When you walk into any dispensary, the flower menu is typically divided into three sections:

For those first-time users who may not be aware of these classifications, they are referring to the type of plant and subsequently the type of effects that one can expect from each strain. As it turns out, this may be a far too simplistic system, though it’s one we’ve been using since the 1800s. First, let’s break down the current classifications and how they have been understood.

Plant Characteristics:

Indica plants are native to the Hindu Kush mountains (Yes Kush as in Kush). These plants have evolved to survive in this harsh climate and higher altitude. As such they are shorter, stockier plants that grow wider rather than taller.

Popularly Described Effects:

Of the two strains, Indica is associated with a sleepier feeling. It is famous for the effect it has on the body – to provide more of a ‘body high’, rather than the ‘head high’ of its Sativa cousins. This is the kind of plant that most people will use for pain relief, appetite stimulation and sedation due to the heavier feel of its effects.

Plant Characteristics:

Strains classified as Sativa are characterized by their longer leaves and typically much taller stature compared to Indica plants. These plants grow anywhere that there is heat – from Africa to South America, Sativa plants thrive.

Popularly Described Effects:

Typically associated with daytime use, Sativa-strain cannabis is the go-to for those who want to achieve more of an energetic high. It’s the more popular choice for social gatherings and creative projects when users want to avoid the heavy feeling that comes with Indica strains.

Plant Characteristics:

Hybrids are, as the name suggests, a mix of the two. This makes it basically impossible to describe the plant characteristics, as they will vary depending on the dominant strain. In other words, if the Sativa element is stronger, the plant will tend to be taller and vice versa for Indica-dominant.

Popularly Described Effects:

Again, as it depends on the dominant strain, the effects can lean more towards that of an Indica strain or a Sativa strain. The point here is that with hybrids there is a massive amount of variation possible. 

Now that you have taken the time to learn all of this, it’s time to basically unlearn it. With the introduction of molecular testing, scientists and researchers have determined that there is no difference between Indica plants and Sativa plants. So why then, anecdotally speaking, has such a clear distinction existed for so long?

The fact is that there’s a lot more to the cannabis plant than its most well-known compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). So, let’s go a little deeper.

Most people are familiar with 2 of the most well-known cannabinoids, THC and CBD. We know that THC is the psychoactive component – meaning it’s the part that produces the ‘high’. CBD has recently become arguably just as well known for its medicinal properties.  

CBD has been studied for its potential benefits to those with anxiety, depression and  various other diseases as well as its ability to relieve pain, but did you know that THC and CBD are only 2 of at least 113 cannabinoids that are present in the plant? And, just as important as the myriad cannabinoids, we can’t forget about the terpenes!

Terpenes are part of not only the cannabis plant, but many different plants and fruit. These are the compounds that are responsible for aroma and are present in things you are likely familiar with. Oranges, lavender, hops – all produce terpenes. When it comes to cannabis, terpenes are what make the plants smell either fruitier or like pine – or even like diesel or ammonia. 

Let’s break down some of the different terpenes that are commonly present in cannabis, and how they affect the user’s experience.

This terpene smells similar to tea tree oil or chamomile. It works as an anti-inflammatory and helps to reduce irritation. It is also thought to have pain-killing and microbial effects.

More of a spicy aroma will emanate from this peppery element. In contrast to its flavor, it is believed to help with ulcers and ease anxiety and depression.

This is more of a flowery-smelling component. It is known for improving moods and helping with relaxation.

This is the most common terpene in cannabis plants and has an earthy aroma. This molecule is helpful for decreasing anxiety and making it easier to sleep.

More of an herbal-smelling molecule, ocimene smells similar to basil or parsley, with hints of mango. It has antiviral and antibacterial properties and also helps to treat congestion.

If you’ve ever opened up a bag of cannabis to a pleasant, piny aroma, pinene was likely present. It is known to help against memory loss and to decrease pain and nausea.

Another terpene with a tree-like aroma that can also give off the scent of apples and cumin. This terpene is known for its sedative and antifungal properties as well as its ability to fight bacteria.

Limonene, as you may have guessed from the name, emits the smell of citrus. It is believed to help with mood improvement by decreasing stress.

A very earthy molecule. This terpene smells woody or even like cloves and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Again, given away by its name – hints of eucalyptus and tea tree oil give this antibacterial and anti-inflammatory terpene its unique aroma.

As you can see, there is a lot more to cannabis than simply Indica or Sativa. All of these different molecules give each strain – whether Indica, Sativa or both –  a unique profile. 

Equally unique are the effects that these have on each user, but with an accurate terpene profile, it is possible to get a closer understanding of how it will work. Hopefully, armed with a deeper understanding of what is going on in each plant, you will be able to find the right strain to suit your needs. 

La entrada Indica vs Sativa (and Everything in Between) se publicó primero en Ecomeds.