Cannabis Strains and Product Types

Cannabis strains are specific types of cannabis plants with certain properties or effects. They are used in a variety of different medical cannabis products to help treat patients with a variety of health conditions. The most common strains available in Australia are Sativa, Indica, or a hybrid of these two strains. Understanding how each strain affects different products is crucial to tailoring a treatment plan for patients. Little Green Pharma (LGP) is an industry-leading medical cannabis manufacturer in Australia. We offer valuable information and resources for prescribers, and pharmacists, who want to learn about the diverse legal medicinal cannabis landscape.

What cannabis strains are used for medical cannabis?

There are a variety of cannabis strains used for medical cannabis products. Different strains exhibit different tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to cannabidiol (CBD) ratios that may assist registered medical practitioners when prescribing medicinal cannabis  products to address the specific needs of their patients. The different types of strains found in medical cannabis are cultivated to produce specific effects which may benefit patients with a range of medical conditions. Their distinctive qualities allow registered medical practitioners to create personalised treatment plans for patients, along with other medications, to alleviate certain health conditions. 

When choosing a medicinal cannabis flower strain, there are a few elements that need to be considered by   prescribers. Firstly, there is the percentage of THC and CBD in the product. This is important because for many, THC can cause psychoactive effects and is not a suitable treatment option. Someone with THC in their system may not legally drive or operate heavy machinery in most parts of Australia. This does not suit the lifestyle of certain patients. 

Another important consideration is the terpene profile of the product. Terpenes, especially in combination with one another, can augment the effects of cannabinoids (e.g. THC & CBD). This phenomenon is called the entourage effect. Terpenes can range dramatically in aroma, with varying smells often being associated with certain medicinal or psychoactive effects. These compounds of the plant are highly bioactive, and interact with different receptors in the body. 

Next is the cultivar (or species) or cannabis used. Over many centuries they have been interbred, so most flowers are hybrids and have a mix of both. However, one species is usually more dominant. Anecdotally, Sativa-dominant flowers are usually associated with uplifting or energising effects whereas Indica flowers are associated with feelings of relaxation. However, this is not the case for all patients.

And finally, the place & process of manufacture  is important to be aware of.  This is because, depending on where the medical cannabis products were made, there is the potential that they could contain contaminants. Australian grown medical cannabis flowers must be processed from start to finish in a facility that meets AU manufacturing standards, not just repackaged in such a facility. This helps to ensure that they are of a high standard when it comes to safety and testing.

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What strains are typically used for different products?

There are a variety of different cannabis strains which can be used in products. The world of medical cannabis is always expanding, with new products being developed to better meet patient needs. Across medical cannabis products, hybrids of Sativa and Indica are used most commonly. This provides a range of potential therapeutic benefits which could treat a number of medical conditions in conjunction with other medicines, as prescribed by a registered medical practitioner.

Medicinal cannabis oil

Medicinal cannabis oil products can utilise a diverse array of strains. The exact strain utilised depends on the manufacturer but the therapeutic effects of oral medications are not usually a result of the strain classification. Rather, it tends to be due to a combination of the cannabinoids present in the product, like with CBD oil,  and the carrier oil. One of the main advantages oils have over other treatment options is the ability to titrate in small increments so that patients can find the ideal dose for them. This minimises side effects and excessive consumption of the medication.

Vaporised flower or cart extracts

Dried cannabis flower and cart extracts are types of medical cannabis products where the strain and the prevalent terpenes are important for prescription purposes. This is because the various strains have different terpene profiles and when these terpenes combine with cannabinoids, they can enhance each other. Vaporiser devices, known as vapes, must be used for these products. They are considered a discreet and convenient treatment option for patients.

The most commonly prescribed strain for vaporisers and cart extracts is an Indica hybrid, containing a mix of Indica (mainly) and Sativa characteristics. This provides a harmonious range of effects, but Sativa-dominant and hybrid combinations are also very common. Vaporisation of medicinal cannabis flower uses the process of heating the flower or extract at a high temperature, without combustion to release cannabinoids and terpenes producing inhalable vapour. Vaping devices come in various forms, including portable pens and desktop units. 

Medicinal cannabis edibles

Edible cannabis products occupy their own unique corner of medical cannabis treatments available in Australia under a prescription. Among the myriad of strains used in edible products, most contain a combination of Sativa and Indica. The precise dosing of cannabinoids in edibles allows for controlled treatment, making them ideal for delivering measured effects to prescribed patients. 

Medical cannabis topicals

Topical cannabis products provide targeted treatment without the psychoactive effects associated with other methods. A variety of different strains can be used in topical products and these medications, including balms, creams, and transdermal patches, are formulated to deliver cannabinoids directly to the skin. The skin’s endocannabinoid receptors interact with the applied cannabinoids, potentially providing relief to specific areas without entering the bloodstream. These products may be prescribed for their potential to be used to deliver targeted treatment.

Additional Information on Cannabis Strains