Indica vs sativa vs hybrid cannabis

Indica and sativa are the main subspecies of cannabis, each with unique characteristics. People crossbreed them to create hybrid strains. 

Let’s break down indica, sativa, and hybrids, so you can choose the perfect strain to suit your needs.

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An introduction to indica, sativa, and hybrid strains

Two main subspecies of the cannabis plant, Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica, are often genetically crossbred to produce specific effects, flavors, and aromas. 

• Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects on the body. These strains are generally associated with a "body high" and are popular for nighttime use.
• Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing effects on the mind. They are excellent for boosting creativity, enhancing focus, and increasing energy levels, making them more popular for daytime use.
• Hybrid strains are a combination of both indica and sativa genetics. They are bred to combine desired traits from both parent subspecies. Hybrids can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced, depending on the specific genetic makeup. 

Let's dive deeper into their specific characteristics.

All about indica strains

If you're seeking full-body relaxation, look no further than indicas. Let's explore what makes these strains so uniquely calming.

What are the physical characteristics of indica?

Indica plants originated from the hash-producing regions of the Hindu Kush mountains, for example, Afghanistan, Morocco, and Nepal. These short, bushy plants have a dense, compact bud structure and broad leaves. Indicas tend to have a shorter flowering cycle of just 6–8 weeks. Their stout stature and tight internodal spacing make indicas ideal for growing indoors where you can control their heights and growing patterns.

What are the effects of indica strains?

Indica strains induce a physical, relaxing effect. They deliver a sedating "body buzz" that makes you feel calm and sleepy. Indica highs are described as heavy, stoning, and couch-locking, which is what many people need to unwind after a long day. The deep muscle relaxation and physical ease can dull aches and pains.

What are the benefits of indica strains?

With their sedating and calming properties, indica strains show promise for a wide range of therapeutic applications. Their potential therapeutic benefits include:

1. Natural insomnia aid and sleep promotion
2. Reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and restlessness
3. Pain relief for chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis
4. Appetite stimulation
5. Muscle relaxation and spasm relief
6. Potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects
7. Calming benefits for nighttime use and full-body relaxation
8. Potential neuropathic pain management
9. Could reduce the intensity of tremors from conditions such as Parkinson's

Does indica contain more THC or CBD?

Indica strains tend to contain higher levels of CBD than sativas. This increased CBD content works synergistically with typically smaller amounts of THC to amplify the sedating, body-melting sensations.

Some indicas are bred to express more CBD and less THC, while others can be high in THC with lower CBD expression. The ratio between cannabinoids depends on the genetics, cultivation techniques, and intended effects of a specific indica strain. 

Indica’s terpene profile

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive aromas and flavors. They interact with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD to influence and accentuate the effects and sensations of different strains.

Indica strains have bold, earthy, and hashy terpene profiles. Many express high levels of myrcene, which produces sedating effects that accentuate indica's relaxing properties. Other common indica terpenes include caryophyllene (spicy, peppery), limonene (citrusy), and linalool (floral, lavender). 

This entourage of aromatic terpenes synergizes with cannabinoids to amplify indica's deeply calming, full-body properties.

Are there any side effects of indica?

Indicas are therapeutic at lower to moderate doses, but when you take an excessive amount, these strains can produce some side effects. 

• Excessive sedation and lethargy
• Mental fogginess or dizziness
• Dry mouth and dry eyes
• Increased appetite and potential overeating
• Temporary paranoia or increased anxiety 
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Impairment of motor skills and coordination

These side effects depend on the THC to CBD ratio in the indica strain you consumed, the amount you consumed, and some individual factors (e.g., metabolism, weight, and tolerance levels). 

Moderate amounts of quality indica products rarely cause issues for most regular users. If you’re new to cannabis, stick to lower doses and slowly increase as you develop tolerance. Some high-CBD or CBD isolate products may be best for first-time users. Our broad-spectrum CBD gummies contain 10mg of pure CBD per piece with no THC, so you can experience indica's relaxing benefits without potential psychoactive effects for newcomers.

What are the most popular indica strains?

People choose indica strains when they crave deep relaxation and therapeutic relief from pain. They deliver a deliciously sedating body high whenever you need to unwind at home with a full night's rest.

Here are some of the most popular indica strains: 

1. OG Kush: high THC, piney, earthy
2. Afghan Kush: pure landrace, notes of sandalwood
3. Granddaddy Purple: calming berry flavors
4. Northern Lights: sweet pungent classic
5. Hindu Kush: traditional hash strain
6. Bubba Kush: heavy sedative effects

It takes a lot of experimentation and trial and error to find what strain works for you. Rather than fixating on a particular cultivar, our low-dose gummies let you experience the best of both sativa and indica effects in one delicious, portable treat. 

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Learn all about sativa strains

Sativa strains stand out for their invigorating, uplifting effects that stimulate the mind and body. They complement active days and social gatherings.

The physical characteristics of sativa

Sativa plants originated from warm equatorial regions in Mexico, Colombia, and Southeast Asia. These tall, lanky plants can reach heights up to 20 feet with long branchy structures. Sativas feature long, narrow leaves and an extended flowering cycle that can last between 10 and 16 weeks. Their towering heights and longer maturation periods make sativas better suited for outdoor cultivation in warm climates.

What effects do sativa strains produce?

Sativas have uplifting and energizing effects that stimulate both the mind and the body. Their cerebral highs spark heightened creativity and feelings of euphoria. Sativa users report boosted focus, productivity, and a sense of motivated concentration for tackling tasks. These strains deliver a lively yet clearheaded psychoactive buzz that elevates moods. 

At the same time, the sativa experience enhances sensory awareness, making sights, sounds, and tastes feel more vivid and intense. While sativas will get you high if you take an excessive dose, the effects manifest more as an energetic headspace and body buzz rather than heavy, sedating body highs. 

What are the therapeutic applications of sativa?

The lively, upbeat profile of sativa strains opens the door to many therapeutic benefits such as:

1. Combatting fatigue and lack of motivation
2. Boosting energy levels
3. Stimulating appetite
4. Relieving nausea or digestive issues
5. Enhancing creativity for artistic expression or analytical thinking
6. Improving focus, concentration, and productivity 
7. Providing euphoric feelings
8. Facilitating social connections and elevated interactive experiences
9. Potential anti-anxiety and mood-lifting properties

Since sativa strains with a balanced ratio of THC and CBD boost focus and mental clarity, we’ve created delicious gummies to harness those uplifting, grounded effects. Our Bliss Delta 9 edibles contain the perfect 5mg of THC and 5mg of CBD microdose for sparking motivation and laser-sharp concentration. No intoxication or impairment. Instead, enjoy an elevated state of mind whenever you need to tap into creative inspiration or power through work.

“This gummie absolutely helped me unwind after a long physical days work…Only half of the tiny gummy had me in a state of relaxation, motivation, and overall happiness. I’m absolutely ordering more!!”

—Jams

Does sativa contain more THC or CBD?

Sativas generally lean towards higher THC versus CBD. But cannabinoid content can fluctuate across different sativa cultivars based on their unique genetics, lineage, and growing methods. Some sativa strains are purposefully bred to express higher CBD levels to temper the THC. 

Rather than relying on sativa's natural THC dominance, many users find that the most rewarding experiences come from strains that balance THC-to-CBD ratios. This synergistic combination creates the entourage effect where cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance therapeutic benefits while reducing potential negative side effects. 

For energizing sativa effects, CBD's presence helps retain mental focus and mitigate raciness or anxiety. The entourage synergy delivers uplifting vigor and motivation without the cerebral intensity becoming overwhelming.

See why our entourage effect gummies are so popular.

Sativa’s terpene profile

Sativa cultivars frequently boast zesty, fruity, and diesel-like terpene profiles. They tend to contain higher levels of limonene, a citrusy terpene associated with elevated mood and stress relief that complements sativa's uplifting cerebral buzz. Other common sativa terpenes include terpinolene (herbaceous, piney), myrcene (musky, earthy), and caryophyllene (spicy, peppery). This ensemble of aromatic terpene content works in synergy with cannabinoids to accentuate sativa's energizing, euphoric headspace, and creative mindset.

Potential side effects of too much sativa

When you overconsume sativa strains—especially if you’re new to cannabis or with low THC tolerances—there is the potential for some adverse side effects. 

• Increased anxiety or paranoia
• Racing, scattered thoughts
• Overly intense cerebral psychoactivity
• Dry mouth and dry eyes
• Headaches or dizziness
• Impaired motor skills and coordination
• In severe cases, panic attacks

Most cannabis consumers tolerate low to moderate doses of quality sativa products without any negative effects. The key is to start slow with sativas until you gauge your personal response. It’s always more effective and safer to combine sativas with strains high in CBD to modulate intensely cerebral effects. 

What are the most popular sativa strains?

Sativa strains are sought after for providing upbeat, mentally stimulating effects. No wonder cannabis enthusiasts prefer it for social activities, creative and analytical pursuits, and an overall energized headspace.

Here are some of the most popular sativa strains and their overall characteristics:

• Sour Diesel: pungent fuel aroma, energetic cerebral buzz
• Durban Poison: earthy, spicy, uplifting and focused
• Super Silver Haze: lemon and herbal notes, creative mindset
• Jack Herer: clear-headed, piney, social and euphoric
• Ghost Train Haze: musky citrus aroma, psychedelic potency
• Green Crack: mango and citrus flavors, motivation and productivity

If you’re looking for an effective way to microdose cannabis while staying focused and grounded, our edibles are the safest choice. We infuse our edibles with small amounts of THC balanced out with CBD. 

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What is a hybrid?

Hybrid strains are the product of crossbreeding sativa and indica parent plants. They combine the effects of sativa and indica in different ratios to bring out the desired effects: either sativa-leaning cerebral effects or indica-inspired body sensations.

Types of hybrid cannabis strains

There are three main categories of hybrid cannabis:

1. Sativa-dominant hybrids contain higher sativa percentages. They exhibit more invigorating cerebral effects and moderate body sensations inherited from their indica side. 
2. Indica-dominant hybrids have stronger sedating influences from their indica parentage and a small amount of sativa. These strains provide full-body relaxing effects complemented by uplifting sativa genetics. 
3. Balanced hybrid strains strike equal or near-equal harmony between sativa's cerebral energy and indica's calming body effects. 

What are the physical characteristics of hybrid strains?

Hybrid plants can exhibit a blend of both indica and sativa plant traits. Their mix of physical characteristics is inherited from both major species of cannabis and depends on their strain-specific indica and sativa ratios.

Some hybrids may grow tall and slender like sativas, while others may be shorter and bushier like indicas. Growers can select hybrids that best suit their specific cultivation setup and preferences. Leaf shapes could combine narrow sativa leaves with broader indica foliage. Flowering times frequently fall in the middle of sativas' longer cycles and indicas' rapid bloom periods. 

How does a hybrid strain affect you?

The effects of hybrid cannabis strains depend on whether they are sativa-dominant, indica-dominant, or a balanced 50/50 split. 

Sativa-dominant hybrids produce:

• Invigorating cerebral energy and uplifting mood boost
• Increased focus, creativity, and motivation
• Euphoric effects
• Clear-headed, functional, and social experiences

Indica-dominant hybrids have:

• Deeply relaxing full-body effects and sedation
• Relief from insomnia, pain, stress, and muscle tension
• Soothing physical tranquility and "body melting" sensations
• Potential for couchlock and strong appetite stimulation
• Calming mindset with mild cerebral stimulation

Balanced hybrid effects combine the properties of both sativa and indica strains, so they produce:

• A harmonious union of head and body effects
• Uplifting cerebral energy coupled with physical relaxation
• Focused yet calm mindset that enhances creativity and productivity
• Euphoric effects without overwhelming intensity

Balanced hybrid strains tend to produce milder, more manageable effects, especially for cannabis newcomers or those with lower tolerances. 

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What are the benefits of hybrid strains?

By blending the effects of stimulating sativa with calming indica influences, hybrids unlock a wider breadth of potential benefits that play to the strengths of each variety. The potential benefits of hybrid strains include:

1. Improved mood and stress relief
2. Analgesic pain management 
3. Physical relaxation
4. Relief from insomnia and sleep issues 
5. Stimulated appetite
6. Nausea relief
7. Increased creativity and productivity
8. Potential anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) benefits
9. Versatility for social situations, exercising, unwinding

Do hybrid strains contain more THC or CBD?

A hybrid strain of cannabis doesn’t necessarily contain more THC or CBD. Its cannabinoid profiles depend on:

• Parental genetics. Hybrids can inherit higher THC levels if their sativa parent was THC-dominant strain, or they may express more CBD if their indica parent had elevated CBD.
• How they were bred. Some hybrids are intentionally bred to maximize THC content and potency, while others are made with higher CBD levels to balance out THC's potential psychoactive effects.
• Their specific THC and CBD ratios. Breeders can fine-tune hybrids with unique, targeted THC and CBD profiles. 

Are there side effects to hybrid strains?

Hybrids are bred to provide more balanced effects, but taking too much could lead to negative side effects. Here are some possible side effects to be aware of if you overindulge yourself in hybrid strains:

1. Anxiety, paranoia or racing thoughts (more likely from sativa-dominant hybrids)
2. Headaches or dizziness from intense cerebral effects
3. Excessive sedation, lethargy or "couch-lock" (more likely from indica hybrids)
4. Cottonmouth and dry eyes
5. Increased appetite that may lead to overeating
6. Impairment of coordination and motor skills
7. In rare cases, dysphoria or panic attacks from potent psychoactivity

Skip the guesswork and potential side effects with our low-dose hybrid Bliss Delta 9 gummies. They provide the perfect balanced ratio of sativa energy and indica relaxation every time, safeguarding you from overwhelming effects. 

What are the most popular hybrid cannabis strains?

Here are some populare hybrid strains:

1. Blue Dream: this balanced hybrid provides euphoric, uplifting, and creative effects 
2. Girl Scout Cookies: this indica-dominant strain gives you a relaxing, full-body calm 
3. Pineapple Express: this sativa-dominant strain is energetic, sociable, and upbeat
4. White Widow: as a balanced hybrid, this strain offers an euphoric experience to relieve pain and awaken creativity 

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What is the best way to consume cannabis?

Our low-dose edibles and THC-infused beverages are the healthiest, most convenient, and reliable consumption methods. Here’s why:

1. With edibles, you can accurately measure and microdose the amount of THC and CBD you're consuming. This makes it easier to find your ideal sweet spot without going overboard. 
2. Microdoses offer longer-lasting, steady effects. The effects of edibles can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, providing an extended and consistent experience without the peaks and valleys of smoking or vaping. THC drinks can last up to six hours. 
3. Our gummies are much healthier than smoking or vaping. You avoid the potential harm of inhaling smoke or vapor, which can irritate the lungs and exacerbate chronic respiratory conditions. 
4. Gummies and THC drinks offer ultimate discretion; no telltale smells or clouds of smoke. You can enjoy them anywhere, anytime, without drawing unwanted attention. Pop one of our delicious, juicy gummies on your way home from work, or infuse your favorite non-alcoholic drinks with a drop of our liquid THC drops in a matter of seconds.

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