If you’re considering medical cannabis treatment, you may have come across the terms “indica” and “sativa”. While these classifications provide a basic introduction to cannabis varieties, they only tell part of the story. At Curaleaf Clinic, we believe in empowering you with knowledge, so let’s explore what these terms really mean and how they differ.
The Difference Between Indica and Sativa
Indica and Sativa are the two main varieties of the cannabis plant, often described as yin and yang – two sides of the same coin, each with unique characteristics. Here’s a brief overview:
- Indica: Historically associated with relaxation and calmness.
- Sativa: Reported for having more uplifting and energising effects.
However, these effects are generalisations and not always accurate. There’s currently not enough clinical evidence to support these claims, and medical cannabis will affect everyone differently. That’s why it’s important to adopt a more scientific approach to understanding cannabis and its effects.
What is Indica?
Indica is a species of the cannabis plant. These plants are often shorter and bushier with wider leaves, and they originated in regions such as Central Asia. Indica is commonly associated with relaxation, which is why it’s often seen as a “night-time” option, but these results can vary.
What is Sativa?
Sativa is another species of the cannabis plant, usually taller than indica with narrower leaves. Cannabis sativa originates from warmer regions of the world, including Southeast Asia and Central and South America. Sativa is often associated with enhancing creativity and focus, so it’s usually seen as a “day-time” strain in opposition to indica. But again, these effects are not proven or guaranteed for everyone.
What is a Hybrid?
Most cannabis strains today are hybrids, meaning they’re a mix of both indica and sativa genetics. A hybrid can have one dominant strain or provide an equal balance of the two. Hybrids are created through selective breeding, which means many modern cannabis products are hybrids due to years of crossbreeding.
Cannabis Classifications
While the “indica,” “sativa” and “hybrid” labels can be helpful for botanists, what’s more important for prescribers is the composition of cannabinoids, terpenes, terpenoids, and flavonoids in the plant. These active compounds are believed to play a crucial role in determining how a medication might work for you, making them more relevant than simply focusing on strain type.
What is Stronger: Sativa or Indica?
Many people believe that the strength of cannabis is based on its THC content, but that’s only part of the picture. When determining the most suitable medication for any eligible patient, we focus on a combination of factors such as THC and CBD levels, terpenes and their concentrations, and the type of product.
The genetic makeup of the plant – whether it’s indica, sativa, or a hybrid – can influence the level of various compounds. However, it’s also important to consider how the plant was grown and processed, as this can significantly affect the final product’s makeup. At Curaleaf Clinic, we go beyond the basic classifications of indica and sativa and focus on the individual components of each medication to create the most effective, individualised treatment plans.
Latest research on Indica and Sativa
Recent research suggests that the traditional labels of sativa, indica, and hybrid are becoming outdated, especially in medical use. Cannabis is a complex plant with thousands of active compounds, including cannabinoids and various terpenes, and it’s the interaction of these compounds that shapes the effects – not just the strain type.
You can read more about this in our blog, Beyond Indica and Sativa: Understanding Cannabis through Terpene Profiles, which explains why researchers recommend focusing on cannabinoid and terpene levels for a better understanding and categorising of cannabis.
Making the Right Choice
If you’re wondering how medical cannabis could fit into your care plan, check your eligibility for a consultation with Curaleaf Clinic today. Our team is ready to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you explore the next steps of your treatment plan if conventional therapies haven’t provided relief.
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