Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been to a cannabis dispensary lately, you’ve probably noticed a few different monikers for the strains on offer. Today, you can find the big three distinctions when it comes to classifying cannabis: indica, sativa, and hybrid. The first two are the major types of cannabis plants (sativa and indica), and the third (hybrid) is a nice blend of them. These classifications are important because they can help describe the general effects different strains have on our bodies and minds.

But what are the actual differences between indicas, sativas, and hybrids? Do the effects you feel from one type of strain truly differ from those you’d feel from the others? Learn all the nuances of cannabis strains—we’ll cover questions like:

• What is an indica?
• Indica vs sativa: What’s the difference?
• Indica vs sativa vs hybrid: Which one is right for you?
• And more!

Ready? Let’s get rolling.

What Is an Indica?

Indica strains are typically known to impart a heavy and relaxing body-centered high. For instance, members of the Kush family of strains are among the most popular weed strains, and these classic indicas are renowned for imparting a sensation of deep calm and stillness. Think couchlock effects over a wake-and-bake burst of energy.

Botanically speaking, indica and indica-dominant plants tend to be short, bushy, and squat with broad-bladed leaves.

What Is a Sativa?

Sativa strains are often described as being energizing and uplifting, delivering a subtle—or sometimes quite powerful—cerebral stimulation. If you’ve ever tried Durban Poison, you’ll probably recognize these classic sativa effects: an exciting, creatively stimulating head high that inspires you to get up, get out, and explore. Many consumers choose sativas for a fun day out or to pair with their morning coffee.

Physically, sativa plants tend to be tall, stalky, and tree-like with thin, spear-like leaves.

What Is a Hybrid?

A hybrid strain combines attributes of indicas and sativas. When you choose a hybrid strain, you can usually expect a mix of relaxing, body-centered effects with a burst of mental stimulation. For many consumers, hybrid strains are the perfect middle ground—which might explain why the vast majority of strains available are hybrids to one extent or another.

Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid: What’s the Difference?

There are objective differences and subjective differences regarding strains labeled as indica, sativa and hybrid. One objective difference comes from the actual look and growing pattern of the cannabis plant. The terms “indica” and “sativa” originated with European botanists in the 18th century who were interested in classifying cannabis. Sativa and indica appeared to be two completely distinct plant species at the time.

Sativas referred to the tall, stalky hemp plants grown in Europe and Eurasia, mainly for their fiber, seeds, and oil. Indica plants were the squat, bushy plants with curious psychoactive effects that originated in the Kush region of Southeast Asia.

When it comes to subjective differences, we’re referring to the overall experience of each of these plant classifications. As you’ve probably noticed, we all experience cannabis strains slightly differently, based in part on our own personal physiology and how our individual bodies metabolize cannabis.

Sativa vs Indica vs Hybrid Effects

Wondering what the differences are between indica, sativa, and hybrid effects?

• Indica Strains: Commonly known to have a sedative effect, providing a calming physical sensation that makes it ideal for those seeking relaxation. Indicas are also used to help with sleep, stress relief, and pain management.
• Sativa Strains: Usually imparts an energizing effect for those seeking creativity or focus. These types of cannabis strains tend to be uplifting and stimulating, perfect for those needing a boost of energy or motivation.
• Hybrid Strains: Combines attributes of both styles. What’s especially exciting about hybrids is the sheer number of variations in effects. Though we warn you: since nearly every strain available today is technically a hybrid, it might take a long, long time to sample your way through all of them!

Indica, sativa, and hybrid cannabis strains are all unique in their effects on the body and mind. Their differences can be subtle or quite dramatic, depending on your chosen strain.

Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid: Which One Is Right for Me?

When selecting a cannabis strain, it’s essential to consider your individual needs and preferences. These days, cannabis classification terms like indica, sativa, and hybrid are more commonly used to describe the subjective effects of cannabis, like how it hits our bodies and minds.

If you’ve ever experienced an energizing, mentally stimulating high, it sounds like you’ve interacted with classic sativa genetics. If you’ve experienced a more relaxing body high that washes away tension and stress, you may know a thing or two about indica strains.

However, a strain that works for one person may not work for another, so it’s crucial to take your time and research the different types of strains available to you. Talk to a knowledgeable source about what effects you are looking for, and they can help guide you in selecting the perfect strain for you. You can also start by trying different strains to see what speaks to your lifestyle and wants.

No matter what type of strain you choose, begin with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the perfect balance. Remember, cannabis is meant to be enjoyed responsibly. With these tips in mind, you can easily find the right strain for your needs and experience all the wonderful effects that cannabis has to offer.

Find Your Perfect Strain at The Dopest

Want to explore more strains or try unique cannabinoids such as HHC and THCA? You’ve come to the right place! Check out our huge selection of HHC and THCA products like The Dopest flower, gummies, pre-rolls, and more. Plus, we’re so confident in the quality of our hemp-derived products that we make our lab tests and certificates of analysis (COAs) available to anyone. Click here to view test results for all the products we sell.

Are you fired up to learn more about the different styles of cannabis? Let us help! Visit our hemp blog, where you’ll find more in-depth articles, like our guide to the legal cannabinoid THCA or an introduction to terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give different strains their characteristic flavors and scents.