If you're one of the 88 percent of Americans who don't smoke marijuana regularly, you may be keen to do some digging before you start smoking. One of the most important choices you need to make is the type of weed that you want to smoke, as different strains can have very different effects.

Indica vs sativa, as well as hybrid strains, all come with a different set of usual effects. In this guide, we're going to take a look at the key differences between the different kinds of marijuana so that you can choose the type that's right for you.

Are you ready to learn more? Then read on!

The Origins of Indica and Sativa

Indica and sativa have both been common for many, many years, and are the result of selective breeding. Cannabis originates in central Asia and India, where indica originates, while sativa comes from East Asia. 

Both plants are very distinctive in appearance, with indica being a shorter, bushier plant with wide, thick leaves. In general, an indica plant will only grow to around six feet in height. Sativa is much taller, and can grow up to 20 feet in height, and it has thinner, narrower leaves than indica.

There is a third "natural" type of cannabis too, known as cannabis ruderalis, which is naturally small and low in THC, which makes it mostly unsuited to commercial cultivation. It is, however, high in CBD, which can make it ideal for those who don't like their weed to be too psychoactive.

Why Different Strains Produce Different Effects

Both types of cannabis share some common traits, and there is even a debate about whether they are really two separate species, but anyone who has smoked both will be able to tell you that they feel very different. This is thanks to the differing levels of various cannabinoids in the plants. Different strains of sativa and indica can have different levels of intensity too, with some strains being very potent and others less so.

While it would take too long to go into the full biochemistry and pharmacology behind each strain's chemical effects on the body, you should know that in general, sativa produces more of a head-high and indica produces more of a body-high.

The Main Effects of Indica and Why You Might Smoke it

If you want your weed to hit you like a freight train and keep you locked on the couch, a strong indica is very hard to beat. at its strongest, it can feel like a sedative.

In general, indica will make you feel completely relaxed, which makes it great for a smoke after a stressful day at work. It is the type of weed that can calm you down and make you feel mellow.

In terms of medical use, indica is often used by people who suffer from anxiety and chronic pain, as it can help ease anxiety, relax muscles, and can offer serious pain relief. It's also great for those who suffer from insomia, as one of indica's most common effects is sleepiness. If your mind is racing after a bad day and you can't switch it off, an indica can offer you the mental space that you need to get to sleep.

The Main Effects of Sativa and Why You Might Smoke it

So, indica offers, in general, a very strong body high without too many mental effects. Sativa is the inverse of this: it offers some impressive mental effects but doesn't make you feel tired or relaxed.

If you want to socialize and be a chatterbox, then sativa is a fantastic choice. It can make you feel a lot more lively and make mundane activities a lot more fun. 

It's also the ideal species of cannabis to smoke if you want to be creative: smoking a sativa can help you make music, art, or write. It also often produces a bit of a headrush.

Due to its effects, sativa may not be the best choice for people who suffer from an anxiety disorder. While it can take away some of the fear of social occasions, it can also produce feelings of paranoia and some users may find the head rush to be unpleasant.

Hybrids: What They Are and Their Benefits

If you like the sound of both indica and sativa but would like to smoke some weed that gives you the effects of both, a hybrid strain may be for you. Indica and sativa can be crossbred to produce hybrid strains that offer more bespoke effects.

If you take a look at our marijuana menu, you'll see that there are a range of hybrid strains available, each giving their own combination of effects. Some offer more of a mind-based high, others are more body-based. There is probably a hybrid that is all about the effects you want and can produce the best marijuana experience that you will ever have.

The marijuana industry is creating new hybrid strains at an astounding rate, which means that for many people, marijuana is getting better and better, as well as a lot more custom. You don't have to put up with any negative side effects that may come with either species now: there's a better option, and it's hybrid strains.

Indica vs Sativa and Hybrids: Oh My

When choosing between indica vs sativa, take a look at the effects on offer and think about what it is that you're looking for from your supply. If you'd like to try something with a mix of effects, why not try a hybrid strain?

Whatever kind of weed you'd like to smoke, we can help you get some. Depending on where you live, we may even be able to deliver to you! If you have any questions about the cannabis we offer or anything else, don't hesitate to call us on 989 323 2222.