Indica vs Sativa Strains

Indica strains typically have plump-looking flowers with thick, ball-shaped nodules throughout. The color of the flowers may be a more consistent light green shade because of the density of soft plant material.

Scent Differences:

Indica strains and indica-dominant hybrids typically have sweeter, more floral scents rich with notes of fruit.

Name Differences:

Indica strains and indica-dominant hybrids will often be referred to in names ending in “kush,” referring to their traditional cultivation in the Hindu Kush mountain range. E.g. Bubba kush, OG kush, purple kush

Indica Effects:
Indica-based marijuana strains typically have a high concentration of compounds that lead to total body effects, including enhanced visual and auditory effects, intense euphoria, relaxation, appetite stimulation and sleepiness.

Based on these effects, indica-based strains may be more effective for:

Appetite disorders
Anxiety
Insomnia
Chronic pain
Sativa Strains
Visual Differences

Indica vs Sativa Strains

Sativa strains typically have longer, wispy-looking flowers with more noticeable leaves and hairs. They may also have a darker shade or more intense color variations because of the less-dense plant matter.

However, many have intense levels of THC-rich trichomes that create a pale, shimmery and quite sticky flower.

Scent Differences:

Sativa strains and sativa-dominant hybrids typically have a more piney, acidic scent similar to fresh-cut grass, pine sap, lemon or potpourri.

Name Differences:

Sativa strains and sativa-dominant hybrids will often have names ending in “haze,” in reference to their shimmery appearance when coated in trichomes. E.g. Lemon haze, silver haze

Sativa Effects:
Sativa strains are typically associated with THC-induced energy and euphoria. These mental-centric “highs” often feel stimulating and allow for more creative mental processing and motivation to perform certain tasks.

Based on these effects, sativa-based strains may be better for treating the following:

Depression
Certain types of neuropathic pain
Fatigue
Mood disorders
ADHD
Appetite disorders