Sativa VS Indica Cannabis: How To Choose The Right Strain

Summary

• Traditionally, Sativa is known to energize consumers, helping them become more creative and focus better.
• Indica is frequently used for medical instead of recreational purposes because it has a more relaxing and therapeutic effect throughout the body.
• The terms “Sativa” and “Indica” are being replaced with new categories to better reflect a strain’s potential effects.

 

Basics

Consumers distinguish between “Indica” and “Sativa” cannabis strains thinking one is sedating and the other is energizing.  Indeed, indica strains are more relaxing, and Sativa ones are more uplifting. While the first fits well for watching a movie, the latter is more beneficial for social gatherings or creative activities.

“Sativa” and “Indica” came up in the 18th century. “Sativa” refers to the hemp plants found in Europe and western Eurasia, cultivated for their nutritious seeds and fibers. On the other side, by that time, Indians were already harvesting Indica cannabis for the intoxicating effects of hashish. 

Throughout history, most producers ended up crossbreeding, wanting to escape authorities. Hence, most strains categorized into “Sativa” or “Indica” are, in fact, hybrid.

Sativa

This cannabis type is known to boost the energy levels of the consumer, creating the sensation of a “head high,” which feels refreshing and uplifting.

Moreover, users report that Sativa is beneficial for reducing anxiety and stress and boosting creativity and focus. Sativa is associated with “daytime” activities because it makes the consumer more energetic and productive. There is a wide range of Sativa strains you can experience. Most cannabis shops should have some of the following: Amnesia Haze, Super Lemon Haze, Super Silver Haze, Sour Diesel, Durban Poison, and Green Crack.

Indica

Moreover, Indica helps against insomnia by inducing sleepiness, which is why it is also known as a “nighttime” strain. It enables the users to unwind before going to bed. Customers can find Indica strains at any dispensary. Some of the popular ones include the following: Granddaddy Purple, Purple Punch, White Rhino, Grape Ape, Blueberry, and Blue Cheese.

Logic

Research tells us that some strains of Indica can be ‘sunny’ while Sativa can feel “in da couch”. Cannabis categories are therefore not the best Indicator of the potential experience. The two names originate from botany, not from the effects. 

The chemical compounds in each strain, specifically the cannabinoids and terpenes, determine how the consumer feels. For example, two indicators with districts’ cannabinoid and terpene characteristics would differently impact the consumer’s mood.

Cannabinoids

These compounds are the main drivers of Cannabis effects. While the cannabis plant includes multiple cannabinoids, the main ones are THC and CBD.  Firstly, THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, increases the user’s appetite and alleviates pain and nausea.

Moreover, it stimulates the part of the brain that reacts to pleasures like sex, thereby releasing dopamine. This chemical makes the consumer euphoric and relaxed. Secondly, CBD, or cannabidiol, relieves anxiety, pain, inflammation, and other health issues. CBD and THC share multiple of the same medical benefits. The main difference is that CBD doesn’t make the user high.

Terpenes

These are aromatic mixtures usually produced by plants and fruits. They can be found in cannabis, oranges, lavender flowers, etc. These compounds come from the same glands that exude THC and CBD and can give cannabis a scent of pine, citrus, or berries.

However, researchers haven’t yet concluded how a mix of different terpenes shapes the effects on the user. Some of the most popular include terpinolene, caryophyllene, and myrcene.

Difference Between Sativa And Indica Plants

Physical Traits

Experts emphasize that Sativa and Indica are only indicators of different heights, leaf sizes, and branching of the cannabis plant.

The two plants have distinct physical traits. Sativa is usually taller and has thinner leaflets than the short and broad Indica.

Sativa can grow anywhere between five and 18 feet and has multiple branches. Indica plants look bushier, growing between two and four feet.

Chemistry

Usually, Sativa plants have more THC and less CBD, while Indica plants have more CBD and less THC. For example, a ratio of 15:1 THC to CBD means cannabis with 15 times more THC than CBD.

CBD and THC communicate with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce effects. This system maintains homeostasis, balancing internal processes like mood, immune responses, and temperature.

Firstly, THC creates the “high” by interacting with the cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body. It binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain responsible for memory, emotions, and balance. Secondly, THC also binds to CB2 receptors. They are in body tissue bolstering homeostasis in the body by managing immune and inflammatory responses.

On the other side,  CBD is less researched than THC. While CBD does not bind to CB1 or CB2, it affects how THC interacts with them. Moreover, CBD engages with other non-ECS receptors, cellular components, and enzymes associated with inflammation and pain.

Different Highs

Western University of Health Sciences researched the different “highs” experienced to uncover the differences between Sativa and Indica. 

Sativa has mainly helped to lose weight and boost energy levels. On the other hand, participants felt that Indica helped deal with headaches, seizures, and joint pain. Moreover, users reported that it helped them improve sleep quality. Researchers, therefore, concluded that Sativa would be better for recreational use while Indica would be better for medical conditions.

Moreover, dosage, tolerance, and method of use can significantly impact the high. For example, a high ratio of CBD to THC can reduce the intoxicating “high” effect of THC and feel more calming.

Choosing The Right Strain

New Cannabis Types

When selecting the right straight, a consumer should be aware of the new cannabis categories. To better reflect the potential experience of consuming cannabis, industry leaders are replacing the terms Sativa and Indica to classify a particular strain category. Instead, they call “type one” the cannabis that is high in THC, “type two” the mix between THC and CBD, and “type three” the strain high in CBD.

For someone seeking a compelling euphoric experience, type one is the go-to option. If it makes the consumer feel anxious, it’s better to choose an alternative with higher CBD. Type two offers mild euphoria and clear-headed symptom relief. It is an excellent experience for someone who has never experienced cannabis before. People use type three if they are susceptible to THC or need it for a medical condition.

Approach

When deciding which strain to experience, it is beneficial to have a rational approach. Every user should consider the following.

1) Understanding the purpose of consumption: Talking to the dispensary employee could help ensure the product is the right one. It could also influence the consumption method. Edibles would be a better option than smoking for someone who wants potent, long-lasting effects or who has inhalation issues.

2) Examining the “type” rather than whether it’s Sativa or Indica: Someone asking for Indica cannabis might buy a White Fire OG, a high-THC option. Similarly, a Sativa like Harlequin has a low THC level and might be an excellent fit for someone seeking “Indica”.

3) Consulting a health provider: Before consuming cannabis, it is helpful to seek the recommendations of a medical professional. Cannabis can have some powerful effects, including side effects. Hence a consultation about benefits and potential risks can bring value to a novice consumer.

Popular Strains

Each one’s experience might be slightly different despite consuming the same product. However, every consumer should understand the basics of a strain to decide if it’s the right fit.

Strain Name	Strain Type	THC	CBD	Helps with
Lemon Haze	Sativa	18%	less than 1%	happiness, fatigue, pain
Charlotte’s Web	Sativa	less than 1%	13%	pain, stress, anxiety
Purple Punch	Indica	19%	less than 1%	relaxation, stress, euphoria
Pennywise	Indica	8%	8%	relaxation, anxiety, pain
Blue Dream	Hybrid	18%	less than 1%	relaxation, euphoria, happiness
Pineapple Express	Hybrid	23%	less than 1%	Mental fog, acute pain, social anxiety

Takeaways

Sativa and Indica cannabis is great for recreational use and medical conditions. As mentioned above, it is essential to consider the chemical profile of each strain to get a clear picture of the potential experience a consumer might have. 

Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD are the main drivers of possible effects, so new cannabis categories have emerged to replace the traditional terms “Sativa” and “Indica”.  Whether a strain is type one, two, or three depends on the THC-to-CBD ratio.

Finally, all consumers shall be clear about their purpose of consumption and consult a doctor if necessary to ensure the best cannabis experience.

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