly popular, especially since the changes in state laws around their use by state legislatures. Indica strains are often used for pain relief and sleep, making them especially popular for medical reasons like hepatitis C. On the other hand, sativa strains are used to boost creativity and mood, making them popular with artists and writers. Hybrid strains, which are specific strains crossbred between indica and sativa, have gained traction as well, offering a balanced, customized experience. Moreover, clinical trials have shown that cannabis derived products like cannabis oils can help relieve symptoms of various medical conditions, including nausea caused by chemotherapy. Additionally, the market now offers many specialty strains, such as high-CBD medical strains and rare forms like landrace strains, cultivated for centuries and containing other compounds. Each of these popular strains has its own unique flavor and THC/CBD profile, ranging from fruity to earthy. At the national conference on cannabis conducted by the national institute, experts always advise people to research before selecting a strain, so they can find the specific strain that suits their needs and effects.
Top Marijuana Strains to Try
- OG Kush: A potent indica-dominant strain with a piney, earthy scent.
- Sour Diesel: A pungent, diesel-like sativa-dominant strain that boosts mood and creativity.
- Gorilla Glue: A powerful hybrid with earthy, sour aroma and heavy body effects.
- Pineapple Express: A tropical hybrid with energizing effects.
- Northern Lights: A sweet, spicy indica strain known for its pain-relieving and relaxing effects.
- Jack Herer: A cerebral, energizing sativa-dominant strain named after the legendary cannabis activist and author.
- AK-47: A hybrid strain with a complex aroma and cerebral, energizing, and relaxing effects.
- Purple Haze: A sweet, euphoric sativa strain.
Herbal cannabis products in medicine
The cannabis sativa plant has been a topic of discussion in recent years due to its potential medical benefits. Herbal cannabis products derived from the cannabis plants are believed to treat chronic pain, nausea, and multiple sclerosis-related muscle spasms, according to modern research. Cannabis’ active compounds or cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, and neuroprotective properties. The use of cannabis medicinally is legal in USA, Canada, and Europe. Despite its medical benefits, there is a concern about the long-term effects of cannabis use on cognitive function and mental health, which could lead to drug abuse. However, synthetic cannabinoids, along with herbal cannabis, have the potential to help develop more targeted and effective medicines for a variety of health conditions. As attitudes towards cannabis laws and social attitudes change, more research and investment into cannabis-based medicine will likely increase.
Is medical marijuana legal in the U.S.?
US debates surrounding the legalization of medical marijuana for its medical use have been ongoing for several decades, despite the federal government continuing to prohibit its use for recreational use. As of 2021, 36 states have now legalized medical marijuana, each with varying degrees of restrictions, for its medical use. To qualify for medical marijuana treatment, patients must have a doctor-diagnosed condition such as chronic pain, anxiety, cancer, epilepsy, among others, and must not operate machinery or take other medications that may have interactions with it. The conditions approved for medical marijuana treatment in each state are listed on the medical marijuana program website for its medical use. Patients must have a doctor’s recommendation and state registration before qualifying for medical marijuana cards, for its medical use. It is important for patients to conduct thorough research on their state’s medical marijuana laws before applying, given that while it is legal in many states for its medical use, federal law prohibits its possession and use for recreational use. According to recent studies published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings, compounds found in the hemp plant, such as both THC and cannabidiol CBD, have shown potential benefits in treating certain medical conditions, for its medical use. However, there is currently no FDA regulation for medical marijuana in the US, for its medical use. The National Cancer Institute has acknowledged the potential benefits of medical marijuana in treating nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, pain, loss of appetite, insomnia, and other symptoms, for its medical use, but more research is needed to support these potential claims.
Use of medical cannabis
Medical cannabis has long been debated, but it is now accepted as a treatment for various conditions. Medical cannabis is used to treat symptoms and improve patients’ quality of life. It helps with chronic pain, nausea, muscle spasms, and appetite loss. Cannabis’ cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system to produce therapeutic effects. Medical cannabis can be smoked, vaporized, or eaten or drunk. . Since medical cannabis laws vary by state and country, it is also important to follow them. Medical cannabis can treat many conditions safely and effectively, despite its controversy.
Detailed Information about types of medical marijuana
Type of Medical Marijuana | Description | Common Uses | Potential Benefits | Potential Side Effects |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sativa | Tall, narrow-leafed cannabis. Sativa strains are used to treat mood disorders, boost creativity, and energize. | Depression, anxiety, ADHD, fatigue, migraines, nausea | Increased focus and creativity, elevated mood, reduced stress and anxiety | Anxiety, paranoia, racing thoughts, dry mouth and eyes |
Indica | Short, bushy, wide-leafed cannabis plant. Indica strains relax and sedate, treating pain, insomnia, and anxiety. | Chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures | Pain relief, improved sleep, reduced anxiety and stress, muscle relaxation | Sedation, drowsiness, impaired memory and concentration, dry mouth and eyes |
Hybrid | Sativa-indica hybrid cannabis. Hybrid strains combine sativa and indica effects and can be customized. | Chronic pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia, appetite loss | Customizable effects, potential for pain relief and relaxation without sedation | Vary depending on the specific strain |
CBD-dominant | A cannabis strain with high CBD and low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). CBD, a non-psychoactive compound, reduces inflammation, anxiety, and pain. | Chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis | Reduced pain and inflammation, improved mood and sleep, reduced anxiety and seizures | Dry mouth, nausea, dizziness, changes in appetite |
THC-dominant | High-THC, low-CBD cannabis. THC causes the “high” in cannabis. THC-dominant strains treat nausea and muscle spasms with stronger psychoactive effects. | Nausea, muscle spasms, chronic pain, glaucoma, appetite loss | Pain relief, euphoria, improved mood and sleep, increased appetite | Dry mouth, red eyes, impaired memory and concentration, increased heart rate and blood pressure |
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about types of medical marijuana
Medical marijuana?
Medical marijuana is a term used to describe cannabis that’s used for medical purposes. Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system to produce therapeutic effecs. Each type has distinct qualities and therapeutic potential.
Medical marijuana treats what?
Medical marijuana treats chronic pain, anxiety, depression, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and nausea. Medical marijuana should only be used under medical supervision.
Hybrid strain?
Cannabis hybrids are sativa-indica crosses. Hybrid strains combine sativa and indica effects and can be customized.
What distinguishes CBD- and THC-dominant strains?
High-CBD, low-THC strains are bred. CBD, a non-psychoactive compound, reduces inflammation, anxiety, and pain. THC-dominant strains have high THC and low CBD. THC causes the “high” in cannabis.
UK medical marijuana law?
Medical marijuana can only be prescribed for unmet clinical needs after all other treatment options have been exhausted.
Medical marijuana side effects?
Discuss side effects with your doctor before using medical marijuana.
How do Cannabinoids work?
Medicinal cannabis is a term used to describe the use of cannabis strains for therapeutic purposes. The types of medical marijuanas available on the market vary depending on state medical marijuana laws. These cannabinoids interact with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network throughout the body that controls many physiological and cognitive processes. Within the ECS, there are endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes, which form a complex system. Cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) are found throughout the body and cause the effects of endocannabinoids. After their functions, enzymes break down endocannabinoids. Cannabis cannabinoids mimic endocannabinoids and interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors. This interaction in the body can alleviate pain, anxiety, and sleep. Moreover, cannabinoids also affect neurotransmitter release and cell activity, causing complex effects on the body. Thus, cannabinoids modulate physiological and cognitive processes by interacting with the endocannabinoid system.
Likes and Dislikes about types of medical marijuana
Because everyone has different experiences and preferences, medical marijuana preferences will vary. Examples:
Likes:
pain relief
Relaxation/better mood
Appetite or nausea reduction
Creativity or concentration
Fewer side effects than conventional drugs
Dislikes:
Negative effects like dry mouth or dizziness
Rare or expensive
Stigma or law
This would inform a medical marijuana strain review:
“Blue Dream worked wonders for my chronic pain. I felt better immediately and for several hours, allowing me to go about my day. I felt happier and more relaxed. However, my dry mouth required more water than usual. Blue Dream is my top choice for pain relief without side effects.
Comparing types of medical marijuana
Medical marijuana is a plant-based medicine used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. Over 100 cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce therapeutic effects.
State, dispensary, and strain affect medical marijuana prices. It costs more than opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Medical marijuana is uninsured and subject to higher taxes and regulations.
Medical marijuana outperforms other pharmacy products in features. . For patients who cannot tolerate or respond to traditional pharmacy products, medical marijuana has fewer side effects.
Medical marijuana must be tested for purity, potency, and safety. Pesticides, heavy metals, and therapeutic cannabinoids and terpenes are tested. .
It costs more and requires more careful dosing, but it has fewer side effects and more treatment options. Medical marijuana should only be used after consulting a doctor.
Advantages of types of medical marijuana
- Opioids can cause drowsiness, constipation, and respiratory depression, but medical marijuana may have fewer side effects.
- Cancer, neuropathy, and arthritis pain relief: Medical marijuana may help.
- Insomnia, sleep apnea, and other sleep disorders may benefit from medical marijuana.
- Cancer, HIV/AIDS, and other conditions that cause appetite loss may benefit from medical marijuana.
- Reduced anxiety: Medical marijuana may reduce anxiety and PTSD symptoms (PTSD).
- Muscle relaxation: Multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury patients can relax their muscles with medical marijuana.
- Neuroprotective effects: Medical marijuana may help treat Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
- Customizable dosing: Patients can tailor their medical marijuana treatment to their needs.
- Alternative treatment: Patients who cannot tolerate or respond to pharmacy products may benefit from medical marijuana.
Is medical marijuana available as a prescription medicine?
Medical marijuana, in various forms such as pills, sprays, and edibles, has been prescribed worldwide for years as a treatment option for patients suffering from chronic pain, nausea, seizures, and other ailments. Over half of US states have legalized its medicinal use since California became the first state to do so in 1996. Medical marijuana as a prescription medicine requires a doctor’s prescription and assessment of the patient’s medical history and symptoms. Depending on the patient’s needs and medical conditions, different strains of medical marijuana with varying THC content or terms such as Indica may be recommended. While medical marijuana has been shown to be effective, it may also come with side effects such as dry mouth and breathing problems. Nevertheless, medical marijuana as a prescription medicine has helped many people treat a variety of conditions safely and effectively, including weight loss in certain cases.
How does cannabis from a dispensary differ from recreational marijuana?
Dispensary cannabis and recreational marijuana differ mostly in quality and regulation with notable variances that make a real difference, particularly when catering to the medical cannabis community. One of the significant advantages of medical practice cannabis from a dispensary is that it’s crafted with cbd in mind, which is the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that has potential healing properties useful for people with medical conditions such as seizures and chronic pain. Dispensaries offer different strains of cannabis, such as cannabis indica which tailored to meet the unique medical needs of patients. In addition to this, the provision of cbd oils and other cannabis-derived products by dispensaries is another example of their commitment to ensuring that the medical cannabis community has access to a wide range of treatment options. Importantly, the conditions for the production of dispensary cannabis are subjected to thorough scrutiny, including testing for mold, pesticides, and heavy metals, which ensures the safety of the patients with weakened immune systems. On the other hand, recreational marijuana is sold in legal, but unregulated states, and it is not inspected, which exposes individuals to psychoactive effects. In conclusion, purchasing cannabis products related to medical cannabis use from a reputable dispensary remains the safest and highest-quality choice.
Cannabis Plant Species
Cannabaceae plants include cannabis. Cannabis has three main subspecies—sativa, indica, and ruderalis. Sativa plants are popular for their cerebral high, tall stature, and thin leaves. Indica plants, which are shorter and have wider leaves, produce a body high that relaxes and sedates users. . These subspecies contain psychoactive cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Statistics about types of medical marijuana
YouGov found 93% of UK adults support medical marijuana legalization. (YouGov)(NHS)
7,246 UK patients received medical marijuana in December 2020. GOV.UK
Sativa strains treat depression and anxiety, while indica strains relieve pain and insomnia. (Leafly)
Anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving CBD-dominant strains are becoming more popular. Project CBD
UK medical marijuana is still scarce due to strict regulations and limited supply. Imported products are expensive, so many patients go untreated. (BBC)
- NHS - Medical Cannabis: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/medical-cannabis/
- The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) - Cannabis-based products for medicinal use: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta583
- The British Medical Journal (BMJ) - Medical use of cannabis: https://www.bmj.com/cannabis
- GOV.UK - Cannabis-derived medicinal products: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cannabis-derived-medicinal-products
- The Royal Pharmaceutical Society - Medical Cannabis: https://www.rpharms.com/resources/quick-reference-guides/medical-cannabis
- The Association for the Cannabinoid Industry - Medical Cannabis in the UK: https://aciglobal.com/medical-cannabis-uk/
- The Centre for Medicinal Cannabis - Medical Cannabis in the UK: https://thecmcuk.org/medical-cannabis-in-the-uk/
- The International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines - Medical Cannabis in the UK: https://www.cannabis-med.org/index.php?tpl=page&id=364&lng=en
- Project CBD - CBD Clinical Applications: https://www.projectcbd.org/science/cannabis-pharmacology/cbd-clinical-applications
- The British Journal of Pharmacology - Cannabinoids in clinical practice: https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x