A strain refers to a type of cannabis plant specially cultivated to produce specific therapeutic effects. Understanding how strains differ in their effects and due to their consumption method is crucial for Medical Practitioners to form a comprehensive idea of which treatment option is best suited to their patient within the medical cannabis landscape in Australia . Little Green Pharma is a trusted medical cannabis manufacturer and offers information and resources on medical cannabis in Australia for healthcare professionals.
Can cannabis strains affect people differently?
Yes, cannabis strains and the way these are manufactured into medicinal products can affect people in different ways. The common effects of medicinal cannabis will differ depending on how the medication is consumed. In general, inhalation of cannabis medications produces a stronger psychoactive effect than ingestion (oral or edibles). After inhalation, THC concentrations are higher in the brain than in the blood. CBD is another chemical of cannabis and enters the body similarly to THC.
The effects of inhaling medical cannabis flower strains are usually felt straight after vaporisation and can go on for 2-4 hours. However, ingested cannabis can take 30 – 90 minutes for full therapeutic benefit to be felt but lasts longer, from 6 -8 hours.
When inhaling cannabis flower the different strains of cannabis can also produce different effects. Some strains may help reduce fatigue while others may encourage feelings of relaxation.
The affect felt from taking any cannabis medication will also depend on how much a patient takes of the medication, the strength (amount of cannabinoids like THC and CBD), the person’s size, height and weight, their tolerance to cannabis, whether they are used to taking cannabis and whether they take any other drugs (or consuming alcohol) at the same time.
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What are common effects across different cannabis strains?
Across various cannabis flower strains, including sativa, indica, and hybrids of these, a spectrum of common effects shapes the overall patient experience. These shared attributes contribute to the versatility of cannabis treatments.
Cannabis is a central nervous system depressant that slows down brain activity and can produce feelings of relaxation, euphoria, sociability and sleepiness. Patients consuming medical cannabis may also have heightened senses or feel hungry.
While each strain boasts its unique characteristics, understanding these shared effects provides a foundational understanding on the holistic influence of cannabis. This allows registered prescribers to tailor treatments to their specific patient needs. Everyone’s body reacts differently to medications, so although medicinal cannabis strains may share commonalities, the patient experience could vary widely depending on their health condition, current medication, and lifestyle.
How do effects vary for inhalation based on the cannabis strain?
The effects of medical cannabis vary significantly based on the strain’s botanical composition. A majority of cannabis flower strains available for inhalation in Australia are characterised by higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and lower cannabidiol (CBD) content, often producing psychoactive effects. The most common varieties of these strains are Sativa, Indica and hybrids of these two.
Sativa strains are commonly thought to assist in managing some symptoms of fatigue, mood disorders, and cognitive issues without inducing sedation. In contrast, indica strains are typically associated with relaxation and sedation. Hybrid options combine equal amounts of sativa and indica strains. There are also CBD dominant cannabis flower strains available that can offer potential therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive intensity associated with medical cannabis products high in THC.
It is worth noting that each cannabis flower strain has a unique profile of cannabinoids (THC and CBD being the most commonly found), terpenes and flavonoids. Recent research shows that terpenes can play a significant role in the therapeutic effects of cannabis by interacting with cannabinoids and other cannabis compounds to create subtle differences in our experience. Terpenes also influence the cannabis strain’s unique taste and smell.
Strain effects are wide and vary from patient to patient. Australia’s evolving landscape in medical cannabis introduces a diverse range of strains for therapeutic exploration.
What are the side-effects of different cannabis strains?
Different cannabis strains come with a range of side effects. Understanding the potential side effects is crucial for registered healthcare professionals when prescribing medicinal cannabis to their patients. While cannabis is generally well tolerated, individual responses can vary. Different strains, with higher THC content, may potentially lead to temporary cognitive effects, including altered perception and impaired concentration. Some cannabis strains, with more sedative properties, could potentially induce temporary drowsiness and fatigue. It’s important to note that these effects may vary based on factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and consumption method.
Medical cannabis in general can also cause unwanted side effects, such as balance problems, rapid heart rate, red, dry eyes, dry mouth and throat, nausea, anxiety or paranoia, memory problems and slower reflexes.
The endocannabinoid system plays a significant role in mediating these effects. THC interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, while CBD influences CB2 receptors in peripheral tissues, contributing to the varied physiological responses. It’s important that prescribers and their patients are aware of the potential side effects with medical cannabis and cautions around driving or operating heavy machinery. Many are temporary and manageable, but consulting with healthcare professionals ensures a comprehensive treatment plan which mitigates potential side effects and offers a natural treatment pathway with potential benefits.
Which effects can a strain have that makes it useful for medical applications?
Different cannabis strains come with various effects that could be useful in medical applications. The uplifting and energising effects, commonly associated with sativa strains may offer benefits in promoting alertness and focus. Indica strains, known for their calming effects, could contribute to relaxation and potential stress relief.
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Additional Information on Cannabis Strains
Medical cannabis strains are varieties of the cannabis plant with distinct characteristics, chemical compositions, and potential therapeutic effects, allowing healthcare professionals to tailor treatments to individual patient needs.
Medical Cannabis Strains AustraliaLearn more about the legal landscape surrounding medical cannabis strains in Australia, including regulations governing cultivation, prescription, and usage for therapeutic purposes.
The Legality of Cannabis StrainsLearn about the intricacies of the cannabis plant, from its rich medical history to the distinct characteristics of indica, sativa, and hybrid strains cultivated in Australia for therapeutic purposes
Cannabis PlantLearn about the diverse world of cannabis strains and their applications in various medical cannabis products, from oils and edibles to vaporised flowers and topicals tailored for Australian patients.
Cannabis Strains and Product TypesLearn about how the cannabis plant is made up of many chemical compounds that contribute to the look, flavour, scent, and effect of the plant.
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