Strains
In cannabis, the term 'strain' is widely used but is technically inaccurate. The correct term is cultivar (short for cultivated variety), which refers to a plant variety that has been selectively bred by humans to enhance certain characteristics, such as cannabinoid content, terpene profile, and growing traits.
Why is the term 'strain' so widely used?
This term has been used for centuries in the agricultural industry to refer to different varieties of crops, specifically in relation to their physical appearance and growth patterns. It is also commonly used in the wine industry when referring to different types of grapes.
When cannabis began to be more widely cultivated and sold, the term 'strain' was already ingrained in society's vocabulary, making it an easy and familiar way to describe distinct types of cannabis.
Can the two terms be used interchangeably?
They can, and they most likely will be, especially in recreational cannabis circles.
But, as the medical cannabis industry in the UK and other countries becomes more regulated, the term cultivar is gaining traction to classify different varieties of cannabis properly and scientifically for medical purposes.
Are Indica and Sativa still relevant?
Not entirely. The terms 'Indica' vs 'Sativa' were originally used to describe different species of the cannabis plant based on their physical characteristics, such as height, leaf shape, and flowering time.
However, recent research is showing that these terms are not accurate in differentiating the effects of cannabis. Both Indica and Sativa are actually the same species, Cannabis sativa L., and their effects are more dependent on their cannabinoid and terpene profiles rather than physical characteristics.
To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.