Many popular indica strains include the word “kush” in their names since indica originates in the Kush mountains, which span the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. [3] X Research source Hybrid strains usually have names that reflect the dominant type. For example, “Pineapple Express” is a sativa-dominant hybrid, while “Cookies Kush” is an indica-dominant.
Hybrids, which are a combination of sativa and indica plants, usually take on the bud shape of the dominant strain. So if those buds have a sausage shape, you know the dominant strain is sativa.
Limonene is a terpene that’s heavy in sativa strains. This terpene is responsible for the energy you get from sativa. It’s also common in citrus fruits, which explains the fruity aroma many sativa strains have. Linalool and pinene are terpenes with relaxing effects that are found in indica strains. If you couldn’t guess from the name, pinene can also be found in pine needles and contributes to indica’s earthy aroma.
These are very general differences in the mental effects for the 2 basic types. Different people can have different experiences depending on their own mental state. For example, if you have ADHD, you might find that sativa calms you.
If you want a mix of both, try an indica-dominant hybrid. The CBD in the indica will mellow out the THC for a more relaxed buzz than you’d get with sativa alone, but you’ll still get more of a buzz than you would with pure indica.
In addition to providing much-needed energy and focus for people with ADHD, depression, and related conditions, sativa is also used as an appetite stimulant. Because indica is also a muscle relaxant, it’s helpful in treating pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms.
CBD (cannabidiol) does not produce an intoxicating high like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) does. [13] X Research source [14] X Expert Source Jamie Corroon, ND, MPHMedical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education Expert Interview. 10 March 2020. Hybrids can contain different combinations of THC and CBD depending on the dominant type. [15] X Expert Source Jamie Corroon, ND, MPHMedical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education Expert Interview. 10 March 2020. Different combinations produce different effects, so experiment until you find a blend that you like!
The usable part of the sativa plant tends to be about halfway up the plant, while indica buds flourish all the way down to the bottom of the stalk.
Although the leaves of both types grow in the same pattern, this is typically the easiest way to distinguish the 2 types of cannabis. Indica leaves are usually double or even triple the width of sativa leaves.
Since indica hails from mountainous areas in Tibet and Nepal, it grows easily at altitude.
Growers tend to prefer indica plants because they’re hardier than sativa varieties and produce higher yields despite being smaller plants.
