The spreading legalization of marijuana is certainly popularizing its use, and many new faces may be asking the question, what is sativa and. indica? Simply put, sativa and indica refer to the two main strains of cannabis, which both have varying effects for medicinal and recreational uses. So, what are these differences and which type would be better for you? Well, it’s important to know this before jumping into the action, to prevent any unwanted feelings, or effects.
While sativa and indica may smell and even taste the same, they often produce greatly differing effects, and for that reason, having an understanding of these effects will help in a number of ways. First and foremost, the respective types of cannabis have differing appearances before cultivation – sativa plants are generally longer and thinner with lankier leaves, while indica plants are shorter and stocky, with leaves that are broad and chunky. However, when someone is smoking marijuana, it looks far different than what it would look like before harvest, which makes it even more important to know the differences and benefits of each type.
The Effects of Sativa and Indica
The effects of sativa and indica may seem similar for those with less experience, but they are often able to be differentiated quite easily over time. Some general effects of a sativa strain include feelings of happiness, euphoria, increased energy and laughter, and creativity. Those under the effects of sativa may find their brains ‘moving’ rapidly, and feel more ‘up and awake’ than when under the effects of indica, as sativa usually contains more THC than its counterpart. However, sativa strains have been known to cause a person to feel overwhelmed, or more anxious, but these are rare cases.
Generally, indica has a higher CBD content than sativa, making it incredibly useful as a pain and stress reliever. Those under the effects of indica may feel more calm, relaxed, and sleepy. Indicas are commonly known as ‘nighttime strains’, for their ability to provide relaxation and comfort at night, and to help with insomnia. Some may find indica strains put them to sleep too easily, and feel that the body high that often accompanies indica may not be optimal for creative and energetic activities.
Benefits of Sativa
- Boosts serotonin, which regulates learning, mood, appetite and anxiety
- Great for creativity and sharpens focus
- Enhances physical activities
- Helps with productivity and energy
- Good for those with PTSD, depression, and other mental disorders
Indica Benefits
- Increases dopamine, known as the “feel-good” hormone
- Relaxing and calming
- Good for mental and physical relaxation
- Helps with pain relief, inflammation, and insomnia
- Decreases nausea and anxiety
What Makes Indica And Sativa Different?
On a molecular level, the cannabis plant contains both cannabinoids and terpenes, among many other compounds that all have a role in its effects. Cannabinoids are usually split into two types, THC and CBD. THC is what provides the “high” feeling and is associated with marijuana, while CBD generally brings on the pain relieving and soothing benefits of the industrial hemp plant. Terpenes, however, have most of the say in which strain is which. Myrcene is the most common type of terpene in cannabis, and is known to help patients sleep and reduce insomnia. If a strain has a volume of myrcene greater than 0.5%, it is considered indica, and if the volume is less, it is typically considered a sativa.
LAKushCab
LA Kush Cab is among the leaders in selling and distributing cannabis brands and products throughout the California area for medicinal and recreational purposes. Our shop features both indica and sativa strain options among a variety of product types. Learn more about us to discover what makes us one of the top dispensaries that delivers more. We understand the importance of doing the proper research to know which type of strain works best for you, and we are available to answer any and all questions regarding our products or services.