Sativa, Indica, Hybrid & CBD

If you are new to cannabis medicine you will begin hearing a lot about Sativa, Indica, Hybrids and CBD. 

This refers to categories of cannabis strains, rather than the actual strains themselves. There are an every expanding variety of strains within each category, however strains from each category will have similar physiological action within the body. 

Sativa plants are tall with narrow leaves. Most people experience Sativa strains as being energizing and uplifting. Because of this energizing property many people find Sativa are best to use during the daytime. 

Indica plants are short and stocky with broad leaves.  Most people find the effects of Indica strains as being relaxing and sedating - perfect for the evening or to help with sleep. 

Hybrids are a combination of Sativa and Indica. Some growers will indicate which variety is more dominant in a particular strain. For instance you may see a strain that is categorized as being Indica dominant, or Sativa dominant. This gives the user more information about how to use that particular strain (i.e. day use or evening use.)

CBD isn't actually a true variety of the cannabis plant. CBD (cannabidiol) is a phytocannabinoid, just one of the many medicinal constituents found in cannabis.

CBD is the most abundant non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, providing a multitude of health benefits without the 'stoned' effects of THC. 

Because of the non-psychoactive health benefits, CBD is fast becoming one of the most sought after of the cannabis strains so much that it has become known as a category itself, as well as a phytocannabinoid. 

You can purchase CBD dominant varieties that may contain little to no THC to varying amounts of THC. 

Here is a little mantra that you can use to remember the difference between Sativa, Indica and CBD:

Sunny Sativa. In-da-couch Indica. Clear brain CBD. 

To learn more about Cannabis medicine consider taking my full day workshop: Cannabis Medicine for Herbalists (Certificate)