Indica vs Sativa
There are more than thousand strains of Cannabis that have been bred in the past several years. Cannabis or marijuana is a species of a flowering herb which has three main strains. The sub-species are called Indica, Sativa, and Ruderalis. Ruderalis is usually avoided by the cultivators and most of them focus on Indica and Sativa. Indica and Sativa are two very different strains of the same plant. They differ in their appearance, physiological effects, and chemical composition. Let us take a detailed look on the difference between Cannabis sativa and Indica.
Understanding the Basics
The terminologies Indica and sativa were introduced in the 18th century to draw a line between two different species of Cannabis. Sativa is usually used to describe the hemp plants that were cultivated for their seeds and fiber. Whereas Cannabis Indica represents a group of plant that were harvested and used for hashish production. However, now these terms are used to describe different Botanical definitions of these species.
Sativa is commonly used to refer all narrow-leaf and tall varieties of Cannabis which usually produce energizing effects.
Indica is used to describe broad leaf, stout Cannabis plants that produce sedative effects.
Hemp refers to any Cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3 % THC and used for industrial purposes to make thousands of different types of products.
What Is Sativa?
Even though not all strains are popular, most consumers noticed that it can produce an uplifting or stimulating effect. Sativa strains are also used to mitigate the symptoms of stress and anxiety. They are also sometimes used to boost focus and polish creativity. Some of the most common effects produced by sativa strains are euphoria, high energy, and happiness.
Here are the most popular sativa strains easily available in the market.
- Sour Diesel
- Jack Herer
- Green Crack
- Durban Poison
- Strawberry Cough
- Amnesia Haze
- Super Lemon Haze
- Super Silver Haze
What Is Indica?
Indica is usually famous for its full body mind altering effect. It can cause tingly face and heavy limbs. Indica contains high level of tetrahydrocannabinol which can also aid and relaxation and curing of insomnia. Some of the most common effects associated with Indica are happiness, sleepiness, euphoria and relaxation. Indica strains are usually preferred for recreational use because of its euphoric properties. Here are some of the most common Indica strains being produced around the world:
- Purple Punch
- Granddaddy Purple
- White Rhino
- Bubba Kush
- Northern Lights
- Blueberry
- Grape Ape
- Blue Cheese
Chemical Composition of Sativa and Indica
Different types of phyto-cannabinoids and phytonutrients determine the exact impact of each strain of Cannabis. Cannabis contains cannabinoids and terpenes which decide the exact workings of each strain.
Cannabinoids
Cannabis contains more than 100 different types of cannabinoids out of which two are the most famous. THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is popular for its intoxicating effect, but it can also help in relieving the symptoms of pain and nausea. CBD is the non-intoxicating component of Cannabis which is famous for reducing the symptoms of anxiety, pain, inflammation, and many other disorders. There are many other different types of cannabinoids which also possess similar properties, but they occur in very insignificant quantities. Cannabis has three main types of strains.
THC Dominant Strains
THC dominant strains are usually used for the euphoric effects. Some strains are also used for medicinal purposes like reducing the symptoms of insomnia, anxiety, depression, and pain. However, THC rich strains may also cause side effects such as red eyes, elevated blood pressure, and a raised heartbeat. It can also cause temporary coordination issues.
CBD Dominant Strains
CBD dominant strains of Cannabis are preferred for their therapeutic properties. They can help in stabilizing the balance of the body by promoting homeostasis. These strains are excellent for reducing inflammation and pain.
Balanced CBD/THC Ratio
Certain Cannabis strains contain a balanced quantity of CBD and THC. They offer mild euphoric effects and relief from several health issues. CBD is also known to reduce the effect of THC if it is by using a strain with equal concentration of both CBD and THC can reduce the intoxication and boost other benefits.
Terpenes
Cannabis also contains aromatic compounds which are commonly called as terpenes. Specific aromas and tastes are not the only function of terpenes. They also possess incredible therapeutic properties and offer the famous entourage effect. Together with the cannabinoids, terpenes work to boost their effects. Some of the most common terpenes found in Cannabis are limonene, terpinolene, caryophyllene, and myrcene.
Wrap Up
CBD has emerged as an incredible therapeutic compound for all the right reasons. It is safe and non-intoxicating which is why it is preferred by millions of people around the world. It is legal in most parts of the US and it can be used for promoting the overall health and wellness of the human body. There is no universal way in which cannabis may affect all individuals. Cannabis is a personal experience, and it has different effects on different people. Understanding the basics can give you a solid ground to think about the alternative perspectives and the effect of different strains. Make sure to select the strain with precision to have a good experience with cannabis.