Choosing the ideal cannabis strain for your needs involves considering factors such as desired effects, potency, and personal preferences. With so many strains available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision.
However, by following a few simple steps, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect cannabis strain that aligns with your desired treatment or goal.
In addition to the effects, cannabis strains can have distinct aromas and flavors. The terpenes, aromatic compounds found in cannabis, contribute to the unique scent profiles of each strain. Some common terpenes found in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, pinene, and linalool, each providing different scents and potential therapeutic benefits.
Step 1: Determine your desired treatment or goal
The first step in choosing the ideal cannabis strain is to identify what you want to treat or achieve. Whether it’s alleviating insomnia, managing anxiety, relieving pain, or simply seeking mental relaxation, having a clear objective will help you narrow down the options.
For example, if you’re looking for relaxation and sedation, Indica-dominant hybrids are often recommended, while Sativa-dominant hybrids are known for providing energizing effects and boosting creativity.
Lemon Tree
THC: 20-25%
For the first time you can try 50/50 hybrids, for example Lemon Tree is a well-balanced hybrid strain (50% indica/50% sativa) that was created by crossing the delightful Lemon Skunk and Sour Diesel strains. This strain gained recognition by winning the Best Hybrid category at the 2014 Seattle Cannabis Cup.
Effects: The Lemon Tree offers a well-balanced hybrid high, impacting both the mind and body. The onset brings a euphoric rush, filling the mind with uplifting thoughts and a sense of overall elevation.
As the cerebral effects expand, a gentle tingling sensation spreads throughout the body, leading to a profound buzz. This buzz promotes relaxation, mild numbing, and can help alleviate physical discomfort and ailments. The potency of the strain may be strong enough to overwhelm less experienced users.
Smell: The Lemon Tree has a sharp and pungent aroma. It combines earthy diesel notes with a strong sour skunk scent. The presence of tangy lemon adds an additional layer of fragrance to the strain. The overall smell is robust and distinctive, leaving a memorable impression.
Taste: True to its name and lineage, The Lemon Tree offers a flavor profile that matches its parent strains. The taste is dominated by a super sour lemon flavor, which is complemented by skunky diesel undertones. The combination creates a unique and flavorful experience for the taste buds.
Lemon Tree — Sauce Cartridge
Step 2: Consider the specific effects of each strain
Not all cannabis strains have the same effects. It’s important to consider the unique characteristics and effects of each strain before making a decision. Sativa-dominant hybrids tend to offer more uplifting and even psychedelic experiences, while Indica-dominant hybrids are often associated with relaxation and sedation.
The choice between these types depends on the individual’s preferences and the desired relief from symptoms or ailments. For instance, a strain that promotes relaxation may be ideal after a stressful workday but may not be suitable for recreational use during active hours.
Liberty Haze
THC: 15 – 21%
If you want to have fun, get inspired or just have a good time, then sativa strains will be th best for you, for example Liberty Haze. This strain gained recognition by winning the High Times Cannabis Cup in 2011. Created by crossing Chemdawg with G13.
Effects: Liberty Haze is a potent hybrid strain with a strong cerebral high that provides long-lasting effects. It induces feelings of calmness, euphoria, happiness, and focus. The strain also promotes creativity and can elicit a sense of giggles and tingling sensations. The high is known to be strong and can have a lasting impact on the body and mind.
Smell: Liberty Haze has an earthy and musky aroma. The scent is distinctive and can be described as a blend of earthy, piney, and skunky notes. The combination of these aromas contributes to the overall olfactory experience of the strain.
Taste: When it comes to taste, Liberty Haze offers a pungent flavor profile. It combines earthy, piney, and skunky flavors, creating a unique and robust taste. The blend of these flavors adds depth to the overall smoking or consumption experience.
Statue Of The Liberty Haze — Sauce Cart
Step 3: Consider the overall potency
In addition to the THC to CBD ratio, it’s crucial to take into account the overall potency of the cannabis strain. This is particularly relevant when evaluating the THC content. Strains with varying levels of THC can provide significantly different experiences.
For instance, a strain with over 20% THC will likely have more potent effects compared to a strain with only 5% THC. Understanding the potency of a strain can help you gauge the intensity of the psychoactive and therapeutic effects you desire.
Ice Cream Cake
THC: 20-25%
For example, Ice Cream Cake is a rare indica-dominant hybrid strain, consisting of 75% indica and 25% sativa. It was created through the crossing of Gelato 33 and Wedding Cake strains. The buds of Ice Cream Cake are small and dense, resembling grape-shaped formations.
They exhibit a forest green coloration, adorned with thick orange hairs and frosty white crystal trichomes. This strain is sought after for its flavorful experience and the balance of uplifting cerebral effects and relaxing body sensations it provides.
Effects: Ice Cream Cake is an indica-dominant hybrid strain known for its relaxing and uplifting effects. The high begins with a rush of cerebral euphoria, bringing a sense of happiness and mental ease. Negative or racing thoughts are quickly replaced with a calm and positive mindset.
As the high progresses, a soothing body relaxation sets in, gradually inducing a couch-lock sensation. These calming effects, combined with its high THC level, make Ice Cream Cake a suitable choice for alleviating symptoms of depression, chronic pain, insomnia, and issues related to nausea or appetite loss.
Smell: Ice Cream Cake boasts a delightful and distinct aroma. The scent is characterized by a cheesy, creamy essence accompanied by a sweet nuttiness. When the buds are burned, a light pungent aroma is released, further enhancing the olfactory experience.
Taste: True to its name, Ice Cream Cake delivers a flavor profile that matches its delectable name. It offers a super delicious combination of cheesy creaminess with a lingering sweet nuttiness. The taste is highly enjoyable and leaves a pleasant aftertaste.
Ice Cream Cake — Sauce Cartridge
Step 4: Experiment and gather feedback
The final step is to experiment with different strains to find the one that works best for you. Visit dispensaries with a wide selection and inquire about the available strains. Seek recommendations from experienced users or read online reviews to gather insights.
Remember that each person’s response to cannabis can vary, so it’s crucial to try different strains and pay attention to how they affect you personally. By exploring various options and gathering feedback, you can gradually discover your ideal cannabis strain that aligns with your needs and preferences.
In conclusion, choosing your ideal cannabis strain is a personal journey that requires consideration of your desired treatment or goal, the specific effects of each strain, the overall potency, and the willingness to experiment and gather feedback.
By following these steps and exploring different strains, you can find the cannabis variety that best suits your needs, whether it’s for relaxation, creativity, pain relief, or any other desired effect.
You can start with a strain like Lemon Tree or Liberty Haze for a balanced experience, and consider Ice Cream Cake if you seek a delightful combination of uplifting and relaxing effects. With patience and exploration, you can discover the perfect cannabis strain to enhance your well-being and enjoyment.
If you want to read more information about different strains and their effects, you can read our articles “Hybrid Strains: The Best of Indica and Sativa” or “The strongest sativa strains on earth in 2023”.
