Types of Weed (Cannabis) & Strains | How to Choose & Its Use

Cannabis, commonly referred to as weed, has become a significant topic of interest for both medicinal and recreational users. The different types of weed, known as strains, offer a variety of effects, flavors, and uses. 

Understanding these strains is important for anyone interested in exploring cannabis, whether you’re new to it or have experience. In this blog, we will explain what a weed strain is, how to choose the right one, how to use it effectively, and provide details on some of the most popular strains.

What is a Weed Strain?

A weed strain is a specific type of cannabis plant that has been selectively bred to produce particular effects and flavors. These strains can vary significantly in terms of their chemical composition, particularly the levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and Cannabis (cannabidiol), which are the primary compounds responsible for the effects of cannabis. 

Strains are typically classified into three main categories: Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid, each offering different benefits. For example, Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing effects, while Indica strains are more calming and relaxing. Hybrid strains, as the name suggests, are a mix of both, offering a balanced experience.

The classification into strains also includes the plant’s origin, growth patterns, and physical characteristics such as color, smell, and texture. Understanding these classifications helps users make informed decisions about the type of cannabis that will best suit their needs, whether it’s for relaxation, creativity, pain relief, or social activities.

How to Choose a Weed Strain

Choosing the right weed strain can be a personalized experience, as it largely depends on what you’re looking to achieve with your cannabis use. The process involves understanding your tolerance level, the effects you desire, and the setting in which you’ll be using cannabis.

 Beginners should consider strains with lower THC levels to avoid overwhelming effects, while more experienced users might opt for strains with higher THC content for a more intense experience.

It’s also important to consider the flavor and aroma of the strain. Some people enjoy fruity, sweet flavors, while others might prefer something more earthy or pungent. Additionally, the method of consumption can influence your choice—whether you plan to smoke, vape, consume edibles, or use tinctures. 

Researching different strains and their effects can help you find one that aligns with your goals, whether it’s for medical relief, stress reduction, or simply to enjoy a relaxing evening. Consulting with a knowledgeable budtender at a dispensary can also provide valuable guidance.

How to Use Weed Strains

Once you’ve chosen your strain, the next step is deciding how to use it. Weed strains can be consumed in several ways, each offering different onset times and durations of effects. The most traditional method is smoking the flower, which provides fast-acting effects that typically last for a few hours. 

Vaping is a similar method but is considered less harsh on the lungs. For those who prefer not to smoke, edibles offer a smoke-free option, although the effects take longer to set in and can last much longer.

Tinctures and oils are another popular method, especially for those using cannabis for medicinal purposes. These can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption or added to food and drinks. 

Concentrates like wax, shatter, and oils provide a more potent experience and are often used by more experienced users. Each method has its pros and cons, and the choice largely depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and the experience you’re looking to have.

Stats of Popular Weed Strains

Graph of Main Types of Weed Strains

Here’s a visual representation of the popularity of the main types of weed strains based on user preferences:

Different Types of Strains

Cannabis strains are broadly categorized into Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. Each category contains a variety of strains that offer unique effects and characteristics. Below, we’ll explore some of the most popular strains within each category.

1- Sativa Strains

Acapulco Gold: Acapulco Gold is a legendary strain hailing from Acapulco, Mexico. It’s known for its golden, orange hairs and a distinct aroma reminiscent of burnt toffee. The strain provides an uplifting and energizing high, making it a favorite for those looking to boost creativity and focus. 

Acapulco Gold is often sought after for daytime use, offering long-lasting euphoria without the couch-lock effect that some strains can induce. Its effects are primarily cerebral, which is why it’s also used to combat stress and depression. 

However, due to its rarity and the difficulty of cultivating it outside its native environment, Acapulco Gold is considered one of the more luxurious cannabis strains available.

Blue Dream: Blue Dream is one of the most popular cannabis strains, especially in the United States. It’s a hybrid with a slight Sativa dominance, known for its balanced effects that combine the relaxation of an Indica with the cerebral stimulation of a Sativa. 

The strain has a sweet, berry-like flavor that makes it particularly enjoyable to consume. Blue Dream is often used by those seeking relief from pain, depression, and nausea, without the heavy sedative effects of some Indica strains. 

Its high THC content makes it potent, but the effects are typically smooth and gradual, providing a gentle relaxation while keeping the mind sharp and focused.

Sour Diesel: Sour Diesel, also known as Sour D, is a potent Sativa strain that’s loved for its fast-acting, energizing effects. It has a strong, diesel-like aroma, which is where it gets its name. 

This strain is often used by those looking to alleviate symptoms of stress, depression, and pain due to its invigorating and uplifting effects. Sour Diesel is known to promote creativity and focus, making it a favorite among artists, musicians, and those in need of a mental boost. 

Despite its high THC content, Sour Diesel’s effects are typically more clear-headed than overwhelming, making it a go-to strain for daytime use.

2- Indica Strains

Purple Kush: Purple Kush is a pure Indica strain that originates from the Oakland area of California. It’s a favorite among users looking for deep relaxation and pain relief. The strain is known for its vibrant purple color and sweet, earthy aroma. 

Purple Kush delivers a powerful body high, making it an excellent choice for evening or nighttime use. It’s often used by those suffering from insomnia, chronic pain, and muscle spasms, as it induces a state of relaxation that can easily lead to sleep. 

Despite its potency, Purple Kush is gentle enough for most users, providing a calm and tranquil experience without the intense cerebral effects that some strains can cause.

Bubba Kush: Bubba Kush is a classic Indica strain known for its heavy sedative effects. It’s ideal for those looking to unwind after a long day or for use in the evening when relaxation is a priority. The strain has a sweet, hashish flavor with a subtle hint of chocolate and coffee, which is particularly appealing to those who enjoy rich, flavorful cannabis. 

Bubba Kush provides a strong body high, often leading to couch-lock, making it perfect for users dealing with stress, anxiety, or chronic pain. Its tranquilizing effects make it one of the best strains for promoting sleep and relieving tension.

Granddaddy Purple: Granddaddy Purple, often abbreviated as GDP, is a famous Indica strain that has been a favorite among users since its introduction in 2003. It’s known for its striking purple buds and sweet, grape-like flavor. 

GDP offers a potent body high coupled with a mild cerebral euphoria, making it ideal for those looking to relax and unwind. The strain is commonly used to treat pain, insomnia, and appetite loss, thanks to its powerful sedative effects. 

Despite its strength, GDP is well-loved for its ability to deliver a smooth, calming experience without the overwhelming couch-lock that some Indicas can induce.

3- Hybrid Strains

Pineapple Express: Pineapple Express is a well-balanced hybrid strain that became famous thanks to the movie of the same name. It’s known for its fruity, tropical aroma and long-lasting energetic effects.

 Pineapple Express is often used by those looking for a mild yet productive high, making it suitable for daytime use. The strain’s effects are both uplifting and relaxing, providing a clear-headed euphoria that’s perfect for socializing or creative activities.

 Its balanced nature makes Pineapple Express a versatile choice for both novice and experienced users, offering a delightful blend of mental stimulation and physical relaxation.

Fruity Pebbles: Fruity Pebbles, sometimes known as Fruity Pebbles OG, is a sweet, tropical-flavored hybrid that offers a balanced high suitable for a variety of users. This strain is a favorite for its fruity aroma and colorful buds, which resemble the popular cereal.

 Fruity Pebbles provides a happy, euphoric high that’s perfect for stress relief and unwinding after a long day. Despite its Sativa lineage, the strain offers a smooth, relaxing body buzz that doesn’t overwhelm, making it a great choice for users looking to enjoy the best of both Sativa and Indica effects.

Golden Goat: Golden Goat is a Sativa-dominant hybrid that’s known for its bright, uplifting effects and sweet, citrusy aroma. The strain was accidentally created in Topeka, Kansas, when a Hawaiian-Romulan strain cross-pollinated with an Island Sweet Skunk strain. 

Golden Goat is often praised for its balanced effects that start with a rush of euphoria and creativity before settling into a relaxed state. It’s a popular choice for daytime use, especially for those looking to enhance their mood or alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The strain’s unique flavor and energizing effects make it a standout in the hybrid category.

Other Notable Strains

Ruderalis: Ruderalis is a lesser-known type of cannabis that originates from Russia. Unlike Sativa and Indica, Ruderalis is known for its autoflowering traits, meaning it flowers based on age rather than light exposure. 

This trait makes Ruderalis valuable in breeding, particularly for creating strains that are easier to cultivate. While Ruderalis itself is not commonly used for consumption due to its lower THC content, its genetic characteristics are often incorporated into hybrids to produce strains that are hardy, fast-growing, and capable of thriving in various climates.

LA Confidential: LA Confidential is a pure Indica strain that’s beloved for its smooth, relaxing effects and earthy, piney flavor. This strain is a go-to for those looking to unwind and enjoy a peaceful evening. 

LA Confidential is particularly popular among medical cannabis users for its ability to relieve pain, stress, and insomnia. Despite its potent effects, the strain is known for providing a clear-headed high, making it a great choice for users who need strong relief without mental fog. 

The strain’s soothing effects make it ideal for winding down after a stressful day or preparing for a good night’s sleep.

Northern Lights: Northern Lights is one of the most famous Indica strains in the world. It’s known for its fast-acting, full-body relaxation effects and is often used by those seeking relief from pain, insomnia, and stress. 

The strain has a sweet, earthy flavor with hints of pine and spice, making it a favorite among users who enjoy rich, natural aromas. Northern Lights is also prized for its ability to produce a calming, euphoric high that’s perfect for evening use. Its consistent, reliable effects have made it a staple in the cannabis community for decades.

White Widow: White Widow is a balanced hybrid strain that has achieved legendary status in the cannabis world. It’s known for its powerful burst of euphoria and energy, making it a favorite for socializing and creative tasks. 

The strain has a pungent, earthy aroma with hints of spice, and its buds are often coated in a thick layer of white trichomes, giving it a frosty appearance. White Widow is particularly popular among those looking to stay active and engaged while still enjoying the relaxing effects of cannabis. Its balanced effects make it a versatile choice for both recreational and medicinal users.

Super Silver Haze: Super Silver Haze is a Sativa-dominant hybrid that’s known for its long-lasting energetic effects and uplifting euphoria. The strain has won multiple awards for its potent effects and unique flavor profile, which includes notes of citrus, spice, and skunk.

 Super Silver Haze is often used by those looking to enhance their mood, boost creativity, or combat fatigue. Its stimulating effects make it an excellent choice for daytime use, especially for users who need a mental boost without the risk of feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

Afghan Kush: Afghan Kush is a pure Indica strain that originates from the Hindu Kush mountain range. It’s known for its heavy, sedative effects, making it a popular choice for users looking to relax and unwind. 

The strain has a sweet, earthy flavor with notes of spice and incense, which is typical of strains from this region. 

Afghan Kush is often used to treat insomnia, pain, and stress, as it provides a deep, relaxing body high that can easily lead to sleep. Its potent effects make it ideal for evening or nighttime use, especially for those in need of strong relief.

Maui Wowie: Maui Wowie is a classic Sativa strain that originated in Hawaii. It’s known for its tropical flavor profile and high-energy effects, making it a favorite for daytime use. The strain has a sweet, fruity aroma with hints of pineapple and citrus, which adds to its appeal. 

Maui Wowie provides an uplifting, euphoric high that’s perfect for combating stress and fatigue. Its energizing effects make it ideal for creative tasks, outdoor activities, or socializing with friends. Despite its potency, Maui Wowie is known for providing a clear-headed high that keeps users focused and engaged.

Forms of Weed

Cannabis comes in various forms, each offering different experiences and effects. Understanding the different forms can help you choose the best method of consumption for your lifestyle and preferences.

Edibles: Edibles are cannabis-infused foods or drinks that offer a longer-lasting high compared to smoking or vaping. They take longer to kick in, usually between 30 minutes to 2 hours, but the effects can last for several hours. 

Edibles are popular for their discreetness and the ability to provide a controlled dose of cannabis. However, because the effects take longer to onset, it’s important to start with a small dose and wait before consuming more.

Hash: Hash, or hashish, is a concentrated form of cannabis made by compressing the plant’s resin glands, also known as trichomes. It’s one of the oldest forms of cannabis and is known for its potency. 

Hash can be smoked, vaporized, or added to edibles. It offers a strong, long-lasting high that’s often more intense than smoking flower. The flavor of hash is typically earthy and robust, which appeals to users looking for a traditional cannabis experience.

Concentrates: Concentrates are highly potent extracts of cannabis that come in various forms, including wax, shatter, and oils. They are known for their high THC content and are often used by experienced users. 

Concentrates can be vaporized, dabbed, or added to edibles for an intense, long-lasting high. The purity and potency of concentrates make them a popular choice for medical users or those looking for strong effects in a small dose.

Flower: The flower, or bud, is the most traditional form of cannabis. It’s typically smoked or vaporized and provides a fast-acting high that lasts for a few hours. 

Flower is popular for its versatility, as it can be used in joints, pipes, bongs, or vaporizers. The effects of flower can vary widely depending on the strain, making it suitable for both recreational and medicinal use.

Wax, Shatter, Oils: These are specific types of concentrates that are popular for their potency. Wax is a soft, sticky substance that can be dabbed or vaporized. Shatter is a brittle, glass-like concentrate that offers a clean, pure flavor. 

Oils are liquid extracts that can be vaporized, added to edibles, or used in tinctures. These forms of cannabis are known for their strong effects and are often used by experienced users looking for a powerful high.

Capsules: Capsules are pills that contain cannabis oil or powder. They offer a smoke-free consumption method and are popular among medical users for their precise dosing. Capsules provide a slow, steady release of cannabis effects, making them ideal for long-term relief from symptoms like pain or anxiety.

Distillate: Distillate is a highly refined cannabis extract that’s often used in edibles, tinctures, or vapes. It’s known for its high potency and purity, as it typically contains a high concentration of THC or Cannabis with little to no other cannabinoids or terpenes. 

Distillate is flavorless and odorless, making it a versatile option for users looking to add cannabis to food, drinks, or other products.

Tinctures: Tinctures are alcohol-based cannabis extracts that are taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption. They offer a smoke-free option and are popular among medical users for their ease of use and precise dosing.

 Tinctures are often used to treat conditions like pain, anxiety, or insomnia, and can be added to food or drinks for a more discreet consumption method.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of weed and strain is a personal journey that requires understanding your preferences, needs, and desired effects. Whether you are looking for the energetic uplift of a Sativa, the deep relaxation of an Indica, or the balanced effects of a Hybrid, there is a strain that will suit your needs. 

Additionally, understanding the various forms of cannabis, from edibles to concentrates, can help you choose the best method of consumption for your lifestyle.

As you explore the different types of weed, take your time to experiment and find what works best for you. Start with small doses, especially if you are new to cannabis, and consult with professionals or experienced users if needed. This approach will help you make the most of your cannabis experience, ensuring that it is both enjoyable and beneficial.