If you’re new to cannabis, you might be wondering what is the difference between indica and sativa? You’re not alone! Choosing the right type of flower can feel like ordering a fancy espresso for the first time: there’s a lot of lingo and you don’t want to get it wrong.

We made this guide to walk you through the basics of cannabis flower types, why they matter and how to find your perfect match. Keep in mind that this article is not here to provide medical advice. We can only share what kind of trends we notice with customers in-store. Cannabis research is still corroborating decades of anecdotal evidence from cannabis consumers (shoutout to your uncle who smoked weed before it was cool). Everyone is different and can experience cannabis differently. When trying new products, especially with high THC, consider trying a small amount in a comfortable space and assess the effects before consuming more. Remember: you can always take more but you can never take less.

First Things First: What Is Cannabis Flower?

Cannabis is first and foremost, a plant! And on-top of that it’s a plant that flowers. The “buds” or “nugs” that we roll up and smoke is actually the flower of the cannabis plant. Like most flowers, it flourishes with the right amount of nutrients, water and light. This part of the plant gets harvested, dried and carefully packaged for consumers to consume. And like all plants, cannabis flower has different varieties that produce different types of flowers.

When you hear indica vs sativa or mention of hybrids, we’re talking about the different varieties of the cannabis plant and flowers. Each variety produces cannabis flower with unique traits and characteristics.

Cannabis flower is the most precious part of the plant because it contains the compounds that interact with our bodies to produce psychoactive effects. These compounds are called cannabinoids and terpenes, which shape the flavour, smell, potency and experience. These compounds vary between varieties. So indicas, sativas and hybrids are often associated with specific traits and characteristics.

Indica – The Chill Companion

Indica is commonly associated with more relaxing, body-focused effects. Indica varieties are mostly known for calming, sedative effects which is why most folks chose an indica for relaxing and winding down at night.

Common Traits:

• Short busy plants with wide leaves.
• Denser buds or flowers.
• Often contain elevated levels of myrcene or caryophyllene (terpenes associated with more relaxing effects).

Most people chose indica when:

• They want help sleeping.
• They’re dealing with body tension or pain.
• They’re planning a chill night in with no to-do list.

Good to know: Not all indicas will knock you out. Everyone reacts differently to cannabis. And the specific cannabinoid makeup of the flower can make all the difference. Check the cannabinoid and terpene profile of the product to get a better picture of what the effects might be.

Sativa – The Uplifting Explorer

Sativa is usually linked with more cerebral and uplifting effects. Sativa varieties are most associated with a stimulating experience, great for daytime use and creative activities.

Common Traits:

• Tall, lanky plants with narrow leaves.
• Looser more airy bud structure.
• Often higher in limonene and pinene (terpenes associated with mood boost or alertness)

Many people choose sativa when:

• They want a boost of mental energy.
• They’re headed to daytime event or outdoor adventure.
• They like feel uplifted and alert.

Good to know: While sativas can be energizing for some, some people also feel more anxious with them, especially if they’re new to THC. Consider only trying a bit to start and letting the effects settle before consuming more.

Hybrid – The Best of Both Worlds?

Hybrid strains are exactly what they sound like, a cross between sativa and indica varieties. They’re often bred to combine the traits of both indica and sativa for a targeted outcome. Many hybrids offer more balanced effects, while others can lean more towards their indica or sativa lineage.

Common Traits:

• Varies widely depending on their lineage.
• Offer more targeted effects.

Most people choose hybrids when:

• They want a more customized experience.
• They like to experiment to find what works best for them.

Good to know: If you’re unsure where to starts, balanced hybrids are a good entry point. Ask you budtender for recommendations that can help you get a feel for both sides of the spectrum.

How to Choose the Right Flower for You

Getting started with cannabis can feel daunting. There’s so many choices and it’s hard to know where to start. It’s always best to start with more mild potency flower (think around 10% THC) if you’re new to cannabis. From there, you can slowly build up your tolerance if that feels right for you. Discovering new products should be enjoyable and fun! Keep an open mind and set yourself up for a good time.

Pro tip: Keep a weed journal. Jot down the strains you try, how much you used and when, and how it made you feel. You’ll find what you love in no time.

More questions? That’s great! We love to help. If you’re curious but cautious, we get it. Stop by and chat with one of our friendly budtenders. We love helping folks discover what they love in a way that feels right for them.