Difference Between Sativa, Indica & Hybrid

Sativa, Indica & Hybrid Cannabinoid Content

Cannabis’s efficacy as a holistic comes down to the cannabinoids found in the flower. While genetics guide the development of Sativa, Indica, or hybrid varieties, genetics also guide the production of cannabinoids that offer our customers the holistic relief that they seek. 

Genetic Differences Between Sativa, Indica & Hybrid

Cannabis has evolved around the world in diverse climates, and more recently through selective breeding in labs and greenhouses. This has resulted in different types of cannabis plants, most commonly categorized into Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid varieties.
Indica strains trace their genetic origins to regions like the Hindu Kush mountains, where the cooler, harsher climate led the plants to develop a shorter, bushier structure with broad, darker green leaves. Indica varieties are often associated with relaxing, body-focused effects that many people use for stress relief, pain management, or sleep.
Sativa strains originated in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. These plants typically grow taller and leaner, with lighter green, narrower leaves. Sativa strains are known for their uplifting, cerebral effects that may promote creativity, focus, and an energetic mood.
Hybrid strains are cultivated by crossbreeding Sativa and Indica plants, creating unique combinations of traits from both varieties. Hybrids have become increasingly popular in today’s cannabis market, offering a broad spectrum of effects, flavors, and growth characteristics. Depending on their genetics, hybrids can produce either balanced effects or lean toward more energizing or relaxing sensations.

Which Strain is Best for You?

It is the subtle variation in cannabinoid content among cannabis strains that cause the difference in effect among consumers. Although our Strains Dispensary budtenders recommend safe trial and error to determine what is best for each individual patient, there are general guidelines when it comes to the differences in effect between strains. 

Here is an overview of the different effect profiles that our customers generally use to guide their decision:

Sativa

Known for promoting a more uplifting effect. Sativas are generally recommended for daytime use and ailments when wakefulness is necessary or for supporting productivity and creativity.

"Cerebral" and "Uplifting" are commonly used words to describe sativas’ effect. These differing results can be traced to how sativas generally hold a higher THC ratio.

Indica

Commonly considered more relaxing. Indicas tend to cause a more profound relaxation effect that has been proven to be fantastic for pain, anxiety, increasing appetite, and reducing nausea for medical patients.

"In-da-couch" is a term used to describe the powerful relaxing effect common to potent indicas known for having a higher ratio of cannabinoids promoting relaxation and tiredness.

Hybrid

Right down the middle. Hybrids represent the vast majority of strains on the market today; daytime or nighttime use is usually at the discretion of the user. Hybrids are often preferred due to their balanced cannabinoid and THC profile. They are most associated with balanced effects.