Indica vs. Sativa
Indica vs. Sativa: Understanding the Basics
Natural Harvest has a wide variety of cannabis seeds giving you the option to try more types of cannabis and find what works best for you.
The terms indica and sativa are commonly used to describe the effects of different cannabis strains. Indica strains are typically thought to be relaxing and sedating, while sativa strains are thought to be energizing and uplifting. However, the science doesn’t always support these claims.
The origins of the terms indica and sativa actually come from botany, not from the effects of the plants. Indica strains are native to the Indian subcontinent, while sativa strains are native to Southeast Asia. Indica plants are shorter and bushier than sativa plants, and they have a higher concentration of THC, the compound that produces the “high” feeling. Sativa plants are taller and lankier than indica plants, and they have a higher concentration of CBD, a compound that has calming and relaxing effects.
The effects of a particular cannabis strain can vary depending on a number of factors, including the individual’s body chemistry, the amount of THC and CBD in the strain, and the way the strain is consumed. For example, a person who is sensitive to THC may experience anxiety or paranoia after smoking an indica strain, even though indica strains are typically thought to be relaxing.
Cannabinoids and Terpenes
A more accurate way to predict the effects of a cannabis strain is to look at its chemical profile, specifically the levels of cannabinoids and terpenes. Cannabinoids are the compounds in cannabis that produce the psychoactive effects. The two most common cannabinoids are THC and CBD. THC is the compound that produces the “high” feeling, while CBD has calming and relaxing effects.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive smell and flavor. Terpenes also interact with cannabinoids to produce different effects. For example, the terpene limonene is found in citrusy strains of cannabis and has energizing effects. The terpene myrcene is found in many indica strains and has relaxing effects.
The Indica/Sativa/Hybrid Model
The indica/sativa/hybrid model is a simplified way to think about the effects of different cannabis strains. While it is not always accurate, it can be a helpful starting point for beginners. If you are new to cannabis, you may want to start with a hybrid strain that has a balance of indica and sativa effects. Once you have a better understanding of how different strains affect you, you can start to experiment with more specific strains.
Conclusion
The effects of cannabis are complex and can vary depending on a number of factors. The indica/sativa/hybrid model is a simplified way to think about the effects of different strains, but it is not always accurate. A more accurate way to predict the effects of a cannabis strain is to look at its chemical profile, specifically the levels of cannabinoids and terpenes.
