Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid are some terms that are thrown around very commonly in the cannabis community, but what do they mean?
Hemp Hop is here to help. We will explain the difference between Indica and Sativa of cannabis in an easy-to-understand way. Plus, we provide information on Hybrid strains, so you can find the perfect strain for your needs.
When it comes to choosing a cannabis strain, there are many factors to consider. The key to finding the perfect cannabis strain is understanding the difference between Indica, Sativa, and hybrid strains. Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects, while Sativa strains are known for their energizing and uplifting effects. Hybrid strains are a combination of both Indica and Sativa strains and can offer the best of both worlds.
Let's read about every strain in detail.
Table of Contents
- Origin of the names: Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid
- What is Sativa?
- Physical Appearance, Effects, Common Uses
- What is Indica?
- Physical Appearance, Effects, Common Uses
- What is Hybrid?
- Physical Appearance, Effects, Common Uses
- How do the different strains affect our body?
- Key Takeaways : What’s Best for You?
Origin of the names: Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid
The terms Sativa and Indica have been used to describe cannabis strains for centuries. The terms were first coined by Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753. At the time, Linnaeus was classifying all known plant life on Earth.
He categorized Cannabis Indica as a short, bushy plant with narrow leaves originating in Europe and Central Asia. He categorized Cannabis Sativa as a taller, thinner plant with wider leaves originating in India.
Since then, the terms Sativa and Indica have been used to describe cannabis strains based on their appearance and effects.
However, with the advent of modern cannabis cultivation techniques, it is now possible to create cannabis strains that are a combination of both Sativa and Indica. These are known as hybrid strains.
There is also another way to classify these strains scientifically. This includes classification based on cannabinoids and terpenes present in a particular strain, that actually cause the difference in the effects of both the strains.
We will discuss cannabinoids and terpenes further in the blog.
First let's jump into some basics.
What is Sativa?
Sativa is a type of cannabis plant. It is typically taller and thinner than Indica plants, with long, narrow leaves. Sativa plants are also known for their uplifting, energetic, and euphoric effects. This makes them popular among those who use cannabis for recreational purposes.
- Physical Appearance
Sativa plants are typically tall and thin, with long, narrow leaves. The buds are usually light green in color and are less dense than Indica buds.
- Effects
Sativa strains are known for their energizing and uplifting effects. They can provide a boost of energy and creativity, making them ideal for daytime use.
- Common Uses
- Sativa strains are commonly used to treat conditions such as fatigue, sadness, and stress.
- They can also be used to increase focus and creativity.
- Cannabis sativa strains are often associated with focusing attention inward for meditation, not just creativity.
- Some consumers state that cannabis Sativa products assist them with ADHD symptoms due to the cerebral and increased focus effects associated with Sativa.
- Primary Terpenes in Sativa Cannabis
Pinene, Limonene, Ocimene
- Popular Strains
Some popular Sativa strains include Hawaiian Haze, Pumpkin Pie, Lifter
What is Indica?
Indica is a type of cannabis plant. It is typically shorter and stockier than Sativa plants, with wide, short leaves.
- Physical Appearance
Indica plants are typically shorter and stockier than Sativa plants, with wide, short leaves. The buds are usually dense and dark green in color.
- Effects
Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects. They can provide relief from pain, and stress.
- Common Uses
- Indica strains are commonly used to treat conditions such as pain, stress, and insomnia. They can also be used to relax the body and mind.
- People use cannabis Indica to relax their muscles and calm down their thoughts.
- It's not uncommon for Indica strains to make individuals drowsy, which might be beneficial to those who suffer from sleeplessness or insomnia
- Indica strains of cannabis are usually recommended for those seeking alleviation from chronic or acute pain.
- Primary Terpenes in Indica Cannabis
Terpinolene, Myrcene, Nerolidol
- Popular Strains
Some popular Indica strains include Purple Haze, Afghani Maple, Mustard Berry, and Bubba Kush.
What is a Hybrid?
Hybrid is a type of cannabis plant that is a combination of both Sativa and Indica strains. It can offer the best of both worlds in terms of effects and appearance.
- Physical Appearance
Hybrid plants can vary in appearance, depending on the ratio of Sativa to Indica. However, they typically have a more balanced appearance than either Sativa or Indica plants. The buds can be light or dark green in color and may be dense or fluffy.
- Effects
Hybrid strains can offer a balance of Sativa and Indica effects. They can provide an uplifting mental high while also relaxing the body.
Hybrid strains can provide a body buzz or a head high. Some may be stronger, while others are milder. It will take more trial and error with individual strain types to determine how they affect you personally.
- Common Uses
Hybrid strains are commonly used to treat conditions such as stress, and pain. They can also be used to increase focus and creativity.
- Primary Terpenes in Hybrid Cannabis
Caryophyllene, Bisabolol, Farnesene
- Popular Strains
Some popular Hybrid strains include Grape Eraser, Gorilla Cake, and Cherry Chocolate Chip.
How do the different strains affect our body?
There is much more to the Sativa and Indica than just their physical differences as discussed above.
On one hand, Sativa has a much more energizing and uplifting effect when consumed, and on the other hand, Indica has a much more relaxing and calming effect.
But why do they have such distinct effects?
The various proportions of cannabinoids and terpenes in every plant enable it to interact with the endocannabinoid system in our bodies, resulting in diverse effects.
Let us briefly understand what role different cannabinoids and terpenes play in Indica and Sativa.
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Cannabinoids
A cannabis plant consists of 400+ cannabinoids, the most notable among them being THC or tetrahydrocannabinol and CBD or cannabidiol. The difference between these two major cannabinoids mostly comes down to their psychoactive effects- while THC can produce desirable highs for users who want them, others like cannabidiol don't have any psychoactive effects.
Some other commonly found cannabinoids are CBN, CBG, and THCa.
Read more about Cannabinoids in Detail
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Terpenes
The majority of people think that cannabinoids are the primary drivers of cannabis's effects. However, new research suggests that terpenes might also create impacts and could even be as powerful as cannabinoids. Terpenes are a type of natural plant component responsible for the unique smell of cannabis.
Read more about What are Terpenes? in Detail
Key Takeaways : What’s Best for You?
Cannabis strains are often classified as Indica, Sativa, or hybrid. Indica plants are shorter and bushier, with wider leaves. They typically produce a more relaxing effect. Sativa plants are taller and thinner, with narrower leaves. They typically produce a more energizing effect. Hybrid plants are a mix of the two, and their effects can vary depending on the ratio of Indica to Sativa and terpenes present..
When choosing a cannabis strain, it is important to consider the desired effect. For example, if you are looking for pain relief, an Indica strain would be a good choice. If you are looking for an energy boost, a Sativa strain would be a better choice. Knowing the difference between these strains can help you choose the right one for your needs!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing Indica or an energizing Sativa, we’ve got something for everyone. With such a wide variety of strains available, there’s no reason not to try them all!
