{"id":397,"date":"2024-02-27T15:24:58","date_gmt":"2024-02-27T15:24:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rastarootz.com\/?p=397"},"modified":"2024-04-16T13:39:05","modified_gmt":"2024-04-16T13:39:05","slug":"cannabis-strains-101-classifying-cannabis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rastarootz.com\/cannabis-strains-101-classifying-cannabis\/","title":{"rendered":"Cannabis Strains 101: Classifying Cannabis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Cannabis is a high<\/em>ly unique and complex plant \u2013 composed of thousands of chemical compounds and hundreds of varying aromatic profiles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cannabis cultivars, also known as \u201cstrains,\u201d are what categorize a flower by its aroma, flavor, and effects. Between sativa, indica, and hybrid cannabis strains \u2013 there are plenty of options to choose from. However, with the many other factors and elements that contribute to a cannabis strain, it\u2019s helpful to know what defines each cannabis strain classification so you can choose the best strain for your needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use this blog as your ultimate guide to learning about the history of the plant and how to understand the different cannabis strains. Explore the Jamaican landrace strains that are a part of Rastafari cannabis culture, and how to shop the best products at Rasta Rootz. <\/p>\n\n\n

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What are the Different Cannabis Strains? <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The cannabis sativa plant existed long before the 18th century, but it was around this time in Western Europe when society discovered the various uses of the plant and cultivated it for its fiber and seeds. Various materials were made using all parts of the hemp plants \u2013 from the fibrous leaves as clothing textiles and paper, and the sturdy, lengthy stalk as resourceful tools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Ancient Southeast Asia<\/a>, seeds and extractions from the plant were also used in ceremonies and rituals for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Later discovery and genetic formation of cannabis sativa created different varietals of the plant, what we know today as sativa, indica, and hybrid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sativa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to this plant\u2019s morphology, cannabis sativa grows best in warm and tropical regions. Sativa plants are tall and stalky in shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Depending on the cultivation method and plant genetics, some sativas are known for their naturally higher THC content.<\/a> This is why sativa holds general characteristics and effects ideal for daytime use. Many sativa-leaning cannabis strains will bring on more euphoric and energetic effects that may boost a mood or one\u2019s energy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Indica<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cannabis indica historically goes back to originating from the cold and mountainous regions of Central Asia. It was first identified by European botanist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1785 <\/a>when he received samples of the plant from India and named the classification after it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compared to cannabis sativa, indica plants slightly differ in morphology. Cannabis indica plants grow to be more broad, bushy, and stout in size. With a thick woody stalk and plump, short-fingered leaves, some indica plants are often darker shades of green. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Indica cannabis strains also have differing effects that polarize that of sativa. Ultimately, indica is famous for its \u201ccouch lock effect,\u201d<\/a> sedating users into a warm body high with more mellow moods, deeper relaxation, or sleep. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hybrid<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A hybrid cannabis strain is a combined, or hybridized, version of both a sativa and indica cannabis strain. It\u2019s basically what happens when indica and sativa plant genetics breed together to create a hybridized version of the plant.<\/a> Hybrid cannabis strains can either be more sativa-dominant, indica-dominant, or a true hybrid 50\/50. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most of the cannabis strains you\u2019ll find on our Rasta Rootz dispensary menu are a version of hybrid cannabis. Considering the ongoing popularity of cannabis genetics and breeding<\/a>, the list of hybrid cannabis strains grows longer and longer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With hybrid cannabis, you\u2019re able to get a conglomeration of the different therapeutic effects specific cannabis strains offer. Some hybrids may give off more energetic and euphoric effects, while other hybrids might leave you sleepy or hungry with munchies. <\/p>\n\n\n

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What Makes Up a Cannabis Strain? <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Considering these three main categories of cannabis strains, it\u2019s important to note that the actual composition and content of cannabis strains are far more complex! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

No matter the strain, cannabis flower is made up of thousands of different chemical properties \u2013 cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds all contribute<\/a> to the plant\u2019s unique smells, flavors, and effects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n