Dec 22

Understanding the Real Difference Between Indica and Sativa

By Annemarie Porreca Cannabis 101

Understanding the Real Difference Between Indica and Sativa

In the world of cannabis, two primary classifications, Indica and Sativa, have long been used to differentiate various strains. The perceived differences between these two types have often led consumers to expect distinct effects when using them. However, the reality is far more nuanced.

Located off of 495 in Lowell, MA, Smyth Cannabis Co. is the top recreational dispensary serving Andover, Ayer, Billerica, Burlington, Chelmsford, Nashua, Dracut, Groton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, North Andover, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Wakefield, Westford, Wilmington, Woburn and the surrounding towns.

Botanical Difference Between Indica and Sativa

Indica and Sativa are terms initially employed to describe the physical characteristics of different cannabis plants. Indica plants are typically shorter and bushier with wider leaves, while Sativa plants tend to be taller, slimmer and have thinner leaves. These distinctions, however, aren’t always clear-cut due to crossbreeding and hybridization, which have blurred the lines over time.

Chemical Composition

The chemical makeup, mainly the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes.

THC, the psychoactive compound, is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis, while CBD offers potential therapeutic effects.

Indica strains often have higher levels of CBD, which cause more relaxing effects commonly associated with a body high. On the other hand, Sativa strains tend to contain higher THC content and lower CBD levels, providing a more energizing and creative head high.

Effect on Consumers

Despite the widely held belief in these general effects, factors like dosage, tolerance, consumption method, etc., significantly vary individual responses to cannabis. Moreover, the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes present in a given strain, not just whether a strain is an indica or sativa, determines the effects users experience.

Terpene Profile

Terpenes, organic compounds present in many plants including cannabis, play a crucial role in determining the overall effects and flavors of a particular strain. Different terpenes produce various scents like citrus, pine, or floral notes, and they collaborate with cannabinoids to influence the experience of the high. People call this the Entourage Effect.

The Rise of Hybrid Strains

Breeders have created many hybrids in today’s market, combining the desirable traits of both Indica and Sativa plants. These hybrids can provide a broad spectrum of effects, mixing the relaxing qualities of Indica with the uplifting attributes of Sativa, often catering to specific preferences or medicinal needs. In fact, most strains available in the market today are hybrids.

Conclusion Difference Between Indica and Sativa

Historically, people have used the terms Indica and Sativa to describe cannabis strains based on physical attributes and general effects, but these terms no longer reliably predict personal experiences. This unreliability results from extensive crossbreeding and hybridization over time. The cannabinoid and terpene profiles play a more significant role in determining a particular strain’s effects.

It’s essential to understand that each strain’s effects are unique and can vary from person to person. If you’re seeking relaxation, creativity, pain relief or other benefits, you should explore different strains and pay attention to their specific testing levels – this is key to finding your ideal cannabis experience.

Visit Smyth Cannabis Co. Today

Smyth Cannabis Co. Recreational Dispensary offers high quality flower, pre-rolls, edibles, concentrates, topicals and more. Our friendly budtenders will help you pick out products best suited for both your needs and your budget. Visit us today at our Lowell, MA dispensary to learn more about our lab tested cannabis products.

Or, check out our menu for a list of in-stock options.

Difference Between Indica and Sativa

It is important to note that the above information is for educational use only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Smyth Cannabis Co. does not guarantee the accuracy of any of the above information. Individual results will vary. All Smyth Cannabis Co. products are grown for recreational use and do not claim to possess any medical benefits. Smyth Cannabis Co. is a recreational-only dispensary and does not employe medical professionals. Consult your physician before using cannabis for any medical purpose.

Sep 20

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Top Picks — Strong Sativa Strains

By Annemarie Porreca Products, Strains

Top Picks — Strong Sativa Strains

For those seeking an invigorating and uplifting cannabis experience, strong sativa strains are the go-to choice. Sativa-dominant strains are renowned for their ability to provide energy, creativity, and euphoria. However, not all sativas are created equal.

Some strains boast exceptionally high levels of THC, making them the ideal choice for those in pursuit of potent cerebral effects. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 strong sativa strains that have gained a reputation for delivering an exhilarating ride.

Located off of 495 in Lowell, MA, Smyth Cannabis Co. is the most popular dispensary for strong sativa strains near Andover, Ayer, Billerica, Burlington, Chelmsford, Nashua, Dracut, Groton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, North Andover, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Wakefield, Westford, Wilmington, Woburn and the surrounding towns.

5. Super Lemon Haze | 20-25% THC

Super Lemon Haze strong sativa strain with balanced effects. Great for a creative experience, you’ll notice full body effects which ease the muscles as euphoria blankets the mind – crushing stress while bringing happy moods. Nicely stoney. Super Lemon Haze is a can’t miss!

Breeder: In-House Genetics
Cross: Lemon Skunk x Super Silver Haze
Flavor: Citrus, Earthy, Gassy

4. Honolulu Strange | 25-30% THC

honolulu strange strain honolulu strangler strain sativa

Honolulu Strange is a bright and tropical sativa with a sweet and spicy floral flavor profile. Its effects are happy, elevating, and overall relaxing – similar to a warm and sunny vacation. Honolulu Strange may be an excellent daytime strain, but be mindful of your dosage – it’s a strong sativa strain!

Breeder: Pollen Nation
Cross: Island Sweet Skunk x Skwurl Killer
Flavor: Tropical, Bright, Sweet & Spicy, Skunky

3. Ghost Train Haze | 30-25% THC

Ghost Train Haze is a high THC strain sativa unlike others you’ve tried before. It has a sour citrus and floral aroma. Flavor is earthy but sweet, and its potent dose of THC produces an uplifting, energetic and super happy high in normal doses. It has been known to help with concentration and creativity in smaller doses.

Breeder: Rare Dankness
Cross: Ghost OG x Neville’s Wreck
Flavor: Citrus, Earthy, Floral, Bright, Sweet

2. Root Beer Slush | 20-30% THC

Root Beer Slushee tastes exactly how you’d expect with a name like this! This pleasantly sweet sativa is just as calming as it is a pick-me-up. It’s sure to lighten your mood while also providing nice, relaxing bodily effects. You’ll find yourself reaching for this strong sativa strain at any time of the day.

Breeder: In-House Genetics
Cross: Root Beer x i95
Flavor: Citrus, Coffee, Sweet, Creamy

1. Pinky’s Advice | 25-30% THC

Pinky’s Advice is a gorgeous and strong sativa strain. This excellent morning strain is high in THC and will leave you feeling motivated.The kind of strain that even makes chores enjoyable, Pinky’s will give you a significantly euphoric head buzz and has been known to give people the giggles as well as an easy-going state of mind. It’s great for a more active user.

Breeder: Pollen Nation
Cross: The White x Jillybean x Loud Sour
Flavor: Sweet, Pine, Floral & Candied Cherry

These high-potency sativa strains represent the pinnacle of cannabis experiences for those who crave an energetic and uplifting high. However, it’s essential to approach them with caution, especially if you are a novice cannabis user, as their potency can be overwhelming for some.

Check out this article for tips on how to sober up if you get too high.

Always start with a lower dose and gradually increase as needed to achieve your desired effects. Whether you’re looking to boost creativity, motivation, or simply elevate your mood, these strains offer a thrilling journey into the world of high-potency sativas. Enjoy responsibly and in moderation.

Choose Smyth Cannabis Co. For Strong Sativa Strains in MA

Check out our menu to see what’s available in our Lowell, MA dispensary or find it in a store near you!

Jun 29

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Top Picks — High CBD Strains

By Annemarie Porreca Products, Strains

Top Picks — High CBD Strains

So, consumers are able to benefit from the bodily effects of cannabis without affecting their headspace. High CBD strains are most commonly used for medical purposes, but they may also benefit anyone else looking to use cannabis products without getting high.

Located off of 495 in Lowell, MA, Smyth Cannabis Co. is the most popular dispensary for high CBD strains in Andover, Ayer, Billerica, Burlington, Chelmsford, Nashua, Dracut, Groton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, North Andover, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Wakefield, Westford, Wilmington, Woburn and the surrounding towns.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, CBD is an active ingredient found in cannabis. CBD does not contain THC. And unlike THC, CBD does not have any psychoactive properties. So, CBD alone will not make a consumer feel high.

How Does CBD Work?

Humans brains have our own internal endocannabinoid systems that we use to maintain homeostasis. This system also allows us to process cannabinoids through a network of neurotransmitters and receptors.

THC activates the CB1 receptors in our brain, whereas, CBD restricts activity in the CB1 receptors. They produce opposite effects. Additionally, CBD also binds to other parts of the body (including 12 targets in the brain alone) to make you feel good.

Because of the way that they interact with both our endocannabinoid systems and each other, at least a small amount of THC does need to be present in order for the benefits of CBD to reach their full potential. But luckily, products high in CBD are readily available at your local dispensary. Here are our favorite high CBD strains of marijuana:

5. Charlotte’s Web | Hemp CBD

Charlotte’s Web is actually a strain of hemp originally bred with cannabis to create a new strain with higher CBD and lower THC than most other marijuana strains on the market. This strain contains less than 0.3% THC and is non-intoxicating. Its name pays tribute to a young girl named Charlotte Figi who was diagnosed with a rare form of epilepsy. Her physicians and parents say her seizures were dramatically reduced by her consumption of medical marijuana when she was just five years old.

Breeder: Stanley Brothers of Colorado
Cross: Industrial Hemp x Unspecified Cannabis Strain
Tastes Like: Sweet, Woodsy

4. Ringo’s Gift | Hybrid

This high CBD strain was named after Lawrence Ringo, a cannabis activist and pioneer community known as the “Father of Cannabis.” Ringo’s Gift comes in many different phenotypes with different ratios varying from 1:1, all the way up to 24:1. A 13:1 ratio of CBD to THC is standard for Ringo’s Gift. In short, this strain is known to help consumers sleep.

Breeder: Southern Humboldt Seed Collective
Cross: Harle-Tsu x ACDC
Tastes Like: Earthy & Woody

3. ACDC | Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

ACDC is a high CBD strain popular with medical patients. The CBD to THC ratio is about 20:1. Commonly used to combat the negative side effects of chemotherapy, it produces almost zero intoxicating effects for most consumers.

Breeder: Resin Seeds
Cross: Cannatonic x Ruderalis
Tastes Like: Earthy & Woody

2. Stephen Hawking Kush | Indica

Named after the famous scientist, Stephen Hawking Kush was bred as a party of Alphakrokik Genes’ series of high CBD strains known as “Great Minds.” There are 3 known phenotypes of SHK, all with similar flavor profiles. Above all, the relaxing effects of this strain help to suppress nausea and alleviate pain.

Breeder: Alphakrokik Genes
Cross: Harle-Tsu x Sin City Kush
Tastes Like: Fruity w/ Notes of Mint

1. Sour Tsunami | Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Sour Tsunami was one of the first cannabis strains bred to to be high in CBD, as opposed to THC. Its characteristic dark green and purple buds produce a gassy, diesel flavor profile. Like other high CBD strains, sour tsunami is used to treat pain without making consumers feel the “high” of a strain higher in THC.

Breeder: Southern Humboldt Seed Collective
Cross: Sour Diesel x NYC Diesel
Tastes Like: Gassy; Musky

Where to Buy High CBD Strains

Again, THC must be present in order for CBD to be fully efficient. So you’ll need to visit a local dispensary to purchase a high CBD strain of marijuana.

High CBD strains are most commonly used for medicinal purposes, although their bodily effects can be beneficial to recreational consumers, as well. For this reason, consumers without a valid MA medical marijuana card may have the best luck finding a high CBD strain at a dispensary that has dual licensure to sell both medical and recreational products.

Hemp CBD vs. Cannabis CBD

The CBD products you see available over-the-counter in stores are derived from hemp, not cannabis. Unlike cannabis, the hemp plant does not contain any THC. Consequently, CBD products purchased anywhere other than a marijuana dispensary are not likely to yield any noticeable results, because they do not contain THC.

The 2018 Farm Bill made certain hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC are still considered marijuana, and therefore federally illegal. Cannabis (including all its active ingredients) is legal in Massachusetts for both recreational and medical use.

Check Out Smyth Cannabis Co. For High CBD Strains in Massachusetts

Our 15,000 square foot cannabis growing facility is controlled to the last detail. Our flower is always properly cured and hand trimmed for quality, and we grow dozens of strains at maximum strength and efficiency. So, check out our menu to see what’s available in our Lowell, MA dispensary or find it in a store near you!

Jan 15

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5 Best Sativa Strains

By Annemarie Porreca Products, Strains

5 Best Sativa Strains

Looking for a head-rush high that will leave you feeling energized, focused and productive? We recommend going for a sativa. They’re great for helping you tackle physical activities, whether it’s a long and leisurely hike or a cleaning spree. Here are our picks for the 5 best sativa strains on the market right now:

Located off of 495 in Lowell, MA, Smyth Cannabis Co. is the most popular dispensary for sativas near me in Andover, Ayer, Billerica, Burlington, Chelmsford, Nashua, Dracut, Groton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, North Andover, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Wakefield, Westford, Wilmington, Woburn and the surrounding towns.

What is a Sativa?

Sativas are known for their uplifting and energizing effects. They are associated with more of a “head high” than indica strains.

But the difference between an indica and a sativa is actually the makeup of the plant itself. From 1753 to 1785, all cannabis plants were categorized as “Cannabis sativa L.,” with “Cannabis” as the genus, “sativa” as the species, and “L.” to indicate its Linnaean taxonomy.

After this time period, French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck separated the plant into two distinct species: “Cannabis sativa,” a taller and more fibrous plant, and “Cannabis indica,” a much shorter and more psychoactive plant.

5. Ghost Train Haze

Ghost Train Haze is a sativa unlike others you’ve tried before. This best sativa strain contender has a sour citrus and floral aroma. The flavor profile is earthy but sweet, and delivers a potent dose of THC that produces an uplifting, energetic, and super happy high in normal doses. It has been known to help with concentration and creativity in smaller doses.

Breeder: Rare Dankness
Cross: Ghost OG x Neville’s Wreck
Tastes Like: Citrus, Earthy, Floral, Bright, Sweet

4. Goji OG

Goji OG is an old school sativa leaning variety. It has a dynamic aroma/flavor profile including a distinct OG profile with notes of sweet berry and straight up garlicky egg rolls. This is the type of strain that will make you enjoy household chores. Not a strain for novices; it’ll give a strong, uplifting high that we think makes it one of the best sativa strains on the market.

Breeder: Bodhi Seeds
Cross: Nepali OG x Snow Lotus
Tastes Like: Berries, Gas, Licorice, Chinese Food, Garlic

3. Durban Poison

This pure sativa first originated from Durban, a port city in South Africa. Durban Poison is the perfect strain to help you stay productive through a busy day because of its energetic and uplifting effects. Its characteristically large resin glands make this one of the best sativa strains for concentrate extraction. Several other well-known strains have been produced from crosses of Durban Poison, including Cherry Pie, Girl Scout Cookies and many more.

Breeder: Ed Rosenthal
Tastes Like: Crisp Pine; Candied Lemons, Anise

2. East Coast Sour Diesel

This high-potency sativa is a cult favorite among consumers. New to the Smyth Cannabis lineup, this gassy green has a pungent aroma and effects that will leave you sky high. It is among the best sativa strains for its ability to quickly uplift your mood.

Breeder: Dr.Greenthumb
Tastes Like: Spicy, Sweet, Lemony, Gassy

1. Lilac Diesel | The Best Sativa Strain

Lilac Diesel is a sativa-leaning hybrid, super flavorful with robust trichome production and a complex terpene profile. You will get notes of citrus, sweet berries, earth, pine, and flowers. In addition, you’ll feel like a wine connoisseur as you dissect and savor the enjoyable flavors. This is our best sativa strain for a friendly and energetic midday adventure.

Breeder: Ethos Collective
Cross: (Super Lemon Haze x Forbidden Fruit) x NYC Cherry Pie x Citral Glue
Tastes Like: Honey, Sweet, Berries, Pine, Floral

While sativas are usually associated with a more uplifting and energetic high, this is not always the case. In short, each and every cannabis strain has its own unique chemical profile that will interact differently with each person’s body chemistry.

You can better understand a strain’s effects by looking more in depth at the cannabinoids and terpenes its contains. But for beginners, the indica/sativa/hybrid model is a quick and easy way to get a basic idea of how a strain will affect you.

Check Out Smyth Cannabis Co. For The Best Sativa Strains in Massachusetts

Oct 16

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Strain Highlight: Citral Flo (Sativa)

By Annemarie Porreca Strains

Strain Highlight:

Citral Flo | Sativa

The Citral Flo strain is a sativa leaning variety that feels a bit old-school. Hash-y scents and flavors give way to a classic energetic, laser beam focused high that lends itself nicely to a daytime strain profile but proves more versatile. Smokers are known to be more talkative than usual due to the euphoric and uplifting effects.

Breeder: Ethos Collective
Cross: Temple Flo x Skunk #1 x Land Race Indian Citral
Tastes Like: Cheese, Rubber, Skunk, Haze, Bubblegum, Citrus

Citral Flo Strain Effects

Creative

Happy

Energetic

Inspired

Focused Citral Flo Strain

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds that are found in cannabis and provide consumers with a wide range of effects. THC and CBD are examples of some of the most commonly known cannabinoids.

Our most recent batch of the Citral Flo strain tested for the following cannabinoids:

THCA | 21.20%
D9-THC | 0.89%
CBGA | 0.28%

CBDA | 0.07%
CBG | 0.06% Citral Flo Strain

Terpenes — Citral Flo Strain

Terpenes are naturally occuring organic compounds found in plants. They are responsible for the smell of most plants, fruits, herbs, etc., including cannabis.

Unlike cannabinoids, terpenes do not directly contribute to making you feel “high.” But, some terpenes are still considered to be psychoactive because they can affect your brain. While terpenes are responsible for the smell of the plant, some may also affect your brain in a similar way to cannabinoids.

The following terpenes give the Citral Flo strain its unique flavor profile and effects:

Limonene

Aromas: Citrus, Lemon, Herbal

Limonene is the most prominent terpene of the Citral Flo strain. It is the second most common terpene in nature and can also be found in citrus rinds. In short, it is used in topical products to allow other chemical compounds to pass through the skin faster.

Beta Myrcene

Aromas: Earthy, Musk, Cloves

Beta-Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis including the Citral Flo strain. It can also be found in parsley, mangoes and hops. It is known to enhance both the mental effects of THC and the health benefits of CBD. Myrcene is a good option for adding an overall boost of relaxation to your experience.

Beta Caryophyllene

Aromas: Sharp, Spice, Sweet, Wood

Beta-caryophyllene is known for its wide variety of potential physical and mental health benefits. CB2 receptors are targeted when treating pain & inflammation with cannabis, and this terpene has a unique ability to bind to them. It is FDA-approved for use in food & is found in black pepper, cinnamon and basil.

Linalool

Aromas: Floral, Herbal, Lavender | Effects: Comfort

Linalool is known for its strong calming effects. Found in rosewood, coriander and lavender plants, Linalool can be found in over 200 species of plants across the world and is used to treat patients with Epilepsy.

Humulene

Aromas: Herbal, Spice, Woody, Earthy

Commonly found in ginseng, ginger and hops, Humulene has been used in natural health practices for hundreds of years due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been reported to act as an appetite suppressant.

Beta Pinene

Aromas: Woody, Pine

Beta-Pinene is one of the two compounds that make up Pinene. This terpene is commonly used in perfumes and colognes. Users report improved mental clarity when using strains high in beta-Pinene, such as the Citral Flo strain.

Alpha Pinene Citral Flo Strain

Aromas: Pine

Alpha-pinene is named after its strong scent of pine trees. Plants use Alpha-pinene to limit the growth of unwanted bacteria. Many consumers report a boost of energy and brain function when consuming the Citral Flo strain, because it is high in this terpene.

Nerolidol

Aromas: Floral, Sweet, Woody

Nerolidol gives depth to the scents of plants such as ginger, lavender, oranges, lemongrass and tea tree. It has a sweet and flowery smell with hints of apple, rose and citrus. It acts as an anti-microbial and anti-fungal and is also known to help consumers sleep.

Try The Citral Flo Strain From Smyth Cannabis Co.

Our 15,000 square foot cannabis growing facility is controlled to the last detail. Our flower is always properly cured and hand trimmed for quality, and we grow dozens of strains at maximum strength and efficiency. So, check out our menu to confirm the Citral Flo strain is in stock now at our Lowell, MA dispensary.

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good uplifting daytime smoke
c........rLeafly User

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Nice daytime smoke, love the different flavors and smells. Only need like 3 tokes to be medicated and its just a super pleasant experience. Will pick up more if possible!
s........5Leafly User

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Energizing. Tingly body high and a happy head high. Helped me get things done.
l........zLeafly User

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Great morning/day-time smoke. Not as energetic as a Super Lemon Haze, or even a Diesel really. I know some find this strain to be very energizing, I have always found it to be kind of meh. There are just better strains I would go for before Citral Flo. It's just never wowed me.
s........oLeafly User

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Definitely will put a pep in your step! it's like a lightning bolt hit you on every puff! good for waking up or staying awake on a long night.
A........eLeafly User

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Very cheese like
J........0Leafly User

sativa