Wondering which strain is best for you?
Learn how different strains affect symptoms and how to choose the best one for your needs.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What’s the best marijuana strain for me?”, you’re not alone. With so many options—like indica, sativa, and hybrids—finding the right strain can feel overwhelming.
But the truth is, the best strain depends on your unique symptoms, goals, and even your body chemistry.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand how different strains of medical marijuana affect the body and mind, and how you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
Whether you're managing chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, or another qualifying condition, there’s a strain that can help—and we’ll show you how to find it.
Indica vs. Sativa: What’s the Difference?
Indica and sativa are two main types of cannabis plants, and they can have very different effects on your body and mind:
Indica strains are known for their calming, relaxing effects. Many patients use indica to help with pain, insomnia, and anxiety. Think of it as the “chill-out” strain—perfect for nighttime or when you need to unwind.
Helpful pneumonic: "I'm so relaxed, I'm stuck... in-da-couch."
Sativa strains tend to be more energizing and uplifting. They’re often used for boosting mood, focus, and creativity. Sativa may be better during the day when you want to stay active and alert.
Helpful pneumonic: S as in Sunny.
Some strains are hybrids, meaning they combine traits of both, which can offer a more balanced experience.
How Terpenes Help You Find the Best Strain for You
Now that you understand the basics of indica and sativa, it's time to dig a little deeper into what makes a cannabis strain the best strain for you.
Terpenes are the natural compounds found in cannabis that influence how each strain affects you. These compounds are responsible for the unique smells and flavors of different strains, but they also play a big part in how a strain can make you feel.
Terpenes work together with cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) to create what’s known as the entourage effect—which means the overall experience of a strain is influenced by both its terpenes and cannabinoids.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing, energizing, or pain-relieving effect, understanding terpenes can help you find the best strain for you.
Let’s take a look at the most common terpenes in cannabis and how they can guide you to the best strain for your needs.
floral
Properties
anti-inflammatory
anti-irritant
anti-microbial
Common Uses
cancer, skin lesions
mint
Properties
anti-inflammatory
antinociceptive
Common Uses
eyesight, pain relief
fir needles, musty earth
Properties
anti-oxidant
skin lesion
Common Uses
cardiovascular disease
spicy
Properties
anti-bacterial
anti-inflammatory
anti-fungal
Common Uses
insomnia, muscle spasms, pain relief
pine, rosemary
Properties
anti-inflammatory
bone stimulant
Common Uses
memory
mint
Properties
anti-bacterial
anti-fungal
Common Uses
alzheimer's, pain relief
peach, rose grass
Properties
anti-cancer
anti-oxidant
neuroprotectant
Common Uses
cancer, pain relief
earthy
Properties
anti-bacterial
anti-inflammatory
anti-tumor effects
Common Uses
cancer, infections, appetite supression
bitter citrus
Properties
anti-anxiety
anti-cancer
digestion
gallstones
Common Uses
liver detoxification, weight loss, sleep aid
floral
Properties
anti-anxiety
anti-epileptic
anti-psychotic
pain killing
Common Uses
depression, convulsions, insomnia, pain relief
earthy
Properties
relaxing
sedating
Common Uses
inflammation, insomnia, spasms, pain
pine
Properties
anti-depressant
anti-inflammatory
anti-microbial
Common Uses
asthma, bronchitis, cancer, depression, memory, mental alertness
balsamic, floral
Properties
anti-insomnia
immunosuppressant
Common Uses
reduce itching, sleep aid, wound healing
smoky, woody
Properties
anti-bacterial
anti-fungal
anti-insomnia
antiseptic
Common Uses
cancer, heart disease, sleep aid
citrus, rose
Properties
anti-cancer
anti-microbial
anti-oxidant
anti-parasitic
Common Uses
relaxing, skin lesion
Choosing the best strain isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach—it’s about understanding your own needs and how different cannabis strains affect you.
By considering factors like whether a strain is indica or sativa, and how terpenes influence the effects, you can make more informed decisions about which strain works best for your body and mind.
Whether you’re using medical marijuana for pain relief, stress, or sleep issues, finding the best strain for you can take your experience to the next level.
Remember, every patient’s needs are different, and a personalized approach is the key to success.
At Southland Health Solutions, we’re here to help guide you through your journey to find the best strain for you, so you can experience the full benefits of medical cannabis.