Whenever I shop at the cannabis dispensary, I notice that the products are categorized by sativa, indica and hybrid.
For a long time, I had no idea what those terms actually meant. Sativas are associated with invigorating, energizing effects and a cerebral high. Sativa actually refers to the origin of the plant. It is typically found in hot, dry climates with lots of sunny days, such as Africa, Central America, Southeast Asia and areas of Western Asia. The sativa plant grows upwards of twelve feet, takes longer to mature than other types of cannabis and features thing, finger-like leaves. Sativa strains usually offer lower doses of CBD and higher percentages of THC. People choose sativa strains to feel more productive, creative and social. Some of the more popular strains are Durban Poison, Panama Red and Acapulco Gold. Indica plants are native to the harsh and dry climates of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey and India. The plants are normally short and stocky and feature wide and broad leaves. They mature more rapidly than sativa and provide more buds. The majority of indica strains have higher levels of CBD but the THC percentage isn’t necessarily low. They are popular for relaxing effects and can help alleviate pain and nausea. Indicas are better for nighttime use. Some of the more popular indica strains are Granddaddy Purple, Afghan Kush and Hindu Kush. Hybrids are unique strains that come from various combinations of parent plants. They are the result of crossed sativa and indica strains and are frequently grown to deliver specific effects. Some are specifically created for higher THC percentages while others focus on the curative properties of CBD. They can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant or a balance of the two. Some of the more popular hybrid strains are Pineapple Express, Blue Dream and Trainwreck.