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 possesses 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. Secondly, 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 aspects of understanding cannabis is the difference between Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa. The primary difference between Cannabis indica and sativa lies in their origin. Of course, it's important to remember that we're dealing with several types within the cannabis spectrum.
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What are the origins of cannabis sativa?
For many people, cannabis is a drug or a type of hemp plant. However, there isn't just one type of Cannabis sativa; its benefits and uses are very diverse. Sativa cannabis varieties generally originate from 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 and humid countries.
The 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 also bears the name of this origin: Hindu Kush.
Physical differences between Indica and Sativa cannabis
Another very important difference that distinguishes Indica from Sativa cannabis is their physical 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.
Aside from this aspect, there is another notable difference between these two cannabis strains: the size of the buds. 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 is also possible to pay attention to somewhat technical aspects such as the flowering of the two plants to differentiate between Indica and Sativa cannabis.
Generally, Indica cannabis tends to flower much earlier than Sativa. In fact, its flowering period varies between 45 and 60 days, while that of Sativa cannabis averages between 60 and 90 days.
Besides that, you should know that there's 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 size in the long term.
Finally, the last difference to mention is the smell. Cannabis Sativa buds tend to be much less fragrant than Cannabis Indica buds, which makes it possible to distinguish the two strains when they are growing or drying.
The growth of Indica and Sativa cannabis
Sativa and Indica varieties are very different in terms of size. Indica varieties generally tend to reach 50 to 100% of their height once flowering is complete. This is strongly related to the amount of sunlight they receive.
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 cannabis indica and sativa
Contrary to popular belief, not all cannabis strains cause drowsiness. In fact, it depends primarily on the THC 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.
Sativa
The Cannabis Sativa variety has a high THC content. This means it stimulates more brain activity and produces stronger psychoactive effects. In other words, you are more likely to experience an energizing " high" 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 suggesting that cannabis enhances pattern recognition. While no studies have definitively proven whether Sativa is effective in inducing this type of effect, it is highly likely that it is.
Who are the people who can use sativa variety cannabis?
High-variety cannabis is more recommended for those looking to:
- Wake up quickly;
- Tackling their energy-filled chores;
- Harness their creativity;
- Think and work in a more innovative way;
- To act in a more socially responsible way;
What are the best activities for a sativa effect?
- Cleaning;
- Creative brainstorming;
- Finish chores faster;
- Hobbies;
- Snacking;
- Art.
Indica
Cannabis Indica, on the other hand, promotes the so-called " stoned " effect. Products derived from the Indica cannabis variety 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 herbs are known to disorders sleep, 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:
- Multiple sclerosis;
- Fibromyalgia;
Further studies are needed to determine precisely how it can and should be used as a treatment option.
Who are the people who can use Indica variety cannabis?
Indica cannabis is more recommended for those looking to:
- To have a bigger appetite;
- To improve their nighttime sleep;
- Relieving chronic pain;
- Relaxing after a busy day at work;
- Calm their nerves;
- Forget the thoughts as quickly as possible;
What are the best activities for an indica effect?
- Yoga;
- Sleep;
- Meditation;
- Physiotherapy or pain management;
- Snacking;
- Watching television or for entertainment.
In short, cannabis sativa is by far the best for staying active during the day and cannabis indica is ideal for relaxing at the end of the day.
The differences in aromas between cannabis indica and sativa
The final key difference between sativa and indica cannabis varieties is flavor. cannabis has a wide range of flavors, while indica cannabis focuses on a single, more pronounced 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 varieties, on the other hand, are characterized by fruity aromas, sometimes with a slightly woody note.
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 varieties to high concentrations of mycenes.
In fact, mycene gives off an earthy and slightly peppery aroma , especially at high concentrations. It is said to give certain cannabis strains a unique drowsy effect.
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 one another. This is what is known as the "entourage effect."
What are the varieties of Cannabis sativa?
The sativa family includes many stars, including several of the most iconic and historic cannabis varieties.
Panama Red and Acapulco Gold
These are two of the most iconic strains to have made headlines in the 1960s. They quickly achieved mythical status among hippies for their legendary potency and almost psychedelic mental effects.
Thai Stick
American research in Vietnam and Southeast Asia contributed to the discovery of the Thai Stick variety. Another potent relative of Thai Stick is Vietnamese weed. This herb was very popular with the American military.
Durban Fish
Originating in South Africa, Durban Poisson rose to fame in the 1970s as one of the world's most potent weeds. Its "one-hit" effects quickly spread its renown across the islands and around the globe. Lighting up the brain with euphoric energy, Durban is one of the few 100% sativa-pure marijuana strains.
Trainwreck
Trainwreck is a strain that offers very intense head effects. This is precisely what makes it so popular with ship owners. It's not recommended for anxious smokers. However, the cognitive effects are highly individual, and some anxious users do find it enjoyable.
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 4 years ago.
What are the varieties of indica cannabis?
Indica strains are ideal for relaxation. They're perfect for quiet nights under the stars or nights around a campfire. But given the sheer number of these strains, choosing the perfect one can be quite difficult. Here are a few 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;
- Afghan Kush;
- Master Kush;
- Blueberry;
- Blackberry Kush;
- Bubba Kush;
- LA Confidential.
Editor-in-Chief specializing in CBD
Julien, born on July 17, 1978, in the Paris region, is a prominent writer and expert in the field of CBD products. Following his studies, Julien developed a passion for natural remedies, including CBD. In 2022, he joined the CBD.fr team as an expert and regular contributor. Thanks to his scientific expertise and clear writing style, Julien helps demystify the complexities of CBD, while highlighting its benefits and potential applications through his articles and conference presentations.
