As soon as you enter the cannabis market or an online dispensary, you’ll be bombarded with the words indica, Sativa, and hybrids. Nowadays, you may even find a fourth species known as Cannabis Ruderalis.

Among them, indica and Sativa are considered the most popular. Most of the cannabis strains out there either belong to the indica or sativa category. Now, the main question is, what differentiates indica strains from their Sativa counterparts? Or, which species is better? 

We’ve answered them all below.

Indica Vs. Sativa: Brief Comparison

Indica and Sativa are the two main species of cannabis. All cannabis strains that fall under either of the categories are widely used for both recreational and medicinal purposes. 

Indicas are usually associated with full-body effects, such as helping you sleep better and increasing intense relaxation throughout your body.

Sativas, on the other hand, are typically known for their “head high” or cerebral effects. This means a buzz created by a Sativa strain will affect you more mentally, such as increasing creativity, focus and boosting energy.

• So, how is the difference created? 

Well, a dozen of chemical compounds called cannabinoids are responsible for the variations between Indica and Sativa. 

There are two main cannabinoids occurring in all cannabis plants – Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the main psychoactive compound responsible for producing the “high” that usually comes with marijuana consumption. Different cannabis strains will have different levels of THC. In contrast, CBD is non-impairing and doesn’t cause any psychoactive effects. CBD is more centred on the medicinal properties of cannabis and provides many physical benefits. Marijuana contains more THC than CBD.

Another compound found in cannabis plants that’s equally important as THC and CBD is terpenes. Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds responsible for a plant’s unique flavour and aroma. They may also influence the colour and effects of a cannabis strain. 

Some of the most common terpenes are Myrcene, Limonene, and Pinene. Cannabis plants high in limonene and pinene usually belong to the Sativa kind. On the other hand, strains that are high in myrcene are typically (but not always) indicas.

What does Research Say About Indica Vs. Sativa?

Many cannabis experts and researchers are now moving away from the terms Indica and Sativa because new research shows that these two species have more in common than previously thought. 

In other words, you shouldn’t be baffled if you get to experience a Sativa head high from smoking an indica weed and vice versa. However, the Indica vs. Sativa debate is still up for discussion.

More recently, many in the cannabis industry are now classifying marijuana or different marijuana breed as “Chemovars,” which means chemical varieties. 

Indica Cannabis – Characteristics and Effects

Cannabis indica hails from the colder regions of Pakistan, Tibet, and Afghanistan. They’re shorter than Sativas, usually growing up to 2-4 feet. Due to their compact size, short flowering period, and higher yield, indica plants can be easily grown indoors.

Indica plants tend to have compact and chunky buds with bushy leaves, and they’re usually dark green in colour with vibrant purple streaks. Flavour- and aroma-wise, indicas are mostly earthy and skunky, resembling their lineage of the Hindu Kush mountains. In addition, they also carry some sweet and fruity notes. 

Generally, indica marijuana is known for its deep relaxation and almost sedative buzz. They’re highly recommended for nighttime use when all you want to do is unwind, relax, and enter a state of deep sleep. 

Sativa Cannabis – Characteristics and Effects

First classified by Carl Linnaeus (a Swedish botanist) in 1753, cannabis Sativa is believed to originate from Eastern Asia. Cannabis Sativa plants appear tall and slender. They have pointy leaves and are usually featured in entertainment and educational movies. Unlike indicas, sativas thrive in a warmer environment. Hence they’re widely grown in Southeast Asia and warmer regions of America.

Sativa has similar aromatic and flavour notes like sour, tangy, and diesel. Both the aroma and flavour of sativas tend to be pungent. Additionally, some Sativa strains may carry subtle floral and fruity notes.

As said before, consuming a sativa strain will affect you more mentally than physically. The high is usually described as uplifting, boosting an increase in creativity and energy. This is why people usually use sativa as their morning cup of joe or anytime during the day when they need an extra oomph of energy.

Indica or Sativa Cannabis- Which is Better?

If you’re wondering which is better between indica vs. sativa, the answer will vary from one individual to another. Both cannabis species shine in their own ways. Moreover, since indica and Sativa strains are usually used in separate spheres, it’s difficult to pick a clear winner. 

So, how do you find out which category is best for you? You might have to look into your preferences and needs to answer that. 

Are you looking for a cannabis that can help stimulate your energy levels? Do you often feel lethargic and tired at work? Are you engaged in activities that require your creativity skills and focus? If your answer to these questions is a yes, then Cannabis sativa is more likely to be your jam!

On the other hand, if you’re struggling with sleep, chronic pain, or low appetite, Cannabis Indica might be a better-suited option.

Besides, if you’re an MMJ (medical marijuana) patient, you’ll also have to consider your medical requirements. Patients suffering from acute pain, nausea, and multiple sclerosis usually opt for indica strains for their sleep-inducing high. On the other hand, sativa strains are popular among people dealing with mood disorders, stress, and depression.

Acreage Pharms is here to meet all your cannabis needs. Speak with one of our representatives today!