Indica versus Sativa?

In 1785 a naturalist called Jean-Baptiste Lamarck proposed that there were two different types of cannabis species and adopted the categorisation of Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica.

The two strains originated from different regions of the world. Cannabis Indica originated from Afghanistan, India, Nepal, and Northern Pakistan, it is associated with the Hindu Kush mountain range. Whilst Cannabis Sativa originates from Central and South America.

Cannabis Sativa plants can grow to the size of trees. The leaves are thinner in form and lighter in colour, and it has a much longer flowering period than Indica’s.

The different effects

It is generally believed that a Cannabis Indica strain will induce deep relaxation for the mind and body, perfect for a good night’s sleep.
Whilst a Cannabis Sativa strain will induce a high energy level, perfect for getting stuff done and associated with the creative process.

But these perceptions can be misleading, new research is revealing that the chemical compounds, cannabinoids, and terpenes found in the strains determine the effects that you will feel.

Hybrids are here to stay

In today’s market, finding a true Indica or Sativa is challenging or impossible. The amount of crossbreeding has created thousands of different types of hybrid strains, having both Indica and Sativa genetics.

Informed choices

Relying on the term Indica or Sativa is becoming outdated. Many retailers are now trying to move this focus towards the chemical compounds, cannabinoids, and terpenes found in each strain. Hopefully, this leads to a more informed choice for all Cannabis users, medical and recreational.