What is the difference between indica and sativa?

If you’ve visited a dispensary, you likely noticed that some cannabis products are described as indica or sativa. So, what is the difference between indica and sativa? Baked Goods explains in the points below:

• Sativa and indica are different species of cannabis. Though they have varying features, they also have similarities.
• Sativa and indica plants both contain THC and CBD. However, “Sativa plants traditionally have produced more THC than CBD, while Indica plants have made more CBD than THC,” confirms VeryWell Health.
• Indica strains grow quicker than sativa plants. Sativa plants grow taller than indica counterparts.
• It’s been thought that indica strains promote a sedating “couch-lock effect”. However, sativa products have been assumed to boost creativity and energy.
• Both types can be bred to form hybrid strains. “Hybrids are thought to fall somewhere in between the indica-sativa spectrum, depending on the traits they inherit from their parent strains,” explains The Leafly Guide to Cannabis. Thus, hybrids may be called “sativa-dominant” or “indica-dominant”.
• Hemp is a sativa species, but it contains > 0.3% THC and cannot cause a “high”.

Keep in mind, some of these effects may not apply to everyone. This is because each person has a different effect from CBD and cannabis due to genetics, lifestyle, absorption rate, etc. If you’re trying CBD or cannabis for the first time, start at the lowest dose possible and work your way up gradually. This will help you understand which dose and product may suit your needs.

Taking CBD is a personal experience – some people prefer sublingual oils, while other may feel at ease with candies! Education helps you understand which products are suitable for you. Learn more with Baked Goods by clicking here to read another article from our blog.

NOTE: This article is not an alternative to formal medical advice and should not be relied on for diagnosing or treating your health condition or concerns. This post is published solely for the purpose of education. Please see your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your wellness or visit a nearby hospital if you require emergency help. 

With sources from:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/indica-vs-sativa

https://www.verywellhealth.com/indica-vs-sativa-1123887

The Leafly Guide to Cannabis by the Leafly Team, published by the Hachette Book Group, 2017.