By Londyn At this point, most stoners have a preference. Perhaps you prefer an Indica, a Sativa, or a cool cross between the two. Some people may even be picky when it comes to their preferences. They only accept Indicas or Sativas based on how they feel.
But how significant is the difference? There may be less of a difference than people believe.
We'd like to dispel some common misconceptions in the cannabis community. This is especially true when it comes to Indica vs. Sativa. What are the true distinctions between Indicas and Sativas? Is one more stimulating or relaxing than the other? Let's go over everything you need to know in detail!
Discovering The Myths
Myth:
There are Hybrids, Sativas, and Indicas.
Truth:
Only hybrid carts cannabis strains are considered.
In fact, some experts believe that pure Indica and pure Sativa strains no longer exist. Over the last few decades, there has been a plethora of breeding to optimize various active ingredients such as THC, CBD, specific terpenes, and more. This leaves very few, if any, strains that have not been genetically bred in some way.
So, what exactly does it mean when a product is labeled as Sativa or Indica? Is it a deceptive advertisement? A blunder?
Cannabis products, on the other hand, have dominant genetics for one or the other. Each strain will have a higher percentage of Indica or a higher percentage of Sativa. Something with a higher Indica content is simply "more likely" to exhibit the effects of an Indica strain. Because all strains are so different, it's not a guarantee. They are not, however, the same as hybrid products. When it comes to hybrids, you can expect some or all of the effects of both types.
Myth:
Sativa strains are stimulating, while Indica strains are relaxing.
Fact:
Indica and Sativa strains are distinguished by their appearance rather than their effects.
It all comes down to plant biology rather than what an Indica vs. Sativa can do to you. Sativa-dominant strains, on the other hand, have taller, lighter green leaves than Indicas, which are typically shorter and have thicker stems. Indicas have broader, dark green leaves, whereas Sativas have narrower leaves.
Because the two are distinct, how far a strain leans towards one dominant side or the other will influence how quickly it grows, how much sunlight and heat it requires, and every other variable in between.
Indica strains typically absorb more heat and sunlight, making them the preferred strain for growing in colder climates and months.
While Sativas grow narrower and taller, with bright green leaves, they have their own set of advantages when it comes to growing. They thrive in warmer climates or controlled environments such as indoors and have a longer growing season.
The truth is that everything boils down to the contents of each strain. The concentration of each cannabinoid, the variety of terpenes and flavonoids, and the total amount of cannabis compounds in each strain determine what it will do to you.
If it has the right combination of THC, CBD, other cannabinoids, and the right terpene profile, a "Sativa" strain could very well make you sleepy and exhibit other common Indica effects on you.
Do Sativas And Indicas Really Exist?
Yes — and also no. There are only hybrids in the world, and our original understanding of how to classify them has been disproven. Although Sativa and Indica are still widely used today, it's important to understand why brands continue to use them on their product labels.