Some of the newer cannabis dispensaries are moving away from distinguishing products by sativa, indica and hybrid.
The different strains are getting classified by chemovars.
Chemovars are distinguished by their unique cannabinoid and terpene content. The type or category of cannabis can be a good indication of the effects it provides. For modern dispensaries, products are separated as Type I (high THC content), Type II (THC/CBD combined) and Type III (high CBD content). Cannabis plants contain hundreds of natural chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. They are responsible for the effects. The two most well-known and abundant cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is psychoactive and causes the high. Levels of THC have steadily increased as growers create hybrids with intense concentrations of the compound. CBD avoids the psychoactive effects and has been linked to all sorts of curative properties. More and more people are using CBD to treat pain, inflammation, nausea and migraines. It is being studied for its potential to treat seizures and cancer. Cannabinol (CBN) is gaining attention for its ability to ease symptoms of seizures, epilepsy and muscle stiffness. Tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) is a lot like THCA but without the psychoactive effects. It has shown promise in reducing inflammation due to arthritis and autoimmune diseases. THCA can also be effective in treating Parkinson’s disease and ALS. Cannabigerol (CBG) can work to lessen anxiety and symptoms of PTSD, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Becoming familiar with the variety and potential of the different cannabis compounds helps to determine the ideal product for the individual. Along with paying attention to cannabinoids and terpenes, the consumption method also affects the experience.