Understanding Cannabis Strains for Your Needs
Figuring out how to choose the right cannabis strain can feel overwhelming with so many options. It’s easy to get lost, but finding the perfect strain for you doesn’t have to be difficult.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Know your desired effects: Do you want to relax, feel energized, or ease pain?
- Check THC and CBD levels: These key compounds change how a strain affects you.
- Look into terpenes: These compounds give strains their unique smell, taste, and effects.
- Consider your experience: If you’re new, start with lower potency.
This guide will simplify the process, helping you understand what truly matters when picking cannabis so you can choose with confidence.
I’m Chris Kuilan, Co-Founder and Operational Lead at Stoops NYC. My work establishing our Manhattan dispensary has given me deep insights into how to choose the right cannabis strain for various needs, always focusing on quality and community.
Beyond Indica vs. Sativa: Understanding Modern Cannabis Categories
You’ve likely heard that Indica strains are relaxing and Sativa strains are energizing, with Hybrid strains offering a mix. While these categories are common in dispensaries, modern science challenges these traditional labels.
For decades, classification was based on plant appearance: Indicas are short and bushy, while Sativas are tall with narrow leaves. However, researchers have found that a plant’s shape doesn’t predict its effects. In fact, after analyzing thousands of samples, data scientists have found there are “no identifiable characteristics that are consistent with indica, sativa, or hybrid” classifications when it comes to predicting effects. These terms are largely “meaningless” for understanding your experience.
So what determines your experience? It’s the plant’s chemical profile—the unique blend of cannabinoids and terpenes. How to choose the right cannabis strain comes down to understanding the chemistry inside, not the appearance outside.
Scientists now use chemotypes, based on THC and CBD ratios, for better insight into potential effects:
- Type I strains are high in THC with little CBD, delivering strong psychoactive effects.
- Type II strains offer a balanced mix of THC and CBD, creating a more mellow experience as CBD can soften THC’s intensity.
- Type III strains are rich in CBD and low in THC (under 3%), providing therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects.
Terpenes add another layer, working with cannabinoids to create a strain’s unique effects. This chemical symphony, not plant shape, determines your experience.
| Category | Traditional Belief (Effects) | Modern Understanding (Basis for Effects) |
|---|---|---|
| Indica | Sedative, relaxing, “couch-lock,” body high | Plant structure (short, bushy), often associated with higher Myrcene levels, though not exclusively. Effects driven by full cannabinoid/terpene profile. |
| Sativa | Energizing, uplifting, cerebral high, creativity | Plant structure (tall, narrow leaves), often associated with higher Limonene or Pinene, though not exclusively. Effects driven by full cannabinoid/terpene profile. |
| Hybrid | Mix of Indica and Sativa effects | Result of crossbreeding, can lean Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, or be balanced. Effects highly variable and depend on the specific cannabinoid and terpene ratios. |
Should you ignore Indica and Sativa labels? Not entirely. They can be a rough starting point, as growers often breed for traditional effects. But don’t let them limit your exploration. Instead, focus on the cannabinoid and terpene profiles when deciding how to choose the right cannabis strain. Check lab results and ask about the chemical makeup for better insight.
The Building Blocks of Your Experience: Cannabinoids and Terpenes
How to choose the right cannabis strain isn’t just about THC levels. The experience comes from the “entourage effect”: all cannabis compounds working together to create more complex and nuanced effects than any single ingredient could. They improve each other’s benefits and create unique experiences. This is why two strains with the same THC percentage can feel completely different.
Decoding Cannabinoids: THC vs. CBD
Cannabinoids are compounds that interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system. While over 100 exist, two are most prominent:
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound that gets you high. It causes the euphoric feeling and offers benefits like pain relief. Strains with 20% THC or more are potent, but tolerance varies.
CBD (Cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive but has many potential therapeutic benefits, like reducing inflammation and anxiety. Research on cannabis for anxiety supports its calming effects. High-CBD strains usually have 10% or more CBD and under 3% THC. Interestingly, CBD can buffer THC’s intensity, which is why balanced strains often provide smoother experiences.
Minor cannabinoids like CBG (Cannabigerol) and CBN (Cannabinol) also play a role. Though present in small amounts (1-2%), they have distinct effects. CBN, for example, is associated with relaxation and sleep support.
For a deeper dive, check our guide on the Benefits of CBD vs THC.
The Role of Terpenes: Aroma, Flavor, and Effects
If cannabinoids are the engine, terpenes are the steering wheel. These aromatic compounds create the scent and flavor, but also actively shape the effects. Cannabis has over 200 different terpenes, creating endless unique experiences.
- Myrcene: Has an earthy, fruity aroma and is known for relaxation, often causing a “couch-lock” feeling.
- Limonene: A citrusy terpene associated with uplifting, mood-boosting effects.
- Linalool: Has a floral, lavender-like scent and is known for its calming, stress-relieving properties.
- Caryophyllene: Has a spicy, peppery aroma and can offer anti-inflammatory benefits without psychoactive effects.
- Pinene: Has a fresh pine scent and is associated with alertness, and may help counteract some of THC’s memory effects.
Understanding these compounds is crucial for how to choose the right cannabis strain. They work with cannabinoids to create the full entourage effect and a personalized experience.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Strain for Your Goals
Choosing the right cannabis strain is a personal journey. It starts with your needs, desired feelings, and unique body chemistry. Some trial and error is part of finding your perfect match.
Step 1: Identify Your Desired Effects and Intentions
Before visiting a dispensary, ask yourself: What are my goals? Knowing your intention is the first step in understanding how to choose the right cannabis strain.
- For Relaxation & Sleep Aid: Look for strains that calm the mind and body. Seek out terpenes like Myrcene and Linalool, or the cannabinoid CBN. A balanced THC:CBD ratio or a high-CBD strain can also help you unwind.
- For an Energy Boost & Creativity: For a lift, look for strains with terpenes like Limonene and Pinene, or the cannabinoid THCV. Higher THC strains can be energizing, but mind your tolerance.
- For Pain Relief & Anti-inflammatory Benefits: A balanced approach often works best. A good THC:CBD ratio can offer relief with manageable psychoactivity. High-CBD content is great for inflammation without the high. The terpene Caryophyllene can also help.
- For Socializing & Mood Improvement: Balanced hybrids with moderate THC and uplifting terpenes like Limonene can be great for socializing, creating a joyful atmosphere without being overwhelming.
- For Focus & Clarity: To stay sharp, look for strains with Pinene or THCV. Lower THC or balanced strains are often better, as high THC can cause mental fog for some.
Step 2: How to Choose the Right Cannabis Strain Based on Your Experience
Your cannabis experience and tolerance are crucial for choosing the right strain and ensuring a positive experience.
For Beginners: Our number one rule is simple: start low and go slow. We recommend starting with balanced 1:1 THC:CBD strains or high-CBD, low-THC (Type III) strains. The CBD mellows THC’s effects for a gentler introduction. Avoid high-potency products (over 20% THC) at first. For dosage, take a very small amount—one puff or a 2.5mg edible portion—and wait. Be patient: wait 20 minutes after inhaling or up to 2 hours for edibles before considering more.
For Experienced Users: If you have a higher tolerance, you can explore high-THC (Type I) strains and specific terpene profiles. Still, approach new strains with caution, as reactions can vary.
Step 3: Select a Consumption Method
Your consumption method affects onset, duration, and intensity of effects, making it a key part of choosing a strain.
- Inhalation (Smoking or Vaping): Effects are felt within minutes and last 1-3 hours. This method is good for immediate relief and dose control. Vaping is often considered a gentler option than smoking.
- Oral Consumption (Edibles or Tinctures): Effects take 30 minutes to 2+ hours to kick in, but are more intense and longer-lasting (4-8 hours). Edibles are great for prolonged, discreet relief, but the effects differ from smoking the same strain.
- Topicals (Creams, Lotions): Applied to the skin, topicals provide localized, non-psychoactive relief within 10-20 minutes. They are perfect for soothing sore muscles or skin issues.
Putting It All Together at the Dispensary
Visiting a legal New York dispensary like Stoops NYC is an exciting step. Our curated selection and welcoming atmosphere make finding your match easy and enjoyable. Understanding how to choose the right cannabis strain is empowering, and it starts with the tools in front of you.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Strain by Reading the Label
The product label is your guide, offering information beyond the old Indica/Sativa labels. Learning to read it is key to an informed choice.
- Strain Name: A helpful identifier, especially if you’ve liked it before.
- Cannabinoid Content: Check the THC and CBD percentages to gauge potential strength and balance.
- Terpene Profile: If listed, this is valuable for predicting aroma, flavor, and effects.
- Harvest/Packaging Date: A recent date means a fresher, more potent product.
Lab testing is crucial for safety. In a legal New York dispensary, all products are tested to be free of contaminants like pesticides and mold. Tests also verify the cannabinoid and terpene percentages on the label. Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) as your guarantee of purity and potency. Learn more about how to read cannabis product labels.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Consulting a Budtender
If you’re still overwhelmed, our knowledgeable budtenders at Stoops NYC are here to help. To get the most from your chat, be ready to share:
- Your Desired Effects: Be specific. For example, “I want to unwind without feeling stuck to the couch, and I get anxious with high THC.”
- Your Experience Level: Are you a beginner or an experienced user? This helps them recommend the right potency.
- Your Preferred Consumption Method: Do you prefer flower, vapes, or edibles?
- Flavor/Aroma Preferences: If you love citrus or dislike earthy scents, say so.
- Questions About Terpene Profiles: Don’t be shy to ask for strains high in specific terpenes, like Myrcene for relaxation.
At our Flatiron District dispensary, we pride ourselves on providing a welcoming, judgment-free atmosphere. Our budtenders are committed to making your cannabis journey easy and enjoyable. We’re here to help you feel confident in how to choose the right cannabis strain for your needs every time.
Your Personal Cannabis Journey
Finding how to choose the right cannabis strain is an ongoing process of understanding your body and needs. Each experience helps you learn what works for you, so don’t be afraid to experiment based on your knowledge of cannabinoids and terpenes. It’s normal to prefer different strains for different activities.
Keeping track of your experiences can be a game-changer. A simple journal can be an invaluable guide. Note the strain name, cannabinoid and terpene content, dose, and how it made you feel. Over time, your tolerance and preferences will evolve, and this is a normal part of the journey.
At Stoops NYC Dispensary in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, we know choosing cannabis is personal. Our knowledgeable budtenders are here to help you find strains that match your goals, whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned user. We’ll guide you through our curated selection.
We’re conveniently located near Union Square, Madison Square Park, and NYU. Visit us in-store for personalized recommendations, or explore our curated cannabis products online to see what’s available for pickup. Your cannabis journey is uniquely yours, and we’re excited to be a part of it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Choosing a Strain
It’s natural to have questions. Here are answers to some common inquiries we get at Stoops NYC about choosing and using cannabis.
What’s the best strain for a beginner?
The best advice is to “start low and go slow.” We recommend strains with a balanced 1:1 THC:CBD ratio or high-CBD, low-THC strains (Type III). The CBD mellows THC’s psychoactive effects, offering a milder, more manageable experience. This is a great way to learn how your body responds and find the right strain for you.
Can I mix different cannabis strains?
Yes. Mixing strains, or making a “salad,” allows you to customize effects by combining different cannabinoid and terpene profiles. However, it’s best to first understand how each strain affects you individually before you start mixing to create a more predictable experience.
Are the effects of edibles different from smoking the same strain?
Yes, the effects are very different. When you eat cannabis, your liver converts THC into a more potent compound. This results in a stronger, longer-lasting (4-8 hours), and more body-focused experience. The effects also take much longer to begin (30 minutes to 2+ hours) compared to the near-instant effects of inhalation. This is a crucial difference to consider.