Indica vs. Sativa

Know the Differences

In recent decades, numerous new cannabis strains have been bred, with a focus on terpene profiles and cannabinoid content. For patients, it’s crucial to understand the variety of medicinal cannabis products available and the effects associated with each product. Some strains and cannabis products may be more helpful in alleviating specific symptoms than others. Choosing the right strain ensures each patient receives their desired results.

Cannabis Strains

Cannabis is a flowering plant that is split into three subspecies: Indica, Sativa, and Ruderalis. Ruderalis plants are much smaller and yield relatively little medicine, so cannabis cultivators tend to avoid these subspecies. The focus of the medical cannabis community is primarily on Indica and Sativa strains.

Indica and Sativa plants have various characteristics, from the way they look to their physiological effects. Indica plants, for example, tend to be short and stocky with chunky leaves and dense buds, while Sativa plants grow much taller and their leaves are much thinner. 

Medicinal Properties

Arguably the most important differences between Indica and Sativa strains are their medical effects and how they influence energy levels and productivity. Indica strains are known to create strong body highs and may decrease energy, therefore they make great sleep aids. Sativas, on the other hand, are known to be uplifting and may enhance feelings of creativity and motivation, sometimes referred to as a “head high.”

In terms of particular ailments, patients report Sativa strains to provide relief from psychological disorders like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Indicas are reported to provide relief from chronic pain and inflammation, and thus may be beneficial for patients with arthritis, fibromyalgia, and cancer. However, because many conditions and ailments have an array of symptoms, many patients end up using a mix of Indica, Sativa, and hybrid strains.

Understanding Hybrids 

Hybrids are crosses between Indica and Sativa strains. Theoretically, hybrid strains possess most of the beneficial properties of both parent plants. Any two strains can be mixed to create a hybrid plant, and while it is most common to cross a Sativa and Indica plant, it is possible to cross two strains of the same subspecies. 

Hybrid strains that display more characteristics of Indica are labeled “Indica-dominant,” while strains that display more Sativa-like characteristics are labeled “Sativa-dominant.”

What Determines Indica or Sativa?

While the differences stated above can be used as a general guide to identify types of cannabis, what determines the status of a strain is its terpene profile. There are a variety of terpenes that appear in any given strain. Look out for a blog post all about the various terpenes found in cannabis!

Conclusion

Patients must seek out the strains that best deal with their particular disease or ailment. This is typically not an overnight project and may require months or even years of diligent effort. In fact, patients are encouraged to continually experiment with new strains in search of greater potency or a superior cannabinoid profile that delivers improved relief. At Urban Wellness, our staff is happy to help you explore new products as you search for your favorite strain.