sandigo blog: marijuana doctor

Why is it Important to Understand the Difference Between Cannabis Strains?

If you have recently started your cannabis treatment, I’m sure you must have realized that there are a number of different aspects that you still need to learn about cannabis. It is a relatively new addition to the medical world which is why it’s crucial that the consumer follows every step to enjoy the best experience. One such step that a medical patient needs to understand is the difference between cannabis strains.

If you got the chance to have a conversation with your marijuana doctor in San Diego, you may have come across the terms- strains.

Well, just like your chocolate bars, cannabis also comes in different types. The difference here is that they are not only different in taste but also effects. This is why it is important for a patient to determine a strain that best suits their needs. 

Main Classifications of Cannabis Strains: Indica, Sativa and Hybrids

I understand the confusion when it comes to deciding a cannabis strain. There are more than a thousand different varieties. How can you choose one? Trying one at a time is definitely not an option.

Well, in this case, starting from the basics can be a good idea. The thousands of cannabis strains are broadly classified into three primary categories called Indica, Sativa and Hybrids.

Each of these varieties deliver different therapeutic effects for the consumer. So, understanding the effects of each category can give you a headstart into choosing the strain that will be your best pick. Here’s a closer look into the three strain types. 

Indica

If you enjoy the high of cannabis and other effects related to a psychedelic feeling, Indica is your best choice. This type of strain is perfect for obtaining the physical effects. It is known to calm the body, reduce muscle tension and relieve pain or any physical discomfort. For example, for people who are unable to sleep due to chronic pain, Indica strain can provide the best relief. On the other hand, Indica strains are also the type that tend to cause dry mouth and couch locking high if not consumed properly.

It is advised to use the strain during night time. Since it can cause a strong high, it’s unsafe to use it during day time or while doing daily chores. Some of the popular Indica cannabis strains are Bubba Kush, Northern Lights, Granddaddy Purple and Ice Cream Cake. 

Sativa

On the opposite spectrum of cannabis strains is Sativa. While Indica is able to put a consumer to sleep, Sativa is more appropriate for someone who seeks to uplift their energy levels. It is more helpful in providing cerebral effects that can impact your mood and emotions. People suffering from mental health issues prefer Sativa strains. It is also a good pick if you need to improve your creativity or focus.

Since Sativa doesn’t create strong high feelings, these can be used in day time while performing daily activities. Some of the popular Sativa cannabis strains are Sour Diesel, Durban Poison, Harlequin and Lemon Haze.

Hybrids

As the name suggests, it is a variety that offers you best of both worlds. It delivers a mixture of Sativa as well as Indica effects. Some of the popular hybrid cannabis strains are Blue Dream, OG Kush, Wedding Cake and Pineapple Express.

Understanding the basic effects of each strain category is a good way to anticipate the effects of your choice of strain. However, one thing to remember is that not all cannabis strains deliver the effects as mentioned. Due to extensive breeding, strains may not exhibit pure characteristics of Indica, Sativa or Hybrid. 

Difference in Chemical Compositions

It’s true that cannabis strains have different effects based on the strain type but do you know what makes them deliver such varying effects? It’s their chemical composition. Choosing the right strain will also depend on the presence or absence of the following chemicals. 

Cannabinoids

The primary work force of cannabis are the cannabinoids. These are the chemicals that bind with your CB receptors and alter the body and brain functions to deliver a variety of therapeutic effects.

Now, there are hundreds of cannabinoids in a cannabis plant. The most popular ones are THC, CBD, THCV, CBN and CBG. Each strain has a different combination of these cannabinoids and in different ratios. You can ask your marijuana doctor San Diego to give you an idea about the concentration of cannabinoids you need so that you can pinpoint the cannabis strain that is best for you. 

Terpenes

The next set of chemicals that are important are the terpenes. These are responsible for the flavor and smell of a cannabis strain. However, they also play a crucial part in exhibiting the entourage effect or enhancing the healing properties of the cannabinoids.

Now you know why it is important to find a strain that’ll deliver the best effects for your health condition. So, keeping these major differences in mind, go ahead and find the best match for yourself.

The Best Ways to Break up Your Cannabis Without a Grinder

Everyone wants to have a perfect experience when it comes to smoking cannabis. And you should be prepared with everything to have a great smoking cannabis session. Whether you smoke cannabis for medical purposes or recreational purposes, you want everything to go smoothly. You can easily buy medical cannabis after getting an MMJ card from a licensed marijuana doctor in San Diego. Now suppose, you have your buds and you are in a perfect setting for a great smoking session. But then you realize that you can not find your grinder to break your cannabis. Do not let this small problem ruin your mood.

If you are not able to find your grinder to grind your cannabis, don’t worry, we are here to help you. There are a few tips and tricks that can help you break up your cannabis buds without the help of a grinder. There is no denying that grinder is a very useful tool that makes everything easier for a cannabis smoker. But you need to realize that it is an accessory and not the only way to break up your cannabis. Today, we are going to look at some of the best tricks that will help you break up your cannabis without a grinder. Here is the list of the best tricks to break up your buds without a grinder.

Trick 1. Break Your Cannabis Apart With Your Hands

It is time to get back to basics. One of the oldest ways to break up your cannabis buds is by using your fingers. This method that gives you a rewarding experience is very simple. You just have to make the shape of a bowl with one hand. Then use your other hand to start picking away at your cannabis to break them apart.

It is a rewarding experience but it does have its downsides. Cannabis can be sticky and it can be a bit tedious to break your cannabis down with your hands. When you break up your cannabis with your hands, the resin begins to build up around your hand. But I really don’t think that it is a downside as you can use this resin to get some extra kick. Use a credit card or keys to scrape it off your hands. Then smoke it in a bong or joint. Also, scraping the resin off your hands is one of the most traditional ways to make hash.

Also, using your hands to break up your cannabis will help you build a relationship with it. This gives you the chance to get close to the structure of your buds. You can get personal with the unique aromas of your cannabis.

Trick 2. Using a Piece of Parchment Paper

If you don’t wish to deal with the resin, you can use a piece of parchment paper for the process. You have to use parchment paper as a barrier between your cannabis and your hands. This way you will not have to worry about getting your hands sticky with the resin. This removes the burden of removing the resin from your hands after breaking up your buds.

You can use other paper products for this job, but it is still advisable to use parchment paper. The reason for this is that parchment paper has a waxy surface that helps in keeping everything from sticking. You just have to cut the parchment paper into a few pieces. And then before you begin, place them between your fingers. If you’re thinking of smashing your cannabis with a heavy object, you can use parchment paper to create a barrier.

Trick 3. Using Pestle And Mortar

Well, this one is one of the very popular methods among cannabis enthusiasts. A pestle and mortar are very handy and easy to use when it comes to grinding cannabis. You simply have to break your cannabis apart a little using your hands. Then put it into the mortar and with the help of a pestle start crushing it. Keep crushing it until your cannabis reaches the consistency according to your preference.

Before you begin to use this tool, it is important to wash and dry your mortar and pestle. You have to wash it after the use as well. This is important to avoid any contamination. This method works best if you have drier cannabis buds.

Trick 4. Using Scissors And a Shot Glass

Trimmers are already familiar with scissors, but you can also use them post-processing. They can be used to break down your larger cannabis buds. So, get some sharp scissors and a shot glass. Pop your buds in the shot glass and start chopping away your cannabis with the scissors.

It is a little tedious method, but in the end, you will get nice and evenly cut cannabis to smoke. The reason that a shot is preferred is that it has high walls that don’t let any cannabis fall out. Another advantage of using a shot glass is that it has a small diameter.

This helps in confining cannabis, which makes it very easy to cut through. But if you do not have a shot glass, you can use any regular glass. Whatever container you choose, you need to tilt it on an edge to bunch together your buds nicely. Also, be aware of any pieces that might fall out when you are chopping.

Trick 5. A Knife And Cutting Board

It’s time to bring out your chopping skills. For this method, you need basic kitchen items – a knife and a cutting/chopping board. It is a great way to break up your cannabis if you can not find your grinder. You have to put your cannabis on a clean cutting board, and then use your knife to chop them up.

You will get finely chopped cannabis ready for your perfect smoking session. You just need the patience and cutting skills for this method. I would suggest using a serrated knife for this method. This knife will pull and tear while it glides along, making the entire process easier. The chopping board will also help in keeping everything contained. That means you will not have to worry about any extensive clean up afterward. If you have experience with slicing vegetables and fruits before, you will find this method easier.

One more thing you need to remember is to clean the knife and cutting board before and after the job. This is especially true if you have used them to cut very pungent ingredients, such as garlic or onions. The odors of such ingredients can contaminate your cannabis. I use medical cannabis for my condition, and this method is one of my favorites when it comes to breaking up my cannabis. You can also consult a marijuana doctor in San Diego to get an MMJ card to buy medical cannabis.

Trick 6. Using a Penny And a Container

This is my favorite trick when it comes to breaking up cannabis. You just have to drop a coin inside a hard container. Then simply give it a good shake. The coin inside will do the rest, as it tears through the cannabis buds. This method is great for sticky and dense cannabis. Be sure to choose a good, solid container. I would suggest using prescription bottles and breath mint tins.