Sativa and indica are two cannabis classifications with unique characteristics, but many cannabis users are unaware of their true differences and similarities due to common misconceptions. Here’s everything to know about the two and how they can influence your cannabis experience.
Understanding Cannabis Strains
Cannabis Indica, cannabis sativa, and cannabis ruderalis are considered broad classifications of cannabis, differing in areas of origins and characteristics. Genetics and chemical profile determine the cannabis strain, so every cultivar has unique physical traits, growth cycles, and effects.
In recent years, the cannabis industry has shifted from the notion that indica is the relaxing, sedating strain, while sativa is the energizing, uplifting one. Their main difference lies in the characteristics of the plants, such as height and shape, rather than the effects they offer. The chemical makeup of the plant, also known as cannabinoid and terpene profiles, is what makes one plant differ from another.
The Importance of Cannabinoids and Terpenes
The specific contents of cannabinoids and terpenes are responsible for different effects, flavor and aroma of the cannabis plant, regardless of whether the plant is a sativa or indica strain. Depending on their chemical composition, some cannabis strains may have relaxing effects while others are more uplifting.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids or phytocannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in cannabis plants. Cannabis contains dozens of cannabinoids, but the two most notable ones are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or delta-9 (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is a psychoactive compound that produces the ”high” effect, while CBD is a nonintoxicating compound. Some cannabis strains can contain higher doses of THC than CBD, and vice versa, depending on the desired outcome.
Other well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis include:
- Delta-8 THC
- Delta-10 THC
- Cannabinol (CBN)
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Cannabichromene (CBC)
Potential Side Effects of Cannabinoids
Potency and correct dosage are key aspects of cannabis products, as they can immensely impact the overall experience and cause potential negative effects. High doses of THC can cause dizziness, increased paranoia and anxiety, dry mouth and dry eyes, depending on the personal tolerance. Personal tolerance to cannabis and experience should be considered when picking out the right dose, especially for THC-rich products.
Terpenes
Terepenes, similarly to cannabinoids, are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in cannabis plants, acting as main flavorants and aromatics. They can also produce an ”entourage effect” with certain cannabinoids by working in synergy with them.
Common terpenes and their potential effects include:
- Limonene (citrusy aroma with potential uplifting effects)
- Pinene (pine-like aroma with potential anti-inflammatory effects)
- Linalool (floral aroma with potential stress-reducing effects)
- Myrcene (earthy or musky aroma with potential relaxing effects)
Sativa Strains
Cannabis sativa originated across Asia and America, adapting to the warmer climates. Sativa plants are tall and lean, with a longer flowering time than indica plants.
Popular sativa strains include:
- Blue Dream
- Jack Herer
- Sour Diesel
- Lemon Haze
Indica Strains
Cannabis indica is native to India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, withstanding the harsh mountain environment. Indica is a short, bushy plant with wide leaves, with a faster flowering time than sativa.
Popular indica strains include:
- Northern Lights
- Grandaddy Purple
- Bubba Kush
- Blue Cheese
Hybrid Strains
By combining sativa and indica genetics, new and unique strains are created, also known as hybrid strains. Hybrid cannabis may offer indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced characteristics, with unique chemical profiles and growth characteristics. Some hybrid strains are more uplifting, some are more calming.
Popular hybrid strains include:
- Ice Cream Cake
- OG Kush
- Purple Gelato
- Wedding Cake
How to Choose Between Indica and Sativa?
There are several key aspects to consider that are more important than choosing between the two strains, such as:
- Knowing the purpose of use: Depending on whether you are using cannabis recreationally or for medical purposes, knowing why you are consuming can help you find the cannabis products that will deliver the specific effects you desire.
- Cannabinoid and terpene profiles: Consider the contents of cannabinoids and terpene profiles due to their effects, flavors and aromas, which can greatly shape your cannabis experience.
- Potency and dosage: Your personal tolerance to cannabis should be considered when picking the potency and dosage of your cannabis products.
- Methods of consumption: This goes hand in hand with potency and dosing, as smoking and vaping have a quicker onset of effects but can be hard to dose correctly, while edibles have a slower onset of effects but are easier to dose.
- Personal preferences: Depending on the chemical structure, certain strains are more energizing, while others are more relaxing and sedating. Knowing what kind of effect you prefer is one of the essential factors when choosing cannabis for you.
Regardless of whether you are consuming cannabis for medicinal or recreational purposes, understanding what influences the important characteristics, flavor, and effects you desire is the most important thing. Find your nearest dispensary and explore the selection of available cannabis products.