When it comes to choosing the right cannabis, it’s essential to understand the different effects that each strain produces.
Amongst the 700 strains of cannabis, the most common differentiation is the sativa vs. indica category.
Like many plants, each strain of cannabis has a specific type of growing method, aroma, taste and a different type of high. As a result, each strain will produce a different set of mental, physical and medical effects.
With all the different strands of cannabis to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with making your decision. This is especially the case for those that are new to the world of cannabis.
If you’re looking to learn more about the differences between sativa and indica cannabis, you’re going to want to read this. We’re outlining everything you need to know about the two types of cannabis and which one is right for your occasion.
The Physical Differences
Believe it or not, indica and sativa cannabis do have significant physical differences as well as fragrances.
Indica cannabis is more stocky than sativa and produces buds that are much more fragrant. But, sativa cannabis often produces buds that are larger and taller. In fact, when left to grow, the sativa plant can grow up to 20 feet tall!
The indica buds also tend to grow in tight clusters with minute gaps between each cluster. The sativa buds, however, run the length of the branch and are spaced out from one another.
The Differences in Effects
For novice smokers, you’ll come to learn that indica and sativa produce two entirely different highs.
First and foremost, indica is known to produce a high that is relaxing and more low key. This type of high is often more centered on the body and results in a more physical high than a mental high.
Indica also gets praised for its calming and pain-relieving abilities as well as helping to control insomnia. It’s also known to enhance physical sensations such as taste, touch, and smell.
The sativa strain is better known for producing that classic, stereotypical type of high. This type of high is considered an “upper.” It’s known to spurt energy, creativity, and some serious giggles.
This strain is also more likely to result in a psychedelic high than the indica strain.
For this reason, the sativa strain is more fit for a social setting. The sativa high will encourage chattiness and sociability whereas the indica high often results in the smoker pulling back and enjoying a more personal experience.
For Novice Smokers
For those that are new to cannabis, it may be beneficial to begin your introduction to cannabis with indica.
As compared to sativa, indica is a more calming introduction to experiencing a high. This high is usually not as long-lasting as the sativa high which may be helpful to novice smokers.
Again, this type of cannabis produces an effect on the body that is calming and relaxing. It’s best for beginners as the effects are less drastic and less likely to feel intimidating or overwhelming.
After experimenting with indica, the smoker can slowly begin transitioning to experimenting with the sativa strain.
For Advanced Smokers
As compared to novice smokers, advanced smokers are more capable of experimenting between the two strains.
That said, many advanced smokers tend to enjoy the sativa strain. This type of cannabis is more likely to produce the advanced, “cliche” high effects that cannabis is so well known for. This is often the go-to strain for those that have built up a strong tolerance to cannabis.
But advanced smokers that partake in daily smoking may turn to indica for producing a “functional high.” This is because the smoker is more capable of accomplishing daily tasks and partaking in their usual routine.
Choosing the Right Occasion
When it comes to choosing the right type of cannabis for the occasion, it’s all about understanding what type of high best correlates with your setting and your desired type of high.
For example, let’s take the occasion of a party or a social outing. In this setting, the common smoker would turn to the sativa strain. This is because it often produces a high that is more social, stimulating, and vivacious.
On the other hand, the indica strain is best paired with a low-key, more personal setting. This is usually the type of occasion where the smoker is looking to relax and enjoy a high that is personal and calming.
The indica strain also gets praised for its pain-relieving and calming effects. This could be beneficial for moments of anxiety, insomnia or helping to relieve pain such as menstrual cramps.
Of course, depending on one’s location, purchasing cannabis is not always legal. If you’re interested in learning more about how to purchase cannabis in the safest and legal way possible, be sure to read more here.
Debunking the Myths: Sativa vs. Indica
Upon entering a dispensary, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with choosing the right strain of cannabis.
To ensure you’re selecting the right one for you, it’s important to understand the differences between the two common strains of cannabis.
Although sativa and indica both belong to the cannabis family, these strains of cannabis have a diverse set of differences. Amongst these differences, each strain will produce entirely different effects on the body and mind.
To get the most out of your experience, it’s best to understand these differences beforehand and choose the right strain for your occasion.
To learn more about the world of cannabis and how to choose the right strain for you, be sure to visit our website!