Indica plants are known to make users feel very drugged and lazy. This is because it contains high levels of the CBD compound that can act as a sedative. Sativas tend to make users feel more creative and energetic and have a more psychedelic effect on their thinking. Unfortunately, there are some myths circulating in the cannabis world about the difference between indica and sativa.
The most popular myth seems to be that all Indicas produce a heavy body high, while all Sativas produce energetic and uplifting highs. There is also a myth that indicas have more THC than sativas. Also known as “on the couch”, this cannabis strain gives you more body high (rather than a “heady” high) and leaves you more relaxed. Oddly enough, indica strains tend to have a lighter THC concentration than sativas, even though they produce a more “high” sensation.
While it would take a long time to analyze the full biochemistry and pharmacology behind each strain's chemical effects on the body, you should know that, in general, sativa produces more cerebral high and indica produces more body high. Because Indica marijuana strains have quite strong sedative effects, they can make you feel more high than high. If you want your grass to hit you like a freight train and keep you locked up on the couch, a strong indica is very difficult to beat. But first, let's take a look at some of the different effects that indicas and sativas are famous for.
Although indicas can grow rapidly once they begin to bloom, they tend not to grow out of control, generally producing more abundant harvests than Sativas. That said, recent research suggests that different levels of key terpenes may be the source of most of the differences between specific strains and the broader categories of indica and sativa. Indica tends to have higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC, so it has more physical effects with less mental high associated with cannabis use. Indicas also have a reputation for giving you cravings and relieving physical aches and pains.
All strains available in a dispensary are truly a hybrid; some are more indica-dominant and others are more sativa-dominant. If your mind speeds up after a bad day and you can't turn it off, an indica can give you the mental space you need to sleep. Now that you know the basic differences between indica and sativa dominance, let's take a look at better ways to choose a strain. If you're looking for an almost perfect balance between the sedative effects of an indica and the euphoric energy of a sativa, keep your eyes peeled for Blue Dream, a California strain that has achieved legendary status.
Jeffrey Raber of The Weric Shop analytical laboratory in California, terpenes such as myrcene (most commonly found in indica varieties) may be the main reason indicas have relaxing effects, while other terpenes that are more common in sativas may be the reason why those varieties provide a boost of energy or creativity. However, it's best to discover the difference between the two main marijuana species, Indica and Sativa, to narrow down your preferred strain based on your needs.
