SATIVA VS INDICA: FINDING YOUR HIGH

September 15, 2019
What is the difference between Sativa and Indica Cannabis Strains

Originally published November 15th, 2018

In the world that we exist today, you can easily walk into a recreational cannabis store and request information on strains and products from a friendly budtender. But what exactly are you looking for when you’re not very versed with the cannabis world?

In this article, you’ll learn more about what the kids are talking about when you hear “SATIVA” or “INDICA” around the dinner table this weekend.

Regular cannabis users know what they’re looking for with a certain high. They’ve had the time to experiment and find out what works best with their profile. It’s important to note that cannabis has a reputation for helping you get more energy or supporting your relaxing/sleeping habits. That’s fundamental in understanding how to figure out what it is you’re looking for when engaging with cannabis. The beautiful thing is that Kush21 is the place where you can find helping budtenders with a world of information at their access. Let’s learn more! 

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT SATIVA?

So, you heard Johnny talk about the new sativa strains he found when he went to Colorado this summer, did you?

 Sativa is just one of the common types of cannabis that typically has a higher THC content and traditionally has more psychoactive properties than other subtypes. It’s more of a social variety and helps keep the conversation going. Even CNN’s jumping on the bandwagon, teaching folks about what it means to enjoy some of these social lubricants. 

Sativa strains of cannabis flower tend to be the energy drink of cannabis, giving an uplifting psychoactive high to those looking for a boost in their day.

Sativa strains are also well known for their creative enhancement capabilities, helping you to keep focused, supporting your happy mood, and help to drive forward your motivation. According to Leafly, Sativas can also be a great strain type to fight clinical depression if you’re a medical patient. Popular strains of sativa include: Jack Herer, Durban Poison, and Green Crack and are grown by many different producers in Washington State.

WHY CHOOSE INDICA?

Indica plants are short in height, with wider leaves and have a shorter flowering cycle which is better suited for colder climates with shorter seasons. Indicas are also typically more sedating than their Sativa counterparts due to the terpenes and cannabinoids that make up the strain. That’s why most people who experience Indicas tend to define the strains as being “Couch Lock” strains. A term commonly used to describe the relaxing feeling used after consuming indica cannabis flower or concentrates. For those of you with a scientific background, researchers have found that the terpene that exists in cannabis flowers known as myrcene is the compound that provides us with that heavy sedating feeling. 

For those submerged in the cannabis world, indica strains provide the chill side of cannabis consumption. That’s why many who have worked long hours and are looking to relax and call it a day tend to reach for the indica dominant strains. Indica strains can also assist in pain management, including headaches, joint pain, and chronic medical issues. You can find more information on this via Medical News Today.

Indica strains that our experienced budtenders recommend with tested results include Purple Punch, Bubba Kush, Grand Daddy Purple, and Northern Lights. 

SO NOW WHAT?

What we continue to learn daily in the cannabis space is that we don’t know what we don’t know. As more states continue to legalize both medical and recreational cannabis for their residents, we’re learning that one size does not fit all.

What some would have taken to the grave as guarantees about cannabis even 5 years ago is quickly changing. With scientists and researchers now having more access to legal cannabis than ever before we’re quickly learning that different cannabis terpene profiles affects different people in radically different ways.

All this is coming down to the genetic makeup of the individual and overall terpene profile of the plant or concentrate being consumed. We don’t say this to provide you with any skepticism about what we’re suggesting and consulting. What we’re saying is that it’s important to embrace that this industry is new and young and the most reliable information comes from the people who have direct interface with consumers.

Stop into any of our Kush21 locations and speak with a trained budtender. They can provide you with the latest up-to-date information on the best treatments and applications cannabis can have for your specific needs.

Find A Store Near You!

Upcoming Events

*All information, content, and material of this website is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.

a budtender holding a tablet in his hands at a legal weed dispensary
Cannabis 101

Budtenders: The People You Need for Legal Weed

Walking into a legal pot shop for the first time can be borderline overwhelming. Picture this: shelves lined with an endless selection of cannabis products, from pre-rolls to edibles, concentrates, tinctures, and cartridges. It’s a far cry from your old dealer days when “options” meant picking between whatever strains they had on hand.

Is Cannabis Good for Your Health
Cannabis 101

A Comprehensive Guide to the Health Benefits of Cannabis

Cannabis, once a misunderstood taboo, has emerged into the spotlight as a natural remedy with growing recognition for its potential health benefits. With the increasing legalization, both medically and recreationally, across the United States and beyond, more people are curious about what cannabis can offer. Is it worth incorporating into your wellness routine? And if so, what benefits can you expect?

closeup photo of yellow lemon. Terpenes are in many foods and plants in addition to cannabis
Cannabis 101

Talking about terpenes!

Have you ever wondered why the aroma of a fresh lemon energizes you or why the scent of lavender helps you relax? It’s all thanks to terpenes.

Buckley, Burien, Cannabis 101, Education, Everett 128th, Everett Evergreen Way, Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Pullman, Renton, Sale, Spokane, Tacoma, Washington, Yakima

Topicals for Pain Relief: How CBD and THC Can Take Your Recovery Game to the Next Level

Dealing with body aches, sore muscles, or chronic pain? Whether you're an athlete chasing that next PR or just someone looking to feel a little lighter on your feet, CBD and THC-infused topicals might be the game-changer you didn't know you needed.

closeup photo of cannabis plants, in their raw form these contain THC-A. The THC only develops after the plants have been dried and heated.
Buckley, Burien, Cannabis 101, Education, Everett 128th, Everett Evergreen Way, Illinois, Jacksonville Specials, Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Pullman, Renton, Spokane, Tacoma, Washington, Yakima

THC and THC-A: BREAKING DOWN THE DIFFERENCE

This post dives into what makes THC and THCA unique, their effects, benefits, and risks, and why knowing the difference can improve your cannabis experience. By the end, you’ll be ready to drop some knowledge the next time you visit one of our friendly Kush 21 shops in Washington State or Illinois.

Buckley, Burien, Cannabis Culture, Everett 128th, Everett Evergreen Way, Jacksonville Specials, Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Pullman, Renton, Spokane, Tacoma, Washington, Yakima

Your Guide to Cannabis Consumption in Washington State

Traveling in Washington State with Cannabis? Here's what you want to know!

Washington is home to one of the most diverse and thriving legal cannabis markets in the country. Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur or simply curious about exploring the culture, there’s plenty to discover here. And the good news? It’s completely legal for adults 21 and over to possess and use cannabis in Washington.

But before you roll one up, it’s important to know the rules. Here’s your quick guide to enjoying cannabis in the Evergreen State responsibly and legally.

black and clear glass dropper on wooden table top beside green leaves. CBD oil is helping people world wide.
Cannabis 101

CBD Oil: Tips For First-Time Buyers

For some time, the cannabis plant has been used for its exceptional medicinal and health-boosting effects. Particularly CBD (cannabidiol), one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis, has become a phenomenon.

man using glass smoking device
Cannabis 101, Kush21 Store Updates

How and When to Clean Your Bong

If you’ve spent time perfecting the art of rolling a joint or curating the finest strains, you know that a dirty bong can ruin even the best smoke sesh. We've all been there—taking a rip from cloudy, smelly bong water and telling ourselves it’s fine. Spoiler alert:...

Woman putting lotion on her hand
Cannabis 101

Topical THC: The New Kid On The Block

Cannabis topicals are a go-to for one major reason—pain relief. Applied directly to problem areas, they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to address pain where it's needed most.