Although it is possible to use all kinds of cannabis for medicinal purposes, some are more appropriate for specific conditions than others. This section collects varieties which are particularly suitable for use as medicinal cannabis strains. The following information is intended as a guideline and everyone intending to use cannabis medicinally should consult a qualified physician beforehand.
Medicinal Cannabis Indica strains have high proportions of both cannabidiol (CBD) and THC. This creates a more sedative, 'stoned' feeling centred in the body, which helps patients relax as muscle tension is reduced. Indicas are most effective in treating muscle spasms and tremors (including those caused by multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease), chronic pain, arthritic and rheumatic stiffness and inflammation, insomnia, anxiety and related conditions.
Medicinal Cannabis Sativa varieties tend to be high in THC, with a lower proportion of CBD, giving them a more energetic 'high' effect which is experienced in the mind and body. These medicinal strains are most effective for the treatment of nausea (resulting from chemotherapy or HIV/AIDS medications, for example), appetite stimulation, migraine headaches, depression, chronic pain and similar symptoms.
Hybrids of Indica and Sativa medicinal cannabis strains offer an advantage to many patients. Combining Sativa genes with a mostly-Indica strain can aid mental clarity and decrease sedative effects, while adding some Indica genes to a Sativa-dominant strain can lower the tendency of pure Sativas to occasionally stimulate anxiety. Some hybrids which mix Indica with wild Ruderalis strains have high proportions of CBD with relatively low proportions of THC. These strains are useful for patients who prefer the medicinal benefits offered by CBD with less of the psychoactive properties of THC.
All the seed-varieties in this section have their Indica and Sativa ratios listed to assist patients in selecting the appropriate medicinal cannabis strains for their needs.
