Sativa vs. Indica - what’s the difference?

In our efforts to make the distinction between the hemp based CBD that is legal for use, and CBD derived from marijuana, the sativa vs. indica question has become a common one for us to answer.


Did you know that there are two main cannabis classifications that are used medically?

Both derive from Cannabis Sativa L but they don’t look alike and they have widely different chemical profiles. They also differ fundamentally in their therapeutic application.

It’s important to understand the key differences between the two strains in order to make an informed choice about which CBD products are legal for you to purchase.

 

Cannabis Sativa

The first subspecies is called Sativa. All industrial hemp is classified as sativa and, since all lawful CBD is extracted from EU certified hemp strains, it is the only strain you can legally buy in the UK.

Aesthetically, varieties of Cannabis Sativa plants grow tall and thin and have narrow leaves. They are a light shade of green and require lots of light to grow.

They originate from countries that are close to the equator within Central/South America and Southeast Asia. However, the hemp variety of the cannabis sativa plant species have been cultivated to grow taller, in more dense crops, and in more adverse climate conditions that the rest of the cannabis family.

Their flavour/terpene profile ranges from earthy to sweet and fruity. The major therapeutic qualities of the Sativa strain include:

  • Anti-depressant
  • Anti-anxiety
  • Chronic pain
  • Increases serotonin
  • Anti-fatigue
  • Increases creativity
  • Improves focus
  • Relief from headaches and migraines
  • Stimulates appetite
  • Reduces nausea

As the Sativa strain is more of a stimulant, it is normally recommended for daytime use. Furthermore, as certified hemp varieties of cannabis sativa contain <0.2% THC content, it is safe for use at anytime of the day as it won’t get you ‘high’.

 

Cannabis Indica

The other subspecies is called Indica. The hemp that is used in legal CBD products cannot be indica as all hemp is sativa based. However, the terpene profiles of famous indica strains are replicated within many legally available hemp CBD oil products.

Aesthetically, the Indica plants are short, sturdy and bushy with wide leaves. They are a far darker shade of forest green and grow far more quickly than Sativa.

They originate from the Hindu Kush mountains in the Middle East and are commonly grown in countries such as Afghanistan, Morocco and the Indian subcontinent. Their flavour/terpene profile ranges from pungent to sweet and fruity.

The major therapeutic qualities of the Indica strain include:

  • Treating insomnia
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Mental relaxation
  • Chronic pain
  • Increases dopamine
  • Stimulates appetite
  • Reduces nausea

As the indica strain is more of a sedative, it is recommended for nighttime use.

 

Indica vs. Sativa takeaways

As responsible CBD advocates, we are duty bound to inform you of the legal risks associated with CBD products. As we’ve outlined in this article (as well as throughout our site) all of our products are derived from legally certified CBD strains that feature on the EU’s list.

If you come across any CBD products that are marketed in the UK as derived from indica cannabis strains, please be cautious and check before you buy. It may be a genuine mistake (they may mean ‘based upon’ an indica strain) but, if in doubt, don’t risk it!

The name of the product, and its flavour profile might suggest it’s from an indica strain. However, in order to be legal, it has to be sativa.

 
The research into CBD continues

As more studies are undertaken, more research published, and more legal precedents are introduced, we will continue to update you with all the latest findings regarding CBD.

If you still have more questions, we are always happy to help. Just get in touch with any queries you have about CBD or vaping in general.