The Difference Between Indica and Sativa
On our FAQs page you may have noticed that we answered that question with a pretty general, “…Sativa is suggested to be energizing, and Indica is suggested to be sedating.” But if you’re like us and canna-curious about the big wide world of weed, then allow us to get into the nitty-gritty.
Overall, cannabis results in the user having a greater sense of physical and mental relaxation, increased appetite, better sleep and pain reduction. It’s good to understand that while these effects generally always come with ingesting either the Indica or Sativa strain, knowing which one is right for you is also important. Each strain has its own range of effects on the body and mind.
Cannabis Indica
Cannabis Indica plants are short and bushy, with wide leaves. They typically grow faster and have a higher yield than the Sativa variety. Originating in the cooler, higher altitude climates of Pakistan and Afghanistan, Indica plants are considerably shorter than Sativa, growing to approximately 3 feet. The plant also has a signature thick coat of resin, developed as protection against harsher climate tendencies.
They take 6-8 weeks before flowering and becoming ready to harvest. Indica primarily provide a body high, in contrast to Sativa, which gives a head high. Medicine produced from this strain also has higher cannabidiol (CBD) and lower tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) counts.
Notable qualities:
- Muscle Relaxation
- Decrease in Nausea
- Decrease in Acute Pain
- Mental Relaxation
- Increased Appetite
- Increased Dopamine
- Ideal for Nighttime Use
Notable qualities:
- Muscle Relaxation
- Decrease in Nausea
- Decrease in Acute Pain
- Mental Relaxation
- Increased Appetite
- Increased Dopamine
- Ideal for Nighttime Use
Cannabis Sativa
Cannabis Sativa plants, contrarily to Indica plants, grow tall and have narrow leaves. Sativa plants normally are a lighter shade of green, loosely-branched, take longer to grow and mature, and require more light. Hailing from countries like Mexico, Columbia and Thailand, Sativas grow to approximately 6 feet on average, but can reach heights of 20 feet. They are normally ready to harvest at 10 weeks. The
general perception is that Sativa strains primarily give a cerebral head high. Medicine produced from this strain also has lower cannabidiol (CBD) and higher tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) counts.
Notable qualities:
- Helps Treat Chronic Pain
- Anti-depressant
- Anti-anxiety
- Increase Serotonin
- Increase Focus and Creativity
- Ideal for Daytime Use
Notable qualities:
- Helps Treat Chronic Pain
- Anti-depressant
- Anti-anxiety
- Increase Serotonin
- Increase Focus and Creativity
- Ideal for Daytime Use
“Many users prize Sativa-dominant strains for their energetic, coffee-like buzz that is accompanied by the feeling of ease.”
But wait, there’s more!
One cannot forget about ye olde Hybrid. As the name suggests, this strain combines characteristics of both Indica and Sativa. We have hybrids to thank for the diversity of modern cannabis, because they can express such a wide variety of characteristics.
However, none of these categories are exactly right – they do vary depending on consumption method, the individual’s temperament and overall health, as well as numerous other factors. Trial and error, and being informed by solid research is the best way to find out what works for you.
