Cannabis Genotypes and Phenotypes:Medical Cannabis

    

When looking at cannabis strains two things influence the structural formation of any 
given cannabis plant: genetics and environment. The plant’s genetic make up, also 
called a genotype, acts as a blueprint for growth. It allows a spectrum of physical 
possibilities, but it is up to the environment to induce their characteristics. The 
physical expression  of a genotype is known as the phenotype, which is simply defined 
as the traits that the environment pulls out from the plant’s genetic code. Everything
 from color, shape, smell and resin production is affected by the environment.

When growing these cannabis plants some look for different characteristics to take
 care of a health issue they might have. For example, the health benefits of medical 
 marijuana include relief from pain and muscle spasm, nausea associated with 
chemotherapy and anorexia. Benefits are seen in immune function, neuroplasticity, 
emotional and mood regulation, vascular health and digestive function. Some of the 
side effects include dry mouth and fatigue. At high doses, the side effects include 
dizziness, paranoia, and psychoactive effects. I think that this is a step in the right 
direction for health care. If we can find medicines that help treat patients with fewer
 side effects, this is a wonderful situation.