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Medical marijuana has been proven to be an effective treatment for a variety of medical conditions. With the legalization of medical marijuana in many states, patients have access to a wide range of strains to choose from.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right strain. In this blog, we will discuss the different types of medical marijuana strains and their effects on patients.
Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid Strains
There are three types of medical marijuana strains: sativa, indica, and hybrid. Each strain has its unique properties, and understanding the differences between them can help you choose the right one for your needs.
Sativa strains are known for their energizing and uplifting effects. They are commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Sativa strains are also used to improve focus and creativity. Sativa strains typically have a higher THC content, which is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana.
Indica strains are known for their calming and relaxing effects. They are commonly used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and chronic pain. Indica strains are also used to increase appetite and reduce nausea. Indica strains typically have a higher CBD content, which is the compound responsible for the medicinal properties of marijuana.
Hybrid strains are a combination of sativa and indica strains. They are designed to provide the benefits of both strains. Hybrid strains can be either sativa-dominant or indica-dominant, depending on the desired effects. Hybrid strains are commonly used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
Chemical Compounds, Terpenes, and Cannabinoids
Each medical marijuana strain contains a unique combination of chemical compounds, terpenes, and cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids are the primary compounds found in medical marijuana. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana, while CBD is responsible for the medicinal properties of marijuana.
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in medical marijuana. They are responsible for the unique smell and taste of each strain. Terpenes also play a role in the therapeutic effects of medical marijuana. For example, the terpene myrcene is known for its sedative effects, while the terpene limonene is known for its energizing effects.
Choosing the Right Strain
Choosing the right medical marijuana strain can be a daunting task, but understanding the differences between strains can help you make an informed decision. When choosing a strain, consider the following factors:
Medical condition: Consider the medical condition you are treating. Sativa strains are commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, and chronic pain, while indica strains are commonly used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Symptoms: Consider the symptoms you are experiencing. For example, if you are experiencing nausea, an indica strain may be more effective.
Chemical compounds: Consider the chemical compounds present in the strain. THC-dominant strains are best for patients who need a higher level of psychoactivity, while CBD-dominant strains are best for patients who need a higher level of medicinal properties.
Terpenes: Consider the terpenes present in the strain. If you need a strain that will help you relax, look for strains that are high in myrcene. If you need a strain that will help you focus, look for strains that are high in limonene.
Experiment: Finding the right strain may take some trial and error. Experiment with different strains and dosages to find the one that works best for you.
Consult with a medical professional: A medical professional can help you choose the right strain for your medical condition and provide guidance on dosing and consumption methods.
Potential Benefits and Drawbacks
When it comes to medical marijuana strains, each one has its own potential benefits and drawbacks that should be taken into consideration. Knowing these can help you make an informed decision on which strain is best for you.
The benefits of medical marijuana include relief from pain and inflammation, improved mood and relaxation, reduced anxiety and depression, improved sleep, increased appetite, reduction in seizures and spasms, and improved focus and creativity.
However, there are also some drawbacks to be aware of such as dry mouth and eyes, dizziness or lightheadedness, paranoia or anxiety (in some cases), short-term memory impairment, and drowsiness or fatigue.
It's important to weigh these potential benefits and drawbacks when choosing a medical marijuana strain to ensure that you get the relief you need while minimizing any negative side effects.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana strains offer a wide range of therapeutic effects that can help improve the quality of life for patients with various medical conditions. Understanding the differences between sativa, indica, and hybrid strains, as well as the unique chemical compounds present in each strain, can help you choose the right strain for your individual needs.
It's important to consider both the potential benefits and drawbacks of each strain, as well as to consult with a medical professional for guidance on dosing and consumption methods. With the right strain and proper use, medical marijuana can be a valuable tool in managing medical conditions and improving overall health and well-being.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card in Missouri Today!
Although marijuana is now legal recreationally in Missouri, you should still get your medical card. If you have any questions, just give us a call!
There are so many benefits to having your medical marijuana card in a recreational state, including being responsible for less in taxes, saving at dispensaries, and higher possession laws.
If you don’t already have your medical marijuana card, we can help! Our doctors are standing by to take you through a quick and easy evaluation to see if you qualify. During your evaluation, they will be happy to answer all your questions about how cannabis may be able to help with your anxiety or any other medical conditions.
Schedule an appointment with a marijuana professional online or by giving us a call at
(877) 303-3117 to talk to a patient support representative.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Missouri Marijuana Card, our mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (877) 303-3117, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting the relief you can trust today!
Check out Missouri Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information.