Most people who enjoy cannabis have a few popular strains as their ?best buds,? but it?s always fun to experiment with something new. Whether you?re a seasoned smoker looking for a new adventure or you?re still dipping your toes in the cannabis pool, understanding the most popular strains and how they work can help you know what you?re getting.

What Are Cannabis Strains?

Cannabis is a singular family of plants but within that family, there are many different strains or varieties of cannabis plants. Each of these strains has been bred to have specific characteristics, like the chemical composition, the flavors, and the effects they produce. This is why one type of marijuana might make you feel energized while another makes you feel calmer, for example.

 

Over the years, growers have continuously developed new strains. Today, there are estimated to be over 700 strains and counting.

Strains vs. Species or Subspecies: Is There a Difference?

You?ve probably heard some types of cannabis referred to as either ?Indica? or ?Sativa,? but it?s important to note that these aren?t strains. There is a debate throughout the industry about whether Indica and Sativa are two subspecies of cannabis or whether they are two fully separate species of cannabis.

 

Regardless, keep in mind that Indica and Sativa are larger categories with numerous strains within each one. For example, within the category of cannabis, there?s the species/subspecies of Indica. Within all the Indica plants, there are hundreds of strains of cannabis.

 

So can you tell how you?ll react to a particular strain based on whether it?s an Indica or Sativa strain? Not necessarily. Many people think Indica has more CBD than THC, which produces a calming effect, and that Sativa has more THC which produces a more energetic high. That?s not always the case, though, so it?s better to get the details on the specific strain you?re considering.

Popular Marijuana Strains

If you?re new to the world of cannabis or you want to try something different, why not start with the crowd?s favorites? Consider these popular marijuana strains.

OG Kush

As the ?OG? suggests, OG Kush has been around for a long time. In fact, it?s believed to be the original Indica hybrid. Remember as well that any strain with ?kush? in the name will be an Indica or Indica hybrid. OG Kush in particular is known for its heavy and long-lasting effects.

Sour Diesel

Unlike OG Kush, Sour Diesel is a Sativa strain of cannabis. Interestingly, though, it seems to have opposing effects on different people. Some say that it?s the strain they reach for when they can?t sleep, while others find it to be energizing.

Pineapple Express

Most people have heard this name from the movie Pineapple Express, but the strain itself was created after the movie. Regardless, it?s a very fitting name because Pineapple Express is a blend of two strains called Hawaiian and Trainwreck, which combine to produce both earthy and citrus flavors. It produces a mellow yet optimistic feel.

Purple Haze

Like Pineapple Express, Purple Haze has a name that?s widely known in pop culture. If you?re in the mood for something relaxing and calming, this strain could hit the spot perfectly.

?Choosing Your Strain

Ultimately, shopping for cannabis comes down to knowing what type of effect you want. If you?re on the hunt for a new strain, scroll through our site to learn more about marijuana strains and how to find the perfect one for you.