Sativa vs Indica

When browsing cannabis strains or purchasing cannabis at a shop, you may notice strains are commonly broken up into two distinct groups: indica and sativa. Most consumers have used these two cannabis types as a touchstone for predicting effects:

• Indica strains are believed to be physically sedating, perfect for relaxing with a movie or as a nightcap before bed.
• Sativa strains tend to provide more invigorating, uplifting cerebral effects that pair well with physical activity, social gatherings, and creative projects.

Indica and Sativa: Origin and Evolution of the Terms

The words “indica” and “sativa” were introduced in the 18th century to describe different species of cannabis: Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica.The term sativa, named by Carl Linneaus, described hemp plants found in Europe and western Eurasia, where it was cultivated for its fiber and seeds. Cannabis indica, named by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, describes the psychoactive varieties discovered in India, where it was harvested for its seeds, fiber, and hashish production.

Here’s how terms have shifted since their earliest botanical definitions:

• Today, “sativa” refers to tall, narrow-leaf varieties of cannabis, thought to induce energizing effects. However, these narrow-leaf drug (NLD) varieties were originally Cannabis indica ssp. indica.
• “Indica” has come to describe stout, broad-leaf plants, thought to deliver sedating effects. These broad-leaf drug (BLD) varieties are technically Cannabis indica ssp. afghanica.
• What we call “hemp” refers to the industrial, non-intoxicating varieties harvested primarily for fiber, seeds, and CBD. However, this was originally named Cannabis sativa.

Sativa in depth:

• Origin: Cannabis sativa is found primarily in hot, dry climates. These include Africa, Central America, Southeast Asia, and western portions of Asia.
• Plant description: Sativa plants are tall and thin with finger-like leaves. They can grow taller than 12 feet, and they take longer to mature than some other types of cannabis.
• Typical CBD to THC ratio: Sativa often has lower doses of CBD and higher doses of THC.
• Commonly associated effects of use: Sativa often produces a “mind high,” or an energizing, anxiety-reducing effect. If you use sativa-dominant strains, you may feel productive and creative, not relaxed and lethargic.
• Daytime or nighttime use: Because of its stimulating impact, you can use sativa in the daytime.
• Popular strains: Three popular sativa strains are Acapulco Gold, Panama Red, and Durban Poison.

Indica in depth

• Origin: Cannabis indica is native to Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. The plants have adapted to the often harsh, dry, and turbulent climate of the Hindu Kush mountains.
• Plant description: Indica plants are short and stocky with bushy greenery and chunky leaves that grow wide and broad. They grow faster than sativa, and each plant produces more buds.
• Typical CBD to THC ratio: Indica strains often have higher levels of CBD and less THC.
• Commonly associated effects of use: Indica is sought after for its intensely relaxing effects. It may also reduce nausea and pain and increase appetite.
• Daytime or nighttime use: Because of its deep relaxation effects, indica is better consumed at night.
• Popular strains: Three popular indica strains are Hindu Kush, Afghan Kush, and Granddaddy Purple.

If you’re curious about how cannabis might help you, talk with a doctor or other healthcare provider.

They can discuss its potential positive and negative effects on your individual health and help you find something that suits your needs.

Then, you can begin to explore your options. Finding the right option for you may take time. You may also find that you don’t tolerate cannabis well.