One of the reasons cannabis remains popular among people looking for an uplifting effect is the opportunity it provides consumers to customize their experience using the different cannabis strains. The different strains can be categorized into three main groups: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid.
Each of these groups has multiple strains under it with the same class of effects and benefits. If you’re looking to customize your cannabis experience, understanding these three main groups of cannabis will bring you closer to picking the right strain for your effects.
What is Indica?
The Indica plant has a rich history and unique growth patterns that distinguish it from the other types of cannabis.
Key Aspects of the Indica Strain
Physical Appearance
Indica plants have a shorter and bushier physical appearance than sativa strains. They have broad, dark green leaves with a more compact structure, making them ideal for growing in cooler climates. Overall, Indica plants mature within a shorter period than sativa plants.
Effects
Indica strains are credited with producing relaxing and sedative effects. They are often associated with providing a “full-body high” that can help induce calmness, help with sleep, and alleviate discomfort. Because of the nature of its effects, the Indica strain is best taken in the evening and before bed when you want to calm down and slow down racing thoughts.
Application
Because of its calming effects, the Indica strain is commonly used to manage discomfort and muscle soreness and can help with mental relaxation and calmness. Indica strains are also thought to help with sleep by creating the right environment to help you fall asleep and helping manage factors interrupting sleep.
The Composition of Indica Strains
The unique effects of the Indica strain are largely due to its composition. Each cannabis strain contains various chemical compounds contributing to its effects and characteristics.
The primary chemical components found in Indica strains include the following:
Cannabinoids
These are the most influential compounds found in cannabis plants. Indica strains have a high concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component that provides a “high” associated with cannabis use. They also contain Cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids. The exact ratio of the cannabinoids varies significantly between the different Indica strains.
Terpenes
Terpenes are also compounds found in cannabis and other plants and are known for giving the plants their unique aroma. Terpenes are also believed to influence the effects of cannabis through the “entourage effect” phenomenon. Common terpenes in Indica strains include myrcene, which has relaxing effects; linalool, which has calming properties; and caryophyllene, which is said to have discomfort support properties.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are compounds that contribute to the color and flavor profile of the cannabis plant, which is why different strains have different tastes, aromas, and effects. This variation allows consumers to select strains that best meet their needs, whether for therapeutic benefit or recreational enjoyment.
Efficacy
Because of their high THC content and terpene profiles, Indica strains are renowned for their efficacy in several therapeutic areas. They can be effective in muscle relaxation, appetite stimulation, calming and relaxation benefits, sleep support, and discomfort support.
Onset and Duration
The onset and duration of effects from Indica strains can vary based on various factors such as the method of consumption, individual tolerance, and the specific characteristics of the strain.
- Vapes — When inhaled, the effects of the Indica strain are felt within minutes. Most consumers report effects almost immediately or within 5 to 10 minutes. Once the effects kick in, they can last anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, depending on your metabolism and the amount consumed.
- Edibles or Gummies – Overall, edible products take longer to kick in because cannabis has to be digested and metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream. You can feel the effects anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. The upside is that the duration is longer - up to 8 hours, sometimes more.
- Tinctures – When cannabis tinctures are taken sublingually, the effects can begin to manifest within 15 to 30 minutes if swallowed; the onset is similar to that of edibles. The effects of tinctures can last between 4 to 6 hours.
What is Sativa?
Cannabis sativa, commonly known as Sativa, is one of the primary types of cannabis. It's known for its unique growth characteristics and the effects it produces.
Key Aspects of the Sativa Strain
Physical Characteristics
The cannabis sativa strain has tall and slender plants that are notably taller than indica plants. They often reach heights of up to 12 feet or more.
The plants also have narrow, long leaves with a lighter green color that differentiates them from the broader leaves of indica strains.
Sativa plants have a longer flowering period and require more time to mature than Indica plants, making them better suited for cultivation in warm climates with extended growing seasons.
Effects
Generally, the effects of sativa plants are described as energizing. They produce an uplifting effect called a "head high," making them perfect for daytime use.
Sativa strains can also boost creativity, focus, and mental clarity, making them a mainstay among individuals working on tasks and projects that require creativity or long hours of concentration.
The strain can also help elevate mood. It can boost emotions and promote a general sense of well-being.
Applications
Sativa strains are taken for recreational purposes because of their stimulating effects, which can enhance social interactions and sensory experiences. They are also consumed for therapeutic benefits, such as helping combat fatigue and discomfort.
Sativa strains offer stimulating effects that contrast with the soothing properties of Indica, catering to those who need a mental or mood boost without the lethargy associated with more relaxing strains.
Chemical Component of Cannabis Sativa
Sativa strains have the same main chemical components as the Indica strains. The difference is in the concentration and types of components inside the primary classes.
Cannabinoids
Sativa strains also contain an extensive range of cannabinoids and a high concentration of THC, the primary psychoactive compound in both types of strains. The strain also contains CBD, another important cannabinoid. However, CBD is found in lower concentrations in Sativa plants than Indica plants. Other cannabinoids found in the strain include CBN, CBG, and THCV, among others.
Terpenes
The strains also contain several terpenes, which give them their unique scent and contribute to the entourage effect. Some common terpenes in sativa strains include limonene, pinene, myrcene, caryophyllene, and many more.
Flavonoids
Indica and Sativa strains also contain flavonoids, which benefit the plant's overall health. Some of the flavonoids contained include quercetin, kaempferol, and cannflavin.
Sativa Application
Sativa strains generally produce uplifting and energizing effects, making them popular for therapeutic and recreational benefits.
They can be consumed for their cerebral effects, enhancing creativity, mental clarity, and focus. This strain is a popular option among writers, artists, or anyone engaged in creative activities.
Because sativa strains produce uplifting effects, they are consumed for mood elevation. They can provide a euphoric feeling that can elevate mood and increase sense of well-being.
Sativa strains can also help with socializing, appetite stimulation, discomfort support, and relaxation benefits.
Sativa Efficacy
These strains are known for their distinctive uplifting and energizing effects, which can be particularly beneficial for both medical and recreational uses. The strain's efficacy is observed in mental stimulation, focus, mood enhancement, energy boost, and social interactions.
What is Hybrid Cannabis?
Hybrid cannabis contains a combination of Sativa and Indica genes and forms most of the cannabis plants on the market.
Hybrid strains are usually referred to as Sativa-dominant or Indica-dominant, depending on the dominant terpenes in the plant.
Application of Hybrid Cannabis Strains
Hybrid cannabis strains offer the same potential health benefits as Indica or Sativa strains. Some applications and effects of the hybrid strains include relaxation and calming properties. These may not be universal with all hybrid strains but are common among most. This effect can help you relax and calm down at the end of the day and slow your racing thoughts.
Hybrid strains can also provide sleep support benefits because of compounds like cannabidiol, which can help people who are looking for better rest through the night. Hybrid strains can also help with discomfort support and possess anti-inflammatory properties.
How Do You Choose the Right Cannabis Strain For You
The strain that works for you depends on several factors, most importantly, the effects you want to experience. Each strain can benefit you in different ways. However, the best way to choose the right strain is to determine if it works testing a few products.
Conclusion
Indica, Sativa, and hybrid strains all have their place among cannabis consumers. The unique benefits of each strain capture consumers with different interests, ensuring you can choose cannabis products made from strains that give you the best chance of getting the expected results and effects.
