How to Determine What Strain of Medical Cannabis Can Help Your Condition

It’s no secret that cannabis has medical applications. What many might not know, though, is that the plant isn’t a cure-all—different strains of the plant help with different types of medical conditions. If you’re looking for help, you’ll want to consider which strain is actually the best for you.

Know Your Strains

You’ll need to know the strains of medical cannabis before you can determine if a given strain will help you. Medical marijuana typically comes in one of two strains—indica and sativa. Indica strains are typically used to deal with strains and stresses, while sativa strains commonly see use with mental health issues. There are also hybrids of both strains that can give some of the effects of both parent strains.

Look at the Active Cannabinoids

More important than the strain of cannabis are the active cannabinoids. Marijuana contains two major cannabinoids—THC and CBD. CBD is popularly known for its ability to treat conditions as wide-ranging as seizures and anxiety, while THC is more typically known for providing a ‘high’ that also offers pain relief and that can promote a healthy appetite. Some consumers prefer strains that have a higher level of one cannabinoid than the other, while others prefer a more even mixture of the two.

Pay Attention to Terpenes

Terpenes are the oils in cannabis that give the plant some of its natural medicinal properties. These oils are also responsible for the smell and taste of the plant, helping patients find the right mix for their needs. There are eight different terpenes, each of which is indicated for a different condition and mixes of the terpenes can themselves deal with other conditions more effectively than any single type of oil.

Talk to a Marijuana-Friendly Physician

One of the best ways to figure out if a specific strain is going to help with your condition is to talk to a physician. Finding a doctor who is actually going to recommend marijuana over more traditional pharmaceuticals isn’t always easy, but there are doctors out there who have educated themselves on the benefits of medical marijuana. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you visit so that you can let your physician put your research to work.rnThe best way to determine which type of cannabis will help you is to do your homework. There is a wealth of information out there about the usefulness of specific types for specific conditions, so do some digging. Take this basic information and apply it at your local dispensary to get on the path to feeling better.