What is the difference between Indica and Sativa cannabis?

In the world of CBD and cannabis in general, there is a lot of information that consumers and sellers don't know. One of the most important areas of hemp knowledge is the difference between Indica and Sativa cannabis.

Whether you're a cannabis enthusiast or not, you've probably heard of Indica and Sativa strains. But do you really know what the differences are between these two types of cannabis? In this article, we answer all your questions about Indica and Sativa cannabis so you can get a clearer picture.

The origins of Indica and Sativa cannabis

The first difference between cannabis Indica and Sativa lies in their origins. Of course, it is important to bear in mind that these are spectrums of cannabis that have many varieties.

So, the majority of Indica cannabis strains come from South Asia or India as these are strains that grow better at higher altitudes. That said, it is also possible to find them in other regions like Morocco.

Cannabis Sativa strains, on the other hand, generally grow around the equator. They are therefore grown in countries such as Colombia or Mexico.

The physical differences between Indica and Sativa cannabis

Another very important difference that distinguishes Indica from Sativa cannabis is their physical appearance. While Indica cannabis usually comes in a compact form with a dense head, Sativa cannabis comes in a much larger form. Indeed, Sativa plants can grow up to six feet tall, whereas Indica barely reaches three feet and is very rarely seen growing taller.

Other than this aspect, there is another notable difference between these two types of cannabis which is that of their bud size. Indica buds are compact and grow in clusters with small nodes. Sativa buds are longer and because they are not compact, they are relatively lighter in weight than Indica buds.

Finally, the last difference that can be mentioned is that of smell. Cannabis Sativa buds tend to smell much less than Indica buds, making it possible to distinguish between the two strains, both while growing and when dry.

The flowering of Indica and Sativa cannabis

To tell the difference between Indica and Sativa cannabis, it is possible to pay attention to somewhat technical aspects such as that of the flowering of the two plants.

As a general rule, Indica cannabis tends to flower much more quickly than Sativa. Indeed, its flowering period ranges from 45 to 60 days, compared to an average of 60 to 90 days for Sativa cannabis.

That said, there is another important detail to consider when differentiating between these two types of cannabis: that of how fast the plant grows before flowering. In this case, Sativa far outweighs Indica in that it takes very little time to reach a stable, long-lasting size.

The size of Indica and Sativa cannabis

Sativas and Indicas are very different strains when it comes to size. Generally, an Indica strain tends to reach between 50 and 100% of its size when it finishes flowering. This factor is greatly related to sun exposure.

In the geographical areas where Indica cannabis strains are grown, sunlight is not a very high factor. Whether in winter or summer, this low sunlight does not stimulate the growth of cannabis to its fullest.

However, it is important to know that the growing method also plays a crucial role in the final result. To explain this, we need to refer to the growth of Sativa strains, which grow at the same time as they flower.

Thanks to this ability, they are able to reach up to 200% or even 300% of their height by the end of flowering.

The effects of Indica and Sativa cannabis

Contrary to what many people may think, not all cannabis strains have a sleep-inducing high. This is because it depends mainly on the level of THC in each plant.

While some plants have a naturally high THC content, others do not. However, there is always a ratio of THC to CBD to be checked as this is what determines the expected effects of each plant.

On the one hand, it is important to know that cannabis Sativa has a high THC content, meaning that it stimulates more brain activity and provides more psychotropic effects. In other words, you are more likely to experience an energising high when consuming cannabis Sativa.

On the other hand, Indica cannabis promotes what is known as "stoned" effects. It has a lower THC content than the former and often has a higher CBD content. Thus, Indica strains are known to be more relaxing and offer anxiolytic properties.

In a few words, we can say that cannabis Sativa is ideal for staying active during the day, while cannabis Indica is perfect for relaxing at the end of the day.

The flavours of Indica and Sativa cannabis

The final important difference between the varieties of Sativa and Indica cannabis is that of flavours. While Sativa cannabis has a wide range of aromas, Indica cannabis is more focused on one type of flavour.

Indeed, Sativas can vary from fruity to other ammonia flavours, allowing them to appeal to a wider range of consumers. Indicas, on the other hand, are characterised by fruity aromas that are sometimes slightly woody.