You’ve probably heard more exciting facts about cannabis products, especially how they can give you therapeutic and euphoric benefits. But if that’s the only thing you know, you are still uninformed. Yeah, that’s because the choices in the market differ in origins, either from Cannabis Sativa or Cannabis Indica. These are two main types of cannabis, and they are not the same in terms of properties and effects. Hence, you must understand how each one works for you. This will ensure that you’re using the right cannabis products to meet your expectations.
It’s an interesting topic because many cannabis consumers today buy products without knowing their roots. They tend to make decisions based on limited data or evidence and how the market is being promoted in the mainstream media. If this holds in your case, you might as well consider broadening your understanding. You have to avoid buying out of hype or impulse because that’s not smart at all.
For years, being in the cannabis industry, we have observed certain patterns among consumers. We’re thus making efforts to educate our loyal customers about cannabis so that they can make favourable choices. Yours included in that sense, and it’s the reason why we’re discussing in this article the difference between Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica. After this reading, you’ll have a more precise grasp of different cannabis strains and how to choose the right one for you!
What is Cannabis Sativa?
This type of cannabis is usually found in warmer places, such as Central and South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. It is widely known for producing energizing and creative highs, keeping you more focused, and helping people with depression, nausea, appetite loss, and headaches. Sativa plants usually contain more THC than CBD. Some scientific research claims that Sativa plants may be more energizing than others. Due to its stimulating effects, cannabis Sativa-based products are often consumed during the daytime.
Cannabis Sativa Plant
This cannabis plant commonly grows in warmer climates with longer summers and takes longer to fully mature or flower than an Indica. It grows far taller than the other plant and has much thinner leaves. Because it’s a tall plant, growing Sativa indoors is difficult.
Cannabis Sativa Effects
Sativa marijuana strains are perfect for daytime use because of their stimulating cerebral effects, in contrast to the sedative nature of Indica, which is ideal for having a body high. Such effects are considered more invigorating and help users feel more alert and uplifted to tackle multiple activities, especially creative endeavours.
Interestingly, many consumers reported that taking Sativa-dominant strains helps relieve depression, anxiety, and attention disorders. The scientific explanation for this is that THC and CBD contents of the substance come with therapeutic and euphoric effects. Another reason is the terpenes in the product that may produce antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Cannabis Indica Plant
Indicas have broader leaves and stature because of their shorter flowering season. Growing this plant during the flowering season is prevalent in areas with a less hot climate. As one season shifts to another, you’re more likely to have a great cannabis Indica harvest than you will have Sativa.
Cannabis Indica Effects
For consumers who prefer to use cannabis at night, cannabis pure Indica is the best choice. It has sedative effects that are good for relaxation or getting into sleep easier. The plant has higher CBD concentrations and lower amounts of THC. Combining these two compounds is helpful for pain relief, anxiety, and other medical conditions. Many consumers also experience a boost of appetite by using Indica products.
Scientific reports claim Indica-dominant strains also have terpenes that produce sedating effects. One example is linalool that’s said to relieve anxiety. This may be present in different types of cannabis plants, including hybrids. But further studies are needed to explore other medical properties that Indica has.
Health Benefits of Cannabis Sativa
Sativa is characterized by its unique compounds and its health benefits to consumers. If you choose cannabis Sativa strains, the widely known effects include the following:
- Antidepressant
- Anti-anxiety
- Treats chronic pain
- Enhances focus and creativity
- Increases serotonin levels
- Ideal for daytime use
What is Cannabis Indica?
Indica plants originated in the Middle East, especially in Pakistan, Tibet, and Afghanistan. They generally have higher CBD content than cannabis Sativa, although their ratio is almost equal. Products derived from cannabis Indica are effective pain relievers and produce flat and relaxing highs. There are now many medical marijuana strains that contain a hybrid form of cannabis Indica. However, many scientists believe that different strains’ psychoactive and other effects should not be generalized. Due to Indica’s profound relaxation effects, it’s best consumed at night time.
Health Benefits of Cannabis Indica
One way to distinguish cannabis Indica from its counterparts is by looking at the health benefits. Like Sativa, consuming this substance can also be used for several medical and recreational purposes.
- Mental relaxation
- Muscle relaxation
- Boosts appetite
- Increases dopamine
- Relieves acute pain
- Alleviates nausea
- Aids quality sleep
Cannabis Sativa versus Cannabis Indica
Have you concluded cannabis Sativa and Indica so far? That might still be insufficient to understand the whole difference between the two. More interesting facts on the subject could shed light on the grey areas and clarify common misconceptions. Below is a rundown of essential differences between these two cannabis variations:
Plant Chemistry
There are two major psychoactive compounds in marijuana: cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Based on scientific analysis, various other cannabinoids and terpenes may be present and further contribute to euphoric effects. But this claim is yet to be confirmed. What’s certain is that the CBD and THC ratio is higher in Sativas than in Indicas. Another interesting difference between Indicas and Sativas is their physical appearance. Indica plants are usually shorter and grow broader leaves, while Sativa plants are taller and more branched.
Euphoric Highs
Although cannabis research is generally limited, reliable sources shed light on clinical differences between Indica and Sativa plants. The following are some notable results from the survey of online marijuana consumers:
- Indicas help with neuropathy, spasticity, seizures, non-migraine headaches, joint pain, and glaucoma.
- Sativa preference is usually made for treating weight loss.
- There is no difference between Indicas and Sativas when addressing multiple sclerosis, cancer, HIV infection, migraines, arthritis, fibromyalgia, muscle pain, trauma, orthopedic problems, and other painful conditions.
- Indicas are usually preferred for pain management, sleep problems, help with sedation, and experiencing an incredible high.
- Sativa is preferred for boosting energy levels.
- Researchers claimed that Indicas were commonly used for treating medical conditions, while Sativas were preferred for recreational use.
Major Differences between Sativa and Indica
At first glance, you will readily notice the difference between Sativa plants and Indica plants. The first grows leaves that are usually tall and thin-looking, and this plant takes a long time to mature. While the other is short and densely branched and grows between two and four feet.
Looking at the leaves, they both share similar characteristics. But on a closer view, Sativa is long and skinny, while Indica is short and squat. Another distinguishing feature is the plant buds, wherein the Sativa plant is long and sausage-shaped, while Indica is dense and bulbous. In terms of maturity, Sativas take about 60 to 90 days to mature, while Indica takes only 45 to 60 days.
Here’s a summary of significant differences between cannabis Sativa and cannabis Indica:
Cannabis Sativa:
- High CBD levels
- It usually has a sweet flavour.
- Relieves anxiety and pain
- Couch lock or body high
- Calming, sedating, and relaxing
Cannabis Indica:
- High THC levels
- It usually has an earthy flavour.
- Relieves depression
- Cerebral and hallucinogenic high
- Energetic and uplifting
How Sativa and Indica Produce Highs
Since then, the debate between Indica and Sativa has revolved around the relaxation and exhilaration paradigm. But it’s outdated and even inaccurate for certain reasons. Now you’re probably asking, where does the whole argument lead us? What conclusions can we draw based on the properties and effects of the two cannabis variants?
The scientific community offers definite answers, although more evidence is needed. Each strain produces an effect differently for each user, but some findings hold in the general population. Whatever effects you experience from consuming Sativa or Indica strains are directly tied to cannabinoids and terpenes. THC is one of the dominant compounds in the plant, which is known for producing euphoric highs.
Consumers would prefer cannabis products with higher THC levels for recreational use. But the role of terpenes in the medicinal effects of cannabis cannot be disregarded; they are also responsible for the plant’s aromas and flavours. Sativa and Indica were established centuries before the integral terpenes were discovered.
Knowing the difference between Indica-like or Sativa-like effects is a good starting point to choose what’s best for you. But more importantly, you’ll be able to make smarter decisions once you study each product’s cannabinoid and terpene contents. It’s always advantageous to shop at licensed cannabis sellers that provide detailed lab results.
As you check the cannabis flower, you might as well consider the odour. Does it smell good to you? If so, that’s a good indication that your body may respond well to the dominant terpenes. Still, keep in mind that everyone’s body reacts differently to external factors. Having enough knowledge and experience will work to your advantage when choosing which cannabis products will deliver your desired effects. You can try our Sour Ripper that’s becoming more popular among cannabis consumers.
Choosing the Right Cannabis Type for You
The choice is easier between Sativa and Indica cannabis strains when you have specific standards. You’ve probably realized essential things from the preceding facts. That’s good! To gain better perspectives about your choices, you should keep these important considerations in mind:
- Set clear goals and expectations. It means that you know what you’re trying to achieve in using a cannabis strain, whether it’s Sativa or Indica. You can consider the effects of each variation as your reference to narrow your options. Sometimes it helps to get advice from a cannabis store staff about your goals for consuming the substance, especially if you lack enough information about your choices.
- Know your tolerance. Some cannabis products are suitable for entry-level because their effects are typically mild and tolerable. At the same time, other strains have higher cannabinoids and may be pretty potent for first-time users. If you know what you can manage, you can control the dosing of any cannabis type.
- Consider your medical history. While cannabis products are generally considered safe, you still need to be careful about the intense effects. There’s a chance that the substance may interact with your medical conditions and medications. If you are unsure about cannabis products, consult a doctor or a health professional about the possible benefits and risks.
- Decide on your desired consumption method. Remember that each technique for consuming cannabis Sativa or Indica and hybrid strains has benefits and drawbacks. For example, if you prefer smoking or vaping the substance, you can experience the effects more quickly, but it can potentially irritate your lungs and airways. You have to choose the method that offers safe and efficient product usage.
Key Takeaways:
- Indica varieties of cannabis are associated with certain medical reliefs that help people with anxiety, pain, loss of appetite, insomnia and offer deep relaxation.
- Sativa varieties of cannabis are usually known to produce a creative, uplifting, and mentally focused kind of experience that’s good for depression, anxiety, and pain.
- The differences between Indica and Sativa variations are not as defined as most people believe. Choosing the right strain for you has more to do with total CBD and THC content, the bud’s terpene profile, and your personal needs.
- Consulting a medical marijuana doctor or a knowledgeable budtender is helpful when you’re trying to find out the best strain for you and the ideal method of consumption: vape, smoke, edible, topical, etc.
Where to Buy Cannabis Sativa and Indica Products?
You have a lot of choices for cannabis products derived from Sativa and Indica plants. Sometimes it’s hard to choose the best one because they all share similar properties and benefits. The only difference is the level of compounds found in each item. But as you have drawn from the preceding facts, it matters that you know where a cannabis product you intend to buy came from. It would essentially determine the therapeutic and euphoric experience that you’ll get.
Creator’s Choice is a top preference when it comes to a trusted brand in the cannabis industry. Our company has a wide selection of Sativa and Indica-based products, including our top-notch Platinum Purple Kush. We have a growing number of customers across Canada, and we’ve been giving them quality items and reliable service through the years. You are guaranteed to get the best products in the market to maximize the value of your purchase.
As you explore our online store, you’ll see each product with proper labels. We ensure that you’re fully aware of what to expect from our formulations. But beyond that, we care about your welfare as our customer. Hence, we maintain the highest quality standards in our products and customer service.
Let’s talk about your cannabis needs. Contact us today!
