Cannabis Strains: How Reliable are Weed Strain Names?
When you’re looking for your favorite cannabis strain, you may notice that there are slight differences in each batch. Even if you buy Blue Dream from the same dispensary, you may find that it tastes different or has a different effect.
This is because each cultivator grows its own strains of cannabis, and even the same strain can vary depending on the growing conditions.
What are Weed Strains?
Cannabis as we know it has been around for thousands of years – the earliest evidence of humans using cannabis for medicinal purposes is over 4,500 years ago in western China. Cannabis cultivated from its original ancestral location is called a landrace strain – and there aren’t too many of these anymore.
Like any commodity, the cannabis plant has been grown, cultivated, and dispersed around the world – and in doing so, has undergone changes that have resulted in new strains. Cross-pollination, environments, and selective breeding have caused plants to evolve – and today, there are hundreds of different strains of cannabis available.
“Strains” are not exclusive to cannabis – they are simply genetic variations within a species. In cannabis, however, a strain is a specific variety of flower with its own unique characteristics, including flavor, aroma, appearance, and effects. There are thousands of cannabis strains, all offering a unique take on cannabis.
Key Differences Between Strains of Weed
There are three main types of weed: Sativa, Indica, and hybrid.
- Sativa plants are tall and thin, with high THC levels. They’re associated with an energetic, creative mind high.
- Indica plants are short and stocky, with broad leaves. They also have high THC levels, but much higher CBD levels than Sativas. This makes them ideal for reducing nausea and anxiety.
- Hybrid strains are a combination of the two, taking characteristics from both the Sativa and Indica plants. They can be either indica- or sativa-dominant, depending on which traits they inherit from their parents.
The different types of weed also have different aromas and flavors. For example, Sativas are often citrusy or fruity, while Indicas tend to be earthy or hashy. Hybrids can inherit the characteristics of either parent plant.
When it comes to effects, again, it depends on the type of weed. Sativas are energizing and uplifting, while Indicas are more relaxing and can even be sedating. Hybrids can lean either way, depending on their parentage.
The different types of weed also have different medical benefits. For example, Sativas are often used to treat conditions like depression and fatigue, while Indicas are more commonly used for pain relief and insomnia. Hybrids can be used for a variety of different conditions, depending on their dominant traits.
Here’s a list of strains considered to be some of the best strains ever:
- Blue Dream – Sativa
- Super Silver Haze – Sativa
- Jack Herer – Sativa
- Chernobyl – Hybrid
- White Widow – Hybrid
- Hindu Kush – Indica
- OG Kush – Indica
These are some of the most popular and well-known strains in the cannabis world, and for good reason – they’re all incredibly high quality. If you’re looking for a great smoking experience, any one of these strains would be a great choice.
Why the Same Strains Might Be Different
– Blue Dream: This hybrid has become one of the most popular strains in the world. It’s a cross between Blueberry and Haze, and it delivers a powerful euphoric high.
– Sour Diesel: Another hugely popular strain, Sour Diesel is a sativa-dominant hybrid that gives users an energetic and uplifting high.
– White Widow: A classic strain that has been around for decades, White Widow is a potent hybrid that delivers a well-rounded high.
– OG Kush: A popular strain among indica lovers, OG Kush is a powerful and heavy hitting strain that will leave you feeling relaxed and couch-locked.
– Granddaddy Purple: A popular strain for those looking for a relaxing high, Granddaddy Purple is an indica-dominant hybrid that delivers a calm and sedative high.