Understanding the Difference Between ‘Sativa’, ‘Indica’ and ‘Hybrid’ Cannabis

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Understanding the Difference Between ‘Sativa’, ‘Indica’ and ‘Hybrid’ Cannabis

By Janelle Lassalle @jenkhari


When you hear people talking about cannabis you’ll often hear three terms thrown around: ‘indica’, ‘sativa’ and ‘hybrid’. 

These terms are often used to describe the effects of a particular kind of cannabis. Pop culture tells us ‘indica’ strains, for instance, leave you ‘in da couch’, referring to the sedating effects these cannabis types can produce.

These terms, however, are actually used to denote different subtypes of cannabis plants, or different phenotypes. As such relying on this classification system may not be the best indicators of how each cannabis strain may behave.

So what’s the best way to figure out how a particular kind of cannabis will affect you? 

What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are volatile, aromatic compounds found in plants that have their own distinct effects. 

Terpenes play a large role in how each strain will make you feel. A strain’s terpene profile is often that which dictates if the strain is classified as a sativa, indica or hybrid. 

What are the most common Terpenes?

Limonene has a potent citrus smell. It’s great for depression, uplifting mood and sparking creativity.

Pinene can be found in pine trees as well as cannabis. It’s known to help boost memory, reduce pain and improve focus. 

Caryophyllene is a spicy, peppery molecule that is great for anxiety, depression and conditions like colitis.

Found in lavender as well as cannabis, Linalool has potent anti-anxiety properties.

Myrcene is common in heavy-hitting indica strains; it’s reported to help ease pain and lull its users to sleep.

Humulene has a deep, earthy woody smell similar to hops or cloves and has been shown to reduce inflammation.


What is a ‘sativa’ strain?

A ‘sativa’ is a type of cannabis plant that typically grows in warmer climates such as along the equator. These types of cannabis varieties tend to grow narrower/longer than other kinds and can take longer to flower.

Sativas can be found in a number of different countries including Jamaica, Thailand and Mexico. They’re known for producing energetic, stimulating cerebral effects. 

The best way to determine how a strain might affect you is to check its terpene profile. You can do this by viewing a strain’s lab report, or Certificate of Analysis (COA). Strains high in the terpenes Limonene and Pinene are often classified as stimulating sativas. 

A few of our favorite sativas include Sour D and Maui Wowie.


What is an ‘indica’ strain?

The term ‘indica’ denotes a type of cannabis that exhibits shorter, stalkier flowers. Many famous indica strains, particularly the ‘kush’ line of genetics, can trace their parentage to regions across Afghanistan and Northern Pakistan.

The effects of indica flowers typically promote body relaxation, relief from aches and pains, and sedating and anti-anxiety effects. Indica strains may also help patients suffering from nausea stimulate their appetites. 

Indica flowers often include high levels of Myrcene and/or Linalool.

A few of our favorite indica strains include Wedding Cake and Jet Fuel.

What is a ‘hybrid’ strain?

Hybrid strains demonstrate characteristics of both sativa and indica varieties. Some hybrid strains can be said to ‘lean’ more towards sativa or an indica, which is why you should always check a flower’s terpene profile if you’re unsure how it may affect you.

Some of our favorite hybrids include Alien Kush and Blueberry Mintz.

How to choose the right product for you

Learning more about terpenes is the best way to pick your perfect strain. 

Ask yourself, how do I want to feel? Energetic? You might want to opt for a sativa strain high in Limonene. Need some sleep? Search for indica flower high in Linalool. 

The method in which you consume cannabis also affects your experience. Edibles like gummies can take up to two hours to take effect. Health conscious users may want to vape cannabis rather than combusting it to maximize therapeutic benefit. 

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