Muscle spasms and cramps are a fairly common problem. Most people experience them after prolonged fatigue or dehydration. Muscle contractions can feel uncomfortable or even painful, but fortunately, they are usually innocent and fleeting. However, muscle spasms can also result from chronic conditions like MS, ALS, Parkinson’s, or cerebral palsy. Whether you experience harmless cramps after exercise or more permanent symptoms, though, cannabis may have a positive effects on muscle spasms and related problems.

Muscle Spasms And Cramps: What Are They And Could Cannabis Help?

In the event of muscle cramps or muscle spasms, the fibres of our muscles contract suddenly and uncontrollably. They are usually quite harmless, but they can be painful nonetheless. Although muscle spasms have different causes than epileptic seizures, these two symptoms are known to coincide. Innocent as regular muscle cramps may be, anyone experiencing their more chronic expressions knows that they can seriously affect one’s quality of living.

We can distinguish three types of muscle tissue:

• Cardiac muscle tissue: the muscle cells found in the walls of the heart operate beyond our external control. These special muscle cells do not require stimulation by hormones or nerves. Heart muscle tissue appears striped and grooved.
• Smooth muscle tissue is found in the surface of hollow ventral organs such as the bowels and urinary tract, as well as in arteries. These muscles are also beyond our conscious control.
• Skeletal or striated muscle tissue can be controlled by conscious willpower. We use them to move our body. Skeletal muscles are attached to our bones by means of tendons, and they amount to about 40% of an average person’s body weight.

Causes And Consequences Of Muscle Spasticity

Muscles may contract uncontrollably for various reasons. In the absence of underlying illnesses, muscle cramps can be caused by heavy burdening (exercise or physical labour), hot and cold weather, poor circulation, lack of fluids, or mineral deficits including potassium and magnesium depletion. The innocent type of muscle spasms can be treated with simple remedies such as eating a magnesium-rich banana, hydration, or using supplements.

However, muscle spasms can also be a symptom associated with a number of chronic conditions, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Tourette’s, and cerebral palsy. Each of these conditions can cause severe muscle cramps. Repeated powerful muscle contractions causes muscles to shrink and lose power, as well as decreasing people’s control over their body. Severe spasms can eventually force someone to adopt abnormal postures. That makes such muscle spasms a potential cause of disability with debilitating impact on everyday life.

How Cannabis Could Help With ALS, MS & More

People affected by chronic muscle spasms are usually prescribed medication such as muscle relaxants including Baclofen and Benzodiazepines. These drugs come with multiple serious side-effects, including numbness, dizzy spells, and nausea. These types of drugs can also be addictive.

Current scientific interest is focussing on cannabis in the treatment of muscle cramps and spasms. Researched are particularly excited about the potential of the cannabinoids THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is well-known for causing the psychoactive high associated with marijuana, whereas CBD is non-psychoactive with soothing and analgesic properties. Both cannabis compounds can help reduce muscle spasms and cramps in their own way, however. They act upon the receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This system, which extends all throughout the various tissues, nerves, and organs of the human body, regulates a range of physiological processes as it strives to maintain the biochemical balance of the body as a whole.

Muscle spasms can be caused by inflammation. Studies show that muscle injuries trigger inflammatory responses by the immune system. THC has an inhibitory effect on such inflammation reactions, enabling it to help deactivate inflammatory proteins.

Inflammation recovery can restore regular relay of messenger signals from the brain to the muscles via the nervous system. This can result in reduction of spasms. In addition, cannabis compounds can have analgesic and soothing effects, which can further reduce the impact of muscle cramps and spasms. Chronic diseases such as MS and ALS are also based on inflammation problems.

Studying Cannabis For Muscle Spasms And Cramps

The above explains why we currently have several types of medication based on cannabis extracts. One of these drugs is Nabiximols, developed especially for people suffering from MSS (Multiple Sclerosis with Spasticity). As 90% of all MS patients eventually develop muscle spasms, it is great to see cannabis based medication become available, as holds for cramps as well, of course.

A 2011 Czech study into Nabiximols for MS involved 572 patients. Over half of all subjects reported improvement of symptoms by more than 20% after one month of treatment.

A German study conducted in 2014 also investigated the effectiveness of Nabiximols. After one month, almost 75% of participants indicated that the drug relieved their spasm symptoms. On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 indicating the most severe symptoms), average scores dropped from 6 to 2. Subjects also reported drastically improved freedom of movement. The drug was well-tolerated, and no increased muscle weakness was apparent. This is a very common side-effect for most other medication.

Further studies also highlight the potential of cannabis for muscle spasms and cramps. In one 2012 research setup, 37 MS patients received either cannabis or a placebo. Cannabis group participants showed marked reductions in spasticity as well as in pain. Interestingly, cannabis did not cause any detrimental effects. The sole aspect to take into account would be the psychoactive effects of cannabis, which may occur in treating muscle spasms and cramps.

Using Cannabis For Cramps Or Muscle Spasms

It seems as if cannabis has a lot of potential for people suffering from cramps and muscle spasms. Fortunately, research on the matter is well underway, which has already resulted in cannabis-based medication and treatment options.

If you are considering using cannabis for cramps or (chronic) muscle spasms, however, we strongly advise you to consult your doctor on the matter; especially if you are using regular medication. Finding the right dose is important, as is determining the best way to optimally enjoy the potential benefits of cannabis. Still, growing medicinal cannabis is a viable option for many people suffering from cramps and muscle spasms. It doesn’t even have to be difficult to do at home. Our special blog on growing weed for medicinal purposes explains which strains to try for specific symptoms in more detail.

Growers have access to a full range of first-class cannabis seeds, each with its own particular traits and effects. Our Spicebomb strain is an interesting example: a strong indica cannabis variant with a full compliment of associated bodybuzz effects. Perfect for relaxing the muscles as well as the mind!

View All Bodybuzz Seeds

When it comes to successful cannabis growing and buying the best marijuana seeds, one concept keeps coming up: genetics. All of a cannabis plant’s traits, flavours, and effects are stored in the genes of the strain. But what exactly is cannabis genetics, and what are the basics that any cannabis grower and aficionado ought to understand? Read this blog to find out!

What Do We Mean By Cannabis Genetics?

Let’s start at the beginning. The words ‘genetics’ and ‘gene’ originate from the Greek word genos or γένος. It can be translated as ‘generation’ or ‘lineage’. Genetics is the branch of science dedicated to the study of genes. Genes are a kind of biological code describing all the characteristics of a certain individual; in this case, a cannabis plant. Of course, this code is not written with pen and ink. Instead it uses a specific genetic code consisting of DNA.

DNA (desoxyribonucleic acid) in turn is a very long protein molecule found in the nuclei of all animal and plant cells. If unused, DNA lies ‘curled up’ in its characteristic double helix shape you’ve probably seen before. In fact, the Amsterdam Genetics logo is based on this double helix structure – and with good reason, too. Ultimately, premium cannabis depends 100% on the quality of the DNA contained in the plant’s genetics!

The Purpose Of Cannabis Genetics

In a very real sense, cannabis genetics is much like a recipe. The code inscribed in DNA dictates the properties of an individual plant. These properties include things like leaf shape, flavour, the ratios of aromatic terpenes and active cannabinoids produced by the plant, flowering times, height, and many other aspects. The size of the flower buds, and consequently the resulting harvest, largely depends on the genetics that a cannabis plant carries inside.

Whenever plants or animals reproduce, they pass their DNA on to the next generation. This explains why the offspring of marijuana plants resemble their parents. Cannabis is a dioecious plant, which means that a male specimen has to fertilize a female plant by means of pollination in order to produce seeds that grow into new plants.

There are two exceptions to this rule: cannabis can be cloned artificially, and hermaphrodite plants are capable of fertilizing themselves. In regular circumstances, however, the genes of the mother plant are mixed with those of the father, making every new generation a unique combination of the parents’ genetics. This makes genetics the basic mechanism that keeps cannabis plants evolving.

Seeds, Strains, And Genetics: Cannabis Sativa L.

Even though the exact genetics of every individual are unique, all these individuals together make up a collective (animal or plant) species with highly similar DNA. The genetics found in today’s cannabis seeds represent an evolutionary process that has been going on for millions of years. That means millions upon millions of mother and father plants have combined their genetics to produce ever more different offspring. In recent decades, this process was sped up substantially by crossbreeding strains for properties such as more THC, special flavours, or autoflower properties.

Although there are thousands of strains out there, all of these varieties ultimately fall under one single species: Cannabis sativa L. At least, this is the position of most scientists agree on. Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis strains are regarded as distinct varieties, but from a biology perspective, they are all the same species with highly similar genetics. So regardless of whether you order an autoflower strain, indica seeds, or sativa genetics; technically speaking, it’s all good old Cannabis sativa L.

Phenotype & Genotype

In the world of cannabis seeds, you’ll often come across the word ‘phenotype’, or its abbreviation ‘pheno’. Examples include claims that several plants of a given strain X grew into different phenotypes. Actually, when we say phenotype, we mean the entire outward appearance and ‘behaviour’ of the plant. To be more specific, a phenotype is the way in which the genetic properties of a given plant (its ‘genotype’) are expressed. Different phenotypes may, for instance, express themselves as plants with more/fewer or larger/smaller leaves, different heights, or even variations in the colours of the cola buds.

As a rule, all plants of any given strain have the same genotype: the sum total of all the genes in their unique DNA. And yet, this genotype can be expressed in various phenotypes. This is determined by environmental factors (including differences in nutrients, temperatures, or soil types).Whenever the environment is the cause, we touch upon the famous ‘nature vs. nurture’ dichotomy. Nature provides the ‘blueprint’ of the cannabis genetics, whereas the environment (i.e., weather, soil, grower, etc.) supplies the ‘nurture’ part, or, in other words, the ‘upbringing’ of the plant.

As growers, then, we provide a personal dose of nurture full of loving care and attention, while we count on Amsterdam Genetics for the finest touch of nature: premium cannabis genetics!

DNA, Cell Division, And New Strains

We have seen how every cannabis strain is uniquely different, due to the singular genetics carried within each and every cell. Once a cannabis seed germinates, the plant starts to grow, driven by a process in which cells replicate by means of cell division. Cells can split in two, copying their DNA in the process, by which two new cells come into being; each with the exact same DNA on board. These two cells then divide into four, and then eight; and so on until you’re looking at an entire cannabis plant bristling with shiny buds – a true miracle of nature.

Leaving mutations aside for now (which usually result from copying errors during cell division) all cells of a cannabis seed or plant share the exact same genetics. All the marijuana seeds and plant within a single strain also share nearly 100% identical DNA in their cells. This is why for instance, all Super Silver Haze grows are alike. If you are looking for variety instead, don’t worry: our expert geneticists are working around the clock to develop new new strains from crossbreeds between our own strains and other cannabis genetics from all over the world!

Hybrid Strains

Another concept that’s hard to miss when looking for cannabis seeds: hybrid strains. Even though the notion of hybrid strains includes a long-standing debate on the differences between sativa and indica strains, among other topics, hybridity is actually very simple when it comes to cannabis genetics.

Hybrid strains are basically all cannabis variants that contain genetics from both indica and sativa type plants. Strictly speaking, any strain with added ruderalis genes is a hybrid too. But how do you know what constitutes a sativa or an indica plant? The short and simple answer to this question is: just assume any strain you order online contains a bit of both.

All the crossbreeding of recent decades makes it extremely unlikely to run into ‘pure’ indica or sativa plants, even though rumour has it they still exist. This would involve either super-rare mother plants kept in a stasis-like condition for years, safely locked away in secret grow rooms. Or you’re dealing with so-called landrace strains: primal forms of feral cannabis, carrying genetics unaffected by humankind’s eager fingers.

Nonetheless, it is safe to assume that any marijuana seeds you can buy online are hybrid strains. These are usually labelled sativa dominant or indica dominant, except when you happen to find a perfectly balanced strain with 50% of either kind.

Getting To Work With The Finest Cannabis Genetics

When it comes to superb genes, you’ve sure hit the sweet spot with the Amsterdam Genetics seeds collection. Our experts have spent the last 25 years dedicating al of their passion and expertise to developing ever better strains. Of course, we direct our efforts at creating the best effects and the most delicious flavours and scents, as well as robust, stable genetics that can take a bit of a beating.

No matter whether you’re looking for an easy-growing autoflower, a sturdy sativa hybrid, or an intense indica-dominant strain, we always have the right premium cannabis genetics ready to order online. That’s what you get when quality is in your genes like we do here at Amsterdam Genetics!

Get The Best Genetics

Cannabis aficionados are still confronted with outdated stoner stereotypes, permanently couchlocked and mind drifting to faraway places. What many people fail to understand, however, is that cannabis can produce a huge variety of effects. As a consequence, people look to marijuana for all sorts of different reasons. Cannabis can have uplifting qualities, for instance, enabling certain weed strains to help focus attention and boost our energy levels.

The Uplifting Side Of Cannabis

Some days, even getting out of bed can be a challenge. You probably know the experience: a sense of listlessness and a numb sensation just behind the eyes, making it difficult to even move around. Some people feel this way in the middle of the day instead of in the early morning. Even so, a lack of energy can have a profound impact on performance at work or in school. It can make it hard to concentrate and stay focused. It can also make us feel apathetic, tired, lethargic, or even depressed. So what can help to return that vibrant energized feeling? Cannabis may not be the first thing to come to mind, since there are plenty of weed strains that can help people relax and even sleep better. Nonetheless, the uplifting effects of cannabis have been noted by many people; sometimes to their own surprise.

Of course, we’ll be the first to admit that there are many different ways to boost your energy. Getting regular exercise and a healthy diet are worth trying for sure, as is getting enough sleep. Reducing stress at work can help, too, or enjoying the company of close friends. In fact we very much recommend all of these factors; but that doesn’t mean cannabis growers and connoisseurs can add the uplifting effects of weed to the equation!

Different Strains And Cannabinoids

Anyone planning to try cannabis for its uplifting potential should take note of the following information. Cannabis is best known for two cannabinoid compounds: THC and CBD. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) causes the high; this is the main psychoactive component that causes the famous headbuzz effect. This cerebral and generally energetic effect is mostly ascribed to haze weed strains. CBD (cannabidiol), by contrast, is not psychoactive. It has an inhibitory effect on THC, in addition to soothing properties and mood-lifting potential.

Even though strains with high THC percentages are best known for their energy-boosting capacity, a powerful high is not always a welcome experience when you have work to do. Finding the right balance between THC and CBD is important to reach the intended effect. Terpenes are another determining factor when it comes to energy levels. We’ll explain what these effects entail below. Further down in this blog, you’ll find some of our most uplifting strains and cannabis seeds.

THC And CBD: Uplifting Cannabis Effects

Cannabis strains with high THC percentages can have uplifting effects, so this is certainly one aspect worth considering. However, high THC levels also produce other effects, which may not be desirable when you’re at work, in school, or otherwise engaged in responsibilities. Another point worth considering, especially for those with little cannabis experience, are the potential undesirable side-effects of high THC doses. Anxiety and paranoia are examples of such side-effects.

Finding the right balance between CBD and THC is certainly a good idea. Either cannabinoid can provide an energy boost in its own way. Their respective concentrations differ between strains. Picking a high CBD cannabis strain can help tone down the effects of the THC it contains. CBD can also help counter the adverse effects THC may have on short-term memory. Obviously, that may prove very helpful for anyone looking to increase mental focus and accurate memory.

No two people are the same; neither in terms of of personal taste, nor in their individual needs; however, finding the perfect uplifting cannabis strain can benefit both medically and recreationally. Weed can help counter fatigue (research even demonstrates its potential to alleviate CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome). Cannabis has uplifting potential that may help people face the day with a cheerful mindset, enthusiasm, a sharp focus, and a healthy dose of creativity.

Terpenes For Energy

Terpenes also play an important part in the uplifting potential of cannabis. We keep discovering more about these compounds, which give cannabis its distinctive fragrances and aromas. All terpenes have unique properties and effects; yet many of them are able to influence the way other terpenes and cannabinoids work as well. This is known as the entourage effect. Several cannabis terpenes contribute to the uplifting properties of marijuana.

Pinene

You probably know the scent of pinene. This is the compound that gives pine needles, basil, rosemary, and dill their pleasant scent. In cannabis, pinene can help keep the mind clear and alert, improving concentration and memory function. Pinene can also have mood-lifting effects. Anyone interested in growing cannabis for its uplifting properties ought to keep an eye on pinene levels when picking genetics.

Limonene

Growers aiming to elevate their mood and increase their motivation should pick cannabis seeds with plenty of limonene in their genetic makeup. This terpene gives citrus fruits their telltale scents, including lemons, oranges, and limes. Studies have shown that limonene can have positive effects on mood as well as helping to counter stress and anxiety. Limonene can also improve concentration ad help us stay enthusiastic and motivated.

Energy Boosting Weed: Our Best Seeds

There are plenty of growers and gourmets who pick their marijuana seeds specifically for their energy-boosting effects. Growing cannabis for its uplifting effects can be a smart move both from a medical or a recreational perspective. That’s why we present a few suggestions for premium uplifting cannabis seeds that you can order with ease from our award-winning seed bank.

Uplifting Cannabis Seeds 1: Amazing Haze

Since haze strains are known for their uplifting, energy boosting headbuzz, Amazing Haze ought to be our top number one recommendation for growing uplifting cannabis seeds. At 24% THC, this baby is high up in the heavyweight range. Her sweet taste masks the limonene heritage of parent strain Amnesia Haze, with a comparably energizing booster buzz.

Amazing Haze may not be our easiest growing strain, but the ginormous buds she’ll produce in the hands of experienced growers are enough to give you new uplifting energy straight away!

High Energy Weed Strain 2: Grapefruit Superstar

Grapefruit Superstar cannabis seeds are a real battery charger when it comes to issues of energy, fatigue, or lack of focus. High limonene content in the colas of these plants promise a keening of the senses, accompanied by a broad smile due to the euphoric headbuzz this 90% sativa dominant strain conveys.

Her taste is deeply refreshing, with a typical grapefruit twist owing to a dash of caryophyllene on top of her citrus aromas. However, don’t forget that we are still dealing with a 20% THC strain here!

The Best Uplifting Cannabis Seeds To Boost Your Energy

As far as we’re concerned, the old stereotype of the eternal lethargic stoner can be consigned to the annals of history. Modern growers and connoisseurs know full well that that weed contain plenty of uplifting potential, as long as you know which strains to pick.

With our varied selection of first-class genetics, anyone can find a suitable strain to grow. On top of that, our Grow Blogs give you all the knowledge you need to make growing into a positive experience with uplifting effects for anyone willing to give it try!

People interested in using cannabis obviously prefer to have a positive experience. Most look for a sense of happiness, creativity, and having a few laughs together. The fact that cannabis can produce feelings of happiness is a real attraction to many, but the effect can go one step further, inducing a sense of euphoria. In a way, euphoria is the superlative of happiness. It triggers feelings of bliss and even ecstasy, temporarily pushing worries aside. But how can cannabis cause this sensation of euphoria? Which strains are most likely to produce it? Read on to find out!

Cannabis And Euphoria

Euphoria is a rare experience for most if not all of us. Generally speaking, simply feeling content and positive is a pretty favourable mindset. Euphoria is altogether different. It is described as a worry-free sense of intense joy or an ecstatic rush. You could say that euphoria is happiness in the extreme. Dictionaries even call it excessive happiness, which has a bit of a negative ring to it. That could be due to a conservative touch in popular opinion. Objectively speaking, though, euphoria is a positive phenomenon characterised by deep feelings of joy, satisfaction, and self-confidence. Stress and concerns seem to slip from view, at least for a while.

As mentioned, euphoria is not something you are likely to experience on a regular basis. Luckily, you don’t need to; it would probably become a bit of a drag soon enough. Still, most people do look for ways to feel happy and content. For some, cannabis could help trigger an occasional experience of euphoria as an extreme feeling of joy.

How Weed Affects Mood

Our mood depends on a plethora of different factors. Generally speaking, positive moods can range from a pleasant sense of contentment to an uplifted mental state and being over the moon with joy. Normally speaking, we are somewhere along the lower half of this range. Euphoria, by contrast, is a rare experience. It can be triggered by specific events, such as completing a highly challenging task, going through exciting experiences, or enjoying sex. It can also occur during sports, after extreme exertion triggers release of substances called endorphins.

But as this article suggests, euphoria can also be sparked by the use of cannabis. This is due to the fact that marijuana is rich in compounds called cannabinoids and terpenes that can affect our mood. Our body is equipped with a network of receptors known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Various cannabis compounds can interact with these receptors, enabling weed to influence our mood in turn. THC (the main psychoactive cannabinoid) . THC, the main psychoactive cannabinoid, can activate certain receptors that make us feel euphoric. The effect is comparable to that of anandamide, a neurotransmitter produced by our own body. Tellingly, anandamide is known as the ‘bliss molecule’.

Dopamine is another neurotransmitter that can spark such positive sensations. If the body fails to produce enough of this substance, happiness can become a rare feeling indeed. People can have persistent shortages of these neurotransmitters, and this can be a cause of clinical depression. Cannabinoids in weed can affect dopamine release, enabling them to influence our mood in turn.

Euphoria By Cannabis Terpenes

Cannabis contains more than just cannabinoids that can cause feelings of euphoria, however. A 2018 study demonstrated how specific terpenes play a part in experiencing a cannabis high, too. Multiple terpenes appear to have positive effects on anxiety, pain, and depression. This has led scientists to believe that terpenes could also be involved in the sense of euphoria experienced in a cannabis high.

Although terpenes do not usually produce their own mental effects, they often work in concert with the cannabinoids found in specific strains. This type of cooperation is called the entourage effect. Their effects are often subtly expressed in a high, but of all terpenes, limonene is has the best reputation for promoting euphoric bliss. This compound gives weed a refreshing citrus scent that evokes an association with happiness almost by default. There is a good reason why so many detergents, perfumes, and soaps contain citrus aromas, after all.

Euphoria Due To Cannabis, Or Your Own Brain?

THC is one of the main marijuana cannabinoids associated with the euphoria you could experience after using cannabis. THC also largely determines the intensity and duration of the high. However, your own unique circumstances obviously determine part of the effect as well. After all, your personal emotional state (are you feeling happy or sad?) and your own ECS affect the experience at least as much, if not more. Perhaps someone you know prefers a specific strain because of its positive effects, but that doesn’t mean it will have the same effect on you. Which strain will make you or anyone else feel over the moon is impossible to predict.

The Risk Of Seeking Euphoria Through Cannabis

Anyone planning to grow and consume cannabis flowers in pursuit of euphoria should be careful not to expect too much. In fact, this advice applies in a broader context that that of weed alone. The quest to find happiness is as old as humanity itself, but it is a path that is fraught with risks. The last thing you want is to become dependent on any specific action or agent to feel happy or euphoric. No matter whether it’s cannabis, candy, sex, or some other means: if this becomes your only way to experience euphoria, you are heading down a slippery slope.

Always make sure you keep multiple roads towards happiness open. Watching a nice movie, reading a good book, an evening spent with good friends, or going for a long walk with your dog: there are plenty of ways to experience happiness, satisfaction, and even euphoria. More often than not, the experience hits you when you least expect it. Actively looking for it is no guarantee of success. That’s why you shouldn’t fall for the temptation of trying to find euphoria by using cannabis or any other kind of ‘trick’.

With these words of warning in mind, let’s now turn to the best Amsterdam Genetics cannabis strains to spark that renowned state of euphoria.

Best Cannabis Strains For Euphoria

Several strains have great credentials for triggering strong euphoric highs. These cannabis variants contain just the right cannabinoids and other compounds to provide that exuberant sense of blissful happiness. We would advise anyone looking to try cannabis for that fleeting, ephemeral, and almost mythical state of euphoria to try the following top strains from the Amsterdam genetics collection.

Top Euphoria Strain #1: Candyfloss

With Candyfloss cannabis seeds, the smiles start as soon as you hear the name. Sweet as cotton candy, this lady hides a truckload of THC underneath her seductive bouquet. If euphoria is mainly caused by this cannabinoid, then Candyfloss manages to link the force of about 23% THC with sweet and fruity candy aromas in a cheerful, uplifting high effect. It’s like a kid in a candy store without the dental cavities – that’s enough to trigger euphoria by itself, isn’t it?

Even the act of growing Candyfloss seeds tends to make people happy, as this 70% sativa whopper has a nine-week flowering time that’s short enough to make any farmer smile. If you add the fact that these ladies can grow pink buds in just the right conditions, you know you’re in for a euphoric grow experience.

Top Euphoria Strain #2: Lemon Haze

Lemon Haze cannabis seeds also pack plenty of THC, but here, the main euphoria potential is in the terpene profile. Lemon haze owes its lovely refreshing citrus aroma to copious amounts of limonene, the main aromatic compound involved in cannabis euphoria.

This is another firm sativa lady with a high that focuses on the brain. That’s probably just as well, since euphoric feelings are mostly a cerebral phenomenon. On the other hand, Lemon haze is also linked to physical bliss. Connoisseurs claim this is a bedroom strain par excellence, suited for intense head-to-toe cannabis euphoria moments…

The Euphoria Of Growing Cannabis

As we have seen, cannabis can contribute to feelings of euphoria in several ways, no matter how transient and ephemeral the sensation may be, or is supposed to be. Of course, what applies to weed also applies to many other sources of joy: always enjoy them in moderation. Nonetheless, there is one piece of green happiness that we haven’t even mentioned so far. Judging by what experts say, growing your own cannabis can trigger its own experience of euphoria!

Anyone with a knack for gardening knows that proud feeling of natural joy you get when you see your beautiful home-grown flowers and plants. Of course, if those flowers are full of substances to further boost that happiness, it’s not hard to draw conclusions. Anyone can give a grow a go using our first rate cannabis seeds and the tips and tricks from our grow blogs, so we’re not afraid to finish off with a bold statement. Perhaps growing cannabis is every bit as good a road to euphoria as consuming the fruits of its harvest!

Anything from a flu infection to eating the wrong type of food can make you feel sick and nauseous, prompting the urge to throw up. Fortunately, the feeling usually passes quickly. But what if you’re affected by nausea for days, weeks, or even longer? This deceptively common condition can make life miserable for basically anyone. Nausea is a constant presence, which can stop you from eating as much as you should. Long-term nausea, as caused by chemotherapy for instance, has made many people turn to cannabis for relief.

What Causes Nausea?

In essence, nausea and vomiting are very useful mechanisms. They help you body to protect itself, and signal potential health or dietary problems. Throwing up is a useful way of purging pathogens and hazardous substances. In normal circumstances, the mechanism serves its purpose to make sure you’ll feel better soon. If symptoms persist, you should always consult your doctor. Nausea can also be a symptom of more serious underlying health conditions.

Potential causes of nausea include:

• Motion sickness;
• Appendicitis;
• Pregnancy;
• Pain;
• Migraine;
• Ear infection;
• Gastrointestinal issues;
• Bacterial or viral infections;
• Medication side-effects (including chemotherapy);
• Toxins;
• Liver conditions;
• Epilepsy;
• Concussion;
• Psychiatric conditions;
• Stress and anxiety.

As you can see, nausea can have many different causes. Nausea itself can make you feel absolutely miserable, bit moreover, it can damage your health if it keeps you from eating (properly). That makes it all the more important to take the symptoms seriously and address the issue.

How Nausea Works

It is striking that we know more about the mechanism of vomiting works than about how nausea works. Nausea is a complex phenomenon involving the brain, the digestive tract, and the peripheral nervous system. Nausea is thought to be connected with serotonin production and its ability to bind to receptors. These receptors are located in the brain and throughout the digestive system.

Cannabis To Counter Nausea

As you may know, cannabis is grown for all sorts of medicinal applications. The compounds found in cannabis have properties that can counter nausea. THC appears to be particularly effective in this regard. THC is the main psychoactive cannabis component. Research demonstrates that it affects CB1 receptors found in certain areas of the brain, enabling it to reduce nausea and restore appetite. Previous studies had already indicated the usefulness of THC. In 1988, a study conducted at Georgetown University found that of 36 patients involved, 23 noticed how it helped relieve nausea and the urge to vomit. By contrast, a commonly used drug called prochlorperazine only managed to reduce symptoms in 1 out of 36 patients.

Other Cannabinoids

Cannabis contains other cannabinoids that can help against nausea, however. CBD, which has no psychoactive properties, affects cells that release serotonin. At lower doses, it can help counter both nausea and vomiting. CBDA (the acid form of cannabidiol acid) is a cannabidiol precursor which is itself created from CBGA. CBDA has even greater affinity for serotonin receptors than CBD or THC. Animal studies have show that this cannabinoid acid can be very effective against nausea; perhaps more so than any other cannabinoid. CBDA is most common freshly harvested cannabis plants that are rich in CBD.

Another cannabinoid known to be quite effective against nausea is THCV. Although this compound is present in much smaller concentrations than THC, you’ll still find THCV percentages in our strain descriptions to help you choose. A point for consideration, though, is the fact that THCV can also suppress appetite, making it less ideal for cannabis against nausea to improve caloric intake.

Cannabis Terpenes Against Nausea

Besides cannabinoids, many experts select their favourite weed strains based on their terpene content. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found throughout the plant kingdom. They account for much of the flavour and scent of cannabis, and so far, more than one hundred have been discovered in marijuana. Cannabis terpenes known for their effectiveness against nausea include myrcene and limonene. You’ll find these in some of our best-known strains, such as those listed further down this blog.

Nausea Caused By Chemotherapy

Nausea caused by chemotherapy is a different order of magnitude than its regular variants. Patients describe its effects as devastating, intense, and extreme. Nausea usually sets in within 24 hours of therapy commencement. Some medication is available to counter the symptoms, but this is not effective for all patients. However, cannabis can also be used to counter this type of nausea with considerable success. Israeli researchers studied the effectiveness of cannabis for CINV (Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting). This study showed that 18mg THC (oral administration) caused total remission of nausea symptoms and vomiting in children undergoing chemotherapy.

Two synthetic cannabinoids, dronabinol and nabilone, were approved for use against CINV by the FDA as early as 1985. Since then, a total of 30 clinical studies have demonstrated these synthetic cannabis compounds to be more effective against nausea than traditional medication.

Should You Use Cannabis For Chemotherapy Nausea?

Cannabis is a time-tested natural nausea remedy that may also prove useful in case of chemotherapy. However, there are three important factors to consider when deciding whether to use cannabis for this purpose:

• The cannabis consumption method used;
• Strain selection;
• Interactions with chemotherapy medication.

Cannabis can be used in various ways, including smoking, vaping, or taking edibles, capsules, or tinctures. Each consumption method has benefits and drawbacks. Smoking marijuana, for instance, produces the fastest effects (almost immediately upon inhalation).

The particular strain used makes a difference, too. Sativa strains tend to give more of an energetic buzz, which makes them more suited for daytime use. Indica strains, by contrast, have relaxing qualities that can make you sleepy, making these more appropriate for treating nightly nausea episodes. Hybrid strains that combine both types of genetics offer a mix of these qualities.

Medication

Cannabinoids can influence the effects of certain types of medication, which is another factor to take into account. THC and CBD can cause concentrations of certain drugs to increase or decrease, changing their effect in the process. Interaction with medication is most likely in case of oral consumption (i.e., capsules, edibles, tinctures and similar products). Inhaling cannabis (by vaping or smoking) circumvents most of these issues, as does cutaneous application (salve or patches).

Still doctors generally consider cannabis safe to use, even when combined with chemotherapy. This has been done around the world for years, and anecdotal evidence has been mounting ever since.

If you intend to use cannabis against nausea, you could experience significant relief. Always choose a strain that suits your needs, however, and use the most effective method. In case of chemotherapy or other severe medical conditions, always make sure to consult your doctor on using cannabis. They have the expertise to help you consider potential interactions with medication and dosages.

Our Top Strains Against Nausea

You’ll only find the very best cannabis seeds in the Amsterdam Genetics collection. Anyone growing cannabis for medicinal purposes will find the finest genetics here, including against nausea. You’ll find two of our top recommendations below.

Top Strain #1: Fatkid’s Cake

If THC is the most effective cannabinoid against nausea, then Fatkid’s Cake has you covered. In the right grow conditions, THC content can peak at nearly 30%. If the strain’s name doesn’t get your appetite going, the considerable indica content will see to that: this strain is famous for its heavy munchies effect. Moreover, these seeds contain plenty of myrcene potential, and this particular terpene is known for its effectiveness at combating nausea.

Do take care with this strain if you’re inexperienced, as it pack quite a punch: moderate consumption is the way to go. In addition, Fatkid’s Cake can make you quite slow and drowsy, so this is not the best choice for a busy day.

Top Strain #2: Lemon Ice

Lemon Ice is a sativa-dominant cannabis hybrid with interesting characteristics for fighting nausea. As the name suggests, its citrus scent is caused by limonene, the second terpene renowned for its nausea relief potential.

In contrast to Fatkid’s Cake, the sativa credentials of Lemon Ice are more likely to result in a productive mental energy boost than a sleepy body high. If nausea is keeping you from completing your daily chores, this is a better cannabis candidate to try.

Find The Perfect cannabis Strain Against Nausea

Nausea can be hard to pinpoint, and even harder to contain. Fortunately, growing cannabis to counter nausea isn’t hard to do at all. Our grow blogs give anyone the knowledge and tips to get started. Our web store is the place to be for the very finest genetics, including strains against pain, depression, insomnia, and more!