For those not familiar with weed, it may be a surprise to learn that there are a variety of different strains, differing in quality, smell, taste, and more.
Before trying the substance for yourself, it is necessary to know of the different types and how it can affect your experience.
Depending on what strain you take, you may feel a different high so if it is your first time you should make sure you do your research first.
In this article, we will be exploring more on the subject, particularly highlighting how many strains of weed there are.
What Are Cannabis Strains?
Cannabis strains are simply variations of cannabis plants. Each plant has its own unique characteristics which result in a certain type of bud being produced.
The most common varieties of cannabis include indica, sativa, ruderalis, and hybrid.
These four main categories have been around since the beginning of marijuana use. Indica plants produce heavy buds while sativas tend to grow tall and thin.
Ruderalis plants are short and squatty while hybrids are a combination of both.
The amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) present in each strain varies greatly. Some strains contain very little THC while others contain much more.
This means that some strains are better suited for medical purposes than recreational ones.
If you want to get the best out of your weed, then you need to find a strain that suits your needs. It is important to note that every strain has a different effect on the body.
So when choosing a strain, you must consider what kind of effects you want before deciding on one.
The Effects Of Different Types Of Weed
There are many different types of weed available today. Each type comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the most popular types of weed and their effects.
Indica
Most commonly used by people looking for relaxation or sleep. They usually come with a strong body buzz and a relaxed feeling.
Sativa
A good choice for daytime activities such as studying or working. Sativas are known to give users an uplifting mind-set.
Hybrid
A mixture of two different types of weed. Usually contains a mix of both indicas and sativas.
Rudeals
A strain that produces low amounts of THC but high levels of CBD (cannabidiol).
CBDs are non-psychoactive cannabinoids found in cannabis. They help reduce pain and anxiety without making users feel too stoned.
How To Choose Your Strain
Choosing your strain is easy once you understand what you are looking for. You can choose from any number of different options depending on what you want to achieve.
Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting your strain
What kind of effects do you want?
Do you want a relaxing high or a stimulating one?
Is it for medicinal or recreational use?
What’s your budget?
As mentioned earlier, there are a wide range of different strains available.
When choosing your strain, you need to think about what kind of effects you are looking for and whether they are suitable for your specific situation.
If you are new to weed, then you should start off with a milder strain.
This will allow you to test the waters and see how it affects you. Once you know if you like it, you can move onto something stronger.
If you are looking for a strain that gives you a nice euphoric high, then you should go for a sativa. Sativas are great for social situations because they make you happy and energetic.
However, this does not mean that you cannot use them at home. In fact, they are perfect for those who want to study or work.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a sedative, then you should look into indica strains. Indicas are perfect for relaxing and sleeping. They also provide a calming effect on the mind.
These strains are especially useful for people suffering from insomnia.
The Different Strains
It should be recognized that sativa, indica, hybrid and ruderalis are merely titles. In actuality, these strains are the start of a whole long list of strains to choose from.
Below, we will be listing some of the most popular strains out there as well as displaying each of their effects in detail.
Popular Indica Strains
Purple Punch
Purple punch is a popular indica which is made by breeding Granddaddy Purple and Larry OG. From the smell alone, you will be welcomed by the scent of blueberry muffins and grape candy and feel the effects of the strain working quickly.
Purple Punch is great for those with stressful lifestyles and for those who have trouble sleeping.
Blue Cheese
Blue Cheese is just how it sounds and this is clear from the strong smell. Sweet and savory with a hint of natural cheese, this is a unique strain which is popular amongst many for its calming and relaxing effects.
This strain is ideal for those who need a break after a long day as it works to diminish stress and present a sense of serenity.
Northern Lights
Northern Lights, also known as NL for short, is popular with those suffering from depression as it helps to relieve symptoms. Not only does Northern Lights work to relax the muscles but it will also give a euphoric experience like no other.
Popular Sativa Strains
Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze produces a signature zesty lemony smell which gives it its known name. It is also very powerful, creating effects which allow a person to become energetic and full of life.
Whilst this may be a lot for a beginner to handle, this is still a popular choice for many. With this, you will find a newfound confidence.
Amnesia Haze
Amnesia Haze is another popular sativa which is guaranteed to leave you smiling.
This strain contains a high dosage of THC which will produce a positive buzz. This is the best choice for those wanting to tame their anxiety and feel an overwhelming amount of happiness.
Sour Diesel
The name Sour Diesel may be enough to put people off the strain as well as its diesel smell too, but you can be sure to love it once you try it for yourself.
Sour Diesel is fast acting and is made to energize, presenting a strong high which will go straight to your head.
How Many Strains Of Weed Are There?
Above, we have only mentioned some of the types of strains and their effects however there are so many more. But how many more?
In complete honesty, the amount of strains is unknown for there are thousands available.
From Purple Haze to Pineapple Express, there is an endless list of strains. Whilst this may seem intimidating to some at first, having a variety opens up so many possibilities.
You will always have something new to try and will always be welcomed by a new feeling every time. You may ask the question, “but why are there so many strains?” and the answer is simple.
There are so many strains because there are always new ones being created.
As a standard, we know that there are over 700 strains however over time strains have been mixed and bred to create diverse strains, gradually expanding the number.
One example we can look at is the sativa Jack Herer. This strain has been created from Shiva Skunk and Northern Lights #5 to create an alternative strain, making the number of strains higher.
Because of this, there is no telling the exact number.
There are many websites out there which list the different types, one popular site being Leafly. On that site, there are thousands to search through, further showing the high number.
Why Smoke Marijuana?
Smoking weed is a great way to enjoy cannabis in the comfort of your own home. However, not all smokers choose to smoke marijuana.
For those who do, smoking marijuana offers a wide range of benefits. These include
Relaxation
Euphoria
Pain relief
Anxiety relief
Sleep aid
Energy boost
Reduced stress levels
Mood enhancement
Increased creativity
Improved appetite
Increased focus
Best Strain For First Time Users
If you are new to weed then you want to be sure that your first time experience is a good one. Don’t be a daredevil and go straight for strains which are too strong.
Furthermore, don’t go straight to using a bong because your friends do. Stick to only smoking it from a joint and choose your strain wisely.
Some strains perfect for first time users are:
Harlequin
This strain creates a smooth high which will not be too strong due to the THC:CBD ratio.
This strains produces a euphoric response as well as allowing a mellow experience for users.
Final Thoughts
There are many strains of weed out there to choose from, each one unique from the other.
There is no telling how many strains there are for there are always many more being created, however one thing we all know for sure is that every strain is valuable.
Whether you are looking for a sativa to bring you energy, an indica to relax you or a hybrid to give you a mix of the two, there is plenty to pick from.
Hello, my name is Tom Bowler and I have been interested in the studies of cannabis for years. My brother and I have been testing out different strains and smoking techniques since we were in our early 20s, so we have some knowledge to impart on anyone willing to listen.
This website is a safe space for people genuinely interested in cannabis to learn in a judgment-free zone. We’ll look at the different ways it can be smoked, rolling techniques, strains, and much more.
So, stay a while and get acquainted with the world of cannabis - it’s not as dark and scary as the rest of the internet would have you believe.
