Is sativa or indica better for pain relief?

Sativa and indica strains have unique properties and potential analgesic benefits. If you want to achieve the best results when microdosing cannabis for pain, your best bet is to choose a hybrid strain.

Most of our Delta 9 gummies contain perfectly balanced ratios of indica and sativa. We leverage the calming indica effects with the uplifting properties of sativa to provide a well-rounded profile– perfect for pain relief.

What is the difference between sativa and indica?

Sativa and indica are the two main cannabis strains, each with its own distinct set of characteristics, effects, and potential benefits or preferred uses. 

Here’s what you need to know about them:

The sativa strain

• Native to warm, tropical climates.
• The Cannabis Sativa plant has narrow, finger-like leaves and longer flowering cycles than indica strains.
• Known for its cerebral, uplifting, and energizing effects.
• Can enhance creativity, focus, and motivation.
• Great for improving mood, alleviating symptoms of depression, fatigue, and certain types of pain such as nerve pain or headaches.

The indica strain

• Originates in cool, mountainous regions.
• The short, bushy plant has broad, chunky leaves and shorter flowering cycles.
• Associated with physical, relaxing, and sedating effects.
• Promotes deep, full-body relaxation, stress relief, and a sense of calmness.
• May be helpful for managing anxiety, insomnia, muscle tension, and chronic conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.

People generally like to think of Delta 9 THC as a sativa strain and cannabidiol (CBD) as indica, but that’s a common misconception. Sativa and indica strains can contain a mix of cannabinoids, so the distinction between THC and CBD is not related to the plant's classification. 

While indicas are richer in CBD and sativa strains contain more THC, the specific ratios of these compounds can vary significantly, which is why sativa and indica have a diverse range of effects and potential pain-relieving properties.

If you're struggling with chronic discomfort, our Delta 9 edibles for pain may bring you relief. This selection of gummies contains edibles with a balanced mix of THC, CBD, terpenes, and other therapeutic cannabis compounds to alleviate your pain without impairment. 

Try our Bliss gummies with only 5 mg of Delta 9 for soothing relief and gentle euphoria. 

"These are the best. They work so well, taste great, and make me feel so relaxed. Thanks nama"

—Alli

Is sativa or indica stronger for pain relief?

Indica strains are often considered stronger and more effective for pain relief than sativa. Indica strains are known for their relaxing effects, which can help alleviate pain and promote sleep. CBD content is higher in indica strains than in sativas, which contributes to their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. (The THC content in them isn’t necessarily lower, as we already explained.)

The best approach to pain relief might be to combine sativa and indica. With their uplifting and energizing effects, sativa strains may provide mental relief and improved mood, while the relaxing and sedative properties of indica strains can alleviate physical pain and promote better sleep. 

We believe in the prowess of a balanced hybrid strain.

What is a hybrid strain?

A hybrid strain combines the characteristics of both indica and sativa plants. Cultivators crossbred indica and sativa to create a hybrid that offers a unique blend of effects, flavors, and medicinal properties. These hybrids can be sativa-dominant, indica-dominant, or balanced, depending on the ratio of sativa to indica genetics in the cannabis strain.

Here are some of the benefits of combining sativa and indica in a hybrid strain:

1. Hybrids can provide a balance between the cerebral effects of sativa and the body-focused effects of indica. This offers a more well-rounded and safer experience.
2. By combining the pain-relieving properties of both sativa and indica, hybrids can address different types of pain, from neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia to inflammatory conditions and multiple sclerosis.
3. The uplifting effects of sativa can combat the emotional toll of chronic pain. The relaxing effects of indica reduce stress and anxiety. That’s what we call a well-rounded experience.
4. The hybrid strain produces the entourage effect, combining therapeutic effects to provide better pain relief than either strain in isolation.

Cannabis users have been starting to recognize the benefits of the hybrid strain and the potent combo of THC and CBD. According to a 2020 cross-sectional study, the majority of patients preferred cannabis products with balanced THC and CBD ratios or high CBD formulations.

Check out our list of the best gummies to produce the entourage effect and reap its therapeutic benefits: from pain relief and lowered inflammation to improved sleep and a brighter mood.

How does the entourage effect relieve pain?

The entourage effect refers to the synergistic interaction between cannabis compounds. Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant molecules work together to create a more powerful and balanced medicinal effect than any single compound would achieve on its own. 

Cannabis compounds produce their therapeutic effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex network of cannabinoid receptors and signals regulates physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood, appetite, and memory. Through the ECS, cannabis compounds improve each other’s efficacy and modulate unwanted side effects. 

For example, CBD acts like a modulator, fine-tuning THC's effects by partially blocking the CB1 receptors that THC binds to. CBD can balance out some of THC's potential side effects, such as increased anxiety or paranoia, with its relaxing and calming effects.

Instead of directly binding with CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBD seems to downregulate them in the presence of THC. In other words, when CBD and THC are taken together, CBD regulates how THC interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors. (Vučković, et. al.)

For pain management, the entourage effect can be a game-changer. Here’s how a combination of THC and CBD in a hybrid strain can alleviate pain:

1. Research shows that terpenes can be combined with cannabinoids to amplify their effects without the risk of negative side effects. Terpenes are aromatic compounds from the cannabis plant that can mimic the functions of cannabinoids and produce similar pain-relieving effects. 
2. Cannabinoids and terpenes interact with different cannabinoid receptors. CBD interacts with TRPV1 receptors involved in the mediation of pain, inflammation, and temperature control. This makes CBD a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Since pain often stems from inflammation, reducing inflammation through the use of CBD can help soothe pain and provide much-needed relief. According to the Curaleaf Clinic, the entourage effect may enhance pain relief by activating TRPV1 and other signaling pathways in the ECS. 
3. Other studies have shown that some terpenes can boost the body's natural pain-relieving cannabinoids by slowing down their breakdown, leading to longer-lasting and more effective pain relief.
4. Some cannabis compounds inhibit the degradation of endocannabinoids (signaling molecules in the ECS) or affect the way they bind to receptors. This enhances the body’s natural pain management mechanisms. 
5. The Curaleaf Clinic also suggests that cannabinoids in synergy can enhance the effect of μ-opioid receptor agonists. These receptors are involved in the regulation of pain, stress responses, and reward pathways. When activated by agonists, they can effectively reduce the perception of pain and induce feelings of euphoria. When taken at lower doses, cannabinoids bypass dependence, providing a safer and more reliable way to ease chronic pain relief.

Through the entourage effect, the hybrid strain can provide a more comprehensive approach to pain management. The uplifting and energizing sativa strains can alleviate the psychological aspects of pain, such as depression or fatigue. The relaxing properties of indica can target the physical symptoms of pain, promoting muscle relaxation and better sleep.

The secret to effective pain management lies in the dosage. More isn't always better, and it doesn’t mean higher doses of THC or CBD will soothe persistent pain more effectively. Quite the opposite; too much THC can worsen pain by causing side effects. 

We don’t want that; that’s why we infuse our edibles and cannabis drinks with low doses of THC and CBD. Microdosing is the best way to harness the pain-relieving potential of cannabis while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. 

What is the best way to microdose? Keep reading to find out.

What is the best way to consume indica and sativa?

There are many ways you can consume cannabis, but not all of them offer reliable low doses of THC and CBD. Our edibles are reliable and convenient, and ensure precise dosing of cannabis compounds—of sativa, indica, or hybrid strains—without the overwhelming effects. 

Here’s why our low-dose gummies and drinks should be your go-to choice for pain relief:

1. Low-dose edibles give you precise control over pain relief. You know exactly how much cannabis you’re taking each time. This minimizes the risk of overconsumption and allows you to tailor your experience to suit your needs.
2. Our edibles are discreet and effortless in managing pain throughout the day. Whether you’re at work, social gatherings, or on the go, you can pop one gummy without attracting attention and enjoy the medical benefits and flavors.
3. Our microdosed edibles provide prolonged pain relief. Because they’re ingested, THC gummies can last between six and eight hours, offering steady and continuous symptom relief.
4. The effects of edibles begin to show 30 minutes to two hours after consumption. While they may not kick in as quickly as some other consumption methods, their sustained and longer-lasting impact makes them an attractive choice for those seeking extended pain relief without the need for frequent dosing.
5. With our microdosed edibles, the onset of pain relief effects is gradual, reliable, and almost predictable. This allows you to plan your daily activities with confidence and avoid unexpected fluctuations in pain relief.
6. Our gummies come in different THC to CBD ratios and strains, allowing you to experiment with different products to find the right fit for your pain relief needs. 
7. You may opt for an ultra-low dose of THC in our Energy gummies (2.5 mg per serving) with a balanced CBD amount (5 mg) and hit your sweet spot. 
8. You may choose a higher level of the two cannabinoids in equal amounts in our Euphoria edibles, with 10 mg of THC and CBD if that rocks your boat. 
9. You may choose a broad-spectrum CBD product and purchase one of our CBD gummies without THC (and without the full benefits of the therapeutic entourage effect).
10. You may want to experience the energizing effects of sativa-based edibles with only THC in our Pink Lemonade gummies–10 mg of Delta 9 per scrumptious gummy.
11. You may want to skip the gummies and order our low-dose Buzz Drops™. These cannabis mixers combine 2.5 mg of THC and 2.5 of CBD per full dropper, so you can infuse your favorite mocktails, lemonades, and other non-alcoholic beverages for a party without the morning regrets.

We know we’ve tickled your imagination. We bet you’re dying for a chilled virgin margarita with a buzz right now. Are you in the mood for something fancy and creamy? Our pumpkin cream THC drink is completely booze-free. 

If you're up for a good time to kick pain to the curb, boost your mood, and get gently buzzed, our THC drinks are your golden ticket.

Learn how to craft the most delicious THC mocktails. 

Where to buy the best hybrid edibles on the market

If you're on the hunt for the best Delta 9 edibles around, you have come to the right place. We pride ourselves on crafting the most delicious and high-quality cannabis gummies and drinks made with the freshest, all-natural organic ingredients.

We don’t mess around with what goes into our premium edibles. We source our non-GMO American hemp extract from small, trusted farms in Colorado and New Jersey, ensuring that every batch is 100% organic and grown right here in the USA. Plus, we only use real fruit flavors to give our edibles that irresistible taste you'll love.

But don't just take our word for it—we believe in transparency, which is why all of our products go through rigorous third-party lab testing. This way, you can trust that you're getting the highest quality and most potent pain-relieving hybrid on the market.

Order from nama™ today.

Resources

Vučković, S., Srebro, D., Vujović, K. S., Vučetić, E., & Prostran, M. (2018, November 13). Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules. Frontiers in Pharmacology. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01259

Ledger, E. (2022, November 30). The Synergistic and Entourage Effects of Medical Cannabis in Pain Treatment. Curaleaf Clinic. https://curaleafclinic.com/the-synergistic-and-entourage-effects-of-medical-cannabis-in-pain-treatment/

Anand, U., Pacchetti, B., Anand, P., & Sodergren, M. H. (2021, July 1). Cannabis-based medicines and pain: a review of potential synergistic and entourage effects. Chronic Pain Management. https://doi.org/10.2217/pmt-2020-0110

Hameed, M., Prasad, S., Jain, E., Dogrul, B. N., Al-Oleimat, A., Pokhrel, B., Chowdhury, S., Co, E. L., Mitra, S., Quinonez, J., Ruxmohan, S., & Stein, J. (2023). Medical Cannabis for Chronic Nonmalignant Pain Management. Current Pain and Headache Reports, 27(4), 57-63. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-023-01101-w

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