Sativa vs Indica Marijuana: Know the Major Differences!

There is an endless variety of marijuana strains, each one with its own name and a list of health benefits. With so many options available today, it can be a little too overwhelming to figure out where to start. But you can start here: all the most popular strains fall into one of two categories: Sativa and indica. From here, the decision process becomes easier once you familiarize yourself with these two types and the effects that you can expect from them.

What is the Difference between Sativa and Indica?

There are some commonalities and differences between Sativa and indica. Both contain different levels of the two main psychoactive ingredients in marijuana: CBD and THC. Indica tends to have higher CBD and lower THC levels, so it gives more physical effects with a less mental high. Indica strains are very relaxing for the mind and body and are great for nighttime use. They also increase dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter involved in the body’s motor function that helps regular the reward and pleasure centers of the brain.

Sativa strains, on the other hand, are more suitable for use during the daytime because they do not give instant sleepy effects like Indica strains. Rather, Sativa causes a boost in the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is involved in the brain’s regulation of appetite, anxiety, movement, sleep, learning and mood. It has a high THC level and low CBD. While its physical effects are not as pronounced, they have more potent mental effects that can be very enjoyable.

Effects of Sativa Strains vs Effects of Indica Strains

Depending on your specific needs and health conditions, there are unique benefits to either strain that you can use to your advantage. Some effects, like increased hunger, can be expected on both strains. However, there are a few effects that are more strongly connected with one of the two types.

Indica Strains

• Decreased nausea. Whether it is motion sickness, bad seafood, or a flu bag, cannabis indica is a natural remedy to soothe the stomach and ease nausea symptoms. Combined with an increase in hunger, this strain can help people regain their appetite following stress or an illness.
• Pain relief. Many aches and pains can be relieved by using an indica strain, including toothaches, menstrual cramping, and pinched nerves.
• Insomnia relief. Minor pain relief, meditative relaxation, and a dopamine boost all combine to make the indica an effective sleep aid that can work even better than melatonin and has fewer side effects than pharmaceutical sleeping pills.
• Eased tremors and muscle tension. Mental strain, physical pain or a combination of both can lead to some very tight muscles, and indica can help you with it. Indica can also help with physical tremors and tics associated with illnesses like Parkinson’s.

Sativa Strains

• Depression relief. Serotonin levels play a crucial role in a person’s mood and mental outlook. In fact, most prescription antidepressants are made to increase serotonin. Cannabis sativa is a natural happy-booster, so people suffering from depression can regain their motivation and get back to their regular selves with this strain.
• Anxiety and stress relief. Hectic schedules and busy lives can stress out a person and seriously impact their mental and physical health. With Sativa strains, you can put your mind and ease and enjoy doing the things you used to love.
• Chronic pain relief. Many long-term prescription medications come with unpleasant side effects. Sativa strains can alleviate chronic pain without the extra downsides. Sativa can help with glaucoma, Crohn’s disease, sciatica, and spinal injuries.
• Heightened creativity and sharpened focus. Many Sativa strain consumers have noted their enhanced innovation and imagination without decreasing motivation or energy.

By knowing the difference between these two types of cannabis, you can now better determine the kind that will work best for you. Consequently, there are lots of hybrid varieties available that can give you a wide range of benefits. When in doubt, try to experiment with a little trial and error until you find your personal favorite.