Sativa and indica are two distinct species from the same cannabis family. They show different growing characteristics, highs and medicinal effects. Understanding the variation can make all the difference for medical users when choosing a strain.

RSO products are made from a general Indica strain, while CBD products are made from a more Sativa strain.

Sativa vs. indica

On a chemical level, indica and sativa strains are different in their composition of the cannabinoid content, as well as in the balance of other phytochemical compounds, such as terpenes and flavonoids. Sativa strains usually show a high THC content and low CBD content, whilst landrace indica strains tend have a lower THC content, and a somewhat higher CBD content. But thanks to breeding, both indica and sativa strains can be found with varying THC:CBD cannabinoid concentrations.

In general, the effect of sativa strains is often described as a strong and uplifting head high, while indicas tend to produce a more body-centred, stoned effect. While the THC and CBD play a significant role in shaping the effect, other naturally occurring substances also play their part in producing these distinct characteristics. For example, over 120 different terpenes have been found in cannabis, the concentration and balance of which can largely influence the high produced by a particular strain.

After THC, CBD is the second most prevalent and important cannabinoid naturally found in cannabis; and not only is it thought to be medicinally valuable, but it also modifies the way THC interacts with the body, modulating and dampening the effect of THC. Generally speaking, based on the natural variations in plant chemistry, a rule of thumb is that sativa works on the mind, and indica on the body.

Sativa traits:

Energizing & Uplifting
Stimulates creativity and thoughts
Promotes sense of well-being
Relieves headaches and migraines
Reduces nausea
Stimulates the appetite
Relieves depression

Indica traits:

Relaxing & Laid back
Relieves pain and aches
Reduces anxiety & stress
Aids sleep
Reduces inflammation
Helps relieve spasms and seizures
Stimulates the appetite

A common mistake is that a strain is pure. However, after some thousands of years breading seeds (we know that for example the Egyptians used cannabis), there are no pure Indica or Sativa strains left. Therefore, all strains are actually hybrids. A Hybrid strains is a combination of both sativa and indica strains, and has been bred to combine traits. There is no generalised list of medical traits for hybrid cannabis strains, as they can literally be bred to encompass a wide range of actions, which vary from strain to strain. Keep in mind that when you read about an Indica or Sativa strain, it actually means that this strain contains a higher percentage of Indica or Sativa, but is not pure.