Indica vs. Sativa: Understanding Cannabis Strains

Know Your Cannabis Subspecies: Indica vs. Sativa

Have you ever come across terms like indica, sativa, and hybrid while shopping for medical marijuana or hemp-derived THC products? These terms are commonly used to predict the effects of a specific strain and are widely accepted.

 

But is this practice solely based on assumptions and generalizations? While not invalid, is there a more insightful way to approach classifying strains? Could there be scientific evidence supporting a more nuanced view when selecting the right cannabis strain for you?

 

Methods for Assessing Cannabis Strain Effects

A newer approach to understanding cannabis strains goes beyond the traditional indica, sativa, hybrid categorization to determine their effects.

 

This modern method involves examining the strain’s composition of compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes. It is believed that this chemical profile has a greater influence on the effects than the broad classifications commonly assigned to strains.

 

With the cannabis industry shifting towards this chemical-centric system, recommendations to consumers are increasingly grounded in scientific research.

 

While it may take time for this new approach to gain widespread acceptance, many in the industry still rely on effect-based recommendations. This method offers a simpler explanation and builds upon familiar terminology for consumers.

 

Understanding the Basics: Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid

Choosing from the wide array of cannabis products can be overwhelming for consumers seeking the ideal strain tailored to their needs.

 

Whether you are a novice or a seasoned user of medical marijuana, you have likely encountered the terms Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. But what exactly are they and how do they influence the psychoactive effects and therapeutic benefits?

 

Defining a Sativa Strain

Sativa strains are typically known for their energizing, stimulating, and uplifting effects, often associated with a “head high”.

 

The origins of cannabis sativa plants trace back to Central America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. These regions’ hot, dry, and sunny climates are ideal for cannabis sativa’s growth. Sativa strains generally exhibit a lower CBD to THC ratio, a critical factor in defining their effects.

 

Physically, sativa cannabis plants are tall, reaching heights exceeding 12 feet. They have slender frames and thin leaves, taking longer to mature than other cannabis varieties and yielding less flower compared to pure indica plants.

 

Exploring the Benefits of Sativa Strains

Individuals who consume cannabis and other cannabinoids are presented with a diverse selection of cannabis products. Navigating through this variety of strains can be quite a challenge.

 

Whether you are new to cannabis consumption or a long-time participant in the medical marijuana community, you are likely familiar with the terms Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. But what do these terms mean and how do they impact the user’s experience and benefits?

 

Opting for a sativa dominant strain tends to induce a cerebral or mind high, with increased productivity, euphoria, and creativity compared to the relaxation and lethargy associated with indica’s.

 

These stimulating effects make sativa strains a popular choice for daytime use and for enhancing creativity in day-to-day activities. Sativa’s are favored by those seeking to express their artistic side.

 

Below are some well-known sativa strains:

 

• Jack Herer

• Sour Diesel

• Green Crack

• Sour Lemon Haze

• Tangie

• Amnesia Haze

• Super Lemon Haze

   

Defining an indica strain

Couch lock is a common term associated with indicas, often humorously referred to as “in da couch”, reflecting the relaxation-inducing effects of this strain.

 

Indicas thrive in harsh, dry, and stormy climates of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, and India. The cannabis indica species from these regions yield short, stocky plants with broad leaves. Indica plants have a faster growth rate and higher flower yields compared to sativas.

 

Indica strains typically lean towards a higher CBD content. This doesn’t imply less CBD, but rather a higher THC content. The balance of THC and CBD in indicas determines their specific effects.

 

Advantages of Indica strains

Indica effects are characterized by a full-body high, inducing intense relaxation with a heaviness, often accompanied by tingling sensations in the face and limbs.

 

The effects of indicas include relaxation, euphoria, grogginess, and a sedating effect. These strains are commonly used to unwind and relax. They are especially beneficial for those dealing with insomnia or difficulty falling asleep, hence referred to as nighttime strains.

 

Below are some popular indica strains:

 

• Northern Lights

• Purple Punch

• Granddaddy Purple

• Zkittles

• Ice Cream Cake

• Hindu Kush

 

Understanding a Hybrid strain

Hybrid strains are the result of crossbreeding indica and sativa plants. Due to extensive crossbreeding, pure indica or sativa strains are uncommon.

 

Hybrid cannabis strains exhibit a range of physical traits based on parent plant mixes. Their CBD to THC ratio also varies, with many hybrids bred to have increased THC levels.

 

Advantages of Hybrid strains

Hybrids combine indica and sativa properties, striking a balance between body and cerebral highs.

 

Since hybrids are a blend of two plants, their effects may lean towards one strain over the other. For instance, a sativa-dominant hybrid offers different effects than an indica-dominant hybrid.

 

Growers select hybrids based on unique characteristics and tailored effects to meet specific needs.

Reducing anxiety and helping with symptoms of cancer treatments are among the wide range of benefits.

 

Here are some popular hybrid strains that you may have heard of:

 

• Pineapple Express

• Blue Dream

• Train Wreck

• Gelato

• OG Kush

• Wedding Cake

 

Factors Determining the effects of Indica vs. Sativa

Certain factors impact the effects of different strains, and the same strain can affect individuals differently. The key factors determining a strain’s effects revolve around the two major cannabinoids present in the plant.

 

CBD and THC are the major cannabinoids responsible for different effects in the body, both absorbed by the same glands or receptors in the body. Sativa-dominant strains typically have a higher THC to CBD ratio, while indica-dominant strains usually have a higher CBD to THC ratio.

 

How THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors affects the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, leading to individual variations based on personal characteristics and consumption method.

 

Choosing the Right Strain for You

There are various ways to select a strain that suits your needs and goals. The most common method is the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid classification, while a more scientific approach involves the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of the strains.

 

For beginners, the Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid method provides a simple starting point. More experienced users may delve deeper into strain nuances through the cannabinoid and terpene method.

 

Exploring the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid Method

This method classifies strains based on the species of cannabis and their generalized effects, offering simplicity for those less familiar with the plant’s components.

 

While this method simplifies strain selection, the cannabis industry is gravitating toward more scientifically backed approaches like the cannabinoid and terpene method, which we will explore shortly.

 

Using the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid Method

Indica and sativa strains provide distinct effects, with hybrids blending characteristics of both. Indica is favored for its sedative and relaxing effects, best enjoyed in the evening for a calming body high.

 

On the other hand, sativa offers uplifting and energetic effects, ideal for staying active, boosting productivity, or nurturing creativity.

 

Hybrids will create a mixture of effects from Indica and Sativa during the day.

The approach of indica, sativa, hybrid involves selecting a strain that aligns with your intended use and preferences based on the anticipated effects of these strains.

## What is the cannabinoid and terpene method?

If Indica and Sativa do not serve as the most reliable predictor of a strain’s expected effects, then what does?

An improved approach to discerning the effects of various weed and hemp strains is to delve into the chemical compounds that constitute them.

The main compounds that contribute to these effects are cannabinoids and terpenes. These compounds combine to work together in what is known as the **entourage effect** to generate the distinctive high.

## What are cannabinoids?

There exist hundreds of chemical compounds within the cannabis plant, each producing distinctive effects, with the primary compounds being cannabinoids. CBD and THC stand as the major cannabinoids that produce both therapeutic and recreational effects.

THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the chemical many initially associate with weed or marijuana. Its psychoactive effects, such as pain and nausea relief, are its main distinguishing features.

CBD (cannabidiol) induces non-psychoactive effects, making it non-intoxicating. Its potential benefits span pain and anxiety relief, along with the potential to reduce inflammation.

## What are terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds found in plants and some animals, surrounding us in abundance. Within cannabis and hemp, terpenes dictate the scents, flavors, and even colors of the plants.

Terpenes account for the distinct smells and tastes of various strains, with emerging beliefs indicating they provide a synergistic effect alongside different cannabinoids to amplify their beneficial properties, from therapeutic to mood-altering effects.

In total, there are over 150 types of terpenes, mostly present in trace amounts. The more prevalent terpenes collaborate to give well-known strains their unique characteristics.

The four most common cannabis terpenes include:

– Myrcene
– Caryophyllene
– Limonene
– Terpinolene

Although the impact of cannabinoids and terpenes on a strain’s effect is acknowledged, it remains uncertain to what extent this occurs and how various terpene combinations affect this. The primary step in determining how a strain will affect you involves assessing its THC and CBD content, with terpenes building on this foundation.

## How to use the cannabinoid and terpene method

This method centers on examining the cannabinoid and terpene content of a strain, categorizing strains into three general types:

– Type I: low CBD and high THC
– Type II: equal CBD and THC (1:1 ratio)
– Type III: high CBD and low THC

The initial step in this method is selecting the cannabinoid type from the listed options, considering that specific cannabinoids exhibit varying CBD to THC ratios. The final step involves identifying strains abundant in terpenes that produce the desired effects.

Consider exploring various online platforms to create a profile. Pay attention to the strains you enjoy and their dominant terpenes. Over time, you’ll be able to distinguish your preferences and dislikes.

 

Indica vs. sativa FAQs

 

Feelings induced by indica strains

Indica strains are renowned for their calming effects, aiding users in relaxation and unwinding. They are best consumed in the evening to promote better sleep.

 

Does indica or sativa provoke hunger?

Typically, THC products increase appetite. The extent of this effect varies based on individual body chemistry, dosage, and cannabis tolerance.

 

Impacts of sativa strains

Sativa-dominant strains deliver energizing and uplifting effects, making them suitable for daytime use. Many users report heightened creativity and productivity with sativa strains.

 

Contrasting cannabis strains

Cannabis strains differ based on their effects, such as indica, sativa, or hybrid distinctions. They also vary in chemical composition, including CBD to THC ratios and terpene profiles, which influence the strain’s effects.

 

Choosing Between Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid

We’ve covered common strain terminology for expected effects and offered a unique approach to selecting a strain that suits your needs best. Whether it’s indica or sativa, you now have a framework for making an informed decision.

 

Irrespective of the selection method, the ultimate goal remains constant. With a plethora of cannabis strains available, remember that personal tolerance, body chemistry, dosage, and consumption method impact your cannabis experience, regardless of the chosen strain.

 

For a diverse range of strain-specific hemp-derived cannabinoids, Everyday Delta has you covered. Our products include Delta 9, Delta 8, HHC, and THC-O in popular strains.