Everyone will admit to having used cannabis at least one point in their life, whether for recreation or medical reasons. But did you know which strain you used? Did you know that there are over a thousand different variants of cannabis? However, the most popular are the Indica and Sativa cannabis strains. At face value, the seemingly only difference between the two is that Indica causes a “body high” while Sativa induces a “cerebral rush.” Let’s look deeper into this and differentiate them much clearer.
Differences in Physical Appearances
Perhaps the easiest way to compare two things is by taking note of the observable differences between them. Over the years of crossbreeding and embracing hybrid cultivars, it has become virtually impossible to identify any pure Indica and Sativa cannabis strains. Nonetheless, there are still some observable differences in production.
Cannabis Indica species are short and stocky. They have bushy and chunky leaves which tend to grow broad and wide. They have short flowering cycles, produce more buds, and have a somewhat earthy, musty, and skunky odor. They do well in the cold and short-season climates.
Cannabis Sativa, on the other hand, is a tall and thin species with narrow, pointed, and light green colored leaves. Their flowering cycle is longer and has a sweet, spicy, or fruity smell. They are best grown in long seasons with arm climates.
Origin of Indica and Sativa Strains
Over the past centuries, thousands of cannabis species have arisen from the crossbreeding of the Indica and Sativa cannabis strains. Around the 18th century, botanists came up with two names to distinguish the species according to where each one originated.
Sativa described hemp plants grown for their seeds and fiber, coming from warmer parts of the world. Contrastingly, the Indica variant was found in the Middle East, grown for its fiber and seeds.
Differences in Body Effects
Unless you are purchasing cannabis for medical reasons, we all take it to enjoy the high. Newbie users might not differentiate between Sativa-based and Indica-based products. Generally speaking, potent Indica strains give users a relaxed sensation, hence the feeling of “in da couch,” where one gets too relaxed to even get up on a sofa. This explains why the strain is ideally taken in the evening. From a physiological perspective, this is due to more CBD. This cannabinoid interacts with the CB2 receptors found in the immune cells, which trigger an anti-inflammatory effect to relieve pain. The Indica strain is recommended for patients with cancer, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
Conversely, the general perception of Sativa strains is that it induces a “creativity high” and is more energizing. This makes it more preferable in the morning. Physiologically speaking, it contains more TCH, which interacts with the CB1 receptors, predominantly located in the central nervous system, and are responsible for activating the part of the brain responsible for emotions, memory, executive function, and the reward system. It is thus medically recommended to patients with psychological disorders like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Different Sativa and Indica Strains
Due to crossbreeding, to improve the efficacy of the plant in medical and recreational fields, there have risen numerous strains, differing in the dominance of the two major strains, Indica and Sativa.
Some of the popular Sativa strains include:
- Jack Herer
- Amnesia Haze
- Green Crack
- Sour Diesel
- Super Silver Haze
- Durban Poison
- Strawberry Cough
- Super Lemon Haze
Some of the popular Indica strains include:
- Bubba Kush
- Blueberry
- Blue Cheese
- Northern Lights
- Purple Punch
- White Rhino
- Granddaddy Purple
- Grape Ape
Conclusion
While most cannabis users are comfortable trying out any strain, some people value the specific details when enjoying a high or for medical purposes. The cannabis experience varies from person to person, depending on the strain used. Depending on your particular needs, I believe the information should help you distinguish between the two strains of cannabis.