If you reside in a state or territory where medical and/or recreational use of marijuana is legal and swing by any local cannabis dispensary, you are likely to notice many different kinds of marijuana strains on the market. With such a wide variety to choose from, it can be overwhelming when you try to decide where to start.

If you want to determine the ideal strain for your own needs, you first need to know what your options are. The three main names of marijuana classifications are:

  • Indica
  • Sativa
  • Hybrids

For years, marijuana plants have been crossbred to create a huge array of hybrids. Indicas and Sativas each provide their own respective characteristics, while hybrids can provide a combination of the two.

In this guide, we’re going to focus specifically on strains of sativa marijuana. This broad overview will cover all of the characteristics of sativa and how the strains can affect the body, as well as why you should seek these strains.

What is Cannabis Sativa?

Sativa is a species of cannabis known for being notably pungent, thanks to their specific terpene profile. Terpenes are the substances within the chemical makeup of cannabis that gives it the distinct flavors and scents. The aromas this strain releases can range from peppery, piney, and earth to citrus, sweet, and fruity.

This strain originated in equatorial countries such as Thailand, Colombia, Southeast Asia, and Mexico. Thanks to its history of growth in such climates, sativa thrives in humid, warmer weather.

Throughout recorded history, cannabis sativa has been cultivated and harvested for its oil, seeds, and fiber. These various parts have been used around the world for medicinal, industrial, and nutritional purposes. This plant grows in the wild in many tropical, humid climates around the world.

What Are the Effects of Sativa Cannabis?

In short, the cannabinoids in sativa cannabis are known to provide stimulating effects that help the user to feel more mentally motivated and focused. Some users go so far as to describe their euphoric response from the experience as a “cerebral” response. This strain can also encourage creativity and deeper conversations.

This mentally stimulating nature of sativa marijuana makes this strain best suited for artistic endeavors, social situations, and other daytime uses. This strain is commonly known to inspire its users and provide people with the motivation they need. The majority of users tend to report some combination of the below sativa effects:

  • Creativity – Users can find that they are embarking on a new creative endeavor thanks to the creativity enhancing quality of the strain.
  • Uplifting – Using sativa often results in the elevation of one’s mood, leading to feelings of hope and happiness.
  • Focusing – Ever wanted a laser-like focus on demand? Sativa is the strain for you. This strain is sure to help you focus on any task at hand.
  • Energetic – You may feel like you’re experiencing a second wind and boost of energy after using, so don’t be surprised if you suddenly want to socialize and go out.

The Difference Between Sativas and Indicas

The best way for you to fully understand the benefits of cannabis sativa is to compare its qualities to the competition, indica. While the marijuana science community still debates some of these terms today, here are some key differences to note:

Appearance

Sativa plants are taller and have thinner leaves and longer growing seasons that their competition, however they produce smaller yields than the indica sister subspecies. Indicas grow shorter and wider and thrive in colder climates than sativas could withstand.

Flavor/Scent

Sativas are, for the most part, sweeter and fruitier in aroma, while indicas are musky and earthy. Their flavors offer the opposite sensations, however.

Effects

Knowing the type of bud that you are purchasing can help you plan your post-smoking session activities. If you want to still have a productive day after using, we highly recommend sativas over indicas. Indicas will most likely have a lazy effect on your body and make you feel like lounging around on the couch for a while.

Due to the distinct differences in their effects, cannabis sativa and cannabis indica have different recommended usages for medical and recreational use. For example, the focus-inducing qualities of sativa make it the ideal candidate for patients with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

The Best Uses for Cannabis Sativa

Sativa’s uplifting properties mean that it is an ideal medical marijuana candidate for patients who deal with mood issues and other mental challenges. If the cannabis sativa strain contains an even higher THCV concentration, it can also be used to promote a healthy appetite and good eating habits for users who are struggling with diet, like cancer patients.

Sativa is also used to manage chronic pain in patients. This strain can provide a sense of relief and help sufferers live a happy and normal life.

There are easily hundreds of strains of sativa available today, here is a few of the more popular options on the market.

Sour Diesel

Also known as “Sour D,” this strain provides 19% THC and gives users a dreamy yet invigorating cerebral effect. It is popularly used for managing discomfort, uneasiness, and mood swings.

Amnesia Haze

A strain featuring a high THC percentage (up to 25%), Amnesia Haze got its name from producing relaxing and clear-headed effects that last a long time. This helps to deal with tension and mood problems.

Strawberry Cough

As the name implies, this strain has a strong strawberry scent as well as a side effect of making the consumer cough afterwards. This is a potent blend that contains about 24% to 26% THC. Strawberry Cough is usually used by people who have experience with medical marijuana.

Conclusion

This natural uplifting substance can bring you energy and focus right when you need it the most. Sativa cannabis can fight off stress, acute pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and so much more. Hopefully this overview has given you helpful insight about what can be expected from sativa strains and why you should jump on sativas if you’re a creative person!

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