Know Your Cannabis Subspecies: Indica vs. Sativa
If you’ve heard of indica, sativa, and hybrid when shopping for medical marijuana or hemp-derived THC products, you are familiar with the terminology used to determine the expected effects of a particular strain. This classification is widely accepted in the cannabis community.
However, is this practice solely based on assumptions and generalizations, or is there more to understanding strains? While it’s not necessarily incorrect, there might be a more scientific way to approach choosing the right cannabis strain for your needs.
Exploring Methods for Assessing Cannabis Strain Effects
A newer approach to evaluating cannabis strains goes beyond the traditional indica, sativa, hybrid method of classifying strain effects.
This modern method focuses on examining the strain’s chemical composition, specifically the cannabinoids and terpenes. It is believed that this chemical profile has a greater influence on the effects produced by the strain compared to the traditional strain classifications.
As the cannabis industry shifts towards this chemical-oriented system for guiding consumers on strain selection, recommendations are increasingly backed by scientific research.
Although the adoption of this new system may take time to become widespread, a significant portion of the industry still relies on recommending strains based on their effects. This approach offers a simpler explanation and utilizes familiar terminology that many people recognize.
Indica vs. sativa vs hybrid: delving into the basics
Consumers of cannabis and other cannabinoids face a vast array of product choices, making navigating different strains a challenge. Selecting the right strain tailored to one’s specific needs is crucial for achieving the desired experience.
Whether you are a novice or a long-time member of the cannabis community using medical marijuana, you are likely familiar with the terms Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. But what exactly are they, and how do they influence the psychoactive effects and benefits experienced by users?
Understanding Sativa Strains
Many consumers associate sativa strains with energizing, stimulating, and uplifting effects, often described as creating a “head high”.
The origins of cannabis sativa plants can be traced back to regions such as Central America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, known for their hot, dry, and sunny climates conducive to the growth of cannabis sativa. Sativa strains typically have a lower CBD-to-THC ratio, which significantly impacts their effects.
Physically, cannabis sativa plants are characterized by their tall stature, capable of growing over 12 feet in height. They have slender forms with thin leaves and take longer to mature than other cannabis types, yielding less flower than pure indica plants.
Exploring the Benefits of Sativa Strains
Given the energizing and uplifting characteristics of sativa strains, they are often preferred for their unique effects and benefits. They offer…Choosing a sativa dominant strain tends to result in a cerebral or mind high, leading to increased productivity, euphoria, and creativity compared to the relaxation and lethargy associated with indicas.
The stimulating effects of sativa strains make them a good option for daytime use and for individuals seeking enhanced productivity. Sativas are particularly appealing for those looking to tap into their creative side.
You may recognize some popular sativa strains:
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Jack Herer
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Sour Diesel
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Green Crack
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Sour Lemon Haze
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Tangie
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Amnesia Haze
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Super Lemon Haze
What constitutes an indica strain?
Indicas are often associated with the term “couch lock,” sometimes humorously referred to as “in da couch,” reflecting the common effects of this strain.
Indicas thrive in the harsh, dry, stormy conditions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, and India. Native to these regions, Cannabis Indica plants are characterized by their short, stocky stature and broad leaves. Indicas grow faster and yield more flower than sativas.
Indica strains typically have a higher concentration of CBD. This doesn’t imply less CBD content but rather a greater amount of THC. The THC and CBD balance within these strains defines the resulting effects of an indica.
Advantages of Indica strains
Indica effects often involve a full-body experience known as a “body high,” inducing intense relaxation along with a heavy sensation that can lead to tingling in the face and limbs.
Common indica effects include relaxation, euphoria, grogginess, and a sedative effect, making it a popular choice for unwinding and relaxation. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with insomnia or difficulty falling asleep. Indica strains are often dubbed nighttime strains.
You might be familiar with some popular indica strains:
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Northern Lights
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Purple Punch
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Granddaddy Purple
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Zkittles
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Ice Cream Cake
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Hindu Kush
What defines a Hybrid strain?
Hybrids result from the breeding of both cannabis species. Given the extensive history of crossbreeding cannabis plants, it’s rare for any strain to be purely indica or sativa.
These unique hybrid strains often exhibit varied physical traits based on the parent plants’ combination, including their CBD to THC ratio. Many growers intentionally breed these strains to elevate the THC content.
Advantages of Hybrid strains
Hybrids combine the best of both worlds by merging indica and sativa plants to achieve a balanced blend of body and cerebral highs.
Due to the fusion of two plants in hybrids, the effects often lean towards one strain or the other. For example, sativa-dominant hybrids offer different outcomes than indica-dominant ones.
Growers prefer hybrids for their distinctive attributes and capacity to cater to specific needs.Reducing anxiety and helping with symptoms of cancer treatments are some benefits that can vary widely.
Below are some popular hybrid strains you may be familiar with:
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Pineapple Express
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Blue Dream
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Train Wreck
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Gelato
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OG Kush
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Wedding Cake
Factors determining the effects of Indica vs. Sativa
Various factors play a role in influencing the effects of different strains. It’s important to note that the same strain can affect individuals differently. However, the primary factors determining a strain’s effects revolve around the two major cannabinoids found in the plant.
The two major cannabinoids are CBD and THC. While each is responsible for distinct effects in the body, both are absorbed by the same glands or receptors in the body. Sativa-dominant strains typically have a higher THC to CBD ratio, whereas indica-dominant strains tend to have a higher CBD to THC ratio.
The way THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors impacts the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, affecting individuals differently based on personal characteristics and consumption methods.
Choosing the right strain for you
There are various ways to select a strain that suits your individual needs and goals. The most common and straightforward approach is through the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid classification. Another more scientifically grounded method involves considering cannabinoids and terpenes. The main difference between these approaches lies in how each strain is perceived.
For beginners exploring cannabis and hemp-derived cannabinoids, the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid method provides a great starting point. Those with more experience and a deeper understanding of cannabis often prefer the cannabinoid and terpene method for a more in-depth exploration of strains.
Understanding the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid method
This method has been widely used for classifying strains based on the cannabis species for quite some time. The classification is based on the generalized effects of each species.
Its simplicity makes it easier for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the cannabis plant. It simplifies the selection process into up, down, or in-between categories, making it more digestible.
While this method streamlines strain selection for consumers, the cannabis industry has increasingly favored a more scientifically supported approach. The cannabinoid and terpene method, which we’ll delve into shortly, is at the forefront of this shift.
Utilizing the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid method
Indica and sativa are the two primary strains with markedly different effects on users. Hybrid strains offer a balance between the two extremes.
Indica is often preferred by those seeking strong sedative and relaxing effects. It is commonly used in the evenings for its calming body high that aids in unwinding after a long day.
On the other hand, sativa is favored by individuals seeking uplifting and energetic effects. It is a choice for those looking to maintain productivity, enhance creativity, or stay active. It is a suitable option that can be utilizedDuring daylight hours, hybrids will produce a blend of effects from Indica and Sativa.
To choose a strain that best suits your intended use and preferences based on the expected effects of these strains, the Indica, Sativa, Hybrid method can be used.
Exploring the Cannabinoid and Terpene Approach
If Indica and Sativa aren’t the most reliable predictors of a strain’s expected effects, what is?
An effective way to assess the effects of different cannabis and hemp strains is by examining the chemical compounds they contain.
Cannabinoids and terpenes are the key compounds that work together in what is referred to as the entourage effect to create the unique high.
Understanding Cannabinoids
The cannabis plant comprises hundreds of chemical compounds, with cannabinoids being the primary ones that produce distinct effects. CBD and THC, the major cannabinoids, offer both therapeutic and recreational effects.
THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is often the first compound associated with cannabis. It produces psychoactive effects that include benefits such as pain and nausea relief.
CBD (cannabidiol) delivers non-psychoactive effects, making it non-intoxicating. Its potential benefits span pain and anxiety relief, as well as potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Exploring Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds present naturally in plants and some animals, contributing to aromas, flavors, and even colors. In the context of cannabis and hemp, terpenes play a crucial role.
Terpenes give strains distinct smells and tastes and are now believed to work synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance their beneficial properties, ranging from therapeutic to mood-altering effects.
There are over 150 different terpenes, mostly found in trace amounts, with dominant ones contributing to the unique characteristics of popular strains.
Common cannabis terpenes include:
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Myrcene
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Caryophyllene
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Limonene
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Terpinolene
While the impact of cannabinoids and terpenes on a strain’s effects is acknowledged, the extent and combinations’ effects remain uncertain. However, it’s known that understanding a strain’s THC and CBD content is key, with terpenes enhancing those effects.
Utilizing the Cannabinoid and Terpene Approach
This method involves assessing the cannabinoid and terpene content in a strain to categorize them into three types:
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Type I: Low CBD, High THC
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Type II: Equal CBD and THC (1:1 ratio)
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Type III: High CBD, Low THC
Selecting the cannabinoid type is the initial step, considering ratios of CBD to THC. The final step involves identifying strains with terpenes that produce desired effects.
Cannabis strains can be differentiated by the effects they produce, for example indica, sativa, or hybrid, or by their chemical makeup, including their ratio of CBD to THC content and their terpene profile, all of which are factors in the effects a specific strain will produce.
Indica vs. sativa FAQs
Indica vs. sativa FAQs
How do indica strains make you feel?
Indica strains, known for their sedative effects, help users relax and unwind, particularly beneficial in the evening before bedtime to aid in falling asleep.
Does indica or sativa make you hungry?
An increase in appetite is a common effect of all THC products, with the extent varying based on factors like individual body chemistry, dosage, and cannabis tolerance.
How do sativa strains make you feel?
Sativa dominant strains provide uplifting and energetic effects, making them perfect for daytime use and often resulting in increased creativity and productivity in users.
What are the differences between cannabis strains?
Differences in cannabis strains can stem from their effects, chemical composition (CBD to THC ratio), and terpene profile, with each contributing to the overall experience a specific strain offers.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid, which is right for you?
We’ve explored the common terminology used to describe strain effects and introduced a different perspective to help you choose a strain that best suits your needs. With this knowledge, whether indica or sativa is your preference, you can now navigate the decision-making process more effectively.
Despite the method employed to select a strain, the ultimate goal remains consistent. With numerous cannabis strains available, it’s essential to consider factors such as individual tolerance, body chemistry, dosage, and consumption method as they all play a role in shaping your cannabis experience, irrespective of the chosen strain.
If you seek a diverse range of strain-specific hemp-derived cannabinoids, Everyday Delta offers a comprehensive selection, including Delta 9, Delta 8, HHC, and THC-O in popular strains.