This is a very important topic for patients and their needs. In previous articles we discussed genotypes and phenotypes of cannabis. Like phenotypes, chemotypes are produced by an expression of the genotype when grown in a particular environment. In other words, the genotype defines a range of possible chemotypes and the environmental parameters determine the particular chemotype of the particular plant.
Chemotype is a reference to the amount of cannabinoids and terpenes (among other chemicals) found in the trichomes of the mature female cannabis floral cluster – the buds! Further, a chemovar is a particular variety of cannabis that is known to produce a particular set of cannabinoids and terpenes. Although there are a long list of chemicals found in cannabis, cannabinoids and terpenes are thought to largely control the effect it has on the individual.
This topic is probably the most important topic for patients because this is exactly what is being asked for when a patient asks, “What strain (variety) will help with my symptom?” The good news is that, when testing facilities open, it should be pretty easy to get basic cannabinoid testing. This will tell the patient what the amounts and ratios of cannabinoids; namely THCTHC is the most famous cannabinoid and is psychoactive. TH... and CBDCBD is a cannabinoid with high medical value. It lessens t... More.
The challenging aspect here is that not all dispensaries or caregivers will be required (or able) to test for terpene profiles – a major component of the chemotype. So what is a patient to do?
Remember this: “The nose knows.“
This idiom suggests that a patient can simply smell cannabis and be able to determine which is variety is right for them. The smells of cannabis falls into four major categories; fuel, floral, fruit, and earth. Each of these respective types generally give users a slightly different experience. However, this does vary from user to user so I’ll refrain from adding those effects at this point. The main point is that once you find a chemotype that you respond to, your nose can find it again (most of the time).
For example, I very much like high-THC, earthy chemovars before bed. They make me drowsy and the THCTHC is the most famous cannabinoid and is psychoactive. TH... helps with the pain. Cookies and Purple-urkle are two varieties that work well for me and both have earthy tones. Purple varieties often have a floral/fruit addition along with the earthy smell and the effect is similar, but a bit more mood enhancing – at least for me.
In any event, hopefully this information is useful to patients and cultivators alike. As a caregiver, I’m working diligently to determine what works best for my patients so I can keep a steady supply of the medicine they need.
Happy Harvests!
— The Lit Farmer —
