What is the difference between Sativa and Indica Cannabis Strains

Sativa vs. Indica: Finding your High

Updated by Angie McFarlane

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.

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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.

*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.
Angie McFarlane

Angie McFarlane

Cannabis Culture

Angie McFarlane has spent the last 5+ years helping brand and market numerous cannabis products in the Washington State recreational market. Her expertise in the industry brings a technical and business perspective beyond the average cannabis consumer and advocate. Angie lives in Seattle, loves the outdoors and her two kitties, and is a living force against the stoner stigma!

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