When you’re buying cannabis, you should know the difference between Sativa and Indica. These two strains have different properties and effects. While Indica cannabis will make you feel more relaxed, stress-free, and sleepy, Sativa cannabis is more uplifting and invigorating, giving you a burst of creativity and energy.
Both of these strains come from unique species of plants which look and grow differently. The two can also be crossbred to create Hybrid cannabis. Hybrid strains offer some of the effects and properties of both Indica and Sativa strains.
So what are the key differences between sativa and indica and which one should you smoke? Let’s take an in-depth look.
Cannabis Indica Effects
When smoking indica strains, you can expect a much more relaxing and sedating high. These strains are the ones which put you “in da couch”- you might even feel too mellow to get up.
Indica strains have more CBD in comparison to Sativa strains. CBD is the cannabinoid which gives you most of the medical benefits of marijuana. Indica marijuana is often used to treat chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, nausea, and stress.
Indica strains are also great for smoking recreationally. If you’re looking for a strain that will mellow you out while you relax on the couch and watch TV or listen to music, indica is the way to go.
Cannabis Sativa Effects
In contrast to indica strains, sativa strains are much more mentally stimulating. You will feel more positive, energetic, and creative. If you want to get high and still be active, then you’re much better served by sativa.
Sativa strains have more THC and less CBD than Indica strains. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. It’ll heighten your senses and stimulate your mind. Those who want to take on creative pursuits while high can benefit from sativa strains. It’s also a good choice for those just looking to appreciate movies and music in a different way.
Sativa strains also have medical benefits. Thanks to the uplifting effects, they can help prevent anxiety, depression, and improve your mood overall. They can also be helpful for chronic pain and insomnia.
What are Hybrid Strains?
Hybrid strains offer the best of both worlds. Smoking these can give you the relaxing effects of indica cannabis along with the mind-stimulation from sativa cannabis. All of these strains are different, so some are more indica-dominant, some sativa-dominant, and some give a balanced 50/50.
If you like the effects of both sativa and indica strains and aren’t sure which to go with, hybrid strains are usually a safe bet. They’re ideal for both medical and recreational use. Some of the most popular marijuana strains, such as Black Diamond and Gorilla Glue #4, are hybrid strains.
What’s the difference between growing Sativa and Indica cannabis?
Sativa and Indica plants are also different, both in appearance and in the way they grow.
Cannabis Indica plants are shorter and bushier with wider leaves. Sativa plants are taller and thinner with narrower leaves. Hybrid plants can exhibit properties of both Sativa and Indica plants.
Indica plants take around 10-12 weeks to produce buds compared to up to 16 weeks for Sativa plants. Indica plants also require less space and maintenance, making them much easier to grow.
However, many people prefer to grow Sativa cannabis due to much higher yields. A Sativa plant produces anywhere from 3 ounces to 1 pound of cannabis per plant compared to 1.5-2 ounces for Indica plants. Although Sativa plants take more time and effort to grow, the pay off is much better.
Best Sativa strains to smoke
If you want the uplifting effects of marijuana and an enjoyable psychoactive high, these popular Sativa strains will do the job.
- Agent Orange – This strong sativa-dominant strain is perfect for relieving anxiety, depression, and low moods. You’ll experience a potent, uplifting high that will make you feel positive and re-energized.
- Green Crack – Green Crack is named for its stimulating effects. You’ll feel happy, stimulated, and hyper-focused. This pure sativa strain is hugely popular.
- Moby Dick – Another potent sativa strain that can reach THC levels of up to 23%. Smoking Moby Dick will make you feel motivated, positive, and just plain high.
You can check out our full selection of Sativa strains in our online store.
Best Indica strains to smoke
If you want a strain of cannabis that will help you relax, destress, and give you some powerful medical benefits, here are some of our most popular Indica strains.
- LA Confidential – A potent indica-dominant strain. Ideal for treating pain, anxiety, and stress, as well as giving you an enjoyable relaxing and sedating high.
- BC Kush – BC Kush is a 100% pure indica strain and two-time Cannabis Cup Winner. You can expect all the relaxing effects and medical benefits of regular indica strains as well as some psychoactive benefits thanks to its 15-20% THC levels.
- Death Bubba Kush – An indica-dominant strain with powerful effects. You’ll instantly feel more energized and uplifted, but the sativa effects will soon transition to a strong sense of relaxation. Perfect for those who want a long, peaceful sleep as well as a smooth taste.
We also offer popular strains such as Panda OG, Mango Kush, and Northern Lights. You can view our full selection of indica strains in our online store.
Should I smoke Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid strains?
The kind of strain you choose to smoke all depends on what kind of marijuana you prefer. If you want to mellow out and relax, indica strains are a better choice. If you want a burst of energy and motivation, sativa strains are better. If you want to feel the effects of both, try out a hybrid strain.
These strains can also differ in taste. Indica strains generally taste sweeter, with undertones of fruits and berries. Sativa strains are more earthy with a pine flavor.
You can also buy variety packs of marijuana. These allow you to try all kinds of different strains so you can decide first hand which one is best for you.
Conclusion
Both sativa and indica cannabis can provide an enjoyable and beneficial high. If you prefer to chill out and get a good night’s sleep, then you can’t go wrong with Indica marijuana. Sativa marijuana is better suited to those who want a creative and uplifting buzz. Hybrid strains can give you the best of both worlds.
Amateur growers will prefer Indica plants due to their small size and ease of growing. However, experienced growers with more time to spend can enjoy the high yields produced by Sativa plants.
Many marijuana lovers enjoy a mix of both sativa and indica strains. You may like to wake and bake with a sativa-dominant strain and smoke an indica-dominant strain before bed. There’s no harm in trying out all varieties and seeing which you like best.