Choosing which variety of cannabis is best
for a particular individual or condition can be more complicated than
most imagine. Many patients have never tried or grown cannabis before
discovering it as a medicine. Even for those who have, knowing what
works for recreational and social purposes does not always translate
into knowing the most suitable variety of cannabis for specific medical
needs.
When choosing a medicinal cannabis 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.
Nevertheless, this comparatively small proportion can have noticeable
influence on the way the cannabis affects a patient. While CBD is not
considered psychoactive in itself, it can impart many of the medicinal
benefits of cannabis and can also moderate the effects of THC.
In this context, a CBD content of around 1%
could be considered comparatively high, while a strain with low
cannabidiol content would contain 0.6% CBD or less
Indica strains of cannabis generally have a
medium to high THC content as well as a comparatively high CBD content.
Sativa strains normally have medium to high THC and a relatively low
CBD content.
Varieties of cannabis with very high levels
of CBD are being developed and some, such as Ruderalis strains and
Bediol® (>6% THC : 7.5% CBD) already exist. These strains allow
patients to experience the benefits of medicinal cannabis without
experiencing a strong psychoactive effect.
The relationship of the two main
cannabinoids goes some way to explaining the different effects of the
numerous strains, and also the exceptionally wide range of conditions
which can be treated with medicinal marijuana.
Effects and Uses of Cannabis Indica Strains
Cannabis Indica strains generally create a
sedative, ‘stoned’ feeling. This sensation tends to be centred 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.
Effects and Uses of Cannabis Sativa Strains
Cannabis 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
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 cannabis to relieve chronic pain, something for which
both Indica and Sativa strains are suitable. Combining Sativa genes with
an Indica strain 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 Cannabis Strain
Many people choose to medicate with a
combination of different strains. The ‘high’ effects of Sativa strains
make them a better choice during the day, when being alert and awake is
desirable, whereas the relaxing effects of Indica varieties often make
them more suitable for evening and nighttime use. Hybrid strains can
offer the best of both worlds to many patients but may be less suited to
others.
The type of condition being treated is good
guide to whether an Indica or a Sativa strain is more appropriate .
Assessing the type of symptoms the patient seeks to relieve is generally
the best starting point for selecting the most suitable type of
medicinal cannabis for their individual condition.
It is also important to remember that just
as every person’s physiological make-up is slightly different, the
subjective experience of using cannabis medicinally is also different
for everyone. The information offered here is intended as a basic guide
and it is recommended that, if possible, anyone wishing to use cannabis
as medicine should first consult a qualified physician.
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