Sativa vs. Indica: What to Expect Across Cannabis Types and Strains

By Mathhew Paul On Jul 28, 2022

Sativa and Indica, the two primary varieties of cannabis, are employed for a variety of therapeutic and leisure-time activities.

Sativas are renowned for their energising “head high,” a stimulating impact that can help lessen anxiety or stress while boosting creativity and focus.

Indicas are frequently linked to all-over benefits like boosting deep relaxation and lowering sleeplessness. It seems these plants have more in common than previously believed, despite the paucity of study on these impacts.

Many people in the cannabis industry have abandoned the designations Indica, Sativa, and hybrid in favour of categorising the various “strains” or, more accurately, “chemovars” as:

High THC type I
Type II: A THC/CBD mixture
High CBD type III

The cannabis industry is increasingly replacing the term “strains” with “chemovars” (chemical variations), as the term “strain” is frequently used to refer to bacteria and viruses.

Here are some tips on how to choose the best plant for your requirements, along with information on strains to think about and any negative effects.

To Comprehend the Effects of Tension, What Should You Search For?

It’s a common misconception that sativas are more energetic and enlivening while indicas are more tranquil and relaxing. However, it’s not quite that simple.

Even among cannabis strains of the same type, individual plants have different effects. The chemical makeup of the plant and the growing method are the only factors that matter.

Frequently, the various plant kinds are divided into distinct chemovars or breeds. The unique cannabinoid and terpene concentration of chemovars makes them distinct. The user will have access to the best data through this “cannabinoid profile” to decide which chemovar is most appropriate for them.

Using names alone does not give the user the information they need to select the appropriate profile. The effects of the chemovar as a whole are determined by these substances.

Cannabinoids

Numerous cannabinoids are chemical substances found in large quantities in cannabis plants. Numerous cannabis-related effects, both beneficial and harmful, are produced by these naturally occurring substances.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), as well as a few other, less prevalent cannabinoids, have been identified by researchers, however, they still don’t fully understand what each one does.

These Comprise

THC. The main psychotropic component found in cannabis plants is THC. It causes the euphoric “high” or state of being associated with cannabis consumption. THC levels have been rising as breeders attempt to produce hybrids with higher levels of the chemical.

CBD. CBD has no debilitating or euphoric effects. It does not result in a “high.” But several physical advantages could result from it, including the ease of migraines, the prevention of seizures, and the reduction of pain and nausea.

CBN. Cannabinol (CBN) is used to reduce the signs and symptoms of neurological diseases such as epilepsy, seizures, and involuntary muscle stiffness.

THCA. Similar to THC but without any psychotropic effects is tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA). It might help with autoimmune disorders and arthritis by lowering inflammation. It might also lessen the effects of neurological diseases like ALS and Parkinson’s disease.

CBG. Obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression symptoms may all be lessened by cannabigerol (CBG), according to some research.

Terpenes

The concentrations of THC and CBD in a particular strain are frequently discussed, but more recent research points to the possibility that terpenes may have an even greater influence.
Terpenes are an additional naturally occurring substance found in cannabis plants.
The terpenes here directly influence how the plant smells. They might also affect how a particular strain behaves.

The Following Common Terpenes Are Listed by Leafly

Bisabolol. Bisabolol, a terpene with chamomile and tea tree oil undertones, is supposed to help lessen inflammation and irritation. Additionally, it might be antimicrobial and lessen discomfort.
Caryophyllene. The spiciness and pepperiness of the substance may lessen anxiety, ease depression symptoms, and heal ulcers.
Linalool. With its flowery undertones, linalool is thought to aid in enhancing relaxation and elevating mood.
Myrcene. This earthy, herbal molecule, which is the most prevalent terpene, might aid in improving sleep quality by lowering anxiety and insomnia.
Ocimene. Basil, mango, and parsley flavours are produced by this terpene. Its main benefits can include reducing congestion and fending against germs and viruses.
Pinene. As its name implies, this terpene emits a powerful pine fragrance. It might improve memory, lessen pain, and lessen some of THC’s less desirable side effects, like nausea and coordination issues.
Terpinolene. This component in cannabis may have an apple, cumin, and coniferous scent. It might be sedating, antimicrobial, and antifungal.
Limonene. This terpene has bright, zesty citrus overtones. It is rumoured to elevate mood and lessen stress.
Humulene. This terpene has a strong hops or clove-like earthy and woody aroma. Inflammation may be decreased by cannabis strains that contain this molecule.
Eucalyptol. This molecule is energising and refreshing with hints of tea tree oil and eucalyptus. It might also aid in reducing inflammation and battling bacteria.