For several decades, marijuana has already more than a thousand species available in the market. With this figure, weed users must be aware of each property for their benefits. Whether for leisure or medical purposes, you must ensure that we can get the best on your chosen variety.
To start, marijuana has three main subspecies: the Cannabis Ruderalis, Cannabis Sativa, and Cannabis Indica. This time, let us take a glimpse at the two popular hemp varieties and get to know the difference between Indica vs Sativa.
Physical Differences
The observable difference that separates Indica from Sativa is its physical traits.
Both of these plant kinds have green-colored leaves, but the Indica has darker ones than the Sativa. They grow shorter and bushier, which usually measures between 2-4 feet tall. It is because of their thick and heavy buds along with their dense clusters. As its branches are closer together, it can produce more buds compared to Sativa plants. These features make it an amazing choice for indoor growth.
The Indica varieties can survive severe weather conditions. They can even grow in the mountains. It is a manifestation of its high density, which contributes to its more elevated amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a famous hemp compound.
On the other hand, the Sativa has lighter and thinner leaves. It is taller compared to the different varieties, with its branches growing apart from each other. It usually measures about six feet, but the tallest plants can grow up to more than 20 feet.
During its flowering cycle, the Sativa gains 200-300 percent of its weight. But it usually weighs lesser than the Indica species because of its low density. Also, it is lesser aromatic both when dried and growing. It contributes to its lower THC ratio compared to the other subspecies.
Effects on Consumers
Along with its physical characteristics, there is a distinguished difference in the effects between Indica vs Sativa.
Consuming Indica produces a “stoned” or high effects on its users. With this, the influence is felt by the body and not in the head. It gives a higher solemn feeling, which makes the person want to always remain still. As it can enhance the person’s senses, it also gives extreme relaxation, sometimes being nauseous too. Consumption can help unleash the person’s creativity, yet with its relaxing effects, the attention span is usually affected.
Because of these outcomes, Indica types are ideal to use in the evenings, when the body sets to rest and relax. Furthermore, this variety is recommended to attend to problems associated with anxiety, stress, pains, seizures, and spasms.
Meanwhile, the Sativa species produces a different influence to the Indica. As it affects the head, the user can experience higher alertness and energy boost. It makes this variety socially contribute, as it makes it the person easier to remember details and conversations and take actions faster. Ironically, it still makes a person feel less tired. It also guarantees many ideas and creativity for the consumer.
Sativa varieties leave its consumers the feeling of having better calmness and well-being. Compared to other marijuana types, it helps relieve depressive symptoms by encouraging uplifting mindsets and increase energy levels. It also provides stimulation of hunger and happiness, increases focus, encourages creativity, and boosts the imagination.
Popular Strains
As an additional guide, here are some of the popular strains of the Indica and Sativa species.
Indica types:
- Pineapple Kush
- Master Kush
- Granddaddy Purple
- Northern Lights
- G-13
- White Rhino
Sativa types:
- White Widow
- Sour Diesel
- Jack Herrer
- Power Flower
- Silver Haze
- Royal AK