Are The Terms Indica, Sativa + Hybrid Useful?

Are The Terms Indica, Sativa + Hybrid Useful?

Cannabis, much like wine, beer, and spirits, comes in different varietals. Speaking broadly, Indica and Sativa strains are like the red and white wines of cannabis. And the countless strains under each of those plants are akin to the Burgundy, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc red and white wine varietals.

Further complicating matters are hybrid strains, which cross Indica and Sativa plants to produce even more varietals. And these crossbreeds are analogous to rosé and blush wines.

But when it comes to cannabis, what do all these labels really mean? By and large, the divisions are intended to indicate specific effects. For example, Indica strains are relaxing and sedative, while Sativa strains are energizing. Yet how often are the attributed effects correct?

Recent research indicates that a strain’s cannabinoids and terpenes compounds are more likely to determine its effects.

But if that’s true, why are the terms Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid still the most common differentiators? 

Well, it turns out the cannabis industry is eager to stop classifying cannabis as Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid. Mainly because these are botanical names that refer to plant structure rather than identifying its effects.

So, how come most dispensaries continue to use these misleading terms (heck, we even use them here at Cannnawayz.com)? In short, it makes things simple and easy to grasp. Consumers have three options: Uplifting, sedating, and somewhere in-between. And generally, people do best with simple and easy-to-grasp concepts. So, Indicas, Sativas, and Hybrids are, at least for the time being, here to stay.

With this in mind, how can we better understand, and predict, the effects of a particular strain? Ultimately, judging cannabis-based cannabinoids and terpenes are likely to help you make a more informed decision. Let’s take a closer look at why that’s the case.

Why Cannabinoids and Terpenes Are Better Predictors of Cannabis Effects

Every cannabis strain is highly nuanced and has a unique chemical profile. And the impact of each strain’s particular composition can vary significantly from person to person.

Meanwhile, cannabinoids and terpenes say more about a strain’s chemical composition than Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid designations. Thus, while the cannabinoids and terpenes approach to classifying cannabis is more complicated, you can trust the predicted effects better. 

Ultimately, the difficulty of using the cannabinoids and terpenes method is the trial and error required to identify strains with effects that appeal to your senses or serve your needs. But investing the time and effort in finding strains that fit this bill will improve your overall cannabis experience.

How To Select Strains Using The Cannabinoid and Terpene Classification Approach

Cannabis strains are generally categorized into three chemical profiles:

• Type I – high THC, low CBD
• Type II – Equal THC and CBD
• Type III – high CBD, low THC

Unfortunately, these terms aren’t commonly used. So, when you walk into your local dispensary, you won’t hear this vocabulary. And the dispensary staff may not even know what you’re talking about.

To navigate this process on your own, first, consider your preferred THC and CBD levels.

• Type I strains are high THC + low CBD. These highly potent strains produce strong euphoric effects. They’re also frequently used to relieve pain, lessen depression and anxiety, and curb insomnia.
• Type II strains are an even balance of THC and CBD. These strains produce effects attributed to the stereotypical cannabis “high,” including mild euphoria.
• Type III strains are high CBD + low THC. These strains are primarily for therapeutic, non-intoxicating purposes. Most “legal” cannabis products available over the counter are made with type III strains.

Your next consideration are terpenes, which determine the aromas that accompany a particular strain. For those unfamiliar, terpenes can both induce and heighten certain effects produced by cannabis consumption.

Judging terpenes is also a subject pursuit. Here again, it comes down to experimentation. Take note of the terpene profile in each strain you try. If you like a particular terpene profile, you’ll likely appreciate other strains with similar profiles. And conversely, if you dislike a strain’s terpene profile, you’ll probably dislike other strains with similar profiles.

Want to Experiment With Cannabinoid and Terpene? Buy From a Cannabis Delivery Service!

Considering most dispensary employees aren’t familiar with the cannabinoids and terpenes approach, you might as well order online from a cannabis delivery service.

Also, in most legalized areas, medical marijuana delivery services and recreational marijuana delivery services are available.

Do a quick internet search for “Weed delivery near me” to find a local provider.

To find a local provider, do an internet search for “weed delivery near me,” and you’ll discover many area vendors.

To locate an area provider, do an online search for “weed delivery near me.”

Place an order online, and a driver will deliver the goods right to your front door, usually on the same day.

Medical marijuana delivery services and recreational marijuana delivery services are both available in most legalized areas.

Do a quick internet search for “weed delivery near me,” and you’ll find plenty of local providers.