The Marijuana high has historically been classified as a binary: Indica or Sativa. The original distinction between Indica and Sativa lies in their botanical traits, However, recent research shows that these botanical differences don’t consistently correlate with the effects people experience when using cannabis.
Old School Thought
Indica: These plants are typically short and bushy, with wide leaves. They tend to grow faster and produce higher yields than Sativa. Indica strains originally come from colder regions like Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Himalayas. The dense, tightly packed buds are often used to relax muscles, induce sleep, and alleviate pain.
Sativa: Sativa plants are tall, slender, and have narrow leaves. They grow in warmer climates such as Mexico, Southeast Asia, and South America. Sativa strains often take longer to flower but produce larger yields. They are traditionally thought to enhance creativity and energy, making them more suitable for daytime use.
Shifting Toward Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles
The old Indica-Sativa binary is now being replaced by a more scientific approach. Researchers have discovered that cannabinoid ratios—not just the plant type—play a much more critical role in determining how a strain will affect you. Though more than one hundred cannabinoids have been identified, there are Two primary cannabinoids:
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Known for its psychoactive effects, THC is often associated with the feeling of being “high.” It can induce euphoria, enhance creativity, and provide pain relief.
- CBD (Cannabidiol): Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and is commonly associated with calming effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and the relief of anxiety and pain.
Beyond THC and CBD, other lesser cannabinoids such as CBN (cannabinol) and CBG (cannabigerol) have been increasingly recognized for their therapeutic potential. The specific ratio of these compounds contributes to whether a strain makes you feel relaxed, creative, focused, or sleepy.
The Role of Terpenes in the Cannabis Experience
In addition to cannabinoids, terpenes—the aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants—play a crucial role in determining the effects of different strains. Terpenes not only give cannabis its distinctive smell and flavor but also interact with cannabinoids to produce what’s called the “entourage effect.”
Known Terpenes and Their Potential Impacts
Myrcene: Often found in Indica strains, myrcene is known for its calming and sedative properties. It may enhance relaxation and help with sleep.
Limonene: Present in many Sativa strains, limonene has a citrusy aroma and is believed to have mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety effects.
Pinene: This terpene, which smells like pine, is thought to promote alertness and memory retention.
Linalool: Known for its lavender scent, linalool is often used for its calming, anti-anxiety properties.
The Changing Use of Indica and Sativa Labels
With more understanding of the complex interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes, the simple Indica/Sativa classification is becoming outdated as these terpene and cannabinoid profiles elicit a wider range of feeling.
Many strains now exhibit hybrid characteristics, blending the effects of both types. For example, an Indica-dominant hybrid may have relaxing properties but could also provide mental clarity if it contains certain terpenes like pinene or limonene.
Cannabis experts increasingly focus on chemovars—chemically distinct variations of the cannabis plant. Chemovars are categorized by their specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles, offering a more accurate predictor of effects than simply labeling a strain as Indica or Sativa.
Tying Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles Together
What Does This Means for For You
For consumers, this shift means focusing less on whether a strain is labeled as Indica or Sativa and more on understanding its cannabinoid and terpene profile. For instance, two different strains of Sativa could have vastly different effects based on their chemical composition. By considering cannabinoid ratios and terpene profiles, users can more reliably find strains that deliver the desired effects—whether that’s an energetic buzz, a burst of creativity, or a calm, relaxing state.
While the traditional labels of Indica and Sativa have provided guidance for many years, modern cannabis research is moving toward a more detailed and scientific understanding of cannabis. The unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in each strain offers a better prediction of how it will affect you. As a result, the cannabis community is increasingly embracing a more nuanced approach, with chemovars and cannabinoid ratios leading the way in defining how cannabis interacts with the body.
Knowing a particular cannabinoid/terpene profile will help you articulate exactly what you want when ordering from a bud tender, ensuring you get what you want.
Whether you’re seeking an uplifting, creative high or a calming, sedative experience, the next time you shop for cannabis, pay attention to the cannabinoid content and terpene profile so you can get exactly what you are looking for rather than the binary of energetic or relaxing. This information should not be considered medical advice and is here for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed physician.