THC appears to help relieve pain and is neuroprotective (helps keep brain from degenerating over time). THC mimics the action of anandamide, which is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in the brain. THC is thought to be the cause of the following effects of cannabis: relaxation, euphoria, altered space-time perception and appetite stimulation. What does it mean when marijuana buds are "17%" THC? It means that of all the cannabinoids present in the plant, 17% of them are THC. Having a high THC content by itself does not necessarily mean that the marijuana is great. It's important to look at the whole experience caused by the plant which includes another substance known as CBD. You want to find a strain and prepare your plants to cause the effects you're looking for.
CBD was once thought not to affect the subjective affect of marijuana, but further research show that it actually does have an affect. CBD appears to relieve convulsions, some types of inflammation, anxiety, and nausea. CBD has also been show to help stop the growth of cancer. CBD is also effective as an anti-psychotic for people suffering from schizophrenia. Marijuana buds that have a higher amount of CBD are associated with a more sedative or calming effect. Cannabis buds that contain high amounts of CBD are a perfect treatment for insomnia or for treatment late at night. I recommend any strain which has any sort of "Afghan" or "Afghani" in it's lineage. Afghan strains have high CBD content.
Another way to help control the amount of THC and CBD in your plant is to choose the right time to harvest your plant. You can pick the right time to harvest if you watch the trichomes (also known as crystals or resin glands). You tend to get the highest overall THC levels if you harvest your plant when all the trichomes are milky/white, or they are half milky and have translucent. If you wait to harvest your plant until 50% or more the trichomes are amber colored, then you will get a final result that has a bit less THC, but more CBD.
Some breeder's have taken the time to cultivate Indica strains high in CBD. Just ask around your local Collective and they might just have a strain high in CBD. If not, stick with a trusty Indica, it should do the trick.!
