Sativa vs. Indica
Our goal at OG Medicinals is to ensure all current and future customers are not only educated about our products but about marijuana in general. Here, we have outlined some information about Sativa and Indica strains so you can learn about the differences and have that knowledge prior to making marijuana purchases. We also outlined additional marijuana information as well so please explore it below if you would like to learn more.
Cannabis is one of the oldest crops known to mankind, with records of its cultivation dating back thousands of years. Indica and sativa are the two main types of cannabis. Here’s how to tell them apart:
Today, it is widely accepted that marijuana has two different species: Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa. Cross-breeding of the two types has led to a wide variety of hybrid strains with unique characteristics.
The differences between indica and sativa remain a subject of much debate, especially among scientists who study the plant. However, most agree that indica and sativa plants are distinct in a number of ways.
Origins + Genetics
Scientists that have studied the differences between indica and sativa have come up with a number of theories based on genetics. One prevailing theory focuses on the genetic production of THC and CBD.
Plants that produce high levels of THC express genes that code for the enzyme THCA synthase. This enzyme converts CBG into THCA, which becomes THC when heated. These plants are typically considered indica.
On the other hand, some plants express genes that code for the enzyme CBDA synthase. This enzyme converts CBG into CBDA, the precursor of CBD, instead. These plants are typically considered sativa.
Based on this explanation, indica plants have high THC: CBD ratios, and sativa plants have high.
Appearance
The most accepted way of distinguishing indica versus sativa is by appearance, or what scientists refer to as morphology.
Sativa plants are tall, loosely branched, and have long, narrow leaves. They are usually grown outdoors and can reach heights of up to 20 feet.
Indica plants are short, densely branched, and have wider leaves. They are better suited for growing indoors.
Effects
Besides appearance, indica and sativa plants are commonly believed to have different effects on their user. These effects can be categorized as:
Sativa effects:
- Stimulating
- Uplifting
- Energetic
- Cerebral head buzz
- Spacey or hallucinogenic feeling
- Best suited for day use
Indica effects:
- Sedating
- Relaxing
- Calming
- Body buzz
- Couch lock feeling
- Best suited for night use
However, no scientific study has confirmed these differences, and there is some doubt about their accuracy. In fact, history suggests a much simpler difference between indica and sativa.
The original classification of Cannabis indica was made by French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1785.
Lamarck observed that certain marijuana plants from India were intoxicating and could be made into hashish. But traditional hemp crops, which were more common in Europe, had no mind-altering effect.
He came up with the name Cannabis indica to distinguish Indian cannabis from European hemp, which was known at the time as Cannabis sativa. Likewise, Cannabis indica was specifically recognized as a therapeutic in Western medicine during the 1800s.
Contact OG Medicinals to Buy Cannabis Flower in Denver, CO
Call OG Medicinals today at (303) 375-6652 to order our high-quality marijuana strains (indica, sativa, hybrid) for medicinal, recreational, and/or wholesale purposes in Denver, CO.
If you are looking for a marijuana dispensary near the Denver International Airport (DIA) — we are just 14 miles away!