The route of these two words come from botany and is used to describe how the cannabis plant grows and matures throughout its life cycle.

Many weed dispensaries and budtenders across the world use these three groups; Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid, to classify marijuana strain effects simply and easily.

While this has been a mainstay in the cannabis industry for sometime, it is not scientifically proven that either Indica or Sativa strains provide the effects touted over the years 100% of the time. For example, how an Indica can put you “in da couch”.

However, Indica and Sativa strains provide a simple starting point for new users to find strains they are comfortable with and that they like. Once you become nuanced in the ways of the bud, you can begin researching cannabinoid and terpene profiles to dive deeper into your search for the perfect cannabis for you.

The buds of Indica and Sativa plants, just like the plants themselves, are incredibly distinct. Indica buds tend to form tight bunches near the nodes of the plant, while Sativa buds grow in long, wispy, and light bunches. Additionally, Indica buds are more compact and, although they are shorter in length, they are heavier than Sativa buds. Indica strains are also more resistant to cold weather, and they sometimes develop striking purple or red colours when exposed to colder temperatures.

Pure Indica cannabis strains have a higher amount of Cannabidiol (CBD) when compared to other strains. CBD is known to promote sleep even in users with insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative qualities, allowing you to sit back and enjoy your night. They also have a higher THC level when compared to it’s Sativa counterpart, so you can expect a more potent and powerful high as well.

Pure Sativa strains are known for their energetic qualities that are perfect for social gatherings or getting those creative juices flowing.

These strains also produce more of a “mind-high” than its Indica counterparts, which is great for reducing anxiety.

Sativa strains can be smoked during the day without worry of becoming too relaxed or lethargic.

Hybrid cannabis strains can make you feel a combination of effects due to Indica and Sativa strains being crossbred together over time.

Certain hybrid strains can have a higher Indica or Sativa dominance, while others can be a 50/50 split between the two.

Many of the strains available at cannabis dispensaries in Calgary are hybrids. The next time you’re shopping for your bud, try to pay attention to the ratio as well as the terpenes present in the cannabis. This can give you a great idea of what your preference is in the future.