What is the difference between Indica and Sativa Marijuana Strains?

As you walk into a marijuana dispensary, you’ve most likely noticed that products are labeled as Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid and wondered “what classifies each of these?” In this blog post, we will go over these classification and clarify what options may be best suited for you and your needs. 

Sativa, or Sativa dominant, strains or products tend to lead to a more cerebral psychoactive effect on the consumer, but this is not always the case. We will get into this later in the blog. Consumers of sativa dominated products will most likely say they provide them with a more energetic and focused high. Sativa’s tend to be a good choice for those looking to have more functionality when high. This is opposite of the other option of Indica. 

Indica marijuana strains are usually referred to as “couch-locking” or “full-body”. Consumers of indica dominant strains tend to feel more relaxed, lethargic, and hungry. So if you are trying to avoid the munchies, it’s probably best to stay away from the indica varieties. 

Marijuana strain hybrids are a blend of indica and sativa varieties and tend to be categorized as sativa leaning, indica leaning, or well balanced, which can be described as effects from both spectrums. 

With all this said about the different strain varieties, it really comes down to terpenes and cannabinoids in the different plants. Terpenes and cannabinoids are known to produce the actual effects of each strain, so it is best to know what each can do before trying a product for yourself. There are dozens of terpenes and even more cannabinoids, but don’t get overwhelmed. You only need to know the most common when searching for a product for yourself and our knowledgeable staff members can assist you in choosing which option may be best for you and your needs. 

The two most common cannabinoids found in cannabis are CBD and THC.

THC

THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is the psychoactive cannabinoid in the cannabis plant which leads to the well known “high” you get when consuming. 

CBD

CBD or cannabidiol is a chemical in the cannabis plant that is non-psychoactive and primarily used to remedy pain. It is usually infused into creams and lotions as a topical, but can also be found in edible and flower form. 

We hope this helps in your search for the right cannabis product for you and your needs. Call us today or visit us in-store for more information and educational input from one of our associates.