All species, from the smallest bacteria to large mammals, are classified according to a system that allows them to be distinguished. This is also the case for hemp flowers, which exist in several different forms. Indeed, cannabis belongs to the Cannabaceae or Cannabinaceae family and is a dicotyledonous plant that can be identified by its leaves and roots. Two subspecies of Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) coexist: Sativa and Indica varieties, both belonging to the Cannabaceae family, like hops. However, whether natural or hybrid, each has a very different anatomy and characteristics depending on its phenotype. But do you really know the difference between these two types of cannabis? In this article, you will discover, firstly, the origin of Cannabis indica, its characteristics, and its various uses. On the other hand, you will discover the origin of Cannabis Sativa, its properties and uses, and finally, the differences in appearance and flowering between these two varieties.
What are the origins of Sativa and Indica varieties?
One of the most important points regarding cannabis knowledge isthe difference between Cannabis Indica and Cannabis Sativa.
The first difference between Cannabis Indica and Sativa is their origin. Of course, you must remember that we are dealing with several types across the cannabis spectrum. Are you looking for Cannabis Indica
or Sativa ? Our online store CBD.fr has everything you need. You will have the choice depending on your application and the cannabidiol concentration you need. What are the origins of Cannabis Sativa? For many people, cannabis is a drug or a type of hemp plant. However, there is not just one Cannabis Sativa; its benefits and uses are very diverse.
Cannabis sativa
is generally native to equatorial regions such as Thailand, Cambodia, Jamaica, and Mexico. In 1753, the Swedish naturalist and explorer Carl Linnaeus noted the existence of a new species of grass, Cannabis sativa. It is a plant typical of Asia Minor, Central America, and hot, humid countries.
Origins of Cannabis Indica
Geographically, Cannabis indica originated in northern Central Asia, specifically in the Hindu Kush valley, one of the western foothills of the Himalayas. Consequently, the Indica variety can be found in countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan. One of the oldest indica varieties is also named after this origin: Hindu Kush.
Physical Differences Between Cannabis Indica and Sativa Another very important difference that distinguishes Cannabis indica from Cannabis sativa is theirphysical appearance
. Indica cannabis is generally compact with dense buds, while Sativa cannabis grows much taller. In fact, Sativa can reach heights of up to 1.80 m, while Indica barely reaches 90 cm and very rarely surpasses other varieties.
Besides this, another notable difference between these two cannabis strains is bud size. Indica buds are compact and grow in small, knotted clusters. Sativa buds, on the other hand, are longer and less compact, making them relatively lighter than Indica buds.
Flowering Periods of Indica and Sativa Cannabis It’s also possible to consider more technical aspects, such as the flowering time of the two plants, to differentiate between Indica and Sativa cannabis.
Generally,
Indica cannabis
Cannabis sativa tends to flower much earlier than Sativa. In fact, its flowering period varies between 45 and 60 days, while that of Cannabis sativa averages between 60 and 90 days. Besides this, you should know that there is another important detail to consider when distinguishing between these two types of cannabis: the plant’s growth rate before flowering. On this criterion, Sativa far surpasses Indica and takes very little time to reach a stable, long-term size.
Finally, the last difference to mention is the smell. Cannabis sativa buds tend to be much less fragrant than Cannabis indica buds, which helps distinguish the two strains as they grow or dry.
Indica and Sativa Cannabis Growth
Sativa and Indica
are very different varieties in terms of size.
Indica varieties generally tend to reach 50 to 100% of their height once flowering is complete. This factor is strongly linked to the amount of sunlight. In fact, sunlight is a much less important factor in the geographical areas where Indica cannabis varieties grow. Whether in winter or summer, this low level of sunlight does not maximize cannabis growth. However, you should know that the growth pattern also plays a significant role in the final result. For example, Sativa varieties grow while flowering. Thanks to this ability, they can even reach 200% or 300% of their height by the end of flowering.
Effects of Indica and Sativa Cannabis Contrary to what many people believe, not all cannabis varieties cause drowsiness. In fact, this depends primarily on the THC content of each plant. Some plants are naturally rich in THC, while others are not. Nevertheless, the THC/CBD ratio should always be checked, as it determines the expected effect of each plant. SativaThe Cannabis Sativa variety
has a high THC content. This means
it stimulates more brain activity and produces more psychoactive effects.
- In other words, you are more likely to experience a high, an energizing effect, when you consume Cannabis Sativa.
- Indeed, Cannabis Sativa strains are associated with energizing sensations that affect the brain and mind.
Furthermore, there are numerous anecdotal reports and scientific evidence indicating that cannabis
- improves pattern recognition.
- While no studies have shown whether Sativa is effective in inducing this type of effect, it is very likely that it is.
- Who can use Cannabis Sativa varieties?
- Sativa cannabis is best suited for those looking to:
Wake up quickly;
Tackle their chores with energy;Unleash their creativity;Think and work more innovatively;Act more socially; What are the best activities for a sativa effect?
Cleaning; Creative brainstorming; Finish chores faster;
Hobbies; Snacking;Art.
- Indica
- Indica cannabis, on the other hand, promotes the so-called “stoned” effect.
Products made from Indica cannabis varieties often contain a low level of THC and a high concentration of CBD. As such, Indica strains are known to provide more relaxing and anti-anxiety properties. When you feel tense or under pressure, consuming Indica can
relieve discomfort
- and replace your discomfort with a pleasant feeling of well-being.
- From a medical standpoint, indica strains are known to
- positively impact sleep disorders, muscle spasms, chronic pain, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anorexia.
- Furthermore, the high CBD content of several indica strains makes them a preferred option for many medical marijuana patients, such as those with:
- Multiple sclerosis;
- Fibromyalgia;
- Further studies are needed to determine precisely how it can and should be used as a treatment option.
- Who can use indica cannabis?
- Indica cannabis is most recommended for those looking to:
Increase their appetite; Improve their nighttime sleep;
Relieve chronic pain;
Relax after a busy workday; Calm their nerves; Forget their thoughts as quickly as possible;
What are the best activities for an indica effect? Yoga;Sleep; Meditation;
Physiotherapy or pain management;
Snacking;
Watching TV or simply relaxing.In short,cannabis sativa is best for staying active during the day, while cannabis indica is ideal for unwinding at the end of the day.
The Aroma Differences Between Indica and Sativa Cannabis The final key difference between cannabis sativa and indica strains is flavor. Indeed, cannabis sativa has a wide range of flavors,while cannabis indica focuses on a single flavor.
In fact,
sativa comes in a variety of flavors, from fruity to ammonia-like,
making it appealing to a wider range of consumers. Indica strains, on the other hand, are characterized byfruity, sometimes slightly woody aromas.
The entourage effect of Indica and Sativa Most cannabis strains on the market today are hybrids with both sativa and indica genetics. For example, expert breeders use specialized breeding techniques to produce strains with unique characteristics such as short flowering times and specific flavors.
In addition to the physical differences between indica and sativa, some studies also suggest that the two strains may contain different concentrations of terpenes. Some sources attribute the sedative properties characteristic of “heavy indica” cannabis strains to high concentrations of mycenes. In fact, mycene emits an earthy and slightly peppery aroma, and at high concentrations, it is said to give certain cannabis strains a unique sleepiness.
Besides examining individual compounds such as terpenes and cannabinoids, it is also important to consider how these compounds interact and thus alter the cannabis experience. Indeed, the chemical constituents of cannabis interact with each other. This is precisely what is meant by the “entourage effect.” What are the varieties of Cannabis sativa?
The sativa family boasts many stars,
including several of the most iconic and historic cannabis varieties.
Panama Red and Acapulco Gold
These are two of the most iconic varieties that made headlines in the 1960s. They quickly achieved mythical status among hippies, renowned for their legendary potency and almost psychedelic mental effects.
Thai Stick
American research in Vietnam, Southeast Asia, contributed to the discovery of the Thai Stick variety. Another cousin as potent as Thai Stick is Vietnamese cannabis. This herb was very popular with the American military.
Durban Poisson
Originating in South Africa, Durban Poisson became famous in the 1970s as one of the most potent weeds in the world. Its “one-hit” effects quickly spread its fame throughout the islands and around the globe. Illuminating the brain with euphoric energy, Durban is one of the few 100% pure sativa marijuana strains.
- Trainwreck
- Trainwreck is a strain that offers very intense head highs. This is what makes it so popular with ship owners. It is not recommended for anxious smokers. However, the cognitive effects are very individual, and some anxious people enjoy it. Hybrids
- Modern sativa-dominant hybrid strains include Amnesia Hase, which produces a very strong sativa high, and Girl Cookies, which took the West Coast and the country by storm four years ago.
- What are the indica cannabis strains?
- Indica strains are ideal for relaxation. They are perfect for quiet nights under the stars or nights around a campfire. But given the large number of these strains, it is very difficult to choose the ideal specimen. Here are some very famous indica cannabis strains:
- Purple Kush;
- Grandaddy Purple;
- Northern Lights;
- Critical Kush;
- MK Ultra;
- Hindu Kush;
- Mango Kush;
- G13;
- God Gift;
- Skywalker;
- White Rhino;
