Cannabis plants have been under scientific investigation ever since Jean-Baptiste Lamarck differentiated its two species in the 18th century. The French nationalist was the first to discover that Cannabis sativa was distinct from its sister plant: Cannabis indica.
Since that time, our understanding of the cannabis plant has increased. We now know that the two species of cannabis aren’t different in appearance alone. They also differ in the cannabinoids they produce and the benefits they provide.
Now, when you walk into a dispensary, you’ll probably hear about Indica vs Sativa vs hybrid strains. You may not think it matters which strain you choose, but we’re about to show you why you’re wrong in this guide.
Are you confused about the difference between Indicas and Sativas? And what does it even mean to be a hybrid strain? We’re answering these questions and more for you today, so you’ve got to keep reading.
What is an Indica Strain?
Cannabis indica plants originated from the harsh Hindu Kush mountains in the Middle East. There’s much debate in the scientific community as to whether Cannabis indica is actually its own separate species from Sativa plants.
Growers differentiate Indica plants by their short, squat appearance. These cannabis plants grow broader leaves that tend to cluster in bushes. Because they’re much smaller than Sativa plants, Cannabis indica has a much shorter growth cycle.
Indica plants also tend to produce more flower buds that tend to be higher in CBD than THC. Still, the strongest CBD flower comes from legal hemp, which is bred to express extremely low levels of THC and high levels of CBD.
Traditionally, growers differentiated the flowers by their dark green appearance, often covered in deep purple trichomes.
Keep reading below to learn why so many cannabis users love Cannabis indica strains.
Indica Benefits
Indica strains are well-loved for their uber relaxing effects. Most users refer to Indicas as offering a “body high” as compared to a mind high. Indica strains are also known to help with pain, nausea, and hunger.
Cannabis indica strains are best used at nighttime. Use Indica strains before bed for a better night’s sleep every time.
What is a Sative Strain?
Cannabis sativa is the scientific name for hemp. But it’s also the name for plants that produce energizing flowers. Sativa plants are native to hot, dry locales like Asia, Africa, and Central America.
Some growers report that Sativa plants grow up to 12 feet tall with thin, long leaves. Because Cannabis sativa is so large, it often takes longer to mature than its Cannabis indica cousin.
Many growers can further differentiate Sativa and Indica cannabis plants by their flowers. Sativa flower tends to be a light or bright green with yellow or orange trichomes.
Sativa flowers feature higher levels of THC than CBD. That’s why people report feeling an intense “head high” after using Sative strains. Here are a few more of the benefits you can expect from Sativa cannabis strains.
Sativa Benefits
The most commonly reported benefit of Sative strains is the “head high.” It’s an energetic experience that can help eliminate anxious feelings. At the same time, Sativas generally promote productivity and creativity.
For this reason, most people avoid using Sativa strains before bed. For best results, try Cannabis sativa when you wake up for a morning boost.
What is a Hybrid Strain?
Hybrid cannabis strains don’t grow organically in nature. Instead, expert cannabis breeders create these new phenotypes to offers users specific effects. For this reason, you’ll have to visit a cannabis farm or greenhouse to find hybrid plants.
These plants are also hard to differentiate from Indica or Sativa cannabis plants because they are a combination of the two. Some are short and squat with long and thin leaves while others are tall and thin with bushy, broad leaves.
It’s nearly impossible to determine what type of CBD to THC ratio a hybrid plant contains just by looking at it. Breeders grow hybrid plants to harness specific ratios.
Historically, that meant ramping up the THC content. However, with more states legalizing medical marijuana and CBD, more consumers are looking for high-CBD strains. Growers are responding with CBD-rich hybrids like Harle-Tsu and Ringo’s Gift.
Learn more about the benefits of hybrid cannabis strains below.
Hybrid Benefits
While you can’t classify a hybrid as just Sative or just Indica, growers do differentiate their effects on this basis. For example, you may find hybrid strains referred to as “Sativa-dominant” or “Indica-dominant.”
Sativa-dominant hybrid strains are going to offer more Sativa-like benefits. This includes a “head high,” plenty of energy, and creativity. Sativa-dominant hybrid strains are best for daytime use.
Indica-dominant hybrids similarly act like Indica strains. They confer relaxation as well as relief from pain and nausea, ideal for nighttime use. Studies also show that Indica-dominant strains can help stimulate the appetite.
You may also find hybrid strains on the market referred to as “balanced.” These are true hybrids— they harness the best of Indica and Sativa’s benefits in one unique strain.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid: The Bottom Line
Today, the scientific community questions whether there really is a difference in Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid cannabis plants and strains. Still, traditional cannabis culture holds that Indicas offer relaxation, Sativas provide energy, and hybrids are somewhere in between.
Did you love learning about the different types of cannabis plants and the benefits they offer? Then you’re going to love the other articles we have in store. Keep scrolling for more like this!
