More
    Registration
    Home / Articles / Sativa vs. Indica: Differences and effects

    Sativa vs. Indica: Differences and effects

    Author: Lucie Garabasova

    In this article, we explore the main differences between the two primary types of cannabis, Sativa and Indica. We will examine their distinct effects on the body and mind and explain what hybrids mean. Let’s better understand how to differentiate between these varieties and when to choose each.

    What’s good to know?

    Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica differ at first glance, primarily in appearance, where you can see a clear distinction between Indica and Sativa.

    Nowadays, aside from Sativa and Indica, various types of "hybrids" are often used, moving away from classic strains. Hybrid types have a balanced ratio of genes from both Indica and Sativa subspecies. Today, most strains result from crossing these subspecies.

    Indica Cannabis overview

    Indica strains originate from dry climatic regions like India, South Africa, and Asia. Generally, Indica has higher CBD levels than Sativa, but the CBD to THC ratio is close to 1:1. Its scent is often described as "skunky."

    Effects

    The higher CBD content in Indica may induce relaxing and calming effects in many people. Experts also attribute the sleepy feeling to the higher presence of the terpene myrcene. Because of this, some people choose to use Indica in the evening.

    Uses of Indica strains

    Many medical cannabis strains contain hybrid forms of Indica. The most common uses include:

    • Non-migraine headaches
    • Nerve pain or numbness
    • Spasticity
    • Joint pain
    • Arthritis
    • Insomnia
    • Chronic pain
    • Fatigue
    • Low appetite
    .
    .

    Indica strains

    In Afghanistan, many Indica strains are grown for hash production. Some of the strains include:

    • Afghan Kush
    • Skywalker OG
    • Purple Sunset
    • Northern Lights
    • L.A. Confidential
    • Guru #10

    Sativa cannabis overview

    Sativa originates from tropical and humid areas like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Thailand, Vietnam, Colombia, and Mexico. Sativa has lower levels of myrcene, making it more energizing. It is often recognized as a recreational type of cannabis.

    Effects

    Since Sativa contains more THC than CBD, it tends to have more mind-altering effects. People often feel euphoric and uplifted. It can also reduce anxiety.

    Because of its "uplifting" effects on the mind, Sativa is often chosen for recreational use. However, some also use it for medicinal purposes. It may help with:

    • Stress
    • Nausea
    • Acute pain
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Migraines
    • Glaucoma

    Some animal research suggests that Sativa strains may have an effect on depression similar to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), though more human studies are needed.

    Sativa strains

    Some of the most popular Sativa strains include:

    • Dutch Hawaiian
    • Super Silver Haze
    • Maui Waui
    • White Buffalo
    • Sour Diesel
    • Dream N' Sour
    • Jack Herer

    Differences between Sativa and Indica

    Appearance

    • Sativa: Taller, slimmer plants with long, narrow leaves. They can grow up to 6 meters and have a longer flowering time. Suitable for outdoor growing.
    • Indica: Shorter, denser plants with wide, massive leaves. Suitable for indoor growing due to their smaller height and shorter flowering time.

    Effects

    • Sativa: Energizing and uplifting effects, ideal for daytime use, increasing creativity, focus, and productivity. Known for its antidepressant properties.
    • Indica: Relaxing and calming effects, suitable for evening use, helps relax muscles, improve sleep, and reduce stress and anxiety.

    These are general effects; some research shows that the origin lies not in the specific strain but in the chemical composition (i.e., cannabinoids and terpenes).

    Taste and aroma

    • Sativa: Citrus, fruity, or sweet aroma.
    • Indica: Earthy, musky, or skunky scent.

    Despite physical and chemical differences, experts say it's impossible to predict a plant's effects just by looking at it. These plants have been bred and crossed for so long that some scientists now claim there is no clear distinction between them.

    In fact, one study found that strains labeled as Indica are as related to Sativa strains as they are to other Indica strains.

    Hybrids

    Hybrids are crosses between Sativa and Indica, often cultivated to achieve specific effects. They can be classified as Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, or balanced.

    Their origin, effects, and suitability for use vary depending on whether they lean more toward Indica or Sativa. Most strains available on the market today are hybrids, often bred to increase THC content. Experts also say that how a strain makes you feel—or how it can be used to treat certain medical conditions—depends on the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes.

    Some cannabis terpenes include:

    • Linalool
    • Myrcene
    • Limonene
    • Alpha-pinene

    Conclusion

    Indica and Sativa are two types of cannabis plants used to make cannabis products. These strains differ physically, but experts say that, due to extensive hybridization, it’s difficult to predict how they will affect your body based on appearance alone.

    However, certain properties of compounds like terpenes and cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, influence how different types of cannabis make you feel. Some strains will give you a body-high, relaxing you, while others are more likely to offer a mind-high, sharpening your focus and altering your thinking.

    Consumption methods

    • Smoking/Vaping: Fast effects but may irritate the lungs.
    • Edibles: Slower onset of effects, but they last longer and may be stronger.
    .
    .

    What Cannabis does Cannadorra use in its products?

    Cannadorra mostly uses Cannabis Sativa, particularly for the following reasons:

    • High CBD content Cannabis Sativa is often preferred for CBD products due to its higher cannabidiol (CBD) content compared to other strains. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid with various health benefits, such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and sleep improvement.
    • Low THC content Many Cannabis Sativa strains have low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive cannabinoid that causes a "high." Low THC levels make products made from Cannabis Sativa legal in many countries and states and safe for users who want to benefit from cannabis without psychoactive effects.
    • Cultivation and processing Cannabis Sativa adapts well to different growing conditions, making commercial production easier. This robust plant can thrive in various climates, enabling consistent and sustainable CBD production.

    Terpenes and other compounds

    Cannabis Sativa also contains various terpenes and flavonoids that contribute to the "entourage effect." This effect describes the synergy between different cannabinoids and terpenes, which can enhance the overall therapeutic benefits of the product.

    • Terpenes Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive scent and flavor. Common terpenes in Cannabis Sativa include myrcene, limonene, and pinene, which have their own health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
    • Flavonoids Flavonoids are another group of compounds found in cannabis that have therapeutic effects. They contribute to the plant’s overall health profile and can enhance the effects of CBD.