No matter whether you are new or veteran cannabis users, the question of which strain is fitting for you to use has or is occupying you right now. The differences between the strains are expressed in the source of the plant, its appearance and the varying effects of each strain.
External differences in the plant’s shape
Firstly, the Indica and Sativa strains differ in their external shape, appearance of foliage and growth. The Indica strain has a more “oily” appearance, its leaves are denser and shorter, and their growth direction is horizontal. In contrast, the Sativa strain is characterized by a thin, elongated shape, with a long stem and narrow structure. Its thin leaves are sharper and they grow lengthwise.
From a botanical aspect, there are significant differences; however the choice of which strain should be used does not depend on the plant’s external appearance, but rather its effect.
Varying effect of Indica and Sativa
The most important difference in deciding which cannabis strain to use is undoubtedly the effect of each plant on our body. If we examine the differences between the two from this aspect, it can be said that Indica flowers are suitable for the night, thanks to their induced soothing effect, reduced anxiety, pain relief and assistance in falling asleep. In contrast, the Sativa strains have a more energizing effect, are considered invigorators, appetite and creativity stimulants, so are therefore considered more suitable for use in the morning. Sativa is also known for reducing signs of depression.
Medical use of Sativa: The Sativa strain is usually given to patients with various medical problems, including cancer patients and those dealing with depressions, migraines or various chronic illnesses accompanied by pain.
Medical use of Indica: The use of Indica is especially relevant for patients suffering from pain due to illnesses related to the muscles, such as Parkinson’s, and people with medical problems that produce muscle stiffness. Another use of the strain is for people with anxiety or sleeping difficulties, thanks to the plant’s hypnotic effect and the sense of relief it induces in users.
How to choose
The first stage in the strain selection process is assessing your personal condition and diagnosing your medical problem. Without an accurate understanding of the problem, it is extremely difficult to match the right strain for you.
The second stage is matching the strain to the range of symptoms you suffer from, depending on the medical indication given to you. Then we want to review the composition of active ingredients of the plant, based on the percentages of THC (active ingredient) that it contains. The overwhelming recommendation for new users is to start with a low dose of THC and to increase it gradually, if necessary.
Even after the most accurate matching process possible, the final stage will be trial and error. We should take into consideration that each body reacts differently to substances, and what is right for one person is not necessarily suitable for somebody else, even if both suffer from the same medical problem. Our recommendation is to try several strains in a controlled and responsible manner and ,together with professionals, find the most suitable strain for your medical needs.
*The aforesaid is not in lieu of medical advice. You should consult an appropriate professional before starting to use medical cannabis.
