Indica vs. sativa vs. hybrid: which strain is best for you?
Newer studies indicate that terpenes and cannabinoids are mostly responsible for the strain’s aromas, flavour profiles, and effects; however, these three classifications are still known to describe each strain’s characteristics and physical make-up.
Indica Strains
The indica plant originated in the Middle East, particularly in the Hindu Kush mountain range, where conditions were colder, hence encouraging deep green and purple flowers. Indica plants typically have a have higher CBD content.
Associated Effects:
- “Body buzz”
- Stress relief
- Relaxation
- Pain relief
TNCC Indica Picks:
- Blueberry
- Sweet blueberry aroma
- Terpenes: myrcene, carophyllene, and limonene
- Pink Kush
- High THC potential
- Grassy aromas of white pepper, butterscotch, coffee, and grapefruit
- Terpenes: caryophyllene, myrcene, humulene, and bisabolol
- Organic Maple Kush
- Tropical, fruity, kush-like finish
- Terpenes: myrcene and farnescene
Sativa Strains
Sativa plants can grow up to 20 feet tall and produce dense, light green-coloured buds with narrow, blade-like leaves. The sativa plant originated from Southeast Asia and in places near the equator where weather is generally warmer. Users like sativa as a “wake and bake” option because of its energizing effects.
Associated Effects:
- “Head high”
- Stimulation
- Enhanced focus
- Creativity
TNCC Sativa Picks:
- Durban Poison
- High THC potential
- Terpenes: limonene, myrcene, caryophyllene
- Jack Haze
- High potency potential
- Sweet citrus aroma
- Terpenes: terpinolene and nerolidol
- Blue Dream
- Sour tart blueberry, citrusy, sweet aroma
- Terpenes: alpha-pinene, beta-caryophyllene, limonene
Hybrid Strains
More than half of the strains available in the market are classified as hybrids. Its popularity among consumers is credited to its wider range of effects from its indica and sativa genetics. Depending on each strain’s specific lineage, hybrids can offer relaxing and exhilarating effects, as well as a higher THC content.
Associated Effects:
- Balanced experience
- A unique set of effects based on cultivation
- Medicinal properties
- Stress-relief
TNCC Hyrbid Picks:
- White Widow
- Naturally upbeat and enjoyable
- Woodsy, floral aromas
- Terpenes: myrcene, caryophyllene
- Garlic Sherbert
- Indica-dominant
- Blue Sherbert x Garlic Cookies cross
- Terpenes: limonene, caryophyllene, myrcene
- Cookies N’ Cream
- Starfighter x Girl Scout Cookies cross
- Sweet and refreshing smell, tangy and floral taste
- Terpenes: myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene
