Cannabinoids
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      Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid

      A brief introduction to the three most general categories of the cannabis plant.

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      		 Note: While Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid are commonly used classifications, some industry professionals are starting to use chemotype (chemical type) and chemovar (chemical variation) terminology instead based on the cannabinoid and terpene ratios. 

       

       

      I was taught Indica will have you in-da-couch, meaning a very relaxing body high. Whereas Sativa is more energizing and a hybrid was a happy middle. While that can generally be true, there is much more to these classifications. In addition to producing different effects, Sativa and Indica plants differ in appearance and application as well.

      Sativa plants are known to be taller and thinner with longer light green leaves. These strains originate from near the equator making them more tolerable of heat. Indica plants are typically shorter and bushier with wider dark green leaves. Indicas also tend to grow more quickly and have higher yields than Sativa plants. Hybrid will often be bred for the best of both worlds resulting in the short grow time of an Indica and the profitable THC of a Sativa.

      Cannabinoids play a major role in the different effects Indicas and Sativas have. Indicas have a higher CBD content than Sativas making them commonly used to reduce nausea and pain, increase appetite, and regulate sleep. On the other hand, Sativas have more THC meaning they create more cerebral effects like increased energy, alertness, and creativity. However, that can lead to increased anxiety and paranoia as well. With Hybrids, the THC to CBD ratios will determine the prevalent effects.

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      References

      1. Cannabis Chemovar Classification. (n.d.). Modern Canna. Retrieved January 18, 2022, from https://www.moderncanna.com/resources/cannabis-chemovars/
      2. Hennings, T. (2016, November 11). Differences in Growing Sativa, Indica and Hybrid Cannabis. Leafly. Retrieved January 18, 2022, from https://www.leafly.com/news/growing/differences-growing-sativa-indica-hybrid-strains
      3. Indica vs Sativa. (n.d.). Cresco Labs. Retrieved January 18, 2022, from https://www.crescolabs.com/indica-vs-sativa/
      4. Indica vs. Sativa. (2020, June 18). Pure Oasis. Retrieved January 18, 2022, from https://www.mypureoasis.com/indica-vs-sativa/
      5. Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid: Chart, Different Use, Side Effects, More. (n.d.). Healthline. Retrieved January 18, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/sativa-vs-indica#hybrid
      6. Wilson, D. R. (2020, February 6). Indica vs. sativa: What’s the difference? Medical News Today. Retrieved January 18, 2022, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/indica-vs-sativa#physical-differences-in-strains