Deciding whether to consume indica or sativa depends on the goals of your medical cannabis therapy. The two types share similar features but may have specific and distinct differences.
KEY POINTS
Sativa: known for relieving symptoms while still allowing the patient to go about their daily life.*
Indica: generally known to have a more sedative effect – ideal for nighttime and for patients suffering from insomnia and pain.*
Utilize Our Experts: Southern Comfort Marijuana Clinic is here to help. We assist patients get Florida Medical Marijuana certified, and during your consultation at our clinic we’ll go over possible solutions for your specific needs. *With sativa and indica, individual results may vary. Really, there’s still lots to learn about Marijuana – this article exists as a guide. Research is ongoing. Scientists are hard at work to uncover more details about the complex world of cannabinoids and terpenes. Use this guide as a basic starting point. As always, consult with us if you have questions.
Physical differences between Sativa and Indica
Sativa
Sativa strains grow tall and thin (they can grow up to 20 feet in an outside garden).
Cannabis sativa comes from warmer parts of the world, such as Southeast Asia and Central and South America.
Indica
Indica strains are a bushy plant that can grow between 3 and 6 feet tall (and are suitable for growing indoors)
Differences of effect between Sativa and Indica
Cannabis Sativa
- Stimulating
- Daytime Use
- Typical CBD to THC ratio: Sativa often has lower doses of CBD and higher doses of THC
- Increasing psychophysical energy
- Counteracts depression
- Increased creativity
- Reduction of nausea and stimulation of appetite
- General sense of well-being
- Increase Focus
- Eases Depression
- Boosts Energy
- Commonly associated effects of use: Sativa often produces a “mind high,” or an energizing, anxiety-reducing effect. If you use sativa-dominant strains, you may feel productive and creative, not relaxed and lethargic.
Cannabis Indica
- Muscle and body relaxation
- Nighttime Use
- Typical CBD to THC ratio: Indica strains often have higher levels of CBD, but the THC content isn’t necessarily less
- Sleep Aid
- Reduction of stress and anxiety
- Increased dopamine production
- Increased appetite
- Reduction of pain and inflammation
- Commonly associated effects of use: Indica is sought after for its intensely relaxing effects. It may also help reduce nausea and pain and increase appetite
A note about Hybrid strains
“Each year, cannabis growers produce new and unique strains from different combinations of parent plants. These cannabis hybrids are often grown to target specific effects.” Healthline
Origin: Hybrids are typically grown on farms or in greenhouses from a combination of sativa and indica strains.
Plant description: The appearance of hybrid strains depends on the combination of the parent plants.
Typical CBD to THC ratio: many hybrid cannabis plants are grown in order to increase the THC percentage, but each type has a unique ratio of the two cannabinoids.
Commonly associated effects of use: They can range from reducing anxiety and stress to easing symptoms of chemotherapy or radiation.
Daytime or nighttime use: This depends on the predominant effects of the hybrid.
Choosing the right product for you
When looking for the right medicinal cannabis product, we will guide you during your consultation with the following considerations in mind:
What are you trying to achieve? What symptoms you need help with will help narrow your options.
Your tolerance. When first starting out with medical marijuana therapy, you can use “entry level” strains that have milder effects.
How will cannabis be consumed. Each technique for consuming cannabis has benefits and drawbacks. For example, smoking marijuana will have quicker effects. Chewables may be easier to tolerate, but the effects take longer.
Medical history. Our doctors will look at possible interactions with existing medical conditions and any medications you’re taking.
Needless to say, we’ll look over all of the possibilities and your medical history to determine the best product for you.
Keep in mind Medical Cannabis is not legal in every state. If you plan on traveling out of Florida, and still wish to consume the product, find out if the state you’re traveling to will accept your Florida certification. Learn More.
Bottom Line
If you’re curious how medical cannabis might help, schedule an appoint with us. Click here to fill out how our process works.
At your consultation, we will discuss potential and negative effects on your individual health and help you find something that suits your needs.
