Knowing Your Strains

There are many varieties, species and sub-species of cannabis in existence. Over a long period of time, farmers and cultivators have been cultivating different varieties to produce specific strains with certain characteristics.
Over and over again we have heard of terms such as Indica, Sativa and the popular Hybrids, all these are without a doubt types of cannabis, but just what does these category means? What can we say about their phenotype and how do the different strains affect user experience? Adequate knowledge of your strain is important regardless of how you intend to use it, medical or recreational purposes. This aids in the selection of the right strains for specific purposes.
On a general note, Sativas are always known to produce a 'head high' after effect, they cause an energizing and invigorating effect. They are said to spur creativity, reduce anxiety and help with some kinds of pain.
On the other hand, Indica varieties of cannabis typically produce a kind of full body effect. They help against insomnia, also relief anxiety and aids with appetite stimulation.
The truth is that a lot of factors are placed into consideration when seeking out the perfect strain, the phenotype is only one of such factors. Factors like the total level of THC or CBD a strain contains and even the terpene level of the strain's bud are also critically considered along with the user's taste or preference.
To understand the Strains or 'Chemovars' (as they are now referred to), we need an in-depth analysis of each strain, their phenotype and chemical make up.

SATIVA
This is one of the most common strains of Cannabis, it is usually found in areas that can be considered as hot and sunny. They thrive in regions like Africa, Southeast Asia and Central America.
Phenotype or description
Sativa plants appear tall and thin, they also have distinguishable finger-like leaves. They are known to grow as tall as 12 feet or taller, they grow slowly and therefore take time before attaining maturity.
Cannabinoids Level
The major cannabinoids present are CBD and THC, the Sativa typical Sativa strain has a relatively low dose of CBD and a high dose of THC. The specific level of each cannabinoid is instrumental to the unique effect of Sativa strains.
The strain's will always cause a head/mind high feeling, it also energizes and reduces anxiety. For users who prefer Sativa, they tend to be more creative and active after it's use rather than relaxed or inert.

INDICA  
This another common strain of cannabis, they have adapter to very harsh conditions and tend to survive where other strains might not. They can be found as natives on the often cold terrains of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey and India, where they live through the turbulent climatic conditions.
Phenotype or description
Unlike the Sativa strains, the Indica variants are always short and bushy with leaves that tend to grow wide and broad. They grow much faster than Sativa strains and also produce more buds than them.
Cannaboids Level
Like Sativa strains, they also contain THC and CBD. The CBD dosage of Indica strains is higher compared to that of Sativa, however, it isn't proven that the THC dosage of the strain is any lower. The two chemicals might just be at about the same level, with an occasional decrease in the level of THC.
Indica strains are quite the opposite of Sativa in their effects, they bring immense relaxation and are even lethargical in some cases. They are sought after to combat insomnia, stimulate the appetite and cure nausea. Due to it's relaxing properties, the strain is better consumed at night.

HYBRID
They do not have a known origin and they are exactly as their name implies. They are strains that are cultivated to target specific effects and various degrees of actions. Cannabis growers produce unique and different strains by various combinations of parent strains all to achieve the perfect blends for various users. They can be found in greenhouses and farms across the planet, and they always from Indica and Sativa strains.
Phenotype or description
Hybrid strains do not have a specific appearance, the appearance of an hybrid is always dependent on the kinds of strains or sub-strains used in cultivating them. Other factors such as maturing and even production of buds are always dependent on the parent strains.
Cannabinoids Level
In most cases, a lot of strains are generated solely to alter the level of THC or CBD dosages. Some of the hybrids are known for their high level of THC dosage, however, every hybrid has a unique ratio of THC to CBD levels.
Hybrids could be Indica-dominant or Sativa-dominant and this determines the major effect a hybrid strain produces. The effects could range from reducing anxiety or battling insomnia to very advanced medical applications. Some hybrids have been known for their aid in combating symptoms of radiation or chemotherapy.

RUDERALIS
The very last strain that we would be considering is the RUDERALIS strain. This particular strain is not as common as the other strains and isn't in circulation for administration but is still a strain that is considered important to cultivators. They can survive harsh environments and can be found in eastern Europe and in some parts of Asia.
Phenotype or description
Ruderalis strains are the shortest when compared to all other cannabis variants, growing to an height of about 12 inches, these small bushy plants can easily be distinguished. They are known to grow very rapidly, a typical Ruderalis plant can grow from being a seed to maturity in just a month and this is the attribute cultivators find desirable in this strain.
Cannaboids Level
Ruderalis has very low THC and CBD dosages, the levels are so low that the strain is often regarded to as impotent. The level of the cannaboids contained in a strain isn't always enough to cause a desirable effect or any effect at all. The strain is routinely used for any purpose, medical or recreational.
Cultivators try to combine Ruderalis with other potent strains and hybrids, this way they take advantage of it's rapid growth circle which is a positive attribute for hybrids.