There is lots of talk about indica, sativa, and hybrids – but does it really matter?
All of Canadian and over 50% of the US population have access to legal cannabis, and use is increasing and people are being more open. Sales are rocketing, but like spririts and wine, do people really focus type of strain? Do marijuana strains really matter and what should you know? A YouGov survey asked how people purchased wine, which sells more than the cannabis industry. The top three factors in choosing a wine is price (by far), brand and ratings. With marijuana, it is markets by strain and price.
Marijuana, derived from the cannabis plant, is commonly categorized into three main types: indica, sativa, and hybrid. While these classifications have been widely used, recent research suggests that the distinctions may not be as clear-cut as once believed.
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Indica
Cannabis indica plants are typically short and bushy with wide leaves. Originating from the Hindu Kush mountains of Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, and Turkey, these plants adapted to harsh, dry climates. Indica strains are often associated with relaxing and calming effects, making them popular for nighttime use. They are commonly believed to have higher levels of CBD compared to THC, although this is not always the case.
Sativa
Cannabis sativa plants are generally tall and thin with narrow leaves. They are native to hot, dry climates with long sunny days, such as Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia. In North America, they are grown in the American South (illegally) or in grow houses. Sativa strains are typically associated with energizing and uplifting effects, often described as producing a “mind high”. They are frequently used during the day and are thought to have higher THC content compared to CBD.
Hybrid
Hybrid strains are the result of crossbreeding indica and sativa plants. Due to extensive breeding over the years, most strains available today are hybrids. Hybrids can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced, offering a wide range of effects depending on their specific genetic makeup. Breeders create hybrids to combine desirable traits from different strains, such as flavor, aroma, potency, and specific effects
While the indica-sativa-hybrid classification system remains popular, it’s important to note that these categories are not scientifically accurate predictors of a strain’s effects. The cannabis plant has evolved significantly due to selective breeding, and pure indica or sativa landraces are now extremely rare. Modern cannabis research focuses on the plant’s chemical composition rather than its physical characteristics or supposed lineage. The effects of a particular strain are determined by its unique profile of cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) and terpenes, rather than its classification as indica, sativa, or hybrid.
Nothing is better on a winter night than pasta – go the extra step with this cannabis infused tomato sauce
Super Bowl weekend, cold weather, or just the need for some comfort food? Try this mouthwatering pasta with an optional marijuana kick. This pasta will make your mouth grateful for winter as it warms you up and tickles your tastebuds. And it has the benefits of being able to help you relax if you add in some cannabis.
Todd Gray is a highly accomplished chef with a rich culinary background. Gray was appointed one of the inaugural State Department Chefs representing the U.S. in Italy and Canada. Well-known in the culinary world, he has appeared on several cooking shows with renowned chefs like Bobby Flay, Guy Fieri, and Tyler Florence. In 2013, he co-authored the cookbook The New Jewish Table with his wife, Ellen Kassoff. Chef Gray’s extensive travels for culinary research have taken him to the Middle East for the Museum of the Bible and to New Zealand for the Cervena Council.
Gray and Kassoff have developed numerous hospitality projects, including Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, Watershed at the Hilton Garden Inn, Equinox on 19th and Muse at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. Gray will be a featured speaker at February Women Who Grow Conference.
Here is how to mike Chef Gray’s mouthwatering pasta. You can vary the marijuiana potency based on how much regular vs cannabutter you use in the recipe.
All eyes are on New Orleans for the Super Bowl. What role will CBD and Hemp play for players and fans?
The big game is in the party Capital of New Orleans this weekend – so what about the NFL, Super Bowl, CBD and hemp? New Orleans is a party capital and know for a good time. Football players and fans love a good times, but what can they do with cannabis while in the Big Easy? For fans, while it is illegal, it isn’t hard to find and CBD and hemp products, including edibles since they are legal.
The National Football League (NFL) has historically maintained a strict stance against cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, due to its classification as a Schedule I substance under federal law. However, recent developments have shown a shift in the league’s approach, particularly with the increasing acceptance of hemp-derived CBD.
The NFL has taken significant steps towards reevaluating its stance on cannabis, particularly CBD. The league has relaxed its cannabis policy, reducing penalties for players who test positive for cannabis. This shift focuses on ensuring responsible use without compromising health or performance2. Additionally, the NFL has partnered with researchers to study the safety and efficacy of CBD for pain management and neuroprotection from concussions, investing $1 million in such studies.
CBD has emerged as an alternative for pain management and recovery in football. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high,” and research suggests it can reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve sleep—critical factors in athlete recovery. The NFL’s acceptance of CBD could pave the way for other sports leagues to reconsider their policies, reflecting broader societal trends toward cannabis normalization.
The NFL’s evolving stance on CBD and hemp reflects a growing recognition of the potential health benefits of these substances. As research continues and public opinion shifts, it is likely that the league will further adapt its policies. The partnership with researchers and the investment in studies signal a commitment to understanding the therapeutic benefits of CBD, particularly in managing pain and protecting against concussions.
As the NFL continues to navigate this complex issue, its decisions could have far-reaching implications for professional sports and beyond.
The phrase has become popular, so why not share marijuana’s place in it?
Politicians have made the phrase popular with a modern interpretations, but it has people thinking. Where is cannabis in the Ordo Amoris? This ancient Catholic phrase has become today popular, but is an ancient concept rooted in Christian theology, particularly in the works of St. Augustine and St.Thomas Aquinas. It is usually translated as “order of love” or “rightly ordered love,” is it emphasizes the importance of prioritizing one’s affections and responsibilities in a hierarchical manner.
People prioritize in a variety of ways, and it seems lately, people have been moving marijuana above alcohol, long the favorite intoxicant of choice. But younger generations are moving away from it causing angst in the liquor industry. California sober has become a thing where people leave booze for marijuana. And the big alcohol companies have seen drop in both sales and expanded markets. They have made major investments in marijuana and in come cases, hemp.
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The concept suggests love should be ordered with God as the primary focus, followed by oneself, family, neighbors, and then the broader community. The hierarchy is not meant to diminish the importance of loving all people but acknowledges that certain relationships carry more immediate obligations.
While there is a general hierarchy, the application of ordo amoris can vary based on circumstances. For instance, in cases of extreme need, one might prioritize a stranger over a family member if the stranger’s need is more urgent.
St. Augustine discussed the concept in his works, such as “City of God” and “On Christian Doctrine,” emphasizing that love should be directed appropriately to avoid sin. He noted that all people should be loved equally, but special regard should be given to those closer to us by circumstance. St. Thomas Aquinas expanded on Augustine’s ideas in his “Summa Theologica,” highlighting the importance of loving God first and then prioritizing those closest to us, such as family and community.
Of course, people interrupt to fit there needs, but basically it all comes to do well be other and treat others like yourself. Although, the trend tends allows you move away form the love of alcohol to the more healthier love of cannabis.