When it comes to shopping for cannabis, there are three distinctive options to choose from, which include indica, sativa, and the hybrid strain. If you don’t have much of an idea about the differences in cannabis strains, you might find yourself confused even with the help of a budtender.
First, it’s important to know what cannabis strains are, along with distinctive details about the three strains and their key differences. So, this article covers the core knowledge of each of these cannabis strains and the role of terpenes in cannabis to help you determine which strain is the right choice for you.
What are Cannabis Strains?
Simply put, a cannabis strain refers to a specific variety of cannabis to distinguish its main features and characteristics, which include its potency, effect, appearance, and aroma. Essentially, there are mainly two types of cannabis strains, i.e., the indica strain and the sativa strain.
The hybrid strain is a fusion of these two strains to produce a more balanced cannabis strain with varying levels of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other essential compounds.
Typically, the distinctive difference in cannabis strains is mainly due to the presence of cannabinoids and terpenes. There are more than 100 cannabinoids in a cannabis flower, out of which THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are the most desired cannabinoids.
It is mainly the distribution of the THC, CBD, and the cannabis flower’s terpenes that draws varying differences, which leads to the classification of the three types of cannabis strains. This is because the THC is the psychoactive compound that makes you high, while the CBD compound is responsible for the relaxing effect, and the terpenes provide the cannabis flower its flavor and aroma.
Now that you know what cannabis strains are, and how they are classified, it’s time to learn about each of these strains.
Also Read:Â What is Cannabis Flower?
Indica StrainÂ
The name indica refers to cannabis from the Indian region. The indica strain mainly grows in cool, dry climates across several Asian countries, including China, India, Nepal, Thailand, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, as well as parts of Africa. The indica strain cannabis plants are short and bushy with broad, dark green leaves with wide, dense, and bulky buds.
The indica strain has gained widespread popularity mainly for its deeply relaxing and soothing effects. This makes it an ideal choice if you’re looking for a recreational experience to unwind and enjoy a calming body high.
Its strong body high combined with its relaxing effects is mainly due to the composition of its cannabinoid content as follows.
-  THC-dominant Indica strains usually contain 15%–25% THC with CBD levels below 1%, providing a strong physical high and a sense of euphoria.
-  Balanced Indica-dominant strains feature a 1:1 THC to CBD ratio, with both ranging between 5%–10%, offering a more moderate and smoother high.
-  CBD-dominant Indica strains include 10%–20% CBD and 1%–5% THC, ideal for a calming experience without the intense psychoactive effects.
If you’re looking for a strain that helps you relax, settle in, and enjoy a soothing recreational experience, the Indica strain is definitely worth exploring.
Sativa Strain
Cannabis sativa is originally from Eastern Asia, mainly covering tropical regions. But now it’s cultivated worldwide, including several Asian, European, North and South American countries.
Based on its physical structure, sativa strain cannabis is tall, often reaching 8 to 12 feet or more when grown outdoors. Its leaves are long and narrow, resembling a finger-like appearance with long, sausage-shaped buds.
Sativa strains are widely popular among recreational users for their energizing and uplifting effects. They’re often associated with enhanced focus, creativity, motivation, and even a sense of euphoria.
The stimulating effects of Sativa strains come primarily from their high THC content and low CBD levels. Here’s a breakdown of its cannabinoid content as follows.
-  THC-dominant Sativa strains contain 15%–25% THC (with some potent strains reaching up to 35%) and less than 1% CBD, offering a strong cerebral high.
-  Balanced Sativa-dominant strains have a 1:1 THC to CBD ratio, with both cannabinoids in the 5%–10% range, resulting in a more controlled and functional experience.
-  CBD-dominant Sativas are less common but may feature high CBD (10%–20%) and low THC (1%–5%), ideal for users seeking clarity and calm without the intense high.
If you’re looking for a strain that delivers a stimulating and mood-boosting recreational experience, sativa strain cannabis is definitely an ideal choice.
Hybrid StrainÂ
Hybrid strains are created by crossbreeding Indica and Sativa plants to combine the best traits of both. Today, most cannabis strains available on the market are hybrids, either leaning more toward Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, or offering a balanced blend of the two.
Physically, hybrid plants can vary in size, shape, and leaf structure depending on their genetic makeup. Some may grow tall and thin like Sativa, while others are shorter and bushier like Indica.
Recreationally, hybrid strains are popular because they offer versatile effects ranging from uplifting and energizing to calming and relaxing. This makes them a great choice if you’re looking for a more personalized or well-rounded experience.
Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid: Key DifferencesÂ
The following table shows the key differences among indica, sativa, and hybrid cannabis strains.
| Based
On |
Indica |
Sativa | Hybrid |
| Cultivated In | Cool, dry regions (India, Nepal, Afghanistan,Pakistan, parts of Africa) |
Tropical regions (Originally Eastern Asia, now worldwide)Â |
Worldwide (crossbreeds of Indica and Sativa)Â |
| Physical Structure | Short, bushy plants with broad, dark green leaves and dense buds |
Tall plants with narrow, finger-like leaves and long, airy buds |
Varies depending on dominance— can be short, tall, or balanced |
| Common Use | Night-time, relaxing activities | Daytime, creative or social activities | Day or night, depending on the strain type |
| Recreational Effect | Deep body relaxation, calming, sedative | Energizing, uplifting, cerebral high | Balanced—relaxing and uplifting based on dominance |
| THC to CBD Ratio | High THC (15%–25%), low CBD (<1%) | High THC (15%–25%, up to 35%), low CBD (<1%) |
Varies—THC-dominant, CBD-dominant, or balanced (1:1) |
Role of Terpenes in Cannabis StrainsÂ
While cannabinoids such as THC and CBD get almost all the credit for the high and calming effects of cannabis, terpenes also have a significant role. Apart from the cannabis’s smell and fragrance, terpenes carry out a synergistic function to enhance or modify the effect of the cannabinoids.
The combined effect of cannabinoids and terpenes is known as the entourage effect, which means it is the combined effect of various compounds rather than just the two main cannabinoids. In other words, it’s not just THC or CBD on their own, but how they work together with terpenes that shape the strain’s true effects.
How to Determine Which Strain is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice of cannabis strain depends on your recreational needs and preferences. If you prefer a more soothing and refreshing high, then it’s ideal to choose the indica strain. On the other hand, if you’re more into the energizing, euphoric recreational experience, then you should go for sativa strain cannabis.
Although most cannabis strains available in the market are hybrid strains. They’re strategically farmed and modified to provide a more tailored and versatile recreational experience. These hybrid cannabis strains either have a combined balance of both strains or they’re THC or CBD-dominant.
By consuming cannabis with higher THC content, you will get more high, whereas cannabis strains with a stronger CBD dose will make you feel more relaxed. So, while shopping for cannabis flower, or any other cannabis-based product, you should decide mainly based on the amount of these two cannabinoids.
Popular Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Strains to Consider
Here are some expert recommendations for indica, sativa, and hybrid cannabis strains based on their widespread popularity, potency, and user feedback. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, energy, or a balanced experience, these strains are worth exploring.
Top 5 Indica Strains for Relaxing Recreational ExperienceÂ
Here are the top 5 indica strains to consider if you’re looking for a strong high combined with a relaxing and calming effect.
-  Granddaddy Purple – Deep relaxation, sweet grape/berry flavor
-  Northern Lights – Uplifting, calm, smooth, earthy sweetness
-  Ice Cream Cake – Creamy vanilla taste, heavy body melt
-  Purple Punch – Fruity and sweet, perfect for winding down
-  Bubba Kush – Classic couch-lock, rich earthy flavor
Top 5 Sativa Strains for an Elevated and Energizing High
Here are the top 5 sativa strains to consider if you’re looking for an uplifting and energizing recreational high.
-  Sour Diesel – Energizing, pungent diesel aroma
-   Jack Herer – Clear-headed focus, spicy pine flavor
-  Green Crack – Mental buzz, mango citrus flavor
-  Durban Poison – Pure sativa, sweet and uplifting
-  Super Lemon Haze – Zesty lemon, energetic high
Top 5 Hybrid Strains for a Balanced and Well-Rounded High
Here are the top 5 hybrid strains to consider if you’re looking for a balanced and well-rounded recreational experience.
-  Blue Dream – Balanced high, sweet berry flavor
-  Gelato – Dessert-like, euphoric, and relaxing
-  Frosted Cherry Cookies – Sweet and smooth, cherry vanilla vibes
-  Wedding Cake – Sweet vanilla, calming but creative
-  Runtz – Candy-sweet, balanced head and body high
Explore High-Quality Cannabis Strains at Smilez Cannabis Dispensary (formerly Joyology)Â
Whether you’re shopping for cannabis flower or any other cannabis products such as pre-rolls, concentrates, tinctures, topicals, or even vapes, you need to choose the cannabis strain. Today, as a premier Michigan Dispensary, Smilez has partnered with the top brands to offer a wide selection of high-quality products featuring Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid strains, all carefully curated to meet your recreational needs.
Plus, to make your cannabis shopping experience wholesome, there are exclusive daily deals on every cannabis product, including accessories, and trendy cannabis apparel. So, what are you waiting for?
Explore our website to place an order for convenient curbside pickup in Michigan or visit any of our stores across six locations in Allegan, Burton, Quincy, Reading, Three Rivers, and Wayne.
FAQ
What is better, indica sativa or hybrid?Â
It depends on your preferences and recreational needs. If you want a more calming and soothing experience, then the indica strain seems to be a better option. On the other hand, if you’re more into an uplifting and energizing high, then the sativa strain would be an ideal choice. However, if you want a more intense high or a smooth blend of these effects, then you should explore hybrid strains. On a general note, hybrid strains are modified for a more personalized and versatile cannabis experience, so considering that hybrid strains can potentially be the best choice.
Do you feel more high with indica or sativa?Â
Generally, as sativa strains have a higher THC to CBD ratio compared to indica strains, sativa strains have a more energizing and uplifting high, which is often perceived as a more intense high compared to the strong, calming, and relaxing high from indica strain cannabis.
What type of high is hybrid?Â
Hybrid strains offer a mix of both Indica and Sativa effects, depending on their dominant genetics. You might feel mentally uplifted like a Sativa, while also experiencing physical relaxation like an Indica. The high can be balanced, energizing, or calming; it all depends on whether the strain is Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, or a 50/50 blend.
Which cannabis strain is best for beginners?
If you’re new to cannabis, Hybrid strains with a balanced THC to CBD ratio (such as 1:1) are a great starting point. They offer a smoother, more manageable high without being too overwhelming. Sativa-dominant hybrids can keep you alert, while Indica-dominant hybrids offer gentle relaxation.
