Gone are the mysterious days of the past, when consumers did not know what kind of cannabis, the dose, and specific effects to expect when taking edibles. It is now easier than ever to know what you’re getting into before you consume a cannabis-infused edible.
Among the many options available online and on dispensary shelves are indica, sativa, and hybrid edibles. Hybrid edibles tend to be some of the most widely produced, and widely enjoyed, edibles. But what exactly are hybrid edibles, and what can consumers expect if they decide to give them a try?
SHOP EVN LIVE ROSIN GUMMIES, INFUSED WITH THE HYBRID STRAIN 'SPECIAL SAUCE'
Key Takeaways
- Hybrid cannabis edibles are infused with a strain that is a cross between sativa and indica strains, which generally leads to a more balanced effects and can be more versatile.
- While sativa, indica, and sativa categories help us to understand the effects of specific strains, research suggests that cannabis is more complicated, and its specific compounds must also be considered.
- Hybrid edibles are simply infused with hybrid cannabis strains, giving consumers more control over their experiences.
What Are Hybrid Cannabis Strains?
Hybrid cannabis strains are a mix of indica and sativa strains, the two main types of strains used to categorize cannabis. Breeders may cross two strains together on different sides of the spectrum, resulting in a balanced blend between the two, and creating a 'hybrid'.
Hybrid strains may be classified as “50/50,” meaning the effects fall right between those of sativa and indica, though some strains may lean more to one side or the other — often labeled as sativa- or indica-dominant or sativa- or indica-leaning. This typically indicates that a strain has more prominent effects of one or the other but still cannot be categorized as a “true” or “pure” indica or sativa.
What are Sativa and Indica Cannabis Strains?
Sativa strains generally have more heady, active, and uplifting effects that many consumers find suitable for activities and daytime use, while indicas usually provide a more soothing, sedating, and relaxing effect, often used for winding down toward the end of the day.
Some consumers simply find they agree with indica or sativa strains, no matter when they indulge.
Importance of Terpenes and Cannabinoids
These classifications are simply best tools that the industry and consumers have to categorize cannabis. Indica, sativa, and hybrid strains promote similar effects, but they are not a monolith.
Some sativas may not be as active or heady as others, depending on their genetics, terpenes and cannabinoids. Similarly, some “indicas may not be as sedating, and some hybrids may have more pronounced effects typically associated with sativa or indica strains, even if the crosses indicate they fall more in the middle.
Cannabis is a complex plant, and research surrounding exactly how it affects our bodies is still catching up. While these categorizations are good indicators, mounting evidence is suggesting that there is simply more to consider. The entourage effect is a crucial element, which deems that all cannabis compounds, including cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and other minor cannabinoids; terpenes, or flavor and aroma compounds (that have been shown to host their own array of unique effects); flavinoids; and more.
What Are the Benefits of Hybrid Strains?
More research is needed to determine how cannabis works and eases symptoms, though anecdotal evidence has given us good indications.
While consumers may turn to an indica or sativa strain in specific circumstances, hybrids can be used as a sort of “choose your own adventure.” If you are looking to wind down and chill, a hybrid may help do the job. If you are going out and looking to be social, a hybrid isn’t going to put you to sleep and will likely help lend itself to that endeavor too.
Whether indica, sativa, or hybrid, cannabis strains of all kinds have been shown to help reduce stress, chronic pain and inflammation, and promote relaxation, among other potential benefits. Hybrids simply tend to offer a nice blend of these effects and more!
SHOP EVN LIVE ROSIN GUMMIES, INFUSED WITH THE HYBRID STRAIN 'SPECIAL SAUCE'
What Are Hybrid Edibles?
Hybrid edibles are cannabis-infused foods made with hybrid strains. The effects may differ, depending on the strain and whether it leans indica or sativa, but balanced hybrid edibles usually give consumers balanced effects.
Companies have steadily embraced strain-specific options, so consumers can refer to the effects of a given strain to understand how an edible may affect them rather than gambling on an edible infused with a mystery strain or mixture.
It’s also much easier today to find edibles made with indica and sativa strains. These options simply allow consumers to have more control of their experience after ingesting an edible.
Final Thoughts
While there is more to consider than whether a strain is a sativa, indica, or hybrid when it comes to cannabis effects, these categories still help to understand what to expect when using cannabis.
Hybrid edibles and strains are a great option for consumers who want to enjoy the multitude of benefits cannabis may offer. Hybrids are often more versatile than pure sativas and indicas, and with the evolving market it’s now easier than ever to find strain-specific edibles to cater to your specific needs!
References
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