Hybrid varieties, formerly known as hybrid strains, are one of the most abundant cannabis types, thanks to the popularization of crossbreeding cannabis plants and creating new, unique strains. Here’s everything to know about hybrid cannabis and how it can affect your cannabis experience.
Understanding Hybrid Cannabis
Hybrid cannabis is created by crossbreeding two cannabis plants. This is an innovative way to create new, unique genetics with specific physical and chemical attributes, like high levels of THC, CBD, or specific terpenes that deliver specific aromas. There are several types that are determined by the dominating genetics during crossbreeding, including indica-dominant hybrids, sativa-dominant hybrids, and balanced hybrid cannabis strains.
Popular hybrid strains include:
- Ice Cream Cake
- OG Kush
- Purple Gelato
- Wedding Cake
- Blue Dream
- Sour Diesel
- White Widow
- Pineapple Express
Types of Hybrid Cannabis Products
There is a wide selection of products made from hybrid cannabis, including flower, pre-rolls, infused pre-rolls, concentrates, edibles, and vapes. What makes hybrid cannabis so appealing is its versatility, as there is a wide variety of products to choose from depending on personal tolerance, preference, and method of consumption.
Comparing Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Strains
The most notable difference between the three main cannabis varieties includes their genetics and place of origin.
Indica originates from India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, thriving in harsh, cold mountain climates. The plant has a short stature with wide, bushy leaves.
Sativa originates from a warmer climate across Asia and America, and it has a longer flowering time than indica plants. The plant has an elongated stature, with long, thin leaves.
Hybrid genetics can vary, as breeders can determine a plant’s physical appearance and flowering time by selecting a specific genetic combination.
Effects and Risks of Hybrid Cannabis
Cannabinoids determine the effects of cannabis. They are naturally derived chemical compounds found in the plant, once consumed they interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is located throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system consists of a network of receptors responsible for several bodily functions. Hybrid cannabis can have relaxing, euphoric, or balanced effects depending on the cannabinoid content. Hybrid cannabis can be used for both medical and recreational purposes.
Side Effects of Hybrid Cannabis
Common side effects that can happen when an individual takes a larger dose include dry mouth and eyes, drowsiness, altered perception, increased anxiety, and paranoia.
Ways to Consume Hybrid Cannabis
Hybrid cannabis is used the same way as any other type of cannabis, the consumption methods may vary depending on personal preferences, tolerance, and desired onset and duration of effects, including:
- Smoking: By consuming ground flower or whole nugs in joints, pipes, or bongs, offering a fast onset of effects.
- Vaping: By inhaling vapor from disposable vape pens and cartridges, offering a fast onset of effects and easy use.
- Dabbing: consuming cannabis highly potent and flavorful cannabis concentrates by using dab tools, offering a fast onset of effects.
- Edibles: By consuming cannabis infused foods, beverages, oils, and capsules, offering long-lasting effects and onset that depends on the dose.
- Topicals: By using cannabis infused lotions, creams, and transdermal patches, offering a slower onset of effect with prolonged duration.
Legality of Hybrid Cannabis
Cannabis, including hybrid cannabis, is not federally legal in the US. Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding cannabis consumption. 40 states are legalizing medical cannabis, while 24 are legalizing recreational use for adults over the age of 21. Before purchasing and consuming, check local cannabis laws and act accordingly.
Hybrids are highly versatile and offer unique experiences, so every cannabis connoisseur can find something that suits their taste. Find your nearest dispensary and explore the selection of cannabis products.