Cannabis for Beginners: Understanding Different Strains and Their Effects

Cannabis is a fascinating and complex plant – with a flurry of major plant compounds and incredibly diverse uses and therapeutic effects that trace back to ancient history.

Whether you’re a newfound cannabis consumer in Colorado, or simply exploring more of the plant based on your own curiosities – Roots Rx has got you covered. We’re not just the best dispensary in Colorado, but a resource for the community to learn and better understand these many facets of the plant.

Let’s explore the different types of cannabis strains, how they work, and how to find the right fit for you at Roots Rx!

 

Cannabis Classifications: Learning the Different Types of Flower

Since its earliest form and use, cannabis has traditionally been divided into three main categories: sativa, indica, and hybrid. Each is classified by unique characteristics that can give off specific effects when consumed.

 

Sativa

Sativa strains come from cannabis sativa plants, which are identified as tall, thin plants with narrow leaves. They are often described as energizing and uplifting making them perfect for:

• Daytime use.
• Activities that involve focus or alertness.
• Boosting energy for social activities, creative projects, or simply fighting fatigue.

 

Sativa strains are your go-to for staying motivated and active throughout the day.

 

Indica

Coming from cannabis indica plants, this strain classification is known for relaxing and sedative effects. These plants are more short and bushy in appearance, with broad and stout leaves. Indica strains are commonly associated with:

• Deep relaxation and calming effects.
• Promoting restful sleep.
• Alleviating pain, stress, and tension.

 

Indica cannabis has a nickname of “in the couch” because of its strong, sedating effects which make it ideal for evening use.

 

Hybrid

Hybrid cannabis is a hybridized version of both sativa and indica plants. It means that two different cannabis strains or types have been genetically bred together to combine the strain’s aromatic flavor profile and effects. Hybrids are unique because:

• Most hybrid strains can deliver a wide range of effects and aromatic flavors.
• The effects are more custom and diverse, appealing to a wide audience.
• Hybrids suitable for daytime, nighttime, or anytime, based on the precise terpene and cannabinoid content of that strain.

 

Today, hybrid cannabis is extremely common in Colorado dispensaries because of the increasing popularity of crossbreeding cannabis.

 

Beyond Indica vs. Sativa

While indica and sativa cannabis classifications are helpful starting points, they don’t tell the whole story. The effects of cannabis are actually determined by its unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes—a phenomenon known as the Entourage Effect.

 

What is the Entourage Effect?

The Entourage Effect happens when cannabinoids and terpenes work together in a synergistic way to produce a range of effects.

You can think of it like a symphony: each instrument has its own unique sound, but when all the instruments come together, they create harmonious music. Both cannabinoids and terpenes serve unique functions; consuming them together amplifies their effects and creates deeper experiences.

 

Defining Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are active plant compounds in cannabis that interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce various effects. Your ECS is responsible for a variety of bodily functions – including sleep, mood, cognitive function, memory, and pain, while actively working to maintain balance, or homeostasis, in the body.

 

Here’s a breakdown of the major players:

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis responsible for the “high.”
• CBD (Cannabidiol): Known for calming, relaxing, non-psychoactive properties.
• CBN (Cannabinol): A strong, sedating cannabinoid known to help with sleep and relaxation.
• CBG (Cannabigerol): Known as the precursor to other cannabinoids, CBG is called the “mother” cannabinoid for its role in synthesizing others. It’s been recently found to improve mood and reduce stress levels.
• THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid): A non-psychoactive precursor to THC, this cannabinoid offers potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

 

Understanding Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in all plants, including cannabis. They play a major role in determining the aroma, flavor, and effects of a strain.

Here are the most common terpenes you’ll find in cannabis at our CO dispensary:

• Linalool: Found in lavender, linalool has a floral scent and is known for its calming effects.
• Limonene: Known for its citrusy aroma, limonene is uplifting and often associated with uplifting moods.
• Beta-Caryophyllene: This spicy, peppery terpene is unique because it also acts as a cannabinoid, binding to CB2 receptors to induce therapeutic effects such as reducing inflammation.
• Myrcene: Known for its earthy and musky scent, myrcene has relaxing and sedative properties.
• Terpinolene: Terpinolene has a fresh, herbal scent and is thought to provide balanced, uplifting effects.
• Pinene: Similar to the name itself, pinene has a piney, refreshing aroma that is commonly found in pine trees. This terpene can help improve focus and memory.

 

When paired with cannabinoids, terpenes help fine-tune the effects of a strain, adding depth to your cannabis experience.

 

How Do You Consume Cannabis Flower?

Like the many complexities of the plant, there are plenty of ways to consume cannabis! Depending on your preference, you can smoke out of a:

• Dab Rig: Either electric or lit with a torch, dab rigs are for dabbing cannabis concentrate products.
• Joint or Blunt: The most classic option, roll your cannabis flower into a joint or blunt. Or for convenience, pre-rolls are a perfect option for on-the-go smoking.
• Bowl, Pipe, or Bong: Great for solo or group sessions, adding flower to your bowl, pipe, or bong for quick consumption.
• Dry Herb or Oil Vaporizer: A discreet, smokeless alternative, cannabis vaping can be in the form of herb flower or oil-based concentrates. 

 

Other Ways to Consume Cannabis in Colorado

Not into smoking? No problem! There are plenty of alternatives to smoking cannabis:

• Tinctures: Cannabis-infused oils taken sublingually, tinctures are ideal for quick onset of effects.
• Edibles: From gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and more…there’s an edible for that!
• Infused Beverages: Cannabis sodas, teas, and other infused concoctions will make you want to lose the booze in no time.
• Topicals: Creams and lotions are perfect for localized pain or inflammation relief.

 

Shopping Different Cannabis Strains: Roots Rx Colorado Dispensary

Are you ready to shop cannabis strains in Colorado? Stop by our Colorado dispensary to begin exploring the vast variety of flower cultivars on our shelves! No matter how you like it, we have the strains, effects, and cannabinoid/terpene profiles for your future cannabis purchases.

Always remember, when trying something new, begin with small doses and increase your consumption gradually as needed. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is here to help you find strains with specific THC levels or terpene profiles that match your goals.

Explore Roots Rx’s wide selection of top-quality cannabis products for your ultimate cannabis experience! Whether you shop the CO dispensary menu online or visit one of our dispensary locations in Eagle-Vail, Aspen, Gunnison, Basalt, or Leadville. The Roots Rx team is ready to guide you through the many different cannabis strains and effects out there.

The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.