Introduction
Did you know that there are over 700 strains of cannabis being cultivated across the world? (And counting). Well, now that you know, each has a unique genetic makeup and a distinct set of effects. The only common thing is the fact that the majority of the strains are either Indica/ Sativa-based or a hybrid interbred.
To let you know, Indica and Sativa are two of the main sub-species of the cannabis plant family. Apart from that, there is a third called ‘Ruderalis” but that’s rather rare in the cannabis landscape. In general, Cannabis Indica purports a higher CBD content; whereas, C. Sativa tends to maintain a higher THC content. The difference in their chemical composition gets subtler and subtler as you dig deep into the whole wide world of cannabis strains.
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis or hemp is an annual flowering plant that is claimed to be one of the oldest plants to have ever surfaced on our planet about 10,000-12,000 years ago. Belonging to the Cannabaceae plant family, it is a dioecious plant which means that some plants have male flowers, some have female flowers, and others have both male and female flowers. Some of the typical characteristics of a cannabis plant other than being dioecious include palmate leaves and wind pollination.
As a herbal and sacred gift from god as per many religions, the applications of cannabis are also quite fascinating. Be it for food, medicine, fuel, or manufacturing, the prospects of cannabis never cease to end despite all the strict mandates against its use.
What makes marijuana such an interesting deal is not so much to do with the plant itself but the variety of chemical compounds and cannabinoids in it. For instance, CBD, THC, CBN, CBG, and terpenes. CBD or cannabidiol is the main medicinal compound found in cannabis that is used for a variety of conditions and diseases.
THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is the key psychoactive compound that causes the feeling of euphoria and high and is used for recreational purposes. CBN, CBG, etc. are other minor cannabinoids that help intensify the overall effects of marijuana. Terpenes, on the other hand, are aromatic compounds that are responsible for a plant’s taste and aroma.
Combined, these cannabinoids with other chemicals can work wonders in your favor especially when it is about improving your health. This explains why cannabis has long been used by ancient civilizations in all corners of the world starting from Asia. And not just as a recreational drug, but also for fiber, seeds, oils, vegetables, juice, medicine, and so on.
Differences in Cannabis Strains
The major differences in cannabis strains lie in their chemical composition. That is, their genetic lineage and smell! As such, cannabis is usually divided into three main sub-species- Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis. However, there is some disagreement about the classification.
While some consider C. Sativa to be a single undivided species of the cannabis genus; others argue that all three may be treated as sub-species of C. sativa. There is also some disagreement about whether or not these are three different species or one.
Regardless of that, each species can be interbred with the other species to produce an interbreed in a process called ‘hybridization.’ And hence, the overwhelming number of weed strains at present.
Indica Strains
Origin and History
The Cannabis Indica plant is indigenous to the Hindu Kush mountains of Southern Asia and parts of Central Asia. From there it spread to other parts of the Indian subcontinent such as China, India, Nepal, Tibet, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and even Africa where it is still being cultivated to this day.
Known for containing higher CBD of about 54%, Cannabis Indica also has high concentrations of THC content thus maintaining an almost 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC. As such, C. Indica has been used for various purposes be it medicinal or recreational.
Effects and Benefits
Due to the high concentrations of both THC and CBD, Indica strains can be used for both medicinal and recreational benefits. Among them, pain relief, relaxation, insomnia, and anxiety are some of the most common Indica strains benefits. Some of the popular Indica strains are Kush, Northern Lights, and Granddaddy Purple.
Physical Characteristics
As far as its physical appearance is concerned, Indica is usually shorter yet broader-leaved compared to Sativa dominant strains. Being just 2-4 feet tall, it has a bushy appearance with shorter, wider, and more buds and leaves that are compactly branched. These broad-leafed C. Indica plants are traditionally cultivated in the Indian Subcontinent for ‘hashish.’
Cultivation Tips
Cannabis Indica, like most other cannabis plants, are short day plants meaning brightness or light has some effects on their yields. Although, it can be grown in any type of soil, high-quality potting soil is always preferable. And the climatic condition ought not to be too hot or cold, but perfect Goldilocks conditions. At the same time, when growing Indica at home, pay special attention to the pH value of the water as it needs to be purely alkaline.
Sativa Strains
Origin and History
Found in Central America and Southeast Asia, Cannabis Sativa is the most commonly occurring sub-species in the West. However, the true origins of C. Sativa can be traced to Central Asia from where it spread to other parts of the world including America and Europe. As one of the oldest cultivated plants, Sativa has been long used for recreational, medical, and industrial purposes.
Physical Characteristics
Contrary to Indica, C. Sativa plants are rather tall with up to 5–18 feet of stature or more. Its leaves are relatively thin with fewer branches compared to Indica. As a tall plant, it flowers only under specific light conditions such as a minimum of 11 hours of darkness per day.
Effects and Benefits
Sativa typically has a higher THC content than CBD and other strains including Indica. Uplifting mood, relief from anxiety, and providing energy are some of the most common Sativa strains benefits. Higher amounts of THC also make it perfect for recreational activities, focus, and creativity. Some of the most popular Sativa strains include Jack Herer, Diesel, and Haze.
Cultivation Tips
Similar to other plants, cannabis sativa can also be grown in any type of natural soil. Despite that, it needs specific light conditions for flowering as in 11 hours of darkness a day at the minimum. As far as climate and water are concerned, it needs the perfect Goldilocks conditions and alkaline water.
Hybrid Strains
Origin and History
Except for 1 of the 3 main sub-species, most strains of cannabis are interbred or crossbred hybrids. Based on the odor and lineage, they are further named depending on the dominant strain. For instance, Afghan Kush, Hindu Kush, Green Kush, and Purple Kush are all derivatives of pure C. indica or a C. indica hybrid- Kush.
Physical Characteristics
Depending on the dominant side or parent strain, hybrid strains can further have their specific characteristics. For e.g., Indica strains would be short and bushy; whereas, Sativa-dominant strains are usually tall with fewer branches.
Effects and Uses
With mixed concentrations, they offer a combination of effects of both Sativa and Indica strains. This makes them useful for both recreational and medical use. Some of the best hybrid strains include Diesel, Kush, Haze, Blue Dream, and Girl Scout Cookies.
Cultivation Tips
Aside from good quality soil, choosing the right hybrid strain or cultivar is quite important when growing a hybrid strain
Comparing Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Strains
Cannabis strains are usually differentiated based on their genetic makeup, physical appearance, and end-effects.
Physical Differences
Understanding the key differences between Indica vs Sativa can help you big time in assuming the physical aspect of most hybrid strains.
Effect Difference
Similarly, depending on the parent strain, a hybrid strain may offer a variety of effects and benefits as well. For example, Indica-dominant strains would be more health-oriented due to higher CBD. Whereas, Sativa dominant strains would be more psychoactive due to higher THC.
Medical Uses
Both Indica and Sativa, as well as other hybrid strains, have some or other medical benefits depending on which strain is more dominant. In essence, Indica offers calming and relaxing effects that may help with pain, sleep, and appetite.
Sativa and related strains with higher THC can help reduce stress, pain, and fatigue while improving mood, energy, and creativity. Hybrid strains, on the other hand, can offer a diverse range of benefits both recreational and medicinal.
Which One is Better?
Selecting a particular strain for yourself depends solely on your personal needs and preferences. Those with medical conditions should opt for C. Indica strains. But those who need a creative boost and focus might want to try Sativa and other hybrid strains.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Strain?
Choosing the right cannabis strain for yourself or your loved ones depends on multiple factors such as your needs and medical conditions.
Factors to Consider
- Personal preferences including the taste, aroma, and desired effects.
- Medical conditions and needs including your state of mind.
- Activity level and time of use whether it’s in daytime or at night.
FYI, using THC-dominant strains aka Sativa strains are more likely to give you an uplifting and energizing hit. Whereas, CBD-rich strains such as Indica can give you more calming and relaxing effects.
Conclusion
While there are hundreds of cannabis strains worldwide, they all boil down to two major stains i.e. C. Indica and C. Sativa. You can also understand it as more CBD and more THC, respectively.
Still, to get the most out of your flower, it is crucial to explore and taste different types of strains until you’ve found the right one. To get up-close information about different strains and their supposed effects, kindly reach out to our West Coast Safe Delivery and get a 30% discount on your first order using the coupon code FIRST30.
Frequently Asked Questions
Indica has higher CBD of about 54%; whereas Sativa strains profess more THC content than CBD. This makes Indica more health-oriented than Sativa strains
Hybrid strains usually offer a balanced spectrum of effects providing a combination of relaxing and euphoric effects.
Figure out whether you want recreational support or medicinal benefits. Depending on your medical condition, you can choose the right strain of cannabis.
Due to higher THC content, Sativa usually has an energizing and mood-lifting character. Some of the common benefits of Sativa strains include stress relief, reduced pain and inflammation, and increased appetite.
Given the superior CBD content, Indica is a preferred strain for pain management, sedation, and sleep.
Hybrid strains can exhibit a wide range of characteristics depending on their genetic makeup. It all depends on which side of strain they lean to.
