Sativa vs. Indica: What’s the Difference?

Anyone who’s ever walked into a cannabis dispensary has probably seen strains labeled indica, sativa, or hybrid. But how useful are these designations? What are the effects of indicas and sativas? And should you choose a strain based on those effects? In this article, we’ll go over the difference between indicas and sativas, the myths, and the best ways to go about choosing a cannabis strain.

The Difference Between Indica and Sativa

Unfortunately, there are a few myths circulating out there in the cannabis world about the difference between indica and sativa. The most popular of the myths seems to be that all indicas will produce a heavy body high, while all sativas produce uplifting, energetic highs. There is also a myth that indicas have more THC than sativas. Not true.

At one point in history, you could probably make some solid claims about the different characteristics of the two. But after a few decades of hybridization and underground breeding, those days are gone. Unless you can score landrace strains, there is really such thing as a true indica or sativa anymore. Every strain available at a dispensary is really a hybrid; some are more indica-dominant, and others are more sativa-dominant.

Sativa Effects vs. Indica Effects

While there is some truth to the myth that that indica-dominant strains can produce a more body-heavy high, while sativa-dominant strains provide a more invigorating cerebral high, it isn’t always the case. What really affects the way a strain will make you feel is the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes.

So how do indica-dominant strains get their reputation for producing a “couch-locked” feeling? It's probably because, for the most part, indica-dominant strains have higher levels of the terpene named myrcene. But why sativa-dominant strains get the reputation for being uplifting isn’t well understood.

Again, relying on indica and sativa designations to predict a strain’s effects isn’t the best way to go about it, and we will go into further detail about better methods of picking a strain later in the article. But first, let's take a look at some of the different effects indicas and sativas have a reputation for.

Indica-Dominant Effects

The most well-known effect of indicas is that they produce a heavy body-high. They are famous for promoting a level of sedation known as “couch lock.” Indicas also have a reputation for giving you the munchies and relieving physical aches and pains. A lot of people enjoy them at bedtime to help promote sleep

Sativa-Dominant Effects

Sativas, on the other hand, are known for producing a stimulating “head high.” People like to use them to help banish depression, as well as boost focus and creativity. While some use them to help reduce anxiety, other people claim that a sativa will increase their anxiety. They are famous for producing an overall sense of well-being that is more appropriate for use during the daytime.

Better Ways to Choose a Strain

Now that you know the basic differences between indica-dominant and sativa-dominant, let’s take a look at better ways to choose a strain. As we mentioned, after decades of crossbreeding, the indica and sativa designation doesn’t mean much these days. If you really want to dial-in how a strain will make you feel, you need to look beyond indica vs. sativa and focus on cannabinoids and terpenes.

Cannabinoids and Terpenes

While THC and CBD are the most well-known cannabinoids, there are over a hundred different cannabinoids in weed, as well as dozens of different terpenes.They work together in synergy to give every strain its unique properties in a phenomenon known as “the entourage effect.”

Before you get overwhelmed, it’s important to remember that you don’t need to be an expert in every cannabinoid and terpene. Just know the basics, and you’ll be fine. So rather than thinking in terms of sativa, indica, or hybrid when it comes to the effects of a strain, start thinking about the THC-CBD spectrum.

Why?

Because these are the two cannabis compounds that drive most of the effects of cannabis.

THC-Dominant

THC is what produces that famous “high” brought on by cannabis. So most recreational users who are looking for a lot of potency go for high-THC strains. The more THC, the stronger the effects. But with high THC strains, you also run the risk of experiencing more side effects like anxiety. But because everyone has a different physiology, the same stain can easily feel different from person to person. If you are new to cannabis, it’s better to start off with lower or more moderate THC strains to learn your tolerance and preferences.

CBD-Dominant

CBD has skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years for its ability to deliver many therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC. These types of strains are very popular with people who don’t want to get “high” or who are susceptible to anxiety.

A Balanced Approach

For many people, a more balanced THC-CBD strain is the way to go. A balanced strain can still provide a psychoactive experience that’s less intense than THC-dominant strains. CBD is also known as “the babysitter” of THC and can reduce its ability to produce anxiety. They work in synergy to provide a really enjoyable experience with less potential for negative side effects.

Once you find a ratio of THC and CBD that you enjoy, it’s fun to start considering terpenes and how they affect your experience. There are dozens of terpenes that all provide a wide range of therapeutic properties and give each strain its unique aroma.

Next time you are at the dispensary, ask your budtender for some terpene recommendations based on what types of effects you want to achieve. Some of the most abundant terpenes that you’ll find in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, linalool, and pinene.

Now that you are well versed in the indica vs. sativa quandary (and better ways to go about picking a strain) it’s time to come down and visit us at Cannavine! We carry indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, hybrids, and every area of the THC-CBD spectrum. We will be happy to help you dial in the perfect stain to achieve your goals.