The cannabis flower is the part of the female cannabis plant with the highest concentration of cannabinoids, responsible for cannabis's medicinal and psychoactive effects. Therefore, cannabis flowers serve as the foundation for medicinal preparations or as active carriers for direct consumption through smoking or vaporization. Cannabis flowers come in various strains and possess different flavor profiles, aromas, and effects, depending on the specific cannabis plant and the underlying cultivation conditions. (1) This article provides an introduction to the topic and offers a brief overview of different flower strains and their effects.
Characteristics of a Cannabis Flower
Cannabis flowers relevant for medicinal use grow exclusively on female specimens of the cannabis plant. There are three main types: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. These differ in appearance, growth patterns, and chemical composition. For instance, subspecies of Cannabis sativa tend to grow tall and slender, while Cannabis indica generally forms shorter, bushier plants. However, many subspecies and genetic hybrids only partially exhibit the typical characteristics of a specific main type. (2)
Each cannabis flower has trichomes, hair-like structures covering its surface. Trichomes produce and carry the resin of the female cannabis plant, playing a central role in its medicinal and psychoactive effects. Additionally, they significantly contribute to the aroma and flavor of the respective flower strain. The higher the trichome density, the more potent the effect. (3)
THC and CBD Content in Cannabis Flowers
The cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are key compounds affecting the efficacy of medicinal cannabis. The ratio of THC to CBD determines the effect profile and varies depending on the flower type. THC is responsible for the psychoactive and, in parts, invigorating effect (the so-called "high"), while CBD has a more relaxing, pain-relieving, and antispasmodic effect. Consequently, certain flowers—with specific THC and CBD ratios—may be better suited to treat certain illnesses than others. (2)
The Importance of Terpenes in Cannabis Flowers
Terpenes are chemical compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. Among other things, they contribute to the aroma and flavor of the respective plant. Terpenes in cannabis flowers offer not only various scent and flavor profiles but may also have potential synergistic effects with THC and CBD. (2)
Through what is known as the "entourage effect," terpenes partially influence the effects of cannabinoids, potentially intensifying or weakening certain profiles. Some strains of medicinal cannabis are bred specifically for a particular terpene structure to optimize therapeutic effects. (4)
Researchers worldwide are working to unlock the potential benefits of terpenes to make their complex interactions with cannabinoids useful for targeted medical therapies.
Types of Cannabis Flowers and Their Effects
Indica cannabis flower strains are associated with relaxation, calmness, pain relief, and a sense of tranquility. In contrast, Sativa flowers are known for their stimulating and uplifting effects, possibly enhancing concentration. They stimulate creativity and sociability. However, most flower strains are hybrid varieties that combine properties of Indica and Sativa. (2) Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly examine the specific effect profile for therapeutic use.
The CBD and THC content of a cannabis flower provides more reliable information on its effect spectrum. Cannabis flowers with high CBD content are used as pain relievers and sleep aids (5), to reduce seizures in epilepsy and spasticity (6), and as medications for nausea (7), cramps, and migraines. Furthermore, CBD can alleviate anxiety and stabilize mood in cases of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. (8) A high THC content also indicates a strong pain-relieving effect, which is why such flowers are used in palliative care.
THC also increases appetite, making it useful for treating eating disorders and as a supplement to appetite-suppressing therapies. Additionally, THC may reduce intraocular pressure, making it an effective medication against glaucoma. (9)
To legally purchase medicinal cannabis flowers, you need a prescription from your attending physician, who must consider your condition sufficiently serious and a cannabis therapy potentially symptom-relieving. In general, physicians are not bound to a fixed list of diseases when prescribing cannabis. Only when the health insurance company covers the cost are severe illnesses required. (10) If your physician has issued a prescription for medicinal cannabis, you can use it to order your desired product at MYCANNABIS. Sign up on MYCANNABIS and enter the information from your prescription in our contact form. We will then send you an offer via email. After accepting the offer, you have access to all common payment options. Send us the original of your prescription by mail. Once your prescription has been received, you can choose between two shipping options. With our free standard shipping, you will receive your product within three days via DHL delivery. Alternatively, if you choose express shipping, your product will arrive the next day by 12 pm.
References:
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Campos, A. C., Moreira, F. A., Gomes, F. V., Del Bel, E. A., & Guimarães, F. S. (2012). Multiple mechanisms involved in the large-spectrum therapeutic potential of cannabidiol in psychiatric disorders. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 367(1607), 3364-3378.
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