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Tips For Choosing The Right Cannabis Strain For You

October 11, 2021

The diversity of cannabis strains can be overwhelming for smokers who are looking for their ideal strain. There are strains that can be very cerebrally active, while others mainly cause bodily effects, and also everything in between. The variety of flavors, effects, smells, and terpenes that cause them can be daunting.

With so many different strains to choose from, how can you find the cannabis strain that is best for you?

To start, let’s take a look at the different types of cannabis strains.

Types of Cannabis Strains

Cannabis comes with a wide array of diversity. If you have been to a dispensary, you have likely been confronted with a huge number of strains that all have different effects and active chemicals in them. Depending on how the cannabis strains were bred, the strains will contain unique active chemicals.

In most strains, there is a balance of THC and CBD that plays a role in determining the effects and potency of the strain. For the most part, this ratio of THC to CBD determines the experience that users will have with the strain. A strain’s chemotype is largely determined by the plant’s genetics.

While most producers let you know whether a strain is a Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid, they don’t typically list the strain’s chemotype. However, you can identify the chemotype by taking a look at the cannabinoid potency label, which all strains will have listed in legal dispensaries.

THC vs. CBD

THC and CBD are two active chemicals in cannabis that can cause different experiences with the plant. THC is known to be more psychoactive and cerebral, while CBD results in more bodily effects and also is known to help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Importantly, CBD and THC have many of the same medical benefits. They can provide relief for many of the same issues such as insomnia, depression, chronic pain, and more.

However, CBD doesn’t cause the euphoric mind-bending effects that occur with THC. Some people may prefer to use CBD because of the lack of this side effect. Be wary of what you are looking for psychoactively when looking for your next strain at the dispo.

Indica or Sativa? (Or Hybrid)

The Indica vs. Sativa question is the oldest one in the cannabis world. These two categories of cannabis contain many of the same chemicals but can cause very different experiences.

For example, Sativa strains are known to be more psychologically active than their more low-key counterparts. Indicas, on the other hand, are the types of cannabis strains that can help you fall asleep, beat stress, and reduce pain.

If you are looking for a strain that will help awaken the senses and inspire creativity or conversation, then Sativas are your best bet. Indicas will provide you with a more mellow and sedated experience that can cause famous effects such as couch-lock and the munchies. Hybrids are very popular as well and can offer a best-of-both-worlds experience that can result in some unique and potent experiences.

Terpene Profiles

Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants and some animals. They’re responsible for the aromas, flavors, and even colors associated with various types of plants. In terms of cannabis, terpenes are what make certain strains smell or taste different from others and can also affect what effects the strain presents.

Many users are very picky about the terpene profile of their strains. This is due to the fact that terpenes are what make each individual strain unique. They cause the distinctive flavors, aromas, and effects of each strain. As you try different strains, keep an eye on which terpenes you enjoy most to find more strains that appeal to your preferences.

As you can tell, there is a great variety of cannabis strains to choose from. These strains have a huge array of different tastes, effects, colors, and smells to experiment with.

When looking for your next favorite strain, try to consider the effects you are looking for, what type of conditions you want to treat, and also the flavors and smells you enjoy the most.

We recommend experimenting with a variety of strains to learn about what you like and what you don’t. Over time, you will begin to find the strains and terpene profiles that work best with your body. Speak to your local budtender to learn more about the interesting strains available in your area and which ones are best for you!

Pure Oasis is Boston’s original cannabis dispensary. Their boutique shop offers a wide selection of high-quality goods and a knowledgeable staff of friendly cannabis enthusiasts.

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