Indica vs. Sativa: What’s the Difference?

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Updated October 28, 2024

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Medically Reviewed By

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Medically Reviewed By

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

woman thinking representing how long does zoloft stay in your system

Indica and sativa are two types of marijuana, each with distinct effects and characteristics. Both types of weed are used for recreational and medicinal purposes.

This guide explores the differences between indica, sativa, and hybrid weeds and highlights what to expect from each form of the drug. You’ll also discover how to get effective, compassionate substance abuse treatment if you need help recalibrating your life.

 Note: It is not recommended to engage in cannabis use if you are in recovery from addiction, as it often leads to relapse. Call our recovery hotline at 844-576-0144 if you need help quitting drugs or alcohol.

 

What Is Indica?

Indica is a type of cannabis plant known for its short, bushy appearance and broad leaves. Originating from the Hindu Kush mountains and regions of Central Asia, these plants thrive in cooler climates. Indica plants are usually darker green than other cannabis types. They are famous for their relaxing and calming effects, making them a popular choice for people looking to unwind or get relief from certain medical conditions.

 

Effects of Indica

Indica strains are known for their calming effects. Here are some common indica effects:

  • Relaxation: Indica can help relax your body and mind, and is often used for unwinding at the end of the day.
  • Sleepiness: Many people use indica strains to help them sleep better at night because this form of marijuana induces drowsiness.
  • Pain relief: Indica is often used to relieve chronic pain, such as pain from arthritis or muscle spasms.
  • Reduced anxiety: For some, Indica can aid in reducing feelings of anxiety and stress.
  • Increased appetite: It can also stimulate your appetite, which is helpful for people undergoing treatments like chemotherapy that may reduce hunger.

 

These effects make indica a popular choice for evening or nighttime use when relaxation and sleep are desired.

 

Indica Strains

Each indica strain has unique properties. Here are some of the most popular strains:

  • Northern Lights: Known for its calming effects and sweet, spicy aroma.
  • Granddaddy Purple: Famous for its grape and berry flavor, it helps with pain and stress relief.
  • Blue Cheese: This strain has a creamy, cheesy taste and is used for relaxation and reducing anxiety.
  • Afghan Kush: A pure indica strain from the Hindu Kush mountains, it’s known for its heavy, sedative effects.
  • Purple Kush: Recognizable by its purple color, it offers a strong, long-lasting relaxation effect.

 

These strains are popular for their ability to help with various conditions and provide deep relaxation.

 

Common Uses of Indica

What does indica do to you, then? These are some common uses:

  • Pain relief: It helps manage chronic pain, such as arthritis, migraines, and muscle spasms.
  • Sleep aid: Indica is often used by people who have trouble sleeping because it makes you feel drowsy.
  • Anxiety reduction: It can help calm your mind, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.
  • Appetite stimulation: Indica can increase your appetite, which is helpful for people who have lost their desire to eat.
  • Muscle relaxation: It helps relax tense muscles, making it useful for people with muscle spasms or stiffness.

 

These uses make indica a go-to option for those looking to relax and relieve various symptoms.

 

Can You Overdose on Indica?

No recorded deaths have been linked to indica or any other type of marijuana. However, consuming too much can lead to uncomfortable effects, such as:

  • Dizziness: You might feel lightheaded or dizzy.
  • Nausea: Too much indica can upset your stomach.
  • Anxiety & paranoia: High doses can sometimes increase feelings of anxiety or paranoia.
  • Extreme sleepiness: You might feel excessively tired or sleepy.

 

While these effects are not life-threatening, they can be unpleasant. Start with a small amount and see how your body reacts before consuming more of the drug.

 

What Is Sativa?

Sativa weed is another type of marijuana plant. Unlike indica, sativa plants are tall and thin with narrow leaves. They thrive in warm climates and can grow over 12 feet tall. Sativa plants are usually lighter green than indica plants. They are known for their uplifting and energizing effects, making them a popular choice for daytime use.

 

Effects of Sativa

Sativa strains are typically used for their energizing and mind-stimulating effects. Common sativa effects include:

  • Increased energy: Sativa can give you a boost of energy, making it easier to stay active and alert.
  • Enhanced creativity: Many people use sativa to help them think more creatively and come up with new ideas.
  • Improved focus: Sativa can help you concentrate better, making it useful for tasks that require mental effort.
  • Elevated mood: It can make you feel happier and more positive, helping to lift your mood.
  • Reduced fatigue: Sativa can combat tiredness, helping you feel more awake and refreshed.

 

These effects make sativa a good choice for daytime activities when you need to stay productive and engaged.

 

Sativa Strains

There are many different strains of sativa, each with unique effects and flavors. Here are some popular strains:

  • Sour Diesel: Known for its strong, diesel-like smell, it provides a quick energy boost and helps reduce stress.
  • Green Crack: Despite its name, this strain is famous for its sharp energy and focus, making it great for staying productive.
  • Jack Herer: Named after a cannabis activist, this strain is loved for its clear-headed, creative high.
  • Durban Poison: Originating from South Africa, this strain has a sweet smell and provides an energetic, uplifting high.
  • Super Silver Haze: This strain is popular for its long-lasting effects that help with stress and anxiety while keeping you alert.

 

These strains are known for their ability to boost energy and creativity, making them favorites for daytime use.

 

Common Uses of Sativa

What does sativa do to you? Common uses include:

  • Boosting energy: Sativa strains are great for giving you an energy boost, making them perfect for daytime activities.
  • Enhancing creativity: Many artists and creators use sativa to help spark new ideas and improve creative thinking.
  • Improving focus: Sativa can help you concentrate better, which is useful for studying or working on projects.
  • Elevating mood: If you’re feeling down, sativa can help lift your spirits and make you feel happier.
  • Reducing fatigue: Sativa strains can help fight off tiredness and keep you feeling awake and alert.

 

These uses make sativa a popular choice for people who need to stay active, focused, and in a good mood during the day.

 

Can You Overdose on Sativa?

Although nobody has died of a Sativa overdose, consuming too much of this weed can cause some uncomfortable effects, such as:

  • Anxiety & paranoia: High doses of sativa can sometimes make you feel more anxious or paranoid.
  • Fast heartbeat: You might notice your heart beating faster than usual.
  • Dizziness: Too much sativa can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Nausea: Consuming a lot of sativa might upset your stomach and make you feel sick.
  • Trouble sleeping: Since sativa is energizing, taking too much can make it hard to fall asleep.
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What Are the Main Differences Between Indica and Sativa?

When comparing sativa vs indica, here are the main differences between these forms of marijuana:

 

Indica vs. Sativa Differences

  • Appearance: Indica plants are short and bushy with wide leaves, while sativa plants are tall and thin with narrow leaves.
  • Growth: Indica grows better in cooler climates and has a shorter growing cycle. Sativa thrives in warm climates and takes longer to grow.
  • Sativa vs indica effects: Indica is known for its relaxing and calming effects, making it great for nighttime use. Sativa, on the other hand, provides energizing and uplifting effects, ideal for daytime activities.
  •  
  • Uses: Indica is often used to relieve pain, help with sleep, and reduce anxiety. Sativa is used to boost energy, improve focus, and enhance creativity.
  • Flavor and smell: Indica strains often have a sweet or earthy aroma, while sativa strains can have a more fruity or spicy scent.

Despite their differences, indica and sativa also share some similarities:

 

Indica vs. Sativa: Similarities

  • Medical use: Both indica and sativa can be used for medical purposes – relieving pain, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep, for instance.
  • Hybrid strains: Many cannabis strains are hybrids, combining features of both indica and sativa to create balanced effects.
  • Consumption methods: You can use both types in various ways, including smoking, vaping, edibles, and oils.
  • Popularity: Both indica and sativa are popular for their unique benefits and effects.

  

Indica vs. Sativa Detection Times

How long marijuana stays in your system can depend on factors like how often you use it and your body’s metabolism. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Urine: Marijuana can be detected in urine for up to 3 days with occasional use, about a week with moderate use, and 30 days or more with heavy use.
  • Blood: In blood, cannabis is detectable for up to 2 days with occasional use and up to a week with regular use.
  • Saliva: In saliva, weed can be detected for about 1 to 3 days.
  • Hair: Hair tests can detect marijuana use for up to 90 days.

 

Onset & Duration

The time it takes for marijuana’s effects to start and how long they last can depend on how you consume it:

Smoking or vaping:

  • Onset: Effects are usually felt within minutes.
  • Duration: The effects can last from 2 to 4 hours.

 

Edibles:

  • Onset: Effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to start.
  • Duration: The effects can last from 4 to 8 hours or longer.

 

Tinctures (under the tongue):

  • Onset: Effects can start within 15 to 30 minutes.
  • Duration: The effects usually last from 4 to 6 hours.
 

Topicals (applied to skin):

  • Onset: Effects can be felt within minutes.
  • Duration: The effects usually last a couple of hours.

 

Knowing the onset and duration can help you choose the best method for your needs.

 

Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrids

Here’s how indica and sativa compare to hybrid strains:

  • Indica: Known for its relaxing effects, indica is great for nighttime use. It helps with pain relief, sleep, and reducing anxiety.
  • Sativa: Sativa gives you energy and boosts your mood, making it suitable for daytime use. It helps with focus, creativity, and fighting fatigue.
  • Hybrids: Hybrids are a mix of indica and sativa. They combine the best of both, offering balanced effects that can be tailored to your needs.

 

Understanding these types can help you pick the right strain for your needs.

 

What Is a Hybrid?

A hybrid is a cannabis plant that combines both indica and sativa strains. Growers create hybrids by crossing different indica and sativa plants. This way, hybrids can have the effects of both types, making them a versatile and popular choice.

 

What are the Benefits of an Indica/Sativa Hybrid?

Hybrids offer several benefits because they blend the effects of both indica and sativa:

  • Balanced effects: Hybrids can provide both relaxation and energy, depending on the specific mix of indica and sativa in the strain.
  • Customized experience: Growers can create hybrids to target specific needs like pain relief with a touch of energy or relaxation with a bit of mental clarity.
  • Flexibility: Whether you need relief from pain, anxiety, or fatigue, there’s likely a hybrid strain that suits your needs.
  • Versatility: Hybrids can be used at different times of the day, offering either a calming effect for nighttime or an uplifting effect for daytime activities.

 

Indica or Sativa: Which One Is Better?

Deciding between indica and sativa depends on what you need:

  • For relaxation: If you want to relax, relieve pain, or sleep better, indica is usually the best choice. Its calming effects can help you unwind and get a good night’s sleep.
  • For energy: If you need more energy, want to feel happier, or need help focusing, sativa is a great option. Its uplifting effects can help you stay alert and active during the day.
  • Hybrids: If you want a mix of both, hybrids offer more balanced effects. They combine the best of indica and sativa, giving you a smoother experience.

 

In the end, the best choice depends on your personal needs and preferences. Trying different strains can help you find what works best for you. Always start with a small amount to see how it affects you before using more.

Side Effects & Risks of Indica and Sativa

Using any type of marijuana can have both short-term and long-term side effects. Here are some common ones:

Short-term side effects include:

  • Dry mouth and eyes: Weed can make your mouth and eyes feel dry.
  • Increased heart rate: You might notice your heart beating faster.
  • Dizziness: Some people feel dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Anxiety or paranoia: High doses can sometimes cause anxiety or paranoia.
  • Impaired coordination: Marijuana can affect your ability to move and react quickly.

 

Long-term risks include:

  • Lung problems: Smoking weed can harm your lungs, similar to smoking tobacco.
  • Dependence: Some people can become dependent on marijuana.

Addiction and Cannabis Use

Cannabis use, especially frequent or heavy use, can lead to addiction in some individuals. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), about 9% of cannabis users may develop a use disorder, which increases to 17% among those who start using in adolescence and to 25-50% among daily users.

Addiction to cannabis, known as cannabis use disorder (CUD), involves a compulsive need to use despite negative consequences, including:

  • General impairment: Impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning
  • Withdrawal: Long-term use can lead to withdrawal symptoms like irritability, insomnia, and decreased appetite, making quitting difficult

 

Cannabis use can also trigger relapse in individuals recovering from addiction to other substances. Research indicates that cannabis may activate similar neural pathways associated with addiction, increasing cravings for other substances like alcohol or opioids.

For those in recovery, cannabis can create a false sense of control over substance use, and can often lead to moderate to severe relapse on harder drugs or alcohol. 

It is not recommended that those in recovery engage in cannabis use. Call our recovery hotline at 844-576-0144 if you need help quitting drugs or alcohol.

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Get Effective Treatment for Drug Addiction at Gratitude Lodge

If you need help getting back on track from drug addiction, we can help you at Gratitude Lodge. We have pet-friendly luxury rehabs in Newport Beach and Long Beach, California, and we accept health insurance for addiction treatment.

Inpatient rehab at Gratitude Lodge usually begins with supervised detox. During the first week, you will withdraw from marijuana under close supervision and prepare yourself for ongoing treatment at one of our beachside facilities.

All marijuana addiction treatment programs at Gratitude Lodge offer targeted therapies such as:

  • Talk therapies
  • Motivational therapies
  • Counseling
  • Holistic therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Family therapy
  • MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
  • Aftercare

 

Begin your recovery by calling 844-576-0144.

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Jenni Bussi

Jenni Busse MS, LPCC

Jenni Busse MS, LPSS is the Clinical Director at Gratitude Lodge. Jenni oversees the clinical program and the clinical team at Gratitude Lodge as a whole. Jenni has worked in treatment for almost 14 years. Her background as a licensed therapist and her passion for helping others intersected with addiction recovery when she started working primarily in detox residential treatment.
Joe Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore has been working in the addiction industry for half a decade and has been writing about addiction and substance abuse treatment during that time. He has experience working for facilities all across the country. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.

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