Even through it’s been a little over a year since the legalization of Cannabis in Calgary; the city is still buzzing (no pun intended) with excitement. But for industry newcomers who have yet to make their way into a dispensary, we admit it can be somewhat intimidating or overwhelming at first. That’s why we’re giving you a quick overview on all things Cannabis; so you feel totally confident when you stop by to visit us at Mountain View Cannabis.
First thing’s first. Since we can almost guarantee you’ll hear some (or all of) these terms when you visit us in the store, here’s a quick vocab lesson.
Strains: A “strain” refers to the type cannabis plant. The three primary strains you’ll hear about are Sativa, Indica and Hybrid.
- Sativa: A THC dominant strain of Cannabis.
- Indica: A CBD dominant strain of Cannabis.
- Hybrid: A Cannabis plant that combines Sativa and Indica.
Compounds
- Cannaboids: These are active chemical compounds found in Cannabis plants, which interact with our cannaboid receptors. Despite there being a lot of Cannaboids in cannabis plants, the ones you’ll hear about most frequently are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
- Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD has little impact on brain activity and considered non-psychoactive which gives you more of a body high, making it popular for relaxation and pain management.
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC is the main psychoactive component in Cannabis, which is more energizing and results in a head high.
- Cannaboid receptors: These are essentially membranes found throughout the body, which determine how your body processes external Cannaboids. Cannaboid receptors influence physical and mental responses such as increased appetites, reduced stress, pain relief, and so on.
- Terpenes: The fragrant oils found in cannabis strains, responsible for creating unique flavour profiles in each strain.
Ok, so now that you’ve got the lingo down, let’s get into the good stuff; understanding the differences between Cannabis strains.
Cannabis Strains
Cannabis Sativa:
The 411:
- Sativa strains (especially when pure) contain a high amount of THC, which is why they are commonly used in social settings.
Why you’ll love it:
- Whether you’re out for a social night with fiends, or you have a million things to check off your to-do list, this uplifting strain gives you the energy and motivation to make it happen.
A few of the perks:
- Energy boosting properties found in Sativa inspire creativity and spark motivation.
- Sativa increases the ability to focus and makes users more productive.
- Known to be a mood enhancer, this strain is commonly used to help users overcome symptoms of depression.
Our favourites:
- BC SunGrown Blue Dream – Tantalus Labs LTD.
- Eldo – Up Cannabis
- Chocolate Fondue – DNA Genetics
Cannabis Indica:
The 411:
- Indica strains are CBD dominant and have the opposite effect of sativa, making them ideal for relaxation and night time use.
Why you’ll love it:
- When you’re in the mood to Netflix and chill, need to forget the stressful day you’ve had or you’re experiencing pain, this strain will help you physically and mentally relax.
A few of the perks:
- If you’re having trouble sleeping or experiencing insomnia, Cannabis Indica helps you get a good night’s sleep.
- Indica reduces levels of stress and anxiety, and can be used to offset the high feeling brought on by THC use.
- Indica can be used to manage pain or as a muscle relaxant, thanks to anti-inflammatory qualities.
Our favourites:
- Moonbeam – LBS
- A. Confidential – Aurora
- White Rhino – Emerald Health Therapeutics
Cannabis Hybrid:
The 411:
- Hybrid strains combine Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica, which can share equal parts of Sativa and Indica, or be dominated by one. These strains dilute the intensity of THC and CBD of pure strains and allow the user to determine the high they want to experience.
Why you’ll love it:
- You won’t have to play favourites. Hybrids can be split to help you achieve the desired effect, so you can enjoy the benefits of both strains.
A few of the perks:
- Customize your experience by choosing Cannabis Flowers that you enjoy the most.
- Experience heightened relaxation and pain management without falling asleep by choosing an Indica-dominant hybrid.
- Remain mentally alert without any paranoia or anxiety that can come from too much THC with a Sativa-dominant hybrid.
Our favourites:
- Keats – LBS
- Jean Guy – 7 Acres
- White Russian – Boaz
Still not totally sure where to start? That’s what we’re here for! Come visit us at Mountain View Cannabis and we’ll help you figure out which cannabis is the best fit for you.