(edited 4/12/2023)

It’s Just A Name: The High Lies Within

Some of the names of hemp and marijuana strains on the market today range from classic to designer, depending on the origin of the seed’s genetics — Super Lemon Haze (Sativa), Forbidden Fruit (Indica), Gorilla Glue (Hybrid), and Do-si-do (Hybrid) are personal faves of ours.

The question is: how many people really know what they are smoking, or where their cannabis oil has been extracted from, or even what strain is in their edibles? At one point in time when the legacy market was at its height and various strains were being created and made available to the general public, the answer to that question was not many. The people who did know were typically aficionados getting most of their information from High Times Magazine or cultivator of the plant, aka their plug.

However, over the last several years as more and more states are bringing aboard medical marijuana programs and legalizing adult-use, people want more information about what they are consuming. Well, today is the perfect time as information around what the various stains do has become more available than ever.

To keep it simple, the best sativa strains give you energy, help you focus and can make everything funny or make you very talkative. The effects are different per strain and individual, but the desired effect usually remains constant across strains. Some of the most consumed strains in cannabis are sativa.

The sativa strains also carry some of the most unique and recognizable names such as Sour Diesel, Blue Dream, Maui Wowie, and Jack Herer.

The Indica strains are best for chilling out, helping you relax or sleep. They can also give you a tingly sensation or a little arousal feeling; maybe even a sense of euphoria. This can totally help bring your anxiety down and it may completely eradicate your insomnia.

The unique list of names continues in the Indica strain. Also some very recognizable: Northern Lights and Afghan Kush. Similarly, the Hybrid has some classic strains in this category: Blue Dream, Pineapple Express, Gelato, OG Kush, and Girl Scout Cookies. Hybrids are always fun. They have a different effect depending on the ratio of indica:sativa blend. We prefer Hybrids because it’s like customizing your “high”. Pro-tip: Ask your local dispensary whether they have indica dominant or sativa dominant hybrids.

Sometimes when reading all of the names of the various strains you forget you are talking about a plant with specific characteristics and properties. And I tell people, don’t get caught up in the name. Just know what characteristics you are looking for and effects you are trying to achieve. Are you needing to eat because you suffer from nausea? Do you need to be creative or finish a project? Are you brainstorming or do you have bothersome pain that interferes with your quality of life? Do you need energy throughout the day or help focusing on minute tasks? These are the most important things to know. Industry publications, academic journals, dispensaries, and cannabis enthusiasts who are knowledgeable can help you find the best strain for you.

People are generally becoming more aware about what they are consuming and that is a great thing! Remember, cannabis is one of the most well-rounded plants nature has provided for us. It can assist the human body where necessary — search: endocannabinoid system.

As you move through the world of cannabis the best thing you can do is inform yourself and ask questions. Know what works best for you and you can enjoy the plant as it was designed to be.

Need help choosing a strain? Visit our FAQs page and find the best choice for you at leafly.com