Having a bad first experience while trying medicinal marijuana can lead to doubts and skepticism on whether that course is right for them, and even taking marijuana off the shelf of options forever.

Patients need to start slow and discover exactly what is right for them. There are many research sites that outline beginner strains of marijuana, worth a look for the plant medicine novice. Also use the resources available through the dispensary that you choose to visit.

One caution should be when looking at the names of these many different strains. Just the name of a particular strain has turned people away from buying it. Don’t be afraid of strains with intimidating names, such as Green Crack and Durban Poison. There are many strain names that can be misinterpreted as being harmful or even illicit, but are harmless and grown to only help the patient and their highest good.

The strain highlight this month is Grapecycle. This CBD dominant plant has more than twice the levels of CBD than THC, allowing it to be a mild and beneficial choice. The medicinal part of the plant becomes the spotlight, with very little psychoactive high.

Grapecycle has an uplifting effect on mood and helps the body relax. It helps with depression, anxiety and insomnia. Because of its relaxing nature, it helps relieve pain associated with tension and stress, usually related to headaches and muscle spasms.

Grapecycle is available at Earth’s Healing Dispensary, conveniently located at 2075 E. Benson Hwy. and 78 W. River Rd., in Tucson. Connect at EarthsHealing.org. See ad, page 33.