What Is the Difference Between Indica and Sativa?

When you browse cannabis on a Licensed Producer or dispensary menu, you have likely noticed that the flowers are broken up into three distinct groups: indica, sativa, and hybrid.

Indica strains are known for being physically sedating, while sativas invigorate and stimulate the mind. Indicas, colloquially called “in-da-couch” strains are well-liked for cozy nights at home. They are believed to have originated in the Hindu Kush region near Afghanistan (Afghanistan, Pakistan, North India, South China) where the plant learned to secrete thick resins as a protection against the harsh climate.

On the other hand, sativas developed in areas along the equator and are ideal physical activity and creative pursuits.

In addition to geographic origin and effects, sativa and indica cannabis strains have four major physical differences:

Morphology

The indica plant is stout and bushy in appearance; the sativa plant grows taller and more slender.

Flowering Time

The sativa plants takes longer to mature and does better in outdoor grows; indica have a shorter cycle and make for good indoor gardens.

Yields

Indica strains typically produce more flowers than sativa strains.

Flavour

Indica and sativa strains differ in their terpene profile and therefore their aroma and taste.

Finally, there is a third interesting category of marijuana called hybrids, which are genetic crosses, as a result of over 40 years of breeding cannabis in the western world.

It’s pretty straightforward, but there’s a little controversy in this categorization system. Marijuana affects each person differently, in part because of something referred to as the “entourage effect.” The entourage effect relates to the amount and combination of cannabinoids and terpenes found in each strain. The two primary cannabinoids, THC and CBD are molecular structures with unique properties and therapeutic benefits; terpenes are the aromatic oils that accentuate the effects of cannabinoids, and these too, have a unique impact on the body.

Marijuana strains are a complex sum of their parts, and although these attributes are genetic, they also have a lot to do with how the plant grew. Variables between two Pineapple Kush flowers could include whether the plant was grown indoor, outdoor, hydroponically, in soil, and so on. The entourage effect helps describe both the consistency in strain types as well as the variations.

Another thing to understand is that most marijuana genetics on the market today were derived from pure, ancient cannabis plants, referred to as “landraces,” but have been crossed so many times they are far from their purely indica or sativa genes. Even strains listed as landraces in a local dispensary have a good chance of being crossed somewhere along the line. Most strains, therefore, could be considered hybrids with either indica- or sativa-dominant characteristics.

In the end, the simplistic indica and sativa classifications are not the most efficient way of determining the best strain for each user and the system will evolve as the plant’s use becomes normalized. But for now, it is an easy guide for patients who are finding their ideal strains and dosages.