After finding your preferred medical marijuana dispensary, your next step is to browse marijuana products and make your first purchase. When browsing at the dispensary, you may notice marijuana strains are typically divided into three categories: sativa, indica, and hybrids. Each strain offers its own range of effects on the body and mind, resulting in a wide range of medicinal benefits.
Cannabis exists in many varieties and subspecies. Cultivators and farmers have long been breeding different varieties with certain characteristics to create hybrids and specific strains. Each cannabis strain has a different concentration of the cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), as well as other compounds.
Producers grow the plants to have a certain look, taste, and effect on the user and brand them accordingly. Generally, when people are seeking information on sativa vs indica vs hybrid, they have some similar questions. Some common questions people might ask include:
- What is the difference between indica and hybrid?
- What are sativa hybrid strains?
- Are there uses for sativa or indica for ADHD?
Learn the strains of marijuana to help better understand your product options and gather information about how it can help ADHD, what different indica strain benefits exist, and more.
Cannabis Sativa and Indica Origins
Cannabis sativa and cannabis indica have fascinating origins that have significantly influenced their characteristics and effects. Cannabis sativa is native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Southeast Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. These regions’ warm and humid climates have led to the development of tall, slender sativa plants that thrive in such environments. The natural habitat of cannabis sativa has also contributed to its higher levels of THC, which are responsible for the strain’s energizing and psychoactive effects.
On the other hand, cannabis indica originated in the rugged Hindu Kush mountains, where it adapted to the harsh and dry climate. This adaptation resulted in shorter, bushier indica plants that are well-suited to withstand the challenging conditions of their native environment. The unique origins of cannabis indica have also influenced its chemical composition, leading to higher levels of CBD, which are known for their relaxing and sedative effects. Understanding the origins of these cannabis plants helps explain the distinct differences in their growth habits and effects.
Understanding Cannabis Strains
Since cannabis is more readily available today than ever before, people need clear, accurate information on the effects of different cannabis strains for medical and recreational purposes. Knowing the composition and physiological and mental effects of cannabis plants can help people and clinicians choose the most appropriate product.
Cannabis farmers crossbreed cannabis plants to create new strains that have different levels of THC, CBD, and many other physiologically active compounds. Each plant may have different medicinal and recreational purposes. Researchers need to carry out further studies to better understand this complex plant and its effects on humans.
However, to understand the very basics of strains, the following will briefly dive into cannabinoids and terpenes and how they influence the effects of cannabis.
Cannabinoids and Terpenes
Cannabinoids and terpenes are the two main types of compounds found in cannabis plants, each playing a crucial role in the plant’s effects and characteristics.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are a class of compounds unique to cannabis plants, responsible for the psychoactive and therapeutic effects of different strains. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the primary compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, providing the “high” that users experience. In contrast, CBD is renowned for its therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain without causing a high.
Other cannabinoids, such as CBG (cannabigerol), CBC (cannabichromene), and CBN (cannabinol), are also present in cannabis plants and contribute to their unique effects. Each cannabinoid interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system in different ways, influencing various physiological and psychological processes.
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in the oils of cannabis plants, responsible for the distinct flavors and aromas of different strains. These compounds not only contribute to the sensory experience of cannabis but also have therapeutic effects. For example, myrcene, a common terpene in cannabis, is known for its relaxing and sedative properties. Limonene, another prevalent terpene, is associated with uplifting and mood-enhancing effects. Pinene, as the name suggests, has a pine-like aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties.
The combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in a cannabis strain creates a unique profile that determines its overall effects. This synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes is often referred to as the “entourage effect,” where the combined effects of these compounds are greater than the sum of their individual effects. This interplay not only influences whether a strain produces uplifting or relaxing sensations but also impacts how it interacts with specific conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia.
Sativa vs Indica vs Hybrid
Sativa Strain
Sativas are known for their invigorating mental effects, promoting an uplift in mood and energy. The increased focus and creativity come from raising your serotonin levels, which regulate mood, appetite, learning, and anxiety. This strain is used for treating various ailments, such as relieving depression, migraines, and even attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In most cases, those who consume sativa feel a stronger sense of physical and mental relaxation. Indica vs sativa for pain relief usually leans toward sativa, providing more relief. Compared to indica, sativa brings a stimulating head high while providing patients with an energized, thought-provoking mood.
Indica Strain
Compared to sativa, indica cannabis strains tend to have the opposite effects. Often known as the “In-Da-Couch” strain, indica offers extreme body and muscle relaxation and is suited for those looking to wind down, often used to treat sleeping disorders and relieve stress. Generally speaking, indica is best used for treating physical ailments such as bodily pain and inflammation, while sativas are best for mental conditions such as depression and ADHD. Patients struggling with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, and sleeping disorders are more likely to use indica as a treatment option.
Hybrid Strains
A Hybrid strain is a cross-bred strain of cannabis containing genetics from both indica and sativa. Crossbreeding was introduced to cannabis cultivation to bring a balance between the two strains, offering a product that is used to mellow-out a sativa strain that tends to cause paranoia, or decrease the tiredness that comes with indica. The wide variety of hybrid strains offer a plethora of combination effects, each one unique, making hybrids perfect for those seeking a middle road between the two paths while reaping the benefits of both.
Best Weed Strains for ADHD
Everyone needs a little help now and then with focus and concentration. Whether it is at work, home, or doing a hobby you enjoy, weed strains for ADHD can be supportive. Here are some considerations when it comes to the best strains for ADHD:
- Indica strains are often known for relaxation, a calming and sedating effect that helps with both ADHD and anxiety but some people wonder if indica strains cause paranoia. It all depends on the individual
- Sativa strains may create euphoric or calming effects
- Hybrid strains for ADHD can provide calming effects of indica with sativa energy for a nice mix
FAQ
What is the primary difference between sativa vs indica vs hybrid strains?
The terms “sativa,” “indica,” and “hybrid” are commonly used to describe cannabis strains, but they do not accurately predict how a strain will affect someone, especially when comparing sativa vs hybrid. Traditionally, sativa strains are associated with uplifting and energizing psychoactive effects, cannabis indica strains with relaxing and sedative effects, and hybrid strains with a balance of both. However, the actual effects of a strain are determined by its specific terpene profile, cannabinoid content (such as THC and CBD levels), and how these compounds interact with an individual’s body chemistry.
How do I choose the right strain for my needs?
Rather than relying solely on the labels “sativa dominant,” “indica dominant,” or “hybrid cannabis strains,” focus on the strain’s cannabinoid levels, terpene composition, and your desired effects. For instance, strains high in limonene may promote an uplifting mood, while those with myrcene might encourage relaxation. Consult a knowledgeable budtender who can guide you toward strains suited for energy, focus, relaxation, or treating insomnia based on their chemical profile.
What factors influence the effects of different cannabis strains?
The effects of cannabis strains vary significantly and are not solely dictated by whether a strain is labeled as sativa, indica, or hybrid. Key factors include the THC percentage, the presence of other cannabinoids such as CBD, and the strain’s terpene profile. Individual physiology, tolerance, and consumption method (e.g., smoking, vaping, or edibles) also play a significant role.
Are there cannabis strains that don’t cause a high?
Yes, CBD-dominant strains from the cannabis plant offer therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC. These strains are ideal for those seeking medicinal purposes, such as relief from anxiety, inflammation, or chronic pain, without experiencing a high. Such strains can be derived from both cannabis sativa and cannabis indica plants.
