Even if you are only a very recently getting into cannabis, you have probably heard of the concept of differing strains, though you might not know what this means. A strain refers to the variety of cultivation of cannabis, much as you would refer to different strains of other plants like tomatoes. The two classic strains of cannabis are indica and sativa, both with specific effects and different physical attributes.
Understanding the strains involved in the creation of the cannabis you are consuming is essential, as both indica and sativa plants provide different effects. Additionally, there are also hybrid strains that pull attributes from both of the original strains.
If all of this sounds confusing, you’re in luck — this post should help clear up any confusion you may have regarding which cannabis strain is right for you, and what it all means. So strap in, because it’s botany time!
Cannabis has been cultivated for human use for thousands of years, and there are different varieties of plants. The two main ones that we still use today are indica and sativa.
Cannabis is grown for a variety of reasons including: the fibers of the hemp plant; the psychoactive effects of THC; the health benefits of CBD, THC and terpenes; and the full-spectrum experience.
Indica is a short, bushier type of cannabis plant that grows primarily in the Middle East. It has a shorter flowering cycle and doesn’t get very large compared to other cannabis plants.
Indica cannabis provides calming and relaxing benefits. It’s highly useful in treating insomnia, anxiety, stress, and chronic pain. Because of its effects on relaxation and calming vibes, indica cannabis is typically consumed in the evening or at bedtime when you want to unwind.
Sativa cannabis plants are taller, thinner and larger in general than indica plants, and are more easily and readily cultivated in warmer climates, particularly southern hemisphere countries. The effects of sativa cannabis are primarily energizing, focusing, creative and uplifting, like a cup of coffee or green tea.
Sativa cannabis is typically a daytime consumption, to prime you for creative work such as drawing, music, writing or art. It has benefits for easing socialization, hangups and types of anxiety, and it has practical application in the treatment of some mood disorders.
Although indica and sativa are the oldest cultivars of cannabis, that doesn’t stop modern scientists from breeding specific strains with desired traits from both plants. Called hybrid strains, these take benefits, terpenes, and other compounds from both sativa and indica plants and blend them into specific products that are designed for narrow needs or treatment of certain conditions.
For instance, some strains are better for those suffering from insomnia, but if you also suffer from a lack of appetite due to a chronic condition or treatment for, let’s say cancer, a hybrid might be better than an indica- or sativa-dominant strain.
Hybrid cannabis strains also provide a balanced experience that allows you to enjoy the psychoactive effects of cannabis without any of the peaks or valleys that primarily sativa or indica would provide.
There is a concern in many people about what the difference is between indica and sativa, and fortunately it’s pretty straightforward. Indica is for relaxing, sleeping and calming down; sativa is for uplifting, energizing and socializing. Hybrid strains of cannabis can provide both of these effects and although you may ask which is stronger, indica or sativa, there is no real measuring strength here. Sativa may not even feel psychoactive to some people depending on the dose, and indica may just relax you the way a dose of melatonin would.
The key in getting the right cannabis for you is speaking with an experienced bud tender. At New England Harvest, we have bud tenders available all the time to help you find exactly what strain of cannabis would benefit your lifestyle the most.
We are happy to help you discover the different types of cannabis flower varieties and products made from indica, sativa, or hybrid strains. Whether you’d like to smoke cannabis, you need a topical application, or one of the wide range of edibles we carry, NE Harvest is here for all your cannabis needs!
