It’s the weekend, and you want to melt away all your worries and stress by using marijuana. However, while scrolling through different strains of marijuana, you come across two distinct names, Sativa and Indica.
Now, if you are perplexed about “what is Indica,” what differentiates the two, and which one you should opt for, you need not worry, as we are going to tell you all about Sativa vs. Indica differences.
Whether you are a recreational cannabis user or a medical one, you need to be well-equipped with the effects of both Sativa and Indica strains to make an informed decision.
So, let’s clear out the smoke and dive into the discussion on Sativa vs Indica.
What’s the Difference Between Indica and Sativa?
If we look through history, in the 18th Century, Carl Linnaeus named the taller, leaner varieties of hemp plants found in Western Eurasia and Europe as “Cannabis Sativa L.” He discovered that people used these plants for fiber and grains and also made Hashish out of them.
On the other hand, Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, in 1885, first coined the term “Indica” to refer to short, bushy hemp plants found in India. He discovered that people used these plants for fiber and grains, and also made Hashish out of them.
It is worth mentioning that the debate between Sativa vs. Indica extends beyond the mere difference in their names. The two cannabis varieties also differ in their origin, appearance, effects, and benefits.
Appearance
Well, appearance is one of the traits that differentiates these two types of cannabis.
| Traits | Indica | Sativa |
| Plant Appearance | Indica plants are short and bushy. | Sativa plants are tall and slender. |
| Leaves | They have broader leaves with a dark green color. | Their leaves are long and narrow. |
| Flowering Time | Indica plants flower faster than their Sativa counterparts. It usually takes them 6-8 weeks to flower. | It generally takes longer for Cannabis Sativa to mature and produce flowers as compared to Indica. |
| Ideal Cultivation Conditions | Ideal for indoor cultivation owing to their compact and dense growth | Outdoor cultivation is preferable. Moreover, they also need to be grown in a well-ventilated space. |
Origin
Cannabis sativa is usually grown in warmer, more tropical climates. Therefore, these strains are typically found in Southeast Asia, Central America, and certain parts of Africa.
It is worth mentioning that Sativa plants originate from equatorial regions, where the climate is warmer, with longer sunny days and high humidity. Therefore, the plants have evolved to be taller, with narrower leaves that have a reduced surface area.
On the other hand, Indica plants thrive in cooler climates and mountainous regions. Therefore, these strains are usually found in the Hindu Kush mountain range, which spans Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of Northern India and China.
Moreover, these regions are characterized by cold nights and strong winds. Therefore, the plants have evolved to be short and dense, enabling them to withstand strong winds.
Sativa vs. Indica Effects
Now that we have discussed the physical Indica Sativa difference, here comes the main question: “How do these two strains make you feel?”
What Does Sativa Do?
Sativa is ideal for daytime use, as a cerebral buzz characterizes it and provides a “mind high.” It uplifts your mood, boosts your focus, and enhances your creativity. Thus, if you want to awaken your creativity, Sativa strains might be right for you.
Moreover, Sativa strains will make you feel more sociable, happy, and energized, ready to take on the world. Many people have described the effects of Sativa as being like coffee, but it’s just greener.
All in all, Sativa strains will have the following effects:
- Mind high
- Increased focus
- Alertness
- Boosts creativity
- Appetite Stimulation
- Uplifting Mood
Moreover, the CBG vs. CBD guide will surely help you learn more about different cannabinoids.
What Does Indica Do?
Now, when it comes to Indica strains, they are characterized by a “body high.” Their effects will creep into your limbs, providing you with full-body relaxation. Owing to their sedative properties, they are more appropriate for nighttime usage just before going to bed.
So, if you want to melt away all your stress after a long day of work, set some light music, dim the lights, and opt for an Indica strain. It will help you unwind, and you’ll be ready to hit the pillow.
All in all, Indica strains will have the following effects:
- Body High
- Relaxation
- Improves Sleep
- Eases Anxiety
We hope that by now you have already understood “What’s Indica?”. Moreover, did you know that it is due to the calming and relaxing effects of Indica-dominant strains that many medical users are drawn to them?
It is worth mentioning that if you also want to get your hands on medical marijuana legally and safely, it is best first to get a medical marijuana card.
What are Hybrid Strains?
Now that we have covered the Sativa and Indica differences in detail, it is the right time to break down Hybrid strains for you.
Nowadays, it is challenging to find a cannabis strain that is 100% Indica or 100% Sativa. With a growing body of research, it has been discovered that both are subspecies of the same plant, which has enabled cultivators to cross-breed the two to create distinct hybrid strains.
Therefore, hybrid strains that are either Indica-dominant or Sativa-dominant are prevalent, depending on the percentage of Indica or Sativa in them.
This cross-breeding gave the cultivators the power to cross between different parent strains to develop specific experiences. Now, the next time you hear someone say “60/40 Sativa-dominant hybrid”, you will surely know its meaning.
To learn more about Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid strains, check out this comprehensive breakdown, which will answer all your remaining questions.
Is Sativa or Indica Better for My Condition?
Well, there isn’t any straightforward answer to it as different factors, including the user’s biology, tolerance, cannabis strain chemistry (cannabinoids and terpenes), dosage, and way of consumption (flowers, vapes, edibles, tinctures), all impact your overall marijuana experience.
Moreover, as discussed earlier, both Indica and Sativa strains have significantly different effects, which can also impact their medical usage.
Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and something that works for someone else might not work for you. Therefore, it is always best to consult a medical professional before trying any new strain of medical marijuana.
Here is a general overview of different conditions that respond better to one strain or the other:
| Condition | Likely Strain of Choice |
| Chronic pain | Indica |
| Depression | Sativa |
| Insomnia | Indica |
| ADHD or focus issues | Sativa |
| Anxiety or PTSD | Indica or Hybrid |
| Appetite stimulation | Sativa or Hybrid |
Conclusion
We will conclude the Sativa vs. Indica debate by acknowledging that it is entirely up to you to decide which strain you prefer. But remember that choosing the right strain at the right time can make all the difference.
So, if you want to unwind after a long, tiring day of work or want to ease your anxiety, Indica strains can provide you with the desired relief. On the other hand, if you’re looking to uplift your mood or stimulate your appetite to help resolve your hunger issues, Sativa strains might be just right for you.
If you want to start your medical journey, get a medical marijuana card in Jacksonville easily and talk to a professional to figure out the best strain according to your condition.
