Cannabis is a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. There are two main types of cannabis – Cannabis Indica and Cannabis Sativa. Each type has its own unique effects and uses. In this article, we take a look at the differences between these two types of cannabis.
What cannabis strains are there?
If you read up on cannabis strains or buy cannabis from a dispensary, you will find that strains are usually categorized into three groups: Indica, Sativa and Hybrid. Most users and dealers use these strains to predict the effect, but are they accurate?
What does science say?
Science points to a better way to determine the effects of a cannabis strain: Cannabinoids and terpenes, the compounds that make up the chemical profile of a particular strain.
So why are smokers still using indica, sativa and hybrids instead of the cannabinoid and terpene model?
Science points to a better way to determine the effects of a cannabis strain: Cannabinoids and terpenes.
What does the industry say?
There is a big push in the cannabis industry to discard the indica/sativa/hybrid classification system because it is not based on data and science. The terms are botanical names that refer to the structure of a plant, not the effects it produces.
However, most of the cannabis industry still sticks to classifying strains as indicas, sativas or hybrids for one main reason: it’s easy. The consumer has three options – high, low or in between – and you can easily explain what a particular strain feels like and sell a product. Whether you like it or not, the classification system for indica, sativa and hybrid strains is still firmly entrenched in the world.
Which classification is better?
Both models have their value and can be used by consumers of all levels. The indica/sativa/hybrid model is a simpler, more general method to determine a strain and its effect.
Let’s take a look at the differences between indicas and sativas and the usefulness of the two classification systems.
Indica vs. sativa: understanding the basics
The common perception of indica and sativa is that indica strains are physically calming and perfect for relaxing with a movie or as a nightcap before bed. Whereas sativa strains have a stimulating effect on the brain that combines well with physical activity, socializing and creative projects.
Hybrid strains are thought to have a mixture of indica and sativa effects.
But indica does not always mean “in da couch” and sativas do not necessarily stimulate all consumers. The origins of the two terms lie in botany, not in the effect, and describe the physical structure of a plant. In addition, everyone’s body chemistry is different, so one strain can have a different effect on each person.
Nevertheless, the belief that indica, sativa and hybrids have different effects is still deeply rooted in mainstream cannabis culture today.
Indica does not always mean “in da couch” and sativas do not necessarily stimulate all consumers. The origins of the two terms lie in botany, not in the effect
The origin of indica and sativa
In 1753, Carl Linnaeus published Species Plantarum, in which he classified all cannabis plants under one group, “Cannabis sativa L.”, with “Cannabis” referring to the genus, “Sativa” to the species and “L.” to Linnaeus’ system. “Sativa” comes from the Latin “sativum”, which means “cultivated”.
The French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck updated the naming in 1785 with two different species: “Cannabis sativa”, a taller, lankier and more fibrous plant, and “Cannabis indica”, a shorter, stockier and more psychoactive plant whose name means “from India”, where it was thought to have originated.
These definitions largely refer to the physical structure of each type of cannabis and are still used today.
Indicas
Indicas are generally considered to be relaxing and were originally grown in cold, northern climates. Their life cycle is shorter, so they can be harvested before the cold and wet of fall and winter sets in.
Sativas
Sativas, which are usually considered stimulating, originally grew in warm, humid climates where they grow long and lanky so they dry out and can’t absorb as much moisture. Their warm climate also means that they take a long time to grow and flower or form buds because the weather doesn’t get cold and rainy at the end of the growing season.
Hemp
As a side note, what we refer to as “hemp” refers to the industrial, non-intoxicating cannabis strains that are harvested primarily for fiber, seeds, CBD and novel cannabinoids like Delta-8. The hemp fibers can be used to make materials and textiles, the seeds can be eaten, and CBD and other novel cannabinoids can be extracted from them. Legally, hemp is any cannabis plant with less than 0.3% THC.
Indica, sativa and hybrids vs. cannabinoids and terpenes
Weed is incredibly nuanced. Each strain has its own chemical profile that interacts differently with each person’s body chemistry – the same strain can have completely different effects on you and your smoking buddy.
The indica, sativa and hybrid method
The indica/sativa/hybrid model is a basic, quick and easy way to get a general feel for how a strain will affect you. Just know that it’s not exact.
The effect of Indica
Indicas are quiet and relaxing, ideal for unwinding at the end of the evening, watching a movie or listening to music, taking a nap or just staring at the wall.
Sativa
Sativas are energetic and make you productive. They are great for physical activities, hiking, completing tasks, cleaning and anything that requires concentration.
Hybrid strains offer a mixture of indica and sativa-like effects.
The cannabinoid and terpene model and compiles the chemical profiles of thousands of strains using data from cannabis testing labs across the country. This method is slightly more complex.
Cannabinoids and terpenes
So if indica and sativa are not the best predictors of effect, what is?
The better way to determine the effects of different weed strains is to talk about their mixture of cannabinoids and terpenes, the chemical compounds. These compounds combine to create the so-called entourage effect, which leads to the feeling of being high.
What are cannabinoids?
The cannabis plant is made up of hundreds of chemical compounds that produce unique effects, and the most important are the cannabinoids. CBD and THC are the two most abundant cannabinoids and the main contributors to the therapeutic and recreational effects of cannabis.
THC
The famous THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the substance that most people think of when they talk about weed – it’s the substance that produces a high and relieves symptoms such as pain and nausea.
CBD
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating compound known to relieve anxiety, pain, inflammation and many other medical conditions.
What are terpenes?
If you’ve ever used aromatherapy to relax or invigorate your body and mind, you’ll know the basics of terpenes, the aromatic compounds often produced by plants and fruits. They are found in lavender flowers, oranges, hops, pepper and, of course, cannabis. Terpenes are secreted by the same glands that secrete THC and CBD, and make cannabis smell like berries, citrus, pine, gasoline, etc.
There are many types of terpenes found in cannabis, but these four are the most common:
- Limes
- Myrcene
- Caryophyllene
One question that research has yet to answer is how terpenes – and various combinations of terpenes – affect the effects of different cannabis strains. So while cannabinoids are the most important step in determining how a strain feels, e.g. whether you want THC or CBD in a strain or both, terpenes also contribute a lot to the effect.
the cannabinoid and terpene method
When choosing a cannabis strain, one should not think of indica or sativa, but of cannabinoids and terpenes or the chemical profile of a strain (another name for this is “chemovars”).
Cannabis strains are categorized into three major chemical profile types or chemovars:
- Type 1: high THC, low CBD
- Type 2: equal proportions of THC and CBD
- Type 3: high CBD, low THC
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Cannabinoid profile types
These terms are known in the industry, but are not often used.
Type 1
THC-dominant strains (Type I) are high in THC and low in CBD and are ideal for people seeking a strong euphoric experience. These strains are also chosen by patients treating pain, depression, anxiety, insomnia and more.
Type 2
Balanced THC/CBD strains or 1:1 strains (type II) contain similar amounts of THC and CBD and offer mild euphoria as well as symptom relief. These strains are usually a good choice for inexperienced users looking for an introduction to the typical cannabis high.
Type 3
CBD-dominant strains (type III) have a high CBD/low THC content and are often used by people who are very sensitive to THC or by patients who need relief from their symptoms due to their low THC content. If you are prone to anxiety with THC-dominant strains or don’t like other side effects associated with THC, you should try a strain with a high CBD content.
Further considerations when choosing between indica and sativa
Other factors play a role in how a variety will work.
Compatibility
Regular smokers have a much higher tolerance than occasional smokers and can often consume much more or stronger weed without feeling any effects.
Dosage
The potency of a strain and the amount you consume, known as the dosage, have a big impact on the cannabis experience.
Many popular strains in dispensaries can be very strong, and a strain with 25% THC may not be as enjoyable as one with 16%.
In addition, a few puffs and smoking a whole joint have a completely different effect and intensity.
Body chemistry
Everyone’s body chemistry is different, and it’s hard to say how one strain will affect each individual. Even if you use just as frequently as someone else, your body might react very differently to cannabis. A friend might smoke a whole joint, but for you, one or two puffs might be enough.
If you are prone to anxiety or other negative side effects of THC, you should try a strain with a high CBD content.
Quantity and setting
Aside from tolerance, dosage and body chemistry, the setting and environment in which you consume the weed is also crucial to the enjoyment of cannabis. If you’re having a bad day or are nervous, using cannabis can have negative effects.
The setting and environment depend entirely on the person. Some people feel comfortable in a social environment, others do not. Some prefer to smoke at home, while others like to smoke outdoors in nature.
Type of consumption
The way you consume weed also determines how a strain affects you. A puff on a vape is generally considered lighter and has less effect than a puff on a joint. Smoking weed produces an intense effect immediately and is generally not for beginners.
If you want a long-lasting effect, you should consider edibles.
Indica vs. Sativa FAQ
Here you will find answers to some frequently asked questions about indica and sativa marijuana.
Is there a difference between Indicas and Sativas?
“Indica” and “sativa” are botanical terms that refer to the physical structure of a plant. In terms of effect, indicas are considered calming and relaxing, while sativas are considered uplifting and energizing.
Do sativas give you energy?
While there is no scientific evidence that sativas are energizing, they are believed to be uplifting and euphoric.
Do sativas give you a physical high?
It is widely believed that sativas provide a head and body high, although the body chemistry of each user is different.
Do sativas cause cravings?
Sativa strains can stimulate appetite and trigger cravings, but this depends on your body chemistry.
Do sativas keep you awake at night?
Sativas are considered stimulating, so they can keep you awake at night, but it depends on your body chemistry.
Do Indicas make you sleepy?
Indicas are generally considered relaxing, which can make you feel sleepy.
Do Indicas cause a physical high?
Some indica strains are known to induce a strong physical high.
Will Indicas make me paranoid?
If you are prone to anxiety or paranoia when sober, indica or sativa strains may have negative effects, but it depends on your body chemistry.
Do Indicas turn my eyes red?
Indicas or sativas can turn your eyes red.