Indica vs. Sativa

By April Veinte

Fortunately for us, marijuana is available across the globe.  Of the hundreds, if not thousands of different varieties, each one is classified as either Indica, Sativa, or Ruderalis.  Most people are familiar with Indica and Sativa, but Cannabis Ruderalis is a low THC species of cannabis which is native to Central/Eastern Europe and Russia.  It is widely debated as to whether or not Ruderalis is a sub-species of sativa.  Indica and Sativa are the most popular, which is the reason why there are countless hybrids available.

There are clear differences in the cerebral effects, Sativa and Indica buds also differ in scent, origin and taste.  Let’s go deeper, here are several facts that you should know:

• Geographic Origin

Indica plants originated from the northern India, which was once renowned as Persia. The growing conditions in Asia’s mountainous regions can be demanding for vegetation. That is the reason why Indica plants have become a hardy variety, which matures early as well as shows moderate resistance to mold. The mature plants are perfect for indoor cultivation because of their short size as well as high THC production.

Sativa plants, on the other hand, originated from the equatorial regions where the growing season has an even photoperiod, the period of time each day during which the plant receives light.  It results in night and day cycles that are almost the same length throughout the year.  For this reason, most Sativa varieties can complete their vegetative growth stage more rapidly.  It should be noted, flowering on the plant is only triggered after completion of its vegetative growth process.

• Leaf Shape

The simplest way to tell if a marijuana plant is Sativa or Indica is by looking at the shape of its leaves.  Sativa plants have thin, long leaves and loose flower cluster, while Indica plants have broad, maple-like leaves as well as tight bud formations.

• Flavor

Typically, Indica strains are fruity and sweet, similar to the tastes of strawberry, blackberry, and blueberry.  Varieties of Sativa tend to be very earthy and piney, similar to the tastes of cloves, cinnamon and coriander.

• Height

If you are wondering which to grow, pay attention to the height restrictions of Indica and Sativa.  Since the flowering time for Sativa is triggered only in the plant after this has completed vegetative growth, these have the tendency to get tall.  Generally, Sativa varieties grow best outdoors because there is no ceiling, as Indica plants mature early and stay small.

• Symptom Relief

Sativa and Indica strains both help alleviate physical symptoms like nausea, pain, and appetite loss.  There are some unique qualities to both varieties as well.  Indica strains can make you sleepy, so they are effective in treating insomnia.  Additionally, Indica can also be effective in reducing the effects of anxiety, because the buds deliver a full-body high.  On the opposite spectrum, Sativa delivers an uplifting experience, which may be useful for someone struggling with depression or extreme fatigue.

• Effects

The most important difference between Indica and Sativa are their cerebral effects.  Indica tends to be a “sleepy bud”; it gives a more relaxed, full-body high.  Sativa is just the opposite of Indica; these buds tend to be more uplifting and invigorating.

Hopefully, you have learned something new and can share a fact or two during your next smoke session.  Remember, this information is not intended to be medical advice.  Please consult your practitioner for more information.  Until next time, stay irie friends.