How to Choose the Right Strain of Cannabis for You

If you’re new to cannabis, then you might have looked at the variety of strains and had no idea where to start. The truth is, each strain has its own individual effects, tastes and aromas – all of which will play into your personal preference. Knowing how to choose the right strain for you will depend on a few different things – starting with what effects you’re after and ending with experimenting to find your favorite.

Know What You’re Trying to Accomplish

The first thing you want to consider when trying to choose a strain of marijuana is what you’re looking for out of the experience. Are you looking for something that will enhance your creativity and boost an artistic session? Or are you looking for something that is going to calm your anxiety and relieve stress? Maybe you want something to help increase your appetite or allow you to sleep.

There are dozens of reasons that people consume cannabis – and each reason will change the strain you’re looking for. Some are more prone to couch-lock and munchies while others will offer an energizing creative vibe. Knowing what you want out of your strain is the first stop in choosing the right one for you.

Know the Difference Between Indica and Sativa

There are two main types of cannabis – indica and sativa. If you don’t know the difference, then you’re likely to pick a strain blindly and not end up with what you wanted. Indica strains are the ones that are likely to lead to feeling sluggish, couch-locked or ultra-relaxed. Sativa strains are the ones that are likely to leave you feeling spacey and energized.

Of course, these days you also have the option of getting the best of both worlds through a hybrid strain. Hybrids tend to be popular as they tend to offer a mixture of the intensity of a sativa head buzz, with the relaxing body effects of an indica strain – creating a daytime option that won’t leave you paranoid or glued to your bed.

Research Strains and Experiment

After you have a good idea of what you want out of a strain and whether you need an indica, sativa or want to try a hybrid, it’s time to look into specific strains. There are dozens of websites that offer reviews of strains that are both common and harder to come by. All of these will give you some insight into the aroma, look, flavor and effects of a specific strain.

From there, all you can do is decide on one and give it a go. If it’s not quite what you were looking for (or you just want to experiment with various strains) then try something different next time. Experimentation is the only way to find your favorite, go-to strain of cannabis.