Clearing Up The Confusion Over Cannabis Classification

Although cannabis has been cultivated for centuries, it wasn’t until the 1540s that European scholars classified it as “sativa.” Appropriately, botanists chose “sativa” because it relates to the Latin word for “cultivation.”

All was going smoothly for about 200 years until a Frenchman spoiled the sativa party. In 1785, Monsieur Jean-Baptiste Lamarck made his la-mark (couldn’t resist) in marijuana lore when he argued for the inclusion of a second cannabis subspecies: indica.

Why did Lamarck feel this distinction was so crucial? And why did he name the second variant “indica?”

Well, when Lamarck made his observations, he was studying cannabis strains from India (hence the name “indica”). According to the botanist, these plants had many physical traits that didn’t match the standard sativa model. For instance, these newly discovered strains tended to be shorter, darker, and had larger fan leaves.

From that point onward, the sativa vs. indica system was born. Although all cannabis is technically “sativa,” growers still distinguish between sativa and indica using Lamarck’s observations.

As you could see, scientists initially used sativa vs. indica to distinguish physical attributes, not physiological effects. Even today, most cultivators cling to the sativa vs. indica paradigm to predict a strain’s physical characteristics more than its impact on users.

But wait, that’s not the whole story! Indeed, while sativas and indicas were evolving in warm climates like the Asian subcontinent and Central America, the cannabis ruderalis was having a tough time sprouting in Siberia.

Interestingly, the cannabis ruderalis variant found a way to flower without relying on a set photoperiod. It’s for this reason ruderalis genetics are used in hybrids called “auto-flower strains.”

As the name suggests, these strains are a mix of ruderalis genetics with indicas, sativas, or hybrids. These beginner-friendly strains are fast-flowering and highly resistant to mold, but they don’t produce as heavy yields as standard feminized seeds.

When people discuss the differences between the sativa vs. indica high, they usually describe sativas as “uppers” and indicas as “downers.” However, keep in mind these standard distinctions in sativa vs. indica effects are mostly based on anecdotal testimonies. Indeed, there are many examples of indica-heavy strains that have sativa-like effects, and vice versa.

While the sativa vs. indica dominance might give you a rough idea of each strain’s characteristics, many other factors are at play. For instance, new research suggests aromatic terpenes might influence a strain’s effects. The cannabinoid content of each strain also determines its potency.

The more info you can gather on a strain’s chemical composition, the better you will understand the standard sativa vs. indica effects. It’s also worth investigating the conditions under which your strain was grown. Flowers raised in ideal conditions (e.g., plenty of sunshine and nutrient-dense soil) will have a far higher trichome count, which translates to more potent effects.

For quick reference, please take a look at the crucial features in this easy-to-read sativa vs. indica chart. We’ve also included charts on hybrid strains and autos to help you better understand all of the major cannabis subspecies.

To get a firm grasp on any strain’s effects, you’ll need more than the sativa vs. indica percentages. Indeed, since so many strains nowadays are hybrids, it’s almost impossible to gauge a strain’s potency with this system.

So, what data should you investigate? For starters, you should look into your strain’s average cannabinoid count. Obviously, the higher the THC percentage, the “higher” you’re going to feel. On the other hand, strains with elevated CBD levels tend to have a clearer-headed, soothing effect.

After researching the cannabinoid count, be sure to look into each strain’s average terpene profile. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that are most responsible for each cannabis strain’s flavors. Interestingly, new research also suggests terpenes might play a significant role in influencing each strain’s mood-altering effects.

For your convenience, here’s a quick list of the most common cannabis terpenes:

• Myrcene – Reminiscent of fresh-cut mangoes, this fruity terpene is said to have sedative properties.
• Limonene – Naturally present in citrus fruits, limonene is a pungent terpene that often helps energize users.
• Beta-caryophyllene – Often found in spices like black pepper, beta-caryophyllene shows excellent potential as an anti-inflammatory agent.
• Alpha-pinene – Instantly recognizable for its fresh pine scent, alpha-pinene might have a stimulating effect on the central nervous system.
• Linalool – This floral terpene is the distinctive aroma of lavender and usually has a relaxing effect.

Since everyone has different needs and preferences, we can’t recommend the perfect cannabis strain for you. That being said, new cannabis users often do well with less intense strains either in the ruderalis or indica families. It’s also good to look for strains with low THC counts and higher-than-average CBD levels.

As you gain more experience with cannabis, feel free to move on to high-THC strains in the sativa family. Just be forewarned: high-THC strains could trigger paranoia, so please know your limits.

If you have specific questions about what strains are best for your condition, you should talk with an experienced budtender or medical marijuana doctor.