Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid: What’s the Difference?

The two main types of cannabis, Indica, and Sativa, are used for a number of medicinal and recreational purposes.

Do you know the difference between Sativa and Indica?

Many people don’t, and that’s okay!

In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between these two types of cannabis. We will also talk about Hybrid strains and what makes them different from both Sativas and Indicas.

If you’re curious about cannabis strains, then this is the blog post for you!

What is Sativa?

Sativa is a type of cannabis plant that is known for its uplifting and energizing effects. Sativas are often used to help with conditions such as depression, fatigue, and anxiety. This cannabis strain is also popular among people who want to increase their creativity or focus.

Typical CBD to THC ratio: Sativa often has lower doses of CBD and higher doses of THC.

Sativa strains tend to have a higher THC content than Indica strains. They are also usually less potent in terms of CBD. Sativa effects are more likely to produce a “head high,” an invigorating, energizing feeling.

Popular Sativa strains:

• Durban Poison: This energizing Sativa strain is one of the most popular strains and has won multiple awards. At around 22% THC, this cannabis has intense effects, a unique citrus flavor, and a high THC level.
• Green Crack: This Sativa strain has medium THC content and a delicious mango flavor. This is some good, OG kush that has an energizing, uplifting effect. Many cannabis users use this as their go-to cannabis product for a midday boost.
• Sour Diesel: This strain is a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts. It has a high THC level (25%) and a pungent, diesel-like aroma. Just one puff can have intense effects.
• Strawberry Cough: This cannabis (Sativa) has a sweet, fruity taste. This Sativa weed is also known for producing thick smoke that produces the namesake “strawberry cough.”

What is Indica?

Indica is a type of cannabis that is known for its relaxing and sedative effects. Indicas are often used to help with conditions such as pain, insomnia, and anxiety. They are also popular among people who want to decrease their stress levels or ease into sleep.

Typical CBD to THC ratio: Indica tends to have higher CBD levels than Sativa.

There are many different Indica varieties, each with their own unique effects. Due to the plant’s chemical composition, Indicas tend to have a higher CBD content than Sativa. Indica plants are more likely to give you a “body high,” a relaxing feeling that can help with pain relief and other health conditions.

Popular Indica strains:

• Hindu Kush: This strain is popular with the cannabis community for its long-lasting relaxation effects and rich, earthy flavors. Because it’s packed with myrcene, it’s a great choice for a nighttime strain.
• Girl Scout Cookies: This Indica-dominant strain originally came from a Sativa plant. Since Sativa plants tend to be more energizing, this Indica strain is one of the more uplifting Indica cannabis strains.
• Granddaddy Purple: Another OG kush that’s a classic for good reason. With its grape-like flavor and color, this strain can give a warm, full-body buzz.
• Blueberry: This Indica-heavy strain has been around since the 1970s and, with a great, fruity flavor and happy, relaxing buzz, it’s no surprise.

Indica vs. Sativa

Let’s recap the cannabis varieties we’ve looked at so far:

Sativa characteristics:

• Energizing and uplifting effects
• Higher THC content
• Less potent in terms of CBD
• More likely to produce the “high”

Indica characteristics:

• Relaxing and sedative effects
• Lower THC content
• More potent in terms of CBD
• Less likely to produce the “high”

There are also physical differences between the two types of plants. Sativa plants usually grow taller and thinner than Indica plants. They have long, thin leaves that are light green in color.

Cannabinoid research is still in its early stages, and there is much to learn about the effects of these different cannabis varieties. Some new peer-reviewed studies even suggest that there is no difference in the chemical compounds at all, while other peer-reviewed studies show varying effects for each.

Before you determine which cannabis strains are the best match for you, let’s talk about hybrid strains.

What is a Hybrid strain?

Hybrid strains are a mix of both Sativa and Indica strains. These strains can provide the best of both worlds, depending on the ratio of Sativa to Indica. For example, a 50/50 hybrid strain may provide evenly balanced effects that are somewhere in between those of Sativas and Indicas.

Most strains on the market today are hybrid strains, as growers have bred them to contain a mix of Sativa and Indica genetics. This allows for a more customized experience, depending on the individual’s needs. Hybrid strains can be Indica dominant for Indica-like effects or Sativa dominant for more Sativa-like effects.

Cannabis farmers create hybrids to:

• Thrive in specific climates
• Have a certain appearance
• Produce certain flavors
• Provide desired effects

These new and unique strains are custom-made with different combinations to bring out the best in each of these cannabis plants. These strains are taking the cannabis industry by storm and are quickly becoming a grower’s favorite.

Popular hybrid strains:

• Cherry Pie: Meet the daddy: Granddaddy Purple (Indica). Meet the mommy: F1 Durban (Sativa). With a genetic lineage this good, it’s no wonder the sweet and sour Cherry Pie is the best of both worlds.
• OG Kush: This Indica-dominant strain is one of the most popular on the market. OG Kush has a high THC content (no CBD here) and produces powerful relaxation effects.
• Blue Dream: Earlier we introduced you to Blueberry Indica cannabis. Now meet it’s baby (with Haze Sativa). Blue Dream is a timeless classic — a go-to for a happy-go-lucky high.
• Gorilla Glue: With a name like Gorilla Glue, you know this strain is not messing around. This strain is a favorite of cannabis farmers and users. It’s a mix of Diesel Sativa, Sour Dubb hybrid, and Chem Sis hybrid. It’s high in THC and low in CBD and a popular ingredient in edibles.

Now that we’ve explored these three types of cannabis (Sativa plants, Indica plants, and hybrid, it’s time to choose which one is right for you.

If you’re looking for a:

• Energizing and uplifting high
• Higher THC content
• Fruity flavors

Then you might want to try a Sativa strain.

If you’re looking for a:

• Relaxing and sedative high
• Lower THC content
• Mixed flavors

Then you might want to try an Indica strain.

If you’re looking for a:

• Balanced high
• Mixed THC and CBD content
• Mixed flavors

Then you might want to try a Hybrid strain.

Now that you know the difference, it’s time to choose your own adventure. Will you try a Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid strain? The choice is yours!

Looking for a cannabis store in Portland, Maine? OMG Organically Maine Grown Cannabis Co. is here to help.

Stop by and visit us at:

47 India St Suite C,

Portland, ME 04101

for all your cannabis products, medical marijuana, edibles, and more!