Updated: Feb 1, 2024
Indica, sativa, and hybrid are the primary types of marijuana strains found across the globe. Additionally, you might have come across the ruderalis strains, which is typically regarded as a hybrid of indica and sativa with a substantial presence of cannabidiol (CBD).
Finding out which strain is right for you can be challenging with all these options. But understanding the difference between sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid can help you choose the best option that suits your needs. Keep reading as FLUENT discusses the differences between sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid, how to pick the right one for you, and their benefits.
What Are Indica Cannabis Strains?
As its name suggests, this strain originates from India but is also found in Afghanistan and Turkey. The plant adapts well to these regions’ mountainous climates, which can be cold and harsh. Indica strains have large and broad leaves, and they are also short and stocky plants. The indica strain has more buds and grows faster than sativa strains. Most patients who buy this strain enjoy it at night. This strain helps you relax, improves your appetite, and eases discomfort.
What Are Sativa Cannabis Strains?
This marijuana strain originates from Eastern Asia but can also be found in Africa and Central America. It thrives in warm and tropical climates, has finger-like leaves, and is tall and thin. It also takes longer to mature and is taller than indica strains.
Sativa can make you feel euphoric and boost your mood and energy levels. As a result, some patients also claim this strain makes them feel creative and productive. This strain is suitable for daytime use because of its stimulating and energizing effects.
What Are Hybrid Cannabis Strains?
These are unique marijuana strains that farmers grow in greenhouses or farms by combining different strains for specific effects. However, there are naturally occurring strains like ruderalis. The appearance of hybrid plants varies depending on the parent plants used to grow them.
Since they’re made from different marijuana plants, their effects differ based on their parent strains’ strain. Some consumers say sativa helps them stay active, indica is for relaxing, and hybrid strains are somewhere between them. As such, it may be an excellent option for daytime and nighttime choice for balanced effects.
Identifying the Differences Between Indica Vs. Sativa Vs. Hybrid Marijuana Strains
Since sativa, indica, and hybrid have different chemical compositions, each strain induces a unique high. For instance, some strains give an uplifting high, and others have a soothing effect. The following overview of indica vs. sativa vs. hybrid explains what you can expect after consuming one of these marijuana varieties.
Calming vs Uplifting Marijuana Strains
Indica contains large amounts of myrcene, a terpene with soothing properties. It also contains CBD, which combats pain and promotes relaxation. As a result, the indica strain gives a full-body high that keeps you calm.
Sativa marijuana, on the other hand, has large amounts of limonene, which has stimulating properties. It also has high quantities of THC, which is energizing. This strain produces an uplifting high that increases focus and productivity.
As a hybrid of Indica and Sativa, the Hybrid marijuana strain offers a combination of what you’d get from the two parent varieties. Hybrid strain consumers can either get a more sedative or calming result. Likewise, the strain can give an uplifting and energizing high.
Other Important Factors When Considering Strain Effects
Understanding the differences between sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid strains is a great way to find the best option for your marijuana experience. But there are other factors, such as:
Cannabinoids
These are chemical compounds naturally occurring in marijuana plants. They are responsible for the effects of marijuana, such as feeling calm and excited. The main types of cannabinoids in marijuana are CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is primarily responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive results, such as euphoria. In contrast, CBD doesn’t make you feel euphoric because of its calming effects.
Terpenes
These are naturally occurring chemical compounds in marijuana plants that give them a distinct scent. Terpenes affect how different marijuana strains smell, and some of them include:
- Linalool: It improves your mood and helps you relax with its floral notes
- Limonene: It adds a bright citrus scent and helps improve your mood
- Bisabolol: It eases discomfort with its tree oil and chamomile notes
- Myrcene: It enables you to sleep comfortably and has an earthy scent
- Caryophyllene: Its peppery and spicy notes may help reduce stress
As we’ve mentioned above, terpenes not only give marijuana plants unique scents, but they also have unique benefits.
What is the Entourage Effect?
As a marijuana consumer, you often encounter the phrase ‘entourage effect.’ Manufacturers use it to show that their marijuana products offer full benefits. So what does the term “entourage effect” mean?
The entourage effect is the synergistic benefits you get when all marijuana compounds work together. FLUENT believes you get more advantages when marijuana cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are combined than when they are isolated.
For example, THC and CBD work together to relieve physical discomfort. However, the two compounds alone are not as effective when consumed alone. Instead, they provide better relief when combined with other marijuana compounds like myrcene and limonene, among other terpenes.
How Do You Pick the Best Marijuana Strain?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right marijuana strain. First, you should start by understanding the characteristics of sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid. You can get the much-needed information from an online sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid chart.
Once familiar with each variety, choose a strain whose chemical composition, aroma, and taste you love. Whatever strain is in your regular rotation, you can find it at any FLUENT location near you. Other essential factors to consider when choosing between sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid marijuana strains include:
The Results or Experience You Want
Different varieties of marijuana induce various effects. For example, sativa energizes, while indica sedates. The hybrid strain can either sedate or energize; the outcome depends on the parent strains. You should always go for a marijuana strain that produces your desired experience.
Take Your THC Tolerance into Account
Some strains have a high THC, while others have more CBD. Therefore, if you are a beginner with low THC tolerance, begin with a strain with low THC. In particular, you can go with the indica or hybrid strains. Nonetheless, try high-THC varieties like Sativa if you have a high THC tolerance.
Consider Your Body Chemistry
Your body’s chemistry is another factor that comes into play when looking for the right marijuana strain. For example, if you are prone to anxiety, steer clear from strains high in THC. They can worsen your anxiety levels. Instead, find a strain with high CBD content, as it can help keep you calm when feeling anxious.
Shop the Best Marijuana Products in Pennsylvania
With many marijuana strains in the market, finding the best variant can be daunting. However, FLUENT can help you learn more about marijuana and choose the best strain that suits your needs. Contact us today, subscribe to FLUENT email and text alerts, and be the first to know about our new products!
Indica Vs. Sativa Vs. Hybrid FAQ
There are three main types of marijuana — sativa, indica, and hybrid. Each of these strains offers a different result, so it can be challenging for those new to marijuana to decide between the varieties.
What Kind of Strain Would be Energizing and Good for Daytime?
Sativa strains are the best for enthusiasts looking for an energizing experience. This marijuana variety can stimulate the brain, elevate mood, and increase energy levels. Besides stimulating, this variety may boost creativity and focus. Some of the best sativa strains for daytime are:
Alaskan Thunder
Alaskan Thunder is a sativa that offers a euphoric result that might help set the right mood for the day. In addition, this sativa strain may promote analytical thinking alongside increasing your creativity and productivity.
Acapulco Gold
Acapulco Gold is another excellent sativa strain for the daytime. Consumers claim a boost of motivation and energy, helping you stay focused. The Acapulco Gold strain may help relieve some everyday stress, avoiding a bad day.
What Strains are Best for Relaxing at Night?
Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid; which is the best variety for relaxing? Arguably, Indica is the right strain for relaxing at night. This marijuana strain contains higher CBD content, which can induce calm relaxation. Indica may also relieve discomfort from pain, boost appetite, and promote sleep. Indica strains that provide the best calming results include the following:
Triangle Kush
Triangle Kush excels as a night strain, producing a relaxing, euphoric, and sleepy experience. Additionally, many Triangle Kush consumers claim this Indica strain may help reduce stress for a more calming experience.
Star Killer
Although a hybrid, Star Killer has an indica content of about 70%. This strain can promote restful sleep by relieving discomfort and insomnia.
What Strains are Balanced and Good for Any Time of Day or Night?
Hybrid strains can produce a mix of the results you’d get from sativa and indica. These strains are excellent for consumers seeking a motivation boost during the day and tranquillity at night. Some of the best hybrid marijuana strains are:
MAC
The MAC hybrid was made by crossing Columbian, Alien Cookies, and Starfighter. This hybrid gives a pleasurable high, making it ideal for daytime or nighttime use.
Triangle Cake
Triangle Cake is a hybrid strain crossed between Triangle Kush and Wedding Cake. The strain gives feelings of relaxation, happiness, and laughter. Its experience is excellent for consumers looking to relax or participate in social activities.
How to Choose Between Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid Marijuana Products?
How to choose between Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid? The easiest way to find the right strain is to talk to the experts at FLUENT. Our experts know the best varieties for different wellness goals. Additionally, you can use the following ideas to choose the right strain:
Know What You’re Trying to Achieve
Different cannabis strains have varying experiences. For instance, Sativa gives an energizing and uplifting experience, and Indica strains sedate the consumer. The hybrid strain, however, provides a balanced blend of both results.
Understand Your Tolerance
Tolerance is another aspect to consider when deciding between Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid. High-THC sativas or hybrids are great for enthusiasts with excellent tolerance. Nonetheless, Indica-dominant strains are suitable for starters.
Decide on a Desired Consumption Method
Smoking and vaporizing give almost-immediate results but may irritate your lungs. Edibles can be effective but can be slow to produce your desired effect. Talk to our marijuana experts at FLUENT to find the best method for you.
imaging credit: Yarygin, shutterstock
