Marijuana Strains: What Is The Difference Between Indica, Sativa & Hybrid ?

If you’ve been looking to explore the wonders of cannabis, then you’ve come to the right place. With so many strains available for purchase online or at your local dispensary, it can be quite a challenge to know what you are looking for. Let’s start with the basics- What are Strains?

A strain is simply a variation of cannabis plants. These variations primarily occur based on several different factors including their environment, genetic markers, and growing practices. Different strains have varying amounts of these different factors influencing them. Meaning some strains will have more of one thing while another strain may have less of another factor.

There are three main categories that all strains fall under: Indica, Sativa and Hybrid. Each category has its own set of characteristics and benefits but most importantly, it also comes with its own unique risks and consequences if used incorrectly or in excess.

What is the difference between Indica, Sativa & Hybrid?

It can be difficult to know what strain is right for you as there are so many options out there. There are also some strains that have more risk involved than others because of their specific genetics. But, the easiest way to figure out which strain is best for you is by looking at your desired effects and the amount of time you want to dedicate to your experience.

The type of plant you are looking at can help determine what type of strain you have. Indica plants are shorter and bushier than Sativa plants, which typically grow taller and lanky. One other indicator is the amount of flowers they produce. Indicas typically produce more flowers than Sativa plants do.

Sativas tend to increase energy levels, making them perfect for day-to-day activities where getting more done is required like during the day or late at night when everyone else is sleeping. This makes sativas appropriate for most active individuals who need extra energy throughout the day but still want something relaxing at night.

Hybrids provide a mix of both indica and sativa characteristics, meaning they have both qualities from each category that make up its traits. These hybrids typically work well if you want an all around balance between both qualities as well as multiple benefits from each category, these include stronger and longer lasting effects after just one dose compared with pure indica or pure sativa strains.

How Are Those Strains Created ?

To create a strain, cultivators select a variety of traits to produce the effects they want. This is what we wall crossbreeding, which explains why there are so many different strains of cannabis. One of the most important characteristics of a cannabis strain is the THC content. Some rules exist on naming each strain, but many producers do not name their products according to these rules.

Although hybridization and crossbreeding make it possible to create hundreds of strains, experts suggest it is impossible to guess the composition of a cannabis plant by looking at its height, branching, or leaf appearance. The only way to know the chemical composition of a cannabis-derived product is to analyze it in a biochemical assay which will allow us to classify them under the three main categories : Indica, Sativa and Hybrid.