Did you know that 33 states in the United States legalized medicinal cannabis?
If you’re looking to use cannabis for this purpose, you must know some facts before doing it. But without prior experience, you might not know things like the Sativa and Indica strains. You might end up getting the wrong type for your situation.
Don’t give up yet.
With this guide, you’ll learn whether Indica or Sativa is the right cannabis strain for you. That way, you can use it to relieve various symptoms of illnesses more efficiently. Read on and find out more:
1. Medical Effects
The effects of cannabis strains are the most important aspect you must look out for when determining whether it’s the right one for you. For Sativa plant strains, you’re likely to experience an uplifting high. It makes you more energetic and sociable.
If you want to become productive, Sativa is the strain you must take. It’s great for daytime use since its creative cerebral high brings your mind more blissful energy.
For Indica strains, they produce a couch-lock high, making them a wonderful aid if you’re looking to relax or fall asleep. It’s especially important if you’re part of the 30% of Americans suffering from sleep disruptions. These cannabis strains are more magical when taken at night, as well as parts of the day where you need not be active.
With Indica cannabis, you’ll experience this immeasurable feeling of calmness and peace. It comes with a body and mind-numbing psychoactive intoxication depending on the strain. The amount of dosage taken also affects the degree of relaxation you’ll feel.
2. Therapeutic Effects
While both cannabis strains bring positive medical effects, each has varying effects on you. As for Sativa, you’re likely to feel more stimulated. That means it’s great for treating conditions like migraines, chronic aches, and nausea.
It’s because of the positive, uplifting effects stated above. That’s why if you’re looking to improve your performance during the daytime, Sativa strain cannabis is the best choice.
As said before, Indica strains tend to have more efficacy when taken during the evening, especially before going to bed. They have sedative effects, making them popular for patients to relieve insomnia, muscle spasms, pain, and anxiety. Some say Indica cannabis is nature’s sleeping pill since it brings both bodily heaviness and mind lightness, making it relaxing and comforting.
3. CBD and THC Content
CBD and THC are chemical compounds that interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system. They’re responsible for the things you feel when taking either strain. That’s why the level of these compounds play a profound effect on what you experience.
Sativa plant strains have higher THC concentrations when purified. In most cases, their CBD levels are low to nonexistent. THC is the psychoactive found in recreational cannabis, meaning you’re likely to experience a creative cerebral high.
For Indica, it usually comes with a higher CBD concentration compared to Sativa plants. The CBD is present as a countermeasure against the psychoactive effects of THC. That’s why when you take cannabis products using these strains, your experience is more bodily instead.
Take note, these are general rules for both strains. Radical exceptions exist, but they’re worthy of an article on their own. Meanwhile, check out this Grape Ape vape since it’s a great example of an Indica strain product.
4. Flavor and Effects Duration
For these two plants, they have their distinct flavors if you opt for the classic, pure strains. For Indica plants, the flavor of their products tends to be sweet, like strawberries and the like. Sativa plants, on the other hand, have a more earthy, pine-like flavor.
Take note, the introduction of various hybrid strains allowed manufacturers to make amazing flavors. So, if you’re looking for a different experience, consider using hybrid cannabis strains. But if you’re starting and you aren’t acclimated to Sativa plants’ flavors, go for the safe option and pick Indica.
The duration of the plant strain also affects your experience when taking products made from them. For Indica plants, you’re assured that the effects last for a long time. That means you’ll get lasting relief for insomnia and pain from either chronic sources or medical treatments.
For Sativa-based cannabis, the effects last shorter. In most cases, you only gain an immediate energy burst that lets you go through the day with more energy.
5. Terpenes
These are essential oils found in cannabis, giving each strain a unique aroma and flavor. It’s also an indicator of whether the plant is Indica, Sativa, or a combination of both. The specific level of terpenes found in strains determines its classification.
Indica strains have 0.5% or more myrcene content while those below this level are Sativa strains. Myrcene is a terpene that promotes sedation and anti-inflammation. That’s why the level of this terpene can determine whether it’s a good strain to use for treating your situation.
Another terpene is pinene, which makes cannabis have this pine-like flavor and smell. It’s prevalent among conifer trees and herbs like rosemary and basil. This terpene also comes with mood-boosting and anti-inflammatory qualities, more prevalent in Sativa plants rather than Indica ones.
Terpenes are the reason for the flavor and smell profiles discussed above.
How to Stay Safe When Buying Cannabis
To be sure about the strain of the cannabis product you’re getting, get it from legal dispensaries. Competent budtenders know whether the cannabis you need is Indica, Sativa, or hybrids. They also know the dominant strain of specific cannabis products and their precise ratio.
That’s why visit dispensaries since they offer accurate information about their cannabis products. It’s because they get it tested in various third-party laboratories. Never settle for street dealers since you’re at risk of getting a substandard product.
Learn More About Indica or Sativa Today!
These are things you must know to determine whether Indica or Sativa works best for you. Use this to ensure that you won’t suffer from untoward side effects.
However, choosing your strain is only the start. To get the full experience, you’ll need to learn how to get the right tools and accessories. You’ll need the right recipes or vape juice too!
That’s where we come in! Feel free to read our in-depth guides right here to pick up all the tips and tricks you need!
