Indica Vs. Sativa Vs. Hybrid Strains: Differences, Chart, and Effects
Do you know that six in ten Americans think that marijuana should be legal for both medical and recreational purposes? However, roughly 32% of Americans consider that it should be legal for medical use only. This is more proof of how popular cannabis products are in the US. Gallup News says 17% of Americans smoke weed in 2023.
Since there is a wide range of cannabis strains available in the market, it would be challenging for many cannabis smokers to differentiate the popular marijuana strains. This is why we’re here: to talk about the different kinds of cannabis, mostly indica vs. sativa vs. hybrid. So, Let’s begin.
Cannabis Indica Vs. Sativa: What’s the Difference?
Indica and Sativa are two major types of cannabis plants. They exhibit some unique characteristics in terms of appearance, growth conditions, and effects. Indica plants are compact and thrive in cooler climates. On the other hand, Sativa plants are tall and grow well in warmer, tropical conditions.
Both these plants contain cannabinoids and terpenes. THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid found in these plants, and CBD is the most therapeutic one. Your cannabis experience can differ based on the THC VS. CBD ratio.
If you smoke cannabis indica, it will induce a sense of relaxation and a “body high”. In case you don’t know, there are two kinds of highs. One is “body high” which is associated with indica strains. Another is “head high” associated with sativa weed consumption.
In “Body High” you’ll probably experience the following:
- Calming effects
- Sense of relaxation
- Sedation and sleepy feelings
- Increased appetite
That’s why the indica strain is ideal for evening use. Besides, one of the notable qualities of indica is that it contains a high concentration of CBD (Cannabidiol) which contributes to their calming effects. As a result, indica strains are also ideal for pain management.
Conversely, cannabis sativa strains have a higher concentration of THC. You’ll most likely experience “head high” energizing and uplifting effects from smoking sativa dominant cannabis strain. It encourages creativity and socializing.
A “head high” means you’ll experience:
- Enhanced creativity
- Inward exploration
- Formulation of deep thoughts
- Uncontrollable laughter, and so on.
Note that the combination of both Indica and Sativa creates hybrid cannabis strains. It has a balanced ratio of both Indica and Sativa strains. So, if you want to compare the Indica Vs. Sativa. Hybrid effects, keep reading this article.
What is Indica Cannabis Strain?
Let’s discuss in detail about Indica cannabis strain!
The original Indica plant comes from the Indian subcontinent, notably Afghanistan. Cannabis Indica literally means “cannabis from India.” In the 18th century, Europeans only knew about Sativa. Jean-Baptize Lamarck, a French botanist studying in India, got a sample of Indica plants in 1785 and was the first to catalogue them.
Indica cannabis strains have a compact and bushy appearance, with short stature and large leaves. Furthermore, they are ideal for indoor growing. Because they are more manageable in size and have a shorter flowering cycle than Sativa strains.
Furthermore, Indica strains grow better in milder climates which allows them to flourish under a variety of settings. They produce dense, resinous buds that are often very dark in color and have a strong, distinct aroma.
However, cultivators often prefer Indica strains due to their robust growth patterns and high resin production. This adds to their medicinal and recreational usefulness.
Characteristics of Indica Cannabis Plants
Indica cannabis plants can be recognized by their robust, bushy structure with short internodes and broad, dark green leaves. They typically grow to a height of 3 to 6 feet. So, growers often pick them for indoor cultivation.
Besides, the Indica variety has a faster flowering time compared to sativa, usually around 8 weeks. So, it allows cannabis growers a quick harvest as well. Also, the high sedative and relaxing effects of indica come from their ability to produce thick, resinous buds with high THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) concentration. In essence, Indica cannabis plants are favored by growers for their ease of cultivation and the level of potency.
Let’s Talk About Popular Indica Dominant Strains
When it comes to comparing Indica vs sativa vs hybrid, it’s crucial to know the different popular cannabis flower strains, their effects, and their characteristics. Cannabis varieties that have a higher proportion of Indica genetics are called “Indica dominant strains.”
These strains tend to have the calming and sleepy effects of Indica plants. But they may also potentially have some of the energizing and uplifting effects of Sativa plants. Indica dominant strains are popular for their medicinal and recreational benefits. Here you’ll most likely experience reduced pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
Below are some of the popular Indica dominant strains:
1. Northern Lights
Northern Lights is a classic Indica dominant strain known for its potent, calming effects. Most cannabis users often describe its taste as a blend of sweet citrus and spicy aroma, with earthy and piney flavors. It’s ideal for those who are looking for stress relief and pain management.