If you’ve ever been to MediThrive’s cannabis dispensary on a warm San Francisco summer day, you’ve been met with a flower shower of strains. From the piney aroma of OG Kush to the fruity undertones of Blue Dream, the choices for weed may seem endless.
As you browse, you may ask yourself, “Which strain is perfect for me?”
Although one of our budtenders is happy to help you find the best strain for your needs, many people enjoy exploring their options alone.
If you’re one of those people, this article will give you the freedom to take the reins and explore the possibilities yourself.
Sativa and indica are the yin and yang of the cannabis world.
Sativa strains are often associated with an energetic, cerebral high—they’re your daytime buds! These delicious nugs are perfect for social events and creative endeavors.
On the other hand, indica strains provide a sedating effect and full-body relaxation. They’re your nightcaps or your Netflix and chill comrades.
Summer in San Francisco is like a constant party – the city is buzzing with energy, Dolores Park is hopping, and something is always happening. And just like the sun, the daytime is precisely when Sativa shines. Its energizing effects sync perfectly with the vibrant summer atmosphere.
Let’s break it down for you.
Looking for something to uplift you and charge you with a rush of energy and enthusiasm? Sativa can help you keep going and going like the Energizer Bunny without the nasty over-caffeinated jitters that too much coffee can cause.
Ever had a eureka moment under the sun? Sativa can help with that. Many artists swear by sativa strains, saying they’re a surefire way to get those creative juices flowing.
If you happen to be one of those quiet caterpillars who needs a little push to break free from that cocoon of comfort, it can be a challenge on your own. However, the right sativa may coax out your inner social butterfly.
So whether you are enjoying panoramic views from Twin Peaks or picnicking at Golden Gate Park, adding the magic of Sativa can lead to some unforgettable summer memories.
Sure, we all know about the uplifting effects of sativa and the relaxing vibes of indica. But there’s a whole world beyond these two categories that helps determine how your body and mind react to cannabis.
Sativa and indica only scratch the surface of marijuana. To get to the real reasons behind your cannabis experience, we need to pull out the microscope and dig a little deeper.
Ever heard of terpenes?
These little components play a huge role in shaping your experience with cannabis.
Terpenes are organic compounds that can be found in cannabis and many other plants. There are more than 200 different terpenes, but less than 10 dominate the scene.
These key players shape the scent and taste of every strain. That distinct pine, citrus, or peppery aroma? Yep, that’s terpenes working their magic!
But terpenes do more than just give cannabis its distinct smell and taste. They also play a significant role in the effects it has on your body. Some terpenes can promote relaxation and stress relief, while others can enhance focus and energy.
But which ones do what?
To understand that, we need to introduce you to the most common terpenes found in your favorite strains and let you in on the latest news about their potential effects.
Limonene is a terpene found in many sativa strains. It has a fresh, citrus aroma and is believed to be associated with mood elevation and stress relief.
This pine-scented, earthy terpene may remind you of a pine tree (because it’s in pine too!). Often found in sativas, studies are unraveling its ability to enhance memory, focus, and combat anxiety.
Caryophyllene, with its spicy, peppery aroma, is unique because it can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Scientific research is poking into the potential of this terp, especially surrounding inflammation and pain relief.
Myrcene is usually responsible for strains having a “musky” or earthy scent. This is the very same aroma you may smell in common pantry herbs like thyme, parsley, and basil. It’s one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis and is known to make people sleepy and relaxed.
Do you smell something minty fresh? It’s probably Borneol. This terpene is always ready to chill – You guessed it! Much like mint tea, its effects are calming and relaxing.
This terp has a floral, lime aroma with hints of citrus and is responsible for the sedative effect we all know as “couchlock”.
Also known as cineole, this terpene carries a refreshingly cool minty (yet slightly spicy) scent akin to eucalyptus. Pain relief and better circulation are some of the benefits eucalyptol has demonstrated.
Understanding terpenes can help you personalize your summer adventures! By discovering the potential effects of different terpenes, you can better predict how a certain strain might affect you.
Cannabis is a symphony of compounds, including terpenes and cannabinoids, all working together to create a unique experience. This is often referred to as the “entourage effect.”
At MediThrive, our unwavering mission is to not only spread awareness, but also empower our valued customers to thrive by harnessing the full potential of cannabis. This summer, we invite you to embark on a journey of exploration into the fascinating world of terpenes.
You’ll discover that there’s so much more to every strain. Terpenes, with their distinct aromas and potential effects, can greatly influence your cannabis experience, helping to tailor it to your needs and preferences.
If you have unanswered question and want to find the right strain for you, visit us or give us a call and speak with one of our knowledgeable and friendly budtenders.
Happy highs and safe travels this summer in the San Francisco Bay Area!
Q: What is sativa?
A: Sativa, Indica, and ruderalis are the three subspecies of the cannabis plant. What sets sativa strains apart is their energizing effects. Unlike indica, sativa is uplifting and promotes productivity, creativity, and focus, making it a valuable aid in the daytime.
Q: What’s the best sativa strain for summer?
A: It depends on what tier of flower you buy.
MediThrive budtender recommendations:
Q: Where can I buy sativa strains near me?
A: MediThrive’s San Francisco Cannabis Dispensary offers a wide variety of sativa strains in the Mission District. Check out our menu here!