Cannabis Sativa and cannabis Indica are the two main species of the cannabis plant. They have numerous subspecies known as strains, and they provide users with distinctive benefits and effects.
Anecdotally speaking, Indica strains provide users with a relaxing, sedative, and calming effect hence best for nighttime use. In contrast, Sativa strains provide a more uplifting and energizing cerebral buzz, thus preferred for use during the day.
Below, we delve into the differences between Indica vs. Sativa, from their physical appearances to their distinctive benefits and effects.
The Physical differences between Indica strains vs. Sativa strains
Indica and Sativa differ significantly in their appearances. Growers often consider these distinctive features when deciding which plants to grow and where to grow them, whether indoors or outdoors. These differences are often featured in their height, branching, and leaf appearance.
Indicas are fast growers with a shorter flowering time of 42-48 days. They tend to grow short and stocky, reaching about 3-6 feet in height. They have vigorous, dense branching and broad leaves that make them appear bushy. Indicas are very popular with hobby growers, indoor growers, and beginner growers.
On the other hand, Sativas have a long flowering time of 9-15 weeks or more. They grow much taller and can reach up to 20 feet in height. You’ll quickly notice their slender, lightly colored leaves. These attributes make Sativas best for outdoor growing. However, farmers prefer to crossbreed them and create sativa dominants in an attempt to tame their height.
The Differences In The Effects Provided By Indica vs. Sativa strains
The most significant difference between Sativas and Indicas is their chemical composition. The cannabinoids and terpenes in a strain determine the effects they deliver to a user. Typically, Indicas pack a higher CBD level than Sativas.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the non-psychoactive and non-intoxicating cannabinoid in the cannabis plant that does not get you high.
Sativas possess a higher THC level than Indicas. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive and intoxicating cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. It’s notorious for getting users high, enhancing mood, and providing a strong feeling of euphoria. Scientific studies suggest that THC may help with everything from relieving pain, reducing nausea to alleviating anxiety.
Terpenes are the active oils in cannabis plants that provide them with their unique flavor and aroma. Terpenes also play a very significant role in determining how THC and CBD work in our bodies to offer therapeutic or recreational benefits.
Generally, Indica plants release a musky, earthy aroma with traces of skunky smell, while Sativa plants emit racy, sweet, and highly focussed fruity notes with hints of sour a scent.
Hybrid Strains
Growers often crossbreed Sativa and Indica to provide users with the best of both worlds. Cannabis experts suggest that since hybrids inherit the best traits from their parents, their medicinal profile may be better and more potent.
A breeder is not restricted to crossbreeding Indicas with Sativas. Hybrids can be created from any two strains. Sativas can be mixed with different Sativa varieties, and hybrids can also be combined with other hybrids to create specific characteristics and effects.
For instance, to create a specific strain for children’s medicinal needs, strains with a very high CBD content will be mixed with strains with very minimal trace amounts of THC.
Additionally, farmers can breed Sativa or Indica strains with fast flowering cannabis strains to create a successful hybrid that grows faster.
The Bottom Line
Contrary to the popularly held belief that cannabis’s therapeutic, medicinal, and recreational benefits are determined by its being a Sativa or Indica strain, research shows that the cannabinoids and terpenes profile is what determines its effects. This comprehensive guide on Indica vs. Sativa will help any grower, breeder, or cannabis user decide the best strain for their needs.
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