Instead of looking at the cannabis type alone — like sativa, indica, or hybrid — look at the description the grower and dispensary provide.
More and more, the cannabis industry is moving away from the term “strains” and using chemovars (chemical varieties), since the word “strain” is often used to refer to bacteria and viruses.
Chemical varieties include:
- Type I: High THC
- Type II: THC/CBD combined
- Type III: High CBD
In other words, the category or type of cannabis may not be the greatest indicator of the effects you’ll experience.
- Origin: Cannabis sativa is found primarily in hot, dry climates with long sunny days. These include Africa, Central America, Southeast Asia, and portions of Western Asia.
- Plant description: Sativa plants are tall and thin with finger-like leaves. They can grow to about 6 feet (ft) or 2 meters (m). They take longer to mature than some other types of cannabis.
- Typical CBD-to-THC ratio: Sativa often has lower doses of CBD and higher doses of THC, whereas indica tends to have less THC than CBD.
- Commonly associated effects of use: Sativa often produces a “mind high” or an energizing, anxiety-reducing effect.
- Daytime or nighttime use: Because of its stimulating effects, sativa is often used in the daytime.