Sativa vs Indica: What’s the Difference Between Them

One question cannabis users get asked frequently is: “do you prefer indicas or sativas?”

If you’re new to cannabis, you may not know how to answer this. That’s why we want to take a moment to explain some of the differences between the two.

Sativa vs Indica 

The terms Cannabis Indica and Cannabis Sativa are scientific terms originally used to describe two subspecies of cannabis.

Although there’s some debate about the true number of species within the Cannabis plant genus, there are three that are generally recognized: Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis.

Cannabis Ruderalis plants grow quickly but don’t grow past one foot in height. Besides that, they contain very little THC. Although they do contain CBD, it’s just a minimal amount.

Because of this, the cannabis available at dispensaries today will be sativa, indica, or a hybrid of both.

What’s The Difference Between Indica and Sativa?

What started as terms used to describe two different species of cannabis, became something people would use to try to determine the effects they might experience from a strain. And for years, this is what people would focus on – strain type and THC percentage.

Today we know a lot more goes into determining each person’s experience with a strain of cannabis. We know that a strain’s cannabinoid and terpene profiles have a lot to do with it.

With that said, understanding the differences between Sativas and Indicas can help make your visit to the dispensary easier. It can also help you identify the strains that may be best for you.

Indica

Cannabis Indica plants are short and bushy. Their leaves are broader than the leaves of the sativa plant. Indica plants tend to grow faster and tend to produce more buds than cannabis sativa plants. They also tend to have a darker color.

Cannabis Indica originated in the cool climates of South Central Asia near to the Hindu Kush mountain range that runs along Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, and Turkey.

Indica plants, and their buds, can tend to be stickier and have a stronger scent than Sativas. Because Indica plants typically have a compact and sturdy structure, they can also be suitable for indoor cultivation where space might be limited.

Indica Effects

Indica strains of cannabis are described as having sedative, full-body effects that can help alleviate pain and insomnia, while promoting relaxation. Because of this, indicas can have a tendency to put you “in da couch.”

Indicas can be helpful in treating conditions like multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, headaches, and sleep disorders. Indicas can also be helpful in treating anxiety and boosting appetite.

Due to their tendency to provide a sedative body high, many consider Indicas to be best suited for nighttime use. Their relaxing effects help make indicas popular with athletes as post-workout recovery aids.


Indicas were the strain of choice by Rick Simpson for use in his now-famous RSO oil. Rick understood that people battling serious medical conditions need rest – and indicas can help promote rest and sleep.

Learn more:
What is RSO Used For?

Keep in mind that the effects of cannabis will be different for all. Just because indicas can help to treat certain conditions or reduce anxiety in some, that does not mean they will be helpful for all. That’s why it’s important to always test new strains before committing to using them as medicine. 

Sativa

Cannabis sativa plants are tall and slim and can have a lanky appearance. Their leaves tend to be longer and thinner – with pointy ends. Sativas can grow up to 6 feet in height and tend to take longer to mature compared to Indicas.

Sativa cannabis plants thrive in warmer environments like Africa, Mexico, Central America, and Southeast Asia. 

Sativa Effects

Sativa strains of cannabis tend to provide energizing and uplifting effects that can help boost creativity and mental focus. Due to their uplifting effects, sativas are believed to be helpful in alleviating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders. 

Certain sativas, like Super Lemon Haze, have also been known to suppress appetite.

Sativa strains have earned the reputation of being good for those who want to enjoy their cannabis while still being able to get things done. With that said, some people who are naturally energetic and constantly on the move, could find the uplifting nature of sativas to  be overwhelming.

So, if you’re new to sativas – start slowly until you’re sure they’re a good match for you and your Endocannabinoid System.

Indica Strains

Due to their soothing and calming effects on the body and mind, Indica strains of cannabis are often used to alleviate stress, anxiety, and tension. Thanks to their relaxing properties, indica strains – like Cement Shoes or Ozark Hash – could be helpful for those who have trouble sleeping and want to improve the quality of their sleep.

Indica strains could also help reduce muscle spasms and ease muscle pain. Mix this with their ability to improve sleep and it’s easy to see why Indicas might be popular as post-workout recovery aids.

Learn more:
Working Out High

Indica strains are also known to induce the “munchies,” making them beneficial for those with a decreased appetite. 

Indica Strains in Ohio or Maryland

Cement Shoes Strain

An Indica strain of cannabis with some potent effects, Cement Shoes is also known as Concrete Shoes or Concrete Slippers. As you can imagine, this strain can make you feel like you have shoes made of cement. 

 Cement shoes is a cross between Animal Cookies, OG Kush Breath, and Wet Dreams.

Medicinal patients enjoy its anti-inflammatory effects. It could also help manage pain, anxiety, and insomnia. Recreational customers enjoy its high THC percentage.

Cement Shoes offers a sweet nutty flavor with hints of citrus, berries, and mint. It is a strain best enjoyed at night when you can just relax and unwind.

Sativa Strains

Due to their ability to boost energy, creativity, and focus – sativa strains of cannabis are often associated with uplifting mental effects. Because of that, they’re often enjoyed during the daytime or in social settings.

Unlike indicas, sativa strains are less likely to induce heavy physical relaxation or couchlock. Instead, they tend to enhance mental clarity and improve motivation. Because of this Sativa strains can be useful for those who enjoy Working Out High.

Sativa strains have also been known to promote feelings of euphoria, making them popular with recreational use customers..

Best Sativa Strains in Ohio or Maryland?

If you live in Ohio or Maryland and want to stop by a Bloom dispensary, you might wonder which Sativa strain might be best for you. Of course, the “best” will be different for all, but to help you out – here are a few popular choices among our patients and customers.

Super Lemon Haze Strain

Super Lemon Haze is a sativa dominant hybrid of Lemon Skunk and Super Silver Haze. It has won multiple awards – including being a two-time winner of the High Times Cannabis Cup.

As far as its effects go, it’s known to provide uplifting effects that can promote mental sharpness, creativity, and motivation.

Along with these uplifting effects, Super Lemon Haze can also provide a relaxing body high. Super Lemon Haze has been known to help elevate mood, relax muscles, and alleviate pain. It’s also believed it could help treat symptoms related to anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders.1 

Super Lemon Haze has earned the reputation of being a good strain for those who want to enjoy their cannabis while still being able to get things done. With that said, it is also known to pack a punch with THC levels often exceeding 20%. 

Baby Banner Strain

Baby Banner is a cross of OG Kush with Strawberry Diesel. Initially hard-hitting body high mellows into a creative mellow.

Other effects include: clear-headed and energetic but also relaxing and allows you to get stuff done. May help those dealing with pain, migraines, fatigue, bipolar disorder, ADHD, arthritis, and depression.

The predominant terpenes found in Baby Banner are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Limonene.

Where to Get Indica and Sativa Strains

Fresh Cannabis Flower In Maryland and Ohio

If all this talk about Indica and Sativa strains of cannabis leaves you craving some cannabis flower – Bloom has you covered … that is if you live in Maryland or Ohio. 

Maryland Bloom Dispensary:

As of July 1st, 2023, Bloom welcomes both Medical Marijuana Patients and Recreational Customers at our Germantown Dispensary.

Ohio Bloom Dispensaries:


Citations:

  1. Effects & Benefits of the Super Lemon Haze Terpene Strain-Profile